Kid’s room ideas are distinct from nursery design, which often displays the preferences of the parent. These kid’s room ideas will give you the motivation you need to create a space that truly reflects your child’s personality, interests, and sense of style.

Whether they want vibrant color schemes or themed decor, your child’s room can spark their creativity and imagination. So, whether you are redoing a nursery or designing a chic room style for a teen, the process of designing the perfect kid’s room is full of possibilities and fun.

Kid’s Room Ideas

Kid’s room ideas include a variety of design options that cater to children’s individual needs and preferences. Here are some popular ways in which designers have styled children’s spaces to meet those requirements.

Embrace a Room Theme

Create a holistic room design using a theme that aligns with your child’s interests. Whether it is outer space, under the sea, or the natural world, this is an excellent way to stimulate your child’s imagination. This all-inclusive decorating style is also visually appealing and provides you with a focused idea for planning the color palette, furniture choices, and decor of the room.

Use a Colorful Wall Mural

Wall murals that are vibrant and colorful are a great addition to a child’s room for both young children and teenagers. Wall murals, whether painted or peel-and-stick, add a bright pop of personality to the room. You can find murals to depict any scene, from fairy tale landscapes to pop culture icons.

Create Interactive Learning Spaces

In a young child’s room, disguise learning environments as play areas. Make the room fun with educational toys, posters, chalkboard walls, books, and letter rugs, but make sure your child learns through play. Include comfortable places to sit and lie down so that your child can relax for hours while playing.

Add Multi-Functional Furniture

Optimize your child’s bedroom by using furniture that can serve multiple purposes. This could be a bed with hidden storage or a table that can function as both a desk and a craft table. Stack tall modular shelves to add vertical storage without taking up valuable floor space. These suggestions are especially useful in small spaces, but they also help large spaces function more efficiently.

Include DIY Art Displays

Including artwork created by your child in their room design is an excellent way to personalize the space and add visual interest. Install shelves to display their sculptures, paintings, models, and drawings. This strategy has the added benefit of increasing your child’s confidence in their abilities.

Make a Cozy Reading Nook

Set aside a portion of the room’s design for a cozy reading and rest area to foster a love of learning. Include a comfortable seat cushion, pillows, a blanket, bookshelves, and adequate lighting. This area will promote quiet time and the development of your child’s imagination.

Add Lights for the Darkness

Some children sleep well in complete darkness, while others require some light to calm their nighttime fears. Use soft lights like night lights or string lights to give their room a gentle glow.

Equip a Craft Corner

A dedicated arts and crafts space can help stimulate creative thoughts and processes. Provide a worktable, storage shelves, and craft materials so that your child’s imagination can guide their exploration and self-expression.

Nature-Inspired Kid’s Room

Both children and adults find the natural world stimulating. Bring some of this growth and energy inside by designing a room that resembles the outdoors. Include nature-inspired wall art and furniture, such as treehouse beds, as well as earthy and vibrant natural colors.

Bring in Flexible Seating

Children and teenagers are notoriously unplanned and thrive on last-minute arrangements, so it is critical that their room is ready for anything. Include adaptable seating options such as bean bags, poufs, hide-away mattresses, and small chairs to accommodate all of the guests who may be playing with your child on any given day.

Build in a Technology Corner

Technology is an unavoidable part of everyone’s lives, and it will become increasingly important to your child as he or she grows. It is vital to teach them the responsible use of technology. Make a technology corner with age-appropriate technology options that will change as your child grows.

Create Extra Bedding Options

Adding extra bedding to your child’s room gives you maximum flexibility. This will allow you to easily accommodate guests without having to dig through the closet for air mattresses and blankets every time they have a sleepover. A trundle or daybed are two options for extra bedding. You can also incorporate multi-functional furniture, such as futons, which can be used for both seating and sleeping. Bunk beds are another multi-sleeping option that is ideal for children who frequently have guests over.

Make Good Use of Corners

Making the best use of the available space is essential when designing an ideal kid’s room. This includes utilizing corners, which are frequently overlooked in traditional design. Convert corners into reading nooks, study areas, and play areas. Provide them with specialized furniture, such as corner desks, beds, or shelves, to help you make better use of this space.

Use the Space Under the Bed

The space under a child’s bed is a valuable resource that should not be wasted. When the bed is low, you can use the space for storage. To make use of this space, look for specialized storage containers that fit neatly under the bed. Make certain that these containers do not damage the floors as they slide in and out from under the bed. If your child has a lofted bed, you can use the space under the bed as a study area, bookshelves, a reading nook, or even a play area.

Utilize the Vertical Space in the Room

Making use of vertical space in a room can compensate for a small room’s lack of square footage. Install shelving units, ledges, and cubbies over the bed and over desks to maximize storage space. Hanging baskets, peg boards, and wall-mounted desks and tables are other storage options.

Add a Canopy

Hanging a canopy in your child’s room is a fun way to add to the magical atmosphere and create a cozy refuge. Canopies serve both functional and aesthetic purposes; they provide your child with a private space while also adding a whimsical touch to the room. A canopy can be hung in a variety of locations throughout the room, including over the bed, a reading nook, or a play area. Using different fabrics and headers, you can customize the canopy style to fit any room design. You can also add pockets to the fabric of the canopies. This is especially useful for play areas, where small toys and accessories can be stored.

Create Depth With Different Textures

Enhance your child’s room design with different textures that add comfort and visual interest. Explore various bedding options, including soft cotton sheets, fluffy blankets, and textured throws. Bring in cozy winter options such as faux fur, fleece, and velvet. Using plush rugs and carpets, add textures to the floor. Create a space for comfortable lounging by using cozy, textured upholstery on the seating. For storage, incorporate natural textures by using baskets and wooden decor.

The post 17 Kid’s Room Ideas for Every Age and Stage appeared first on Homedit.

According to the National Christmas Tree Association, more than 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold in the U.S. every year. Most live Christmas trees can stay healthy for up to five weeks after being cut and brought indoors. But a sad reality is that many homeowners experience a die-off much sooner.

The number one secret to keeping a Christmas tree in good health is to keep it submerged in two inches of water at all times. As soon as you bring your Christmas tree home, place it in a treestand and add enough water to cover two inches of the trunk. Check the water level often to see how much water your tree absorbs. You may need to add more water 1 or 2 times per day. Doing so can help prevent pine needles from falling on the floor and keep your branches perky.

Other Tips for Keeping a Healthy Christmas Tree

Monitor Humidity Levels

Aside from keeping your tree well-watered, monitor humidity levels in your home. When heat is high and humidity low, a tree will start dropping pine needles to self-preserve. If humidity levels in your home fall below 30%, run a humidifier to put moisture back in the air.

Cut an Inch Off of the Base of PreCut Trees 

Tree farms sometimes cut evergreens up to a week in advance. When a tree is cut and not immediately placed in water, the cut portion oozes sap, sealing off the bottom. When this happens, the tree can’t properly absorb water.

If you didn’t cut down your Christmas tree yourself, slice off at least an inch of the bottom of the trunk. You can use a tree saw or ask the tree farm you purchased from to do this for you. Then, when you get home, immediately place the tree in water so it doesn’t reseal itself.

Dispose of Your Tree Before Pine Needles Start Dropping

Even with constant watering, there will come a time when the health of your tree declines. If you don’t want to deal with hundreds or thousands of dropping pine needles, dispose of your tree before it dries. 

There are many ways to dispose of a Christmas tree, which include participating in your city’s Christmas tree collection event, turning the tree into mulch, sinking it into a pond, or placing it in the woods.

The post The Secret to a Long-Lasting Healthy Christmas Tree appeared first on Homedit.

While gift recipients are happy to accept even the worst-wrapped presents, a little effort can boost presentation and make your gift look that much more special. Become the wrapping MVP of your family and friends this year by skipping the standard folded-up ends and opting for one of these five styles.

Try the Viral Overlapped Style

The number one Christmas wrapping trend of 2023 is the overlapping geometric style going viral on TikTok and Instagram. Instagrammer Francesca Stone. from FallforDIY demonstrates in the video above. The method only requires a couple of extra folds compared to standard wrapping. The end result provides little pockets where you can insert a twig or even a gift card. 

Create a Handle with Ribbon

Turn your standard rectangular gift into one with a handle using this wrapping hack from TikToker Linsday Roggen Buck. For this effect, wrap your gift as usual, taping off the bottom and sides but leaving plenty of extra paper on the top. Add a long, thick ribbon to the top edge of the paper and fold it down until you reach the box you’re wrapping. Finally, flatten the end edges and tie a bow. Voila, you have a handle.

Use Large Cellophane Bags

When the items you’re gifting are particularly aesthetic, skip the paper and use a large cellophane bag and ribbon to package your gift. Instagrammer Nesting with Grace shows fifteen gift ideas, most of which she packages with cellophane. Note how she combines multiple items for a full and texturized look.

A Hack for When You Don’t Cut Enough Paper

Cutting paper too short happens to all of us at least once or twice every Christmas season. If your paper is too short and won’t cover your gift, turn it diagonal. In most cases, this wrapping hack from Lindsay Roggenbuck is enough to save the paper you’ve already cut.

Top Craft Paper with A Ribbon Tree

Craft paper is the ultimate solution for customized gifts. You can draw on craft paper, tape on items, or hot glue a tree, like in this example from _HannahBrianne. To make a ribbon tree on your craft paper-wrapped gift, run a bead of hot glue down the center of the paper and then attach the ribbon in a zigzag pattern.

The post These 5 Hacks will Have You Wrapping Christmas Gifts Like a Pro appeared first on Homedit.

Transform your bathroom sanctuary into a place of sophistication and beauty with these shower wall tile ideas. Shower wall tile is a way to elevate this personal space into a creative reflection of your style and personality. Shower wall tile options are as varied as your imagination, whether you prefer a timeless, classic look or something more bold and contemporary. In this exploration, we will look at shower tile ideas that combine functionality and style, as well as new ideas that can help you define your space.

Shower Wall Tile Ideas

Interior designers and homeowners use shower wall tile as a showcase for creative tile designs. Shower wall tile ideas range from traditional and timeless to modern and trendy.

Classic shower tile designs are popular because they are timeless and adaptable to a wide range of design styles. Contemporary shower wall tile, on the other hand, is distinguished by its cutting-edge designs, vibrant patterns, and eye-catching colors.

Subway Shower Tile

Subway tiles are a rectangular tile shape that was used along New York subway walls. While the popularity of subway tiles fluctuates, it is always a classic look. Use a vibrant and colorful subway tile, lay the rectangular tiles vertically, or pair them with a more contemporary floor tile type to update the classic subway tile look.

Hexagonal Shower Tile

Another classic but distinct shower tile style is hexagonal, or six-sided tiles. They make an excellent addition to a vintage or retro bathroom design. Using large tile sizes or arranging different colored hexagonal tiles in intricate designs can give hexagonal tiles a modern twist.

Penny Shower Tiles

Penny tiles are small, round tiles that resemble the shape of a penny. This shape echoes the classic shape of the hexagon tile. Use penny tiles to line the shower walls if you want to create an intricate yet playful shower design. Some designers use penny tiles to create decorative bands or nooks in larger tile patterns, like subway or square shower tile walls.

Basketweave Shower Tile

Traditional basketweave tile designs feature a combination of light and dark tiles that look like they overlap each other in a woven pattern. Other basketweave patterns just utilize subway tiles laid in a specific basketweave pattern.

Basketweave tile is a traditional Victorian tile pattern that looks great on shower walls or floors. Small grid basketweave tile patterns are typically black and white or gray and white, but basketweave tile comes in a variety of other colors. Subway tile can be used to create large basketweave patterns in a variety of colors and sizes.

Oversized Shower Tile

Oversized tiles, also known as large-format tiles, have become popular wall tile options due to their ability to create a streamlined appearance. This is due to the fact that larger tiles reduce the use of grout lines, which visually break up the look of the shower tile.

Large format tiles are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing you to personalize the look of the shower. Oversized tiles are an excellent choice for a modern shower wall tile design.

Herringbone Shower Tile

Herringbone shower tiles are small rectangular tiles laid at angles ranging from 90 degrees to a sharper “V” shape. This is a timeless yet modern style that seamlessly blends these diverse looks. White or marble herringbone is a classic look, but small rectangular tiles in a variety of colors and materials can give your shower a unique edge.

Square Shower Tile

Square shower tile is one of the most standard tile shapes. You can update the style of square tiles by using tiles in luxurious materials like marble or using vibrant square shower tiles.

Geometric Shower Tile

Some modern shower tiles have interesting geometric patterns created with triangles, hex tiles, or irregular shapes. These tile designs give your bathroom a contemporary appearance. Black and white geometric patterns add contrast and a traditional twist to the trendy tile pattern.

Victorian Shower Tile

The Victorians were the ones to bring the bathroom into the modern age, and they were enthusiastic in their use of tile. Intricate patterns, floral mosaics, and rich color palettes characterize Victorian-style bathroom tile. Incorporate Victorian-style tile into your shower walls or floors to create a historic look in your bathroom.

Patterned Cement or Ceramic Shower Tile

Colorful patterned cement or ceramic tiles have grown in popularity as a tile choice for shower walls and bathroom floors. This look is inspired by encaustic tile, an ancient kiln-dried and glazed tile.

Many patterned tiles still use the term encaustic, but whether or not they are truly encaustic is determined by the manufacturer. Regardless, these patterned tiles make lovely bathroom displays. Shower wall tiles with patterns can give your bathroom a historic yet modern look.

Arabesque Shower Tile

The Arabesque tile pattern is an interlaced geometric pattern derived from Moorish or Islamic tradition. Arabesque tiles have an intricate and exotic style that elevates the shower wall. They are available in a variety of sizes and colors, as well as materials ranging from natural stone to ceramic and porcelain.

Mixed Shower Tile

Combining tile types adds visual interest, depth, and personality to the shower. You can make your shower uniquely yours and meet your needs by mixing and matching different materials.

There are different ways to mix shower tiles. Accent tiles in various colors and sizes can be used to define different areas of the shower. You can also experiment with different materials and colors to create a focal point in the shower.

Textured Shower Tile

Textured tiles feature a raised pattern that provides a tactile element to your shower design. There are many different types of textured tiles that feature waves, lines, and swirls made from man-made materials such as ceramic and porcelain. Natural textured tiles are also available, made from natural stones such as terracotta, marble, and travertine.

Primary-Colored Shower Tile

You can make a mosaic pattern out of small square tiles that reflects your personality and style. The designer created a bathroom for contemporary art lovers using the artist Piet Mondrian’s primary colors and style.

Wood-Look Shower Tile

Natural wood does not withstand prolonged exposure to water or moisture. Porcelain tiles with a textured design and distinct grain that resemble wood are available. These tiles are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles to complement both rustic and contemporary bathroom designs.

Gradient Shower Tile

A gradient tile design has a tile pattern that changes color gradually from one direction to another. These designs typically employ small tiles to allow for gradual color variation. Most gradient patterns use monochromatic color palettes, but contrasting colors can be used to create a bold and contemporary look.

Choosing a Shower Wall Tile for Your Bathroom

Selecting a tile for your bathroom’s shower wall can be intimidating. Here are some ideas to help you focus your selection so you can design a bathroom that expresses your individuality and sense of style.

Identify your preferred style:

Consider your personal preferences as well as the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your bathroom. Look for wall tile styles that suit your preferences, such as contemporary, traditional, rustic, or eclectic.

Consider the overall bathroom features:

Determine whether you will be renovating, building a new bathroom from scratch, or simply adding new shower wall tile to an existing bathroom. If you are simply replacing shower tile, consider the other elements in the bathroom and select something that complements them.

Think about maintenance:

Some shower wall tiles require more maintenance than others. Unlike large-scale tiles, which have fewer grout lines, tiny tiles have more grout lines that require sealing and cleaning more frequently. Natural stone will require more maintenance than ceramic or porcelain.

Consider the size of the space:

The visual effect of the shower tile will be influenced by the size of the bathroom, and vice versa. A small bathroom might appear more spacious and open with light colored tile. They can also benefit from large-scale tile with fewer grout lines to break up the design. Large rooms are conducive to a wider range of tile colors and types.

Gather inspiration:

Look for ideas in online articles, magazines, and Pinterest boards. Take note of the common themes in the images you like to see what styles appeal to you.

Consider tile patterns and layouts:

Experiment with different patterns and layouts to see which style and design work best with the tile material and color you have chosen. Depending on the pattern and layout, the same tile can look very different.

Obtain samples:

Look for samples from online retailers, home improvement stores, and contractors. This will allow you to see how the tile looks in your space and how it interacts with the other elements and colors.

Seek professional advice:

Find a professional who can help guide you if you are uncertain about your choices. They can provide valuable insights regarding the best wall tiles for your space because of their experience and expertise.

The post 15 Shower Wall Tile Ideas: How to Choose the Best One appeared first on Homedit.

Kid’s room paint ideas are some of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform your child’s personal space. Paint ideas for children’s rooms can go beyond the conventional and embrace creative paint ideas that reflect their personalities and spark their imagination.

From whimsical murals to soothing pastels, the options for painting your child’s room are limitless. Whatever look you want to create, these paint ideas will provide the spark that will inspire you to create a space that nurtures your child’s sense of wonder and individuality.

Kid’s Room Paint Ideas

Kid’s room paint ideas can be diverse and creative, reflecting your child’s personality, preferences, and stage of life.

Create a Theme-Based Murals

Identify your child’s sources of inspiration and use painted wall murals to create a cohesive space. A painted mural can turn their bedroom into a place that will surprise, delight, and inspire imaginative play for years to come, whether it is an underwater world, an outer space scene, a secret garden, or a jungle scene.

Paint a Wall With Chalkboard Paint

Encourage imaginative expression, education, and creativity by using chalkboard or whiteboard paint on at least one wall in a child’s bedroom or playroom. This adds a functional element to the room’s decor while also allowing children to write on the wall without causing permanent damage.

Gradual Shades of Color With Gradient or Ombre Paint

Experiment with creating a gradient or ombre effect by blending two or more colors from light to dark. For this style, you can choose monochromatic shades in various tones or choose contrasting colors for a bold look. This technique enlivens the room by adding dynamism and visual interest.

Keep it Classic With a Neutral-Colored Design

Use a light or dark neutral color palette to create a more soothing or timeless kid’s room design. These are colors that are understated, versatile, and lack a high level of chromatic intensity. These include colors like white, beige, gray, taupe, charcoal, and even some hues like sage green that have more color than traditional neutrals, but they work well with other colors. These paint color options for kids allow for your child’s preferences to evolve and change over time, as they allow you to easily change out the decor, bedding, and furniture

Go Bold With Vibrant Paint

Use bright and bold colors to infuse energy into the room. Consider your child’s personality and preferences before selecting a paint color. Sunny yellows are upbeat and associated with feelings of joy. Red is a high-energy color. Some experts suggest that this color causes higher levels of aggression. Thus, red works very well in playrooms but may be best used in moderation in bedrooms. Blues and greens—even bolder versions—are associated with creating a soothing environment.

Create Surprise With Glow-in-the-Dark Paint

Add an element of magic to your child’s space with glow-in-the-dark paint. Paint stars, planets, or shapes onto the ceiling or walls to create a celestial effect that only comes to life once the lights go out.

Add Interest With Striped and Patterned Designs

Experiment with stripes and other patterns that add interest to walls, such as chevrons and plaids. Use monochromatic colors to create more subdued visual interest and texture. To create a lively appearance, opt for striking hues that contrast with one another.

Provide a Calming Effect With Pastel Paint

Paint your child’s room pastel to create a calm and serene space. To achieve a tone-on-tone effect, select a monochromatic color scheme. Select a pastel shade in the middle range for the base color and use lighter variations of the same hue for accents to create a successful monochromatic look. Another option is to use one foundation color and one or two complementary shades for accents to create a contrasting pastel scheme. For guidance on complementary colors, look at the colors that are across from each other on the color wheel.

Promote Creative Design With Graffiti-Style Walls

Accent walls that resemble graffiti can be a fun way to liven up spaces designated for teenagers and free play. Find a graffiti artist to do the painting for you, or provide the kids with the supplies to paint on their own if they want to do it themselves. In some cases, it is best to create an overall design and color scheme to help guide the young artists’ creative expression.

Create Interest With Color Block Paint

Color blocking, which involves painting different parts of the room in different colors, creates an eclectic and modern look in a child’s room. As always, when using multiple colors, you should create a pleasing color scheme before you begin. Before you begin, consider the function of the room. Playrooms, rather than bedrooms, benefit from a variety of bright, warm colors. Use themes that inspire your child to create a color block palette, such as space’s dark, moody colors or a secret garden’s bright floral tones.

Cohesive Wall Pattern Using a Stencil

Create an all-encompassing pattern on the walls with a stencil to achieve the same effect as wallpaper. The stencil guides enable anyone to achieve professional-looking results without advanced artistic skills. All you need are the tools, paint, and patience to continue the process. Choose contrasting colors for the wall and stencil to get the most dramatic effect, or go with a tone-on-tone color scheme to give your walls subtle texture and interest.

A Classic Look Using Two-Tone Paint

Selecting two colors and painting sections of the wall in these colors is a simple but effective way to use paint in a child’s room. Choose one color plus a neutral, two monochromatic colors, two analogous colors, or two contrasting colors. You can paint the two colors in large sections across the room, either vertically or horizontally. This is an excellent kid room paint option that will grow with your child. It is also simple to change if you want to change one of the colors.

Bring the Outdoors Inside With Nature-Inspired Designs

Create an indoor nature sanctuary by painting your child’s room in nature-inspired colors and themes. To encourage creative and imaginative play, make scenes or color palettes inspired by gardens, forests, and animals. Wallpaper can also be used to achieve a nature-inspired effect, but it can be costly. To save money, use wallpaper on one wall to create a focal point, and then use paint to accent the colors in the paper.

Get a Unique Look Using Ceiling Paint

Painting the ceiling is a good way to give your child’s room a unique look. Make a mural of clouds, stars, planets, or geometric patterns on the ceiling. You can also simply paint the ceiling a color that contrasts or complements the walls. Choose paint colors that are similar to the wall color for a subtle contrast, or dress up the ceiling with glitter, reflective, or glow-in-the-dark paint.

Choose Paint That Highlights Wall Molding

Using wainscoting or other types of wall molding in a child’s bedroom can add sophistication and visual interest to the space. Painting the wainscoting in bright, everyday colors makes the style more playful than formal. Wainscoting adds durability to a room’s design because it is more resistant to wear and tear than drywall. Choose a paint with a high or semi-gloss sheen that will allow you to wipe down minor scuffs and stains.

Create a Focal Point with Paint

Take into account the architectural design of your child’s playroom or bedroom. Some rooms have distinctive architectural features, such as a fireplace, a built-in bookcase, or a reading nook, that can be highlighted with a contrasting paint color. To achieve the most dramatic effect, combine neutral walls with a brightly accented focal point. You can also use complementary colors to make different elements stand out against the background walls.

The post 16 Kid’s Room Paint Ideas to Inspire Creativity and Joy appeared first on Homedit.

When choosing cozy bedding for the night, the debate between a duvet vs. comforter often arises. Duvets and comforters are both essential components of a well-designed bed. While there are some similarities that make the choice difficult, duvets and comforters differ in many ways that affect how you use and style the blankets. Both types of blankets are useful, but they serve different needs and preferences, so understanding the differences is important.

Duvet vs. Comforter

Both duvets and comforters are blankets that are placed on top of the bed, but they differ in construction, functionality, maintenance, and style. Knowing these distinctions enables you to select the best one to improve the functionality and aesthetics of your sleeping environment, thereby making your bedroom more comfortable and beautiful.

What is a Duvet?

A duvet is a soft, flat bag made of cotton or polyester that is filled with feathers, down, wool, silk, cotton, or a synthetic filler. Most duvets today have stitching to keep the filling evenly distributed in the bag, whereas older style duvets have no stitching across the duvet. Duvets are designed to be used with an outer removable layer known as a duvet cover.

The primary function of a duvet is to keep you warm and provide insulation while you sleep. Duvet fillings trap body heat and create a cozy sleeping environment. Duvets come in a variety of warmth levels. This is determined by the amount and type of filling used in the duvet. Check for levels in the duvet you are considering, as they often have different weights available.

Duvets vary in price and comfort according to their type of filling. Natural filled duvets are the most breathable. Down duvets are the most luxurious, the warmest, and often the most expensive duvets. You can get feather duvets that are also insulating but less expensive than down. Many duvets are filled with a combination of down and feathers, which provides insulation and comfort. Silk filled duvets are the lightest for spring and summer use. If you want a hypoallergenic duvet, consider synthetic fillers like microfiber and hollow fiber. You can wash these fillings regularly, so they are a good choice if you are allergic to dust and mites. These fillings are less breathable, so they are not ideal for hot sleepers.

The duvet cover protects the inner duvet from staining, dirt, and dust. Duvet covers are easy to remove as they have easily accessible buttons and zippers along one side of the cover. It is relatively easy to insert the duvet into the cover, though the duvet can bunch inside the cover if there are not adequate fasteners and loops on the duvet and the cover. Both practical and decorative, duvet covers come in many colors and patterns, allowing the user to customize the duvet according to their preferences. Duvet covers make changing the look of your bedding very easy and inexpensive. You can change out the duvets based on changing seasons, styles, and color palettes.

Pros:

• Customizable comfort: The construction of duvets allows you to select a warmth level based on the amount and type of filling that works best for you.
• Versatility: You can use duvets all year round. You can change the look of your bedding by purchasing a new duvet cover instead of replacing the duvet.
• Easy maintenance: Duvet covers are removable and washable, so it is easier to keep the underlying duvet clean.
• Luxurious feel: The interior of your duvet is soft and fluffy, giving your bed a cozy, luxurious feel.

Cons:

• Expense: Some duvets, especially those filled with high quality down or silk, can be expensive.
• Maintenance: While duvet covers are simple to remove and wash, if the underlying duvet becomes soiled, depending on the size, it can be difficult to clean. Some large duvets may require a large commercial washer.
• Space: Large duvets can be difficult to store, especially if you are replacing all of your duvets with lightweight summer options.
• Weight: Some people find the weight of the duvet overwhelming.
• Allergen concerns: Certain individuals are allergic to the natural filling in duvets and the dust inside. In these cases, hypoallergenic synthetic fill options work well.

What is a Comforter?

A comforter is a one-piece bedding option that consists of a thick, quilted blanket filled with synthetic or natural filling like down, feathers, wool, cotton, or silk. Unlike duvets, comforters do not require an extra outer cover, making them ready for use on the bed. Comforters are known for their ease of use and versatility. They often come paired with other bedding accessories like pillow shams, bed skirts, and even sheets, which makes coordinating them with other bedding easier.

The construction of a comforter involves sticking together the outer layers with the filling. The stitching consists of a quilted pattern that serves to hold the filling in place. Not only does the stitching separate the filling and reduce the clumping, but it also provides a decorative detail that makes comforters attractive. The filling type and weight determine the warmth of the comforter. Comforters are available in different weights, but they tend to not be as heavy as duvets.

Comforters do not feature an outer layer like duvets, but maintenance is generally easy. Comforters, especially those with synthetic fillings, wash easily. Large comforters or those with heavy filling may need a commercial washer so that there is enough space to wash them adequately.

Pros:

• Ease of use: Comforters are ready to use and do not require a cover, simplifying the bed-making process.
• Variety of styles: Comforters are a popular bedding accessory and are available in a wide range of styles and colors.
• Complete bedding sets: Many comforters come with complete bed sets, making it simple and quick to coordinate your bedding.
• Easy maintenance: Comforters do not have covers, but they are easy to wash, depending on the size and filling type.
• Weight options: Comforters are available in different weights, so it is easy to find one to suit your warmth and weight preferences.

Cons:

• Limited customization: Because comforters do not have removable covers, they are not as easy to change out with the seasons or for a new style as duvets.
• Storage issues: Comforters, like duvets, are bulky and difficult to store.
• Allergen sensitivity: Some comforters contain allergen-containing fillings. If you have sensitivities, there are many hypoallergenic options available.
• Frequent maintenance: While comforters are not difficult to clean, they may require more frequent maintenance than duvets because they do not have a removable cover.

Which is Better, a Duvet or Comforter?

There is no best option between a duvet and a comforter. The best choice depends on your preferences, lifestyle, budget, and maintenance goals.

Customization and Versatility

If you value the chance to change out your bedding with the season or if your style preferences change frequently, a duvet might be a better option for you. Duvet covers are a cost effective choice that makes it easy to change the color and style of your bedding.

Maintenance

Both comforters and duvets are easy to wash, depending on their size. Duvets are slightly easier to keep clean than comforters because they have removable covers that you can wash separately.

Style and Aesthetics

Think about your preferences regarding the overall bedroom and bed design. Duvets are often puffier and look more luxurious on the bed. Because of their quilted design, comforters often look more tailored and lay flatter on the bed.

Warmth and Weight

Both comforters and duvets are available in a variety of weights, though duvets are more often filled with down and feathers. This makes a typical duvet heavier than a standard comforter. Duvets and comforters are both warm and insulating. Duvets tend to be warmer because of their down and feather filling.

Allergies

If you have allergies, be sure to check the filling type before you buy a comforter or duvet. Both have hypoallergenic options available.

Budget

Duvets and comforters both have high-end, luxury, and budget-friendly options. Duvets and comforters filled with luxurious natural materials such as down and silk are more expensive than those with synthetic fillings.

Cohesive Bedding Sets

For a quick and simple bed dressing process, comforters are a better choice. Many comforters come as part of sets that feature sheets, pillow shams, and bedskirts to make bed coordination easy. Some duvets also feature matching shams and other bedding accessories, but you may have to do more leg work to gather these products together.

The post Duvet vs. Comforter: The Similarities and Differences appeared first on Homedit.

The Cape Cod house is a popular American architectural style. Characterized by its low, broad structure, either single or double-story, it features a steep-pitched gabled roof, a prominent central chimney, and minimal ornamentation.

The name Cape Cod coined in 1602 by Bartholomew Gosnold, is the ninth oldest English place name in the U.S. Timothy Dwight coined the term “Cape Cod House” when he was president of Yale in 1800.

Puritans coming from England to America in the 17th century began building wood cottages which were the early forms of Cape Cod homes. The harsh climate of New England forced the early builders to make adaptations to the hall and parlor house, a vernacular style popular in England. These craftsmen made their new cottages lower and with a square rather than a rectangular footprint. The new style was a one-and-a-half-story house with shingles or clapboard siding. 

Builders used materials common throughout New England, including pine and oak for framing and flooring and cedar for the shingles and siding. 

Builders also included features that would warm these homes during the long winters. They added large central fireplaces, chimneys, and low ceilings to conserve heat. They also added steep rooflines to keep them free of snow and water accumulation.

Cape Cod houses were the most popular style throughout New England from the mid-17th century until the early 19th century. Most Cape Cod homes were small, between 1,000-2,000 square feet. 

Builders finished these homes with unpainted shingles, which sun-weathered to a gray color. Window size ranged for Cape Cod houses, with most from six to nine panes.

Early Cape Cod homes were symmetrical, with a front door in the center of the house and a large central chimney. The main rooms were on the first floor, with an unfinished loft above. Builders added little ornamentation like dormer windows and porches to early Cape Cod houses.

The Revival of the Cape Cod Style House

After declining interest in Cape Cods, the style once again grew popular as part of a Colonial Revival in architecture from 1930-1950. 

Builders adapted the Cape Cod style houses into decorative and large homes for their wealthy clients. These adaptations included dormer windows to add light to the upper floors and larger floor plans.

Architects like Royal Barry Wills turned Cape Cods into efficient and modern homes for the emerging middle class. His adaptations included modern bathrooms, kitchens, and garages. 

Cape Cods became a common style in the suburbs after World War II, including in the iconic Levittown communities. Developers modeled the Cape Cod suburbs after the first successful Levittown development in Long Island, New York, created by William J. Levitt and his brother Alfred.

Modern Cape Cods

Over the years, Cape Cod homes have morphed from very plain square structures to larger abodes. It was common to add wings to the basic square frame, either on the sides of the back, to accommodate space for modern amenities like garages and large dining areas.

If a traditional Cape Cod house had an attic bedroom, dormers might be added to provide more space and light to the second story. You might even find a porch on the front or back of a modern Cape Cod. All additions increased the living space of the home without taking away the charm.

Modern builders have adapted the Cape Cod style home to meet the needs of today’s families. Despite the modern adaptations, Cape Cod homes still have efficient designs and a timeless style. These exterior characteristics will help you identify historic and modern Cape Cod homes. 

• Symmetrical Facade – Many Cape Cod houses have a symmetrical facade with a central door and an equal number of windows and/or dormers on either side. 
• Steep Roofline – Cape Cod style houses have steep roofs so that snow and rain don’t build and cause issues with weight and moisture. 
• Central Chimney – A central chimney was typical in early Cape Cod homes for heat and ventilation. 
• Dormer Windows – Dormer windows are typical for Revival and modern Cape Cod homes to bring light and ventilation to the second story. 
• Wood Cladding – Timber was inexpensive and plentiful in New England, so cedar clapboard and shingles were standard for Cape Cod exteriors. Wood is still the most common cladding type for modern Cape Cod houses. Builders left historic homes unpainted and had a weathered gray finish. Builders paint and stain modern Cape Cods to preserve the integrity of the wood. 
• Shutters – Builders add shutters to protect the window glass during harsh storms. Many of the shutters today are not functional.
• Front Porches – Historic Cape Cods did not have front porches. Revival and modern Cap Cods have porches to expand the living space and make the exterior more decorative.

When a home is small, like some of the historic Capes, you need to think hard about the exterior design. Natural shingles can give your home the style of yesteryear and provide an eye-catching pattern.

In the past, Capes were all about symmetry. Keep this in mind as you update or build your Cape Cod house. Since dormers are modern, your home may have two or three, depending on its size.

Most Cape Cods feature shutters. The original versions were functional.

Of course, most of our shutters today are decorative. You can make your shutters bright and happy or go for a neutral look.

Many Cape homes have beautiful gardens with minimal lawns. Draw on the area you live in and make your front yard a field of wildflowers. Not only will it thrive, but your yard will be a safe haven for the bees and butterflies in the area.

If you prefer the more restrained and classic front yard, consider roses. 

There is nothing like a Cape Cod home with a white picket fence. Whether you live in the country or in town, a picket fence will give you a nice border to edge your landscaping.

Some Cape Cod-style homes have a front porch, giving them a farmhouse feel. Embrace that space and make it a part of your living area. 

Maybe you’re looking for a way to bring a little modern style to your old Cape house. You can never go wrong with black. Some black on the front door, shutters, and any trim around the house will give the whole facade a brand-new look.

If you want your Cape to feel like a vacation retreat, you’re going to have to partner with the neighbors. With similar siding and some climbing roses, your street will look like a vacation community, with or without the beach.

The post What Is Cape Cod Style House? appeared first on Homedit.

McMansion is a derogatory term used to describe oversized and ostentatious houses. The homes are constructed with cheap materials and considered eyesores. Because the homes are built faster than other house styles, the dwellings are believed to be the “fast food” version of housing. 

The name association with McDonald’s is not a compliment. When a comparison is made to the fast-food chain, it’s not meant as a form of flattery.

McMansions emerged in the 80s and became popular during the run-up to the subprime mortgage crisis of 08. As the polar opposite of minimalism, McMansions symbolized the American Dream. All of a sudden, maximalism replaced minimalism. 

The term isn’t relegated to only the US. McMansions are international and popular in Australia as well. Not only are the houses larger in Australia, but homes have more land. In rural environments, these houses sit on a few acres.  

Today, new homeowners are remodeling their homes so they won’t look like McMansions. The trend is what designer Jean Stoffer calls “deMcMansioning.” 

“I actually prefer a remodel versus new builds because it’s all about seeing potential in what’s already there,” said Stoffer while explaining how younger families often buy homes that have an outdated aesthetic.

The McDonald’s McMansion

In Long Island, McMansion refers to the McDonald’s McMansion. This is an operating Mcdonald’s franchise built inside a home from America’s Colonial period. 

Also known as Denton House, this fast-food restaurant sits in New Hyde Park, New York. The home was scheduled for demolition in the 80s before it was converted into a Mcdonald’s. When the home was remodeled, the owners agreed to transform it but only if they could keep the original exterior. 

Traditional Mansion vs. McMansion

What Makes A McMansion?

Although McMansions don’t have a specific definition like other types of houses, craftsman or colonial, for example,  there are a few common characteristics among them.

But not all McMansions are the same. After all, the term McMansion is slang, and slang terms represent a feeling.

Minimum: 3,000 square feet 

Most McMansions are at least 3000 sqft, larger than most homes in the world. The size is one of their most defining features.

Some McMansions can be smaller. For example, a 2500 sqft three-story home may be classified as McMansion. 

Cheap Materials

Before the financial crisis and the bubble burst, homeowners wanted to keep up with the Joneses. For that to happen, they used the cheapest materials possible in order to afford the sheer size of the home. The lower budgets explain why the construction quality of  McMansions is lower than other homes.  

Hodge Podge Of Materials

Many times, the materials in McMansions depended on cost. Because of this, the houses feature a mixed bag of materials. 

High McMansion Ceilings

High ceilings were important to McMansion owners to create a grand entrance. Huge living rooms and entryways with two or three stories and a chandelier in the center are common features.

Some consider the layout a waste of space since it reduces liveable areas.

Large Garages

It’s typical to find two or three-car garages in McMansions. Garages sometimes double as storage space.

Mass-Production 

McMansions were mass-produced during their heyday. Tract communities and suburban environments feature the home style. 

The homes look the same because they’re cheaper to build using the same materials. It’s also cost-efficient to reproduce homes with similar styles and compositions. 

The post What Is McMansion? appeared first on Homedit.

Brutalist architecture refers to an architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century. Brutalist designs are characterized by raw, exposed concrete and bold geometric forms. Brutalism remains the last significant architectural movement to come to the US.

Brutalist architecture has weathered much criticism over the years because of its lack of warmth and its harsh style, but it has also gained some devoted fans who love the bold and innovative look.

Le Corbusier was the father of the brutalist movement, which emerged in the 1950s. The style was embraced in western countries, and by the 1970s, brutalist buildings could be found in most cities and on college campuses. As a design movement, it was centered on a harsh aesthetic featuring rough, bleak surfaces and non-traditional geometric shapes.

Famous examples include government buildings like Boston’s City Hall, Genex Tower, or the Pirelli Tire Building, which are made of concrete and have odd-shaped windows.

The architectural style is often used as a backdrop in dystopian cinema due to the utilitarian nature of the buildings. 

As renewed interest gains momentum, many see the style as a form of maximalist architecture due to the large framed buildings.

Key Features Of Brutalist Architecture

Let’s look at a few characteristics that define the brutalist style.

Exposed Concrete 

Concrete is the most important component of brutalism. When the movement first emerged, concrete was rare. The material was considered high-end and modern. Other materials can be used, such as rebar, but most of the structure will consist of reinforced concrete, or CMU. 

Grim Tower Blocks 

Brutalism centers on geometric shapes and block designs. Blocks help give Brutalist structures a dense and heavy aesthetic. 

New Brutalism

Brutalism has its artistic merits. Unlike the earliest examples, today’s brutalist buildings aren’t all about reinforced concrete, rebar, or rough surfaces.

Overhangs 

Overhangs may not be a constant, but they’re not uncommon. Unlike a pyramid, where the bottom is bigger than the top, brutalism architecture flips this design, starting small and ending large.

Monochromatic 

Brutalist buildings do not rely on color schemes. They are monochromatic. Their lack of color makes them easier to film, which is why they’re used as backdrops in movies. The architectural style is also synonymous with dystopian landscapes.  

Small Windows

Brutalism eschews large windows, preferring smaller ones. In Brutalism, architects consider large windows a distraction and believe small windows help focus attention on the structure.

Functionalism

Brutalist architecture is associated with functionalist principles. This means that the designers sought to create the building’s design without unnecessary embellishment. 

Brutalist Architecture On US College Campuses

Every college campus in America has at least one brutalist building. US college campuses embraced brutalism in architecture because the buildings were cheaper and easier to build.

One unconfirmed theory behind the style’s widespread emergence is how the buildings suppressed student protests.

Here are some examples of Brutalist-style buildings on famous college campuses.

Harvard

The man responsible for the brutalist movement was responsible for one US construction project – the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts at Harvard University. Le Corbusier designed it and built it in the 1960s. He intended the multi-story ramp to serve as a metaphor for open dialogue between art forms. 

Yale

Yale University’s Rudolph Hall is another early addition to the brutalist architecture movement in the United States. Designed by American architect Paul Rudolph, the nine-story building has 37 levels, and two of its floors are underground.

Rudolph’s design challenged contemporary notions of heavy and light space.

University of Washington

Located in Seattle, Washington, the University of Washington’s Red Square is a three-way monument to the brutalist school from the 1970s. 

The first building in the brutalist series was Kane Hall. Designed by Walker & McGough in 1971, the exterior is pure brutalism, while the interior is a different style. Narrow columns and recessed windows are trademark characteristics of brutalism architecture.

The second building is the Odegaard Undergraduate Library. Designed by Wallace, McKinley & Associates, the library opened in 1972. And just like Kane Hall, the library features red brick and recessed windows.

The third building is Meany Hall for the Performing Arts. Designed by Kirk, Wallace, McKinley & Associates, the performance hall opened in 1974. The building’s lack of windows gives it a looming presence, but the interior acoustics are cleaner in buildings without windows.

Brutalist Recreational Architecture

Brutalism’s influence extends beyond government buildings and college campuses. When skateboarding peaked in the 1970s and 1980s, along with it came the advent of skateparks.

With concrete surfaces and odd shapes, the skatepark became a clever tribute to the brutalist movement.

Southbank Centre

Located in London, England, the Southbank Centre is known worldwide as a skateboarding hotspot. Opened in 1973, the building served as the foundation for the city’s skateboard culture. Without the building, skateboarding wouldn’t have developed the way it did. 

SLO Skatepark

Located in San Luis Obispo, California, the SLO skatepark is a 17,000-square-foot tribute to brutalist designs.

Brutalist Architecture Worldwide

Let’s take a look at a few important works of brutalist architecture and how the style has impacted the world.

New York City

Although primarily a mid-century modern design, brutalism is still alive today. It fell out of favor during the 1980s and was nearly non-existent in the 1990s and 2000s when it came to new construction. 

The name itself is enough to deter a lot of people. But the name comes from the French term for raw concrete rather than a brutal nature.

Colombia

The small urban area uses every inch of its outside space. Located in Medellin, Colombia, the neighborhood is known as Comuna 13.

Belgium

One of Belgium’s greatest architects, Constatin Brodzki, was a leading figure in the brutalist movement. He began his career in the 1940s and rose to prominence in Europe. Brodzki later became a respected figure in American architecture.

Uzbekistan 

Many Soviet and Asian architectural designs feature brutalist influences. Brutalist buildings erected in Uzbekistan during the 1970s remain an integral part of the nation’s landscape. The color splashes featured on the Circus in Tashkent make it a brutalist treasure.

North Caucasus 

The North Caucasus is known for its contributions to the art world. Across the region, statues stand on the side of cliffs. However, Hotel Amanauz is in a different league.

India

Designed by Indian architect Achyut Kanvinde, the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) opened in 1985. When most people think of India, brutalist architecture doesn’t come to mind. However, the architectural movement is a natural fit with the country’s geographic landscape.

Israel  

The Beersheba Divinity in Israel features bare concrete. It’s a place where crowds gather daily at the Statue of Israel, built-in 1948.

The post What Is Brutalist Architecture? appeared first on Homedit.

The cottagecore aesthetic movement celebrates the idealized look of nature and country life. This movement has evolved into much more than a design aesthetic; it is now a way of life. The cottagecore aesthetic embodies embracing a simple way of life that gets back to nature and quiet, homey pursuits.

What is Cottagecore Aesthetic Style?

The term can be understood in parts: the word “cottage” is explainable as the style echoes the English cottage design and style. The suffix “core” serves to explain the central nature of cottage life and design in the cottagecore aesthetic. 

The cottagecore style became a more significant cultural movement in the late 2010s and early 2020s. This was due in large part to influencers on social media and celebrities like Taylor Swift and the promotional pictures of her album ‘Folklore’. The popularity of the cottage core aesthetic can be seen as a reaction to the creep of technology into our lives, much like the Arts and Crafts Movement at the turn of the 20th century. Also, there is an emphasis on sustainability and personal wellness that is attractive to many people. 

The cottage design aesthetic is all about comfort and simplicity. Many homes featuring this look utilize vintage and antique items that bring warmth and a homey feel to the space. They also bring the natural world into their home spaces, so fresh flowers and branches are always welcome. In addition, handmade items are given pride of place.

Cottagecore Interior Design

Let’s take a look at some inspirational pictures of classic cottagecore rooms that we have gathered. We will see what some of these gorgeous cottagecore interiors have in common.

The Gamekeeper’s Kitchen

This kitchen, featured by Anya Rice Photography, is a good example of cottagecore interior design. Notice the open shelves with colorful books and cookware. The wooden chairs have a mismatched style and look like they were collected over time. The wooden beams in the ceiling are a common architectural feature in English cottages and the perfect addition to cottagecore design.

Cottagecore Living Room

Here is another quintessential example of cottage core interior style. It features layered surfaces with cozy throws and floral pillows. The designers have incorporated fresh flowers and plants into each room. The wide plank wood floors are ideal for the simple cottage style. Another architectural feature common in cottage design styles is wood paneled walls.

Country Home Bathroom

The wooden beams are just the architectural touch to set off the cottage style of this bathroom. Other elements, like the colorful clawfoot tub, pedestal sink, and hanging plants, accentuate its cottagecore style.

Refined Cottagecore Bedroom

Not all cottagecore is a riot of color and design. Cottagecore can be more minimal in color and pattern. This bedroom design from M & P Design Group is painted in a subtle shade of sage green. The iron bed with the various textured pillows and wicker light sconces gives the room a quiet sense of comfort.

Colorful Laundry Room

Laundry would not be such a tiresome chore in this gorgeous cottagecore laundry room design from Meet West Studio. They have used colorful wallpaper and balanced it with a soft sea green cabinet color. The open shelves with the storage baskets make laundry detergent and other essentials quick to grab.

Cottagecore Design Tips

Cottagecore Design Tips

There has been criticism of the cottage aesthetic as not authentic and too exclusive to certain groups. But cottagecore style can work for anyone who wants to incorporate this design aesthetic into their home and life. Here are a few ways that you can do just that. 

Antique and Vintage Items

Incorporate furniture and home decorations that are considered vintage or antique. These items often have a weathered or well-used look that is common to the homey and comfortable style of cottagecore design.

Well-Placed Technology

The design style of cottagecore does not include the cords and screens of modern technology. Therefore, it is important to find ways to hide cords and screens when they are not in use. This can include the use of cottagecore furniture like large cabinets for TVs or well-placed holes to feed cords through.

Natural Elements

The cottagecore style includes the incorporation of the outdoors into the inside of the home. This includes bringing in nature like flowers, plants, seashells, and branches into your home. Consider also adding botanical drawings and objects using natural elements like wood, wool, and leather to the home. In addition to the other elements, use fabrics that portray nature, like fun floral fabrics.

Use Plenty of Baskets

Modern cottagecore is all about the simple comforts of home. Nothing says homey comfort quite like a basket filled with books, cozy blankets, and puzzles. Use large and small baskets anywhere that you need to create storage in living rooms where people gather or in bedrooms near your bedside tables.

Wooden Furniture

If you are looking to create the cottage core style, forgo the modern acrylic side table for a wooden one. Wooden furniture is ideal for cottagecore interior design. It still looks fitting in these rooms, even when it gets dings and scratches in the course of everyday life.

Just Add Books

Curling up with a cup of tea and a good book is cottagecore 101. Incorporate vintage and antique books as well as books that have the cottagecore design aesthetic in style or in content.

Mix Color and Texture

Cottagecore design style takes so many of its cues from English country style. Many of these English cottages feature colorful interiors that layer texture and pattern. This includes a mix of plaid, floral, and toile, all combined together to create a look of “lived-in style.” Try to layer textures, including fluffy wool, nubby jute, woven wicker, and soft cotton.

Wallpaper

Layer more color and texture with the use of wallpaper. There are so many amazing styles of wallpaper these days, from the sophisticated to the casual.

Curtains and Drapes

Curtains and drapes are not necessary for cottagecore, but they can help soften the look of a room and make it appear more romantic in style. Use country style curtains with ruffles or choose more understated cafe style curtains over a kitchen counter or in a bathroom.

Open Shelves

Cottagecore interiors are simple and unaffected. Open shelves are great for this, as you can display colorful dishes and bakeware. Mugs and teacups are always handy when you want to make the perfect cup of tea.

Architectural Features

If you have the time and means, you can accentuate cottagecore style with architectural features in your home. Add faux or real wooden beams to your ceiling to give your home the look of a cottage. Wooden paneling, shiplap paneling, tiled ceilings, and wood floors are another way to bring the simple cottage look inside. 

The post Cottagecore Aesthetic: Home Decor Tips That Will Work For You appeared first on Homedit.

Rain barrels, also known as water butts, are large containers you can place under your home’s downspout to collect rainwater. Many states have regulations against using rainwater for human consumption (also known as potable) but don’t regulate it for non-potable uses.

Collecting rainwater is a great way to ensure your garden gets plenty of moisture. It also cuts down on your water bill. Make the most of your catchment system by avoiding these common mistakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Rain Barrel

1. Lack of Proper Maintenance

Stagnant water in rain barrels leads to the breeding of mosquitos and other pests. It also fosters algae and bacterial growth, which is why you need to check the health of your system on a regular basis.

Inspect for leaks, ensure all connections are secure, and replace worn parts. Also, check for clogs or blockages in the downspout or barrel’s outlet.

2. Incorrect Placement

Incorrect placement of your rain barrel minimizes the amount of water you’re collecting. Your rain barrel should go on a level surface beneath one of your gutter system’s downspouts. 

If you plan to irrigate your lawn or garden with the water from your rain barrel, choose the downspout closest to the garden. Because rain barrels don’t have much water pressure, the water may not be able to travel very far.

3. Not Using a Diverter

Not using a diverter leads to a higher concentration of contaminants and solids in the stored water, which can clog up the system. A first flush diverter or a roof washer diverts the first flow of rainwater, which carries most of the dirt and debris from the roof.

To install a diverter, cut a downspout section and attach the diverter to it. Ensure the diverter has an inlet for the rainwater and an outlet for the excess water. Connect a hose or pipe to the diverter’s outlet, which will divert the excess water away from the barrel.

Direct the water to a garden, a porous area, or a drainage system. Ensure the water flows away from your house’s foundation to prevent potential damage. Additional pre-filtration methods like mesh filters further remove contaminants before storing the water.

4. Overflow Issues

If your rain barrel overflows toward your home’s foundation, it can ruin it, causing shifting and a leaky basement. Make sure excess water is diverted away from the home.

5. Not Covering the Barrel

Uncovered rain barrels are a breeding ground for mosquitos and algae. Use a lid or piece of mesh to ensure your barrel is always covered.

6. Ignoring Local Regulations

Although collecting rainwater isn’t illegal, some states have regulations on this matter. Research your state’s laws and adhere to them to avoid fines or legal problems.

The post Don’t Make These Rain Barrel Blunders! Top 6 Mistakes to Dodge appeared first on Homedit.

Toilet clogs disrupt daily routines and create a mess. Ten common factors contribute to back-ups, and most are easy to fix. Try these methods on your always clogged toilets for problem-free flushing.

1. Using Excess Toilet Paper

Using too much toilet paper can clog your toilet. When you flush, the excess paper gets stuck in the pipes, creating a blockage. It can’t break apart as intended and pass through the pipes when someone in your family uses excess.

How to Fix

Consider switching from 2-ply to 1-ply toilet paper for toilets that frequently get jammed. Other clog-busting techniques include teaching children to use appropriate amounts of toilet paper and using a courtesy flush to eliminate the toilet paper in smaller amounts.

2. Low-Flow Toilets

Low-flow toilets use less water per flush, which is good for water conservation but bad for flushing. The reduced water volume may not provide enough pressure to push waste and toilet paper through the pipes. The poor flushing power leaves waste and toilet paper behind, which causes constant clogs.

How to Fix

If you have constant clogs, replace your low-flow toilet with a regular toilet. If that is not an option, install a pressure-assist retrofit kit to increase the flushing power by using air pressure to push waste down the drain.

Use less toilet paper and flush multiple times if needed. Preventive measures, like using enzyme-based cleaners to keep the drain lines clear, reduce the chances of clogs.

3. Flushing Foreign Objects

The only things that should go down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Flushing other paper and hygiene products clogs the bathroom because they aren’t meant for toilet disposal.

Items like toys, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, cotton swabs, and even small items like keys or jewelry can get stuck in the narrow passages of the toilet’s drain and sewer pipes. They trap toilet paper and other waste, worsening clogs.

How to Fix

Use a plunger to dislodge clogs caused by foreign objects. Place the plunger over the drain hole and push it up and down firmly. If that doesn’t work, use a toilet auger (a snake) to reach and remove the clog.

Insert the auger into the drain and turn the handle to break up or retrieve the blockage. If the clog is severe, call a professional plumber to avoid further damage to your plumbing system.

Also, educate household members (including young children) about what should and shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet.

4. Mineral Buildup

If you’re using hard water, mineral buildup causes toilets to clog. Hard water has high levels of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. It leaves behind small mineral deposits when it flows through your plumbing.

Over time, these minerals accumulate inside the toilet’s trapway (the curved section of the toilet’s drain) and in the jets and flush holes that help propel water and waste through the system. The buildup narrows the passageways in the toilet, reducing the flow of water and waste.

How to Fix

Pour white vinegar or a commercial descaling solution into the toilet and let it sit for a few hours to dissolve the deposits. For more stubborn deposits, scrub the mineral buildup with a toilet brush. To prevent buildup, consider installing a water softener to reduce the hardness of your water.

5. Broken Toilet Seal

A broken toilet seal does not directly cause toilet clogging but causes problems that result in clogs or leaks. The wax ring or rubber gasket seals the connection between the toilet and the sewer pipe.

When this seal is broken, it leads to;

• An uneven toilet causes improper flushing, incomplete waste removal, and clogging.
• Water leakage from the base of the toilet
• Sewer gas odors

How to Fix

To fix a broken toilet seal, replace the damaged wax ring. Ensure the toilet is properly sealed to the floor and drain.

6. Sagging Toilet Drain Line

A sagging toilet drain line has a dip, “belly,” at one or more spots along the line. Instead of allowing waste and water to flow smoothly toward the septic tank, these low points create stagnant areas where solids settle and build up.

Waste and debris accumulate and get trapped over time. This causes slow drainage and clogs, causing the toilet to flush poorly.

How to Fix

Identify where the drain line is sagging or not sloped correctly. Reposition or replace the sagging section of the drain line to ensure a proper slope. If clogs have already formed, use a plunger, toilet auger, or drain snake to attempt to remove the blockage.

You may need to access the plumbing under the floor or within the walls, so look for a professional plumber.

7. Tree Root Intrusions

Sewer lines contain nutrients, organic matter, and moisture that tree roots seek. The roots infiltrate and grow within the underground sewer pipes. As the roots expand, they obstruct the pipes, constricting the wastewater flow and causing it to back up.

These intrusive roots also catch and trap solid debris, toilet paper, and other waste materials, forming stubborn blockages. The result is reduced water flow and a clogged toilet.

How to Fix

Have a professional plumber inspect the lines. Depending on the severity of the intrusion, they can remove or trim the roots. They’ll also repair or replace where the sewer lines have sustained significant damage.

8. Old or Faulty Plumbing

Over time, pipes deteriorate, corrode, or develop rough interior surfaces that catch toilet paper, waste, and debris as they pass through. Outdated plumbing systems may have inadequate flushing power to carry away waste and toilet paper.

Faulty seals, loose connections, or cracked pipes allow foreign objects or sediment to infiltrate the system. Also, faulty plumbing connections or improper pipe slopes hinder the smooth flow of water and waste, making it easier for clogs to form.

How to Fix

Look for a professional plumber to inspect your plumbing system and identify corrosion issues, reduced pipe diameter, leaks, and misalignments. Repair or replace the damaged or corroded sections. Conduct regular maintenance and consider replacing old plumbing systems.

9. Sewer Line Blockages

A blockage in the sewer line obstructs the path for waste to exit. Blockage occurs due to tree intrusions, damaged pipes, or debris accumulation.

When you flush the toilet, the waste and toilet paper have difficulty passing through the blocked sewer line. Instead, they back into your home’s plumbing system, causing toilets to overflow or drain slowly, which leads to toilet clogs.

How to Fix

Contact a professional plumber to clear the blockage. They use hydro-jetting (high-pressure water) or augers to clear the obstruction and restore proper drainage.

10. Incorrect Toilet Installation

Poor toilet installation leads to issues such as an imperfect seal with the wax ring or improper slope in the drain line. Misalignment of the toilet’s trap with the sewer line may also occur.

These errors create spaces and irregularities where waste, toilet paper, and debris accumulate, leading to clogs. Inadequate sealing and misalignment allow for leaks. This softens the ground and makes it easier for tree roots to infiltrate the sewer line.

Also, a poorly installed toilet may have inadequate flushing power to push waste down the drain effectively.

How to Fix

Reinstall the toilet correctly, ensuring the wax ring, flange, and bolts are aligned and secured. Repair damaged wax rings and gaskets and tighten loose bolts.

The post 10 Expert Fixes to Flush Your Clogging Woes Away appeared first on Homedit.

The Dutch door is one that is split in the middle, though unlike a French door, the door is split with a horizontal cut rather than vertical. The top and bottom halves can be opened and closed independent of one another.

The doors can be customized with molding and paint to blend with your home in a seamless way or deliver an unforgettable statement.

Dutch doors go by many names and are also known as stable doors, double-hung doors, and half doors. They originated in Europe in the 17th century as a way of keeping barn animals outside while allowing fresh air inside.

All Dutch doors require one piece of special hardware; the latch is the piece that connects the bottom portion to the top portion. The Dutch door latch is bolted when both the top and bottom half doors are closed but can be left open if either section is open.

There are doors that are split with an even top and a bottom, and a 3/4 Dutch door that has a larger top or bottom portion.

Pros:

• These doors are high on charm. They have such a unique look that they create instant appeal for your house.
• They are practical in that they can replace a baby gate for animals or children that you need to corral. Just close the lower door and leave the upper portion open so that you can still see and hear into the next room or yard area.
• They allow fresh air into the home without having to open the whole door.
• You can open the top portion when receiving deliveries allowing many to feel less vulnerable than opening the whole door to a stranger.

Cons:

• It can be difficult to put a screen on a Dutch door, so insects and bugs are bound to come into your home when you leave this door open. While it isn’t practical or attractive to have a screen over your Dutch door, some add a sliding retractable screen door to the door molding outside the door.
• Dutch doors are difficult for children to use, and because they can be tricky to close; fingers may be pinched in the process.
• Dutch doors are more custom than standard doors, so they are a more expensive option than a regular door.
• Because there are so many moving parts on a Dutch door, they can be hard to install. Also, if they are not installed well, Dutch doors are less weatherproof.

Dutch Door Ideas For Inspiration

Here are some wonderful ideas for you to consider as you think about adding one of these doors in your home.

Green with envy

Double Dutch exterior doors are a statement all in themselves. However, painting it a stunning color will up the ante for all your neighbors. This solid wood Dutch door is elegant in dark green paint and finished with intricate molding.

The side lights allow plenty of natural light to filter through. When you are ready for more light and fresh air, just open the top part of the door. If you are interested in painting your door something similar, try Sherwin Williams Hunt Club (SW 6468) or Green Bay (2045-10) from Benjamin Moore.

Craftsman style double Dutch doors

Let in more natural light with this craftsman-style Dutch door design. This exterior door has a five-light glass-paneled top that complements the same style sidelights.

This creates a pleasing symmetry that works well on a craftsman’s bungalow. The homeowners have painted the door a black color to give the door a look of simple refinement.

Dueling colors

If you can’t decide on one color for your door, why not choose two?

Double Dutch doors allow one portion to remain open, giving you the chance to show both sides of the door at the same time. These owners have painted the Dutch door exterior with a bright green color.

They have kept the Dutch door interior more neutral to blend with the aqua blue kitchen. If you like the exterior color of this door, try Teal Blast (2039-40) from Benjamin Moore.

Bring more light inside

These homeowners have extended the look of the single glass-paneled front Dutch door. They added large transoms above the door and the sidelights to let in as much light as possible. The look is simple and stately.

The owners have painted the door white along with the surrounding side panels and molding.

Also, the deep blue crown molding around the top and the mosaic tile floor adds further definition to the entry.

Brighten your interior spaces

An interior Dutch door painted in red gives this kitchen a bright splash of color into the neutral space. Further, these doors are handy inside the home for keeping kids and/or pets safe rather than adding a more intrusive element like a baby gate.

Dutch doors contain the mess of pantries, mudrooms, or laundry rooms without closing off the whole room from sight. This door can grow with the needs of the family.

Bright and sunny Dutch front door

This front door is an example of a 3/4 Dutch door. The light yellow has a cheerful but elegant look, perfect for this entry with dark tones.

It complements the charcoal tones in the brick and the slate tile foundation. The frame around the door creates a formal look for the entry.

Rustic farmhouse front door

This front door design is the perfect element to add the rustic charm of barn doors to your home style.

The barn design and look complement the earthy and textured tones of the living room. This look is similar to sliding barn doors that many people use as interior doors now.

Double Dutch doors with a view

Take in more of the outside world with a double Dutch door. This double hung door has four panels that open independent of one another. This home overlooks a lovely view, and the homeowners have welcomed this view into their home by throwing wide the top door panels.

Updating a backyard shed

Painted Dutch doors are the perfect addition to any backyard shed. It increases the charm of any common building and if you paint the shed a light color, paint the door a contrasting color for added interest. Also, the window at the top of the door allows light to filter through, and when it is open, you can air out the room without allowing random wildlife to wander in unhindered.

Modern Dutch door for style

If you have a more neutral look in mind, try an all white entry door. This is a clean look with an unexpected twist. This modern Dutch door creates a unified look along with the side transoms. The elegant modern farmhouse look unifies the space with the continuity of the design and color.

Color it pretty

If you have a desire to stand out, choose a bright blue door to bring vibrancy to your entry. The style and color of this door will make your home a paragon of style in your own neighborhood. Plus, it creates an inviting entrance that your guests will love.

If you want to paint your own Dutch door a similar color, look at Briny (SW 6775) from Sherwin Williams or Varsity Blues (756) from Benjamin Moore.

The post What Is A Dutch Door? appeared first on Homedit.

Sliding doors consist of multiple panels that operate as one unit. The doors open and close along a fixed upper and/or lower track or glide. For most sliding door configurations, one door remains stationary while the other is movable.

The sliding door used today is a descendant of the sliding panels common in Japanese architecture, the Shoji and Fusuma. The sliding door has been popular in European and North American architecture since the 1900s.

There are interior sliding doors used for closets, pantries, and as room dividers. There are also exterior sliding doors. Sliding glass doors are common for use as patio doors. They are an ideal way to provide closure without inhibiting the flow of light into the interior spaces.

Pros:

• Connection – Large sliding doors create wonderful linkages between indoor and outdoor spaces because of the large openings they add.
• Traffic Flow – Sliding doors create a large opening which lends to great traffic flow for entertainment.
• Light – Sliding glass doors are a large expanse of glass that brings light into interior spaces or between rooms.
• View – Sliding glass doors have small frames and large glass panes through which you can view your outdoor spaces.
• Space Savings – Sliding doors, unlike hinged doors, do not take up space in the room when you open them.

Cons:

• Cost – Sliding doors are sometimes more expensive than traditional doors to buy and install. Also, the maintenance and hardware of sliding doors can be more expensive.
• Maintenance – Sliding doors can be more difficult to maintain than traditional doors because of the fingerprints on large glass panes. Also, dirt can build up in the track that you need to keep clear to avoid future problems.
• Privacy – The large expanse of glass in sliding glass doors provides a view indoors that creates less privacy.

Type of Sliding Doors

Sliding doors are any doors that operate on a track or glider. There are several kinds of types and styles.

1. Bypass Doors – Bypass doors are those that have panels that do not remain fixed. Instead, the panels pass across one another when opening and closing.
2. Barn Doors – Barn doors are those that open and close on a slider that is located above the door frame.
3. Sliding Glass Doors – Glass sliding doors are common for both interior and exterior spaces. Homeowners and designers use them as patio doors and as room separators.
4. Sliding Bi-fold Doors – Sliding bi-fold doors are double doors that are connected by a vertical hinge. These doors open on an upper and/or lower track.
5. Pocket Doors – Pocket doors are sliding doors that open into a recess in the wall. This way, pocket doors, when open, disappear to create a seamless opening.
6. Sliding Accordion Doors – Sliding accordion doors are similar to sliding bi-fold doors except that there are more panels than just two that are joined together.
7. Sliding Shower Doors – Sliding shower doors are made of glass panels that operate with a glide or track closure.

Sliding Door Designs

Sliding doors are used in homes in both standard and high-end design. We have rounded up some fabulous pictures of the way that homeowners have used sliding doors in their space.

Modern Barn Slide Doors

Sliding barn doors are a popular trend because of the rustic and organic style and the ease of closure. Bartels Doors & Windows creates these gorgeous modern barn doors that have a minimalist and streamlined style. These are ideal for incorporating the ease of the barn door closure with a wider variety of home styles.

Closet Bypass Sliding Doors

Because of the small spaces involved, most closets use some kind of sliding door. These bypass doors all move so that you can access the closet from both sides. This three panel sliding bypass door from Homestead Doors allows you to cover a larger space but open it with ease. The warm toned wood and opaque glass panels work well for rustic and contemporary design.

Interior Sliding Glass Doors

Most homeowners use sliding glass doors as patio doors, but they make amazing interior doors too. Dulles Glass and Mirror created these gorgeous interior sliding glass doors to separate the living and dining room. They used a smoke glass to provide some privacy when the doors are closed.

Pocket Sliding Doors

Pocket doors are useful in small areas like bathrooms because they do not take up extra room when closed and disappear when opened. Pocket doors also have a more custom look than standard doors.

Bifold Sliding Doors

Bifold sliding doors are used most as closet and pantry doors in homes. These glass bifold sliding doors provide a good way to create distinction between rooms but still allow a visual connection between the spaces.

Sliding Accordion Doors

Sliding accordion doors, also called movable walls, create large openings between rooms that you can open or close as you need. d’Arcy & Associates Architecture created this kitchen and living room area. They connected it to the outdoor patio with a sliding accordion door to create a larger entertainment area.

Exterior Sliding Glass Doors

LaCantina sliding doors are some of the most well known in the industry. The sliding glass doors feature a large expanse of glass to maximize the view and connection to the outdoors. They also feature a wood clad interior frame to give the room a pop of warm color and texture.

Sliding Shower Door

Sliding shower doors are common in bathroom design to save space and create a more minimal design. For this small bathroom, the designer used black matte hardware on the glass sliding door to update the look of the bathroom.

The post What Are Sliding Doors? appeared first on Homedit.

A flush door is one with a plain, flat surface. They are unlike paneled doors which have panels within an outer frame. Despite their simple style, flush doors can have a beautiful design. Some have decorative embellishments and intricate wood veneer that gives the doors more depth.

Flush doors are used in both commercial and residential design. For the construction of flush doors, fabricators sandwich two pieces of flat material over an internal frame. These outer pieces are constructed of plywood, MDF, or wood veneer.

Pros:

• Cost – The construction of flush doors is inexpensive as are the materials. Therefore, the cost of flush doors is less expensive than similar paneled doors.
• Insulation – Solid core flush doors provide great sound and weather insulation.
• Installation – Flush doors have a simple design which makes them easy to install.
• Design – The simple design of flush doors allows wood veneer to stand out. These make great doors for modern and contemporary homes.
• Maintenance – Flush doors have flat faces, so they are easier to clean than the nook and crannies on paneled doors.

Cons:

• Alterations – The simple construction of a flush door means that it is difficult to alter once complete.
• Repair – The veneer face of flush doors is difficult to repair if it begins to peel.
• Distinct Style – The style of a flush door does not work well for traditional or classic home styles.

Internal Components of Flush Doors

Manufacturers create flush doors in three types: solid core, hollow core, or cellular core.

1. Solid Core Flush Door – As the name suggests, solid core doors use hard timber for the frame construction and edges. They use a combination of particle board, MDF, wood veneer, block board, and laminated core are also present. These doors are heavy and stable. Homeowners use them if they need extra sound or weather insulation. Most solid-core flush doors are exterior doors.
2. Hollow Core Flush Door – Hollow core doors have a hollow core that is filled with a honeycomb layer to provide structure for the door. This door has stiles and rails along the top and side of the door. Between the stiles and rails there are wood battens that fill the spaces in between. Homeowners use these lightweight doors as interior doors.
3. Cellular Core Flush Door – Cellular doors have a frame with plywood and wooden battens. The space inside the frame is a series of strips of wood and plywood placed at equal distances. The empty space of a cellular core flush door does not exceed 40% of the middle space. These are sandwiched between plywood faces.

Flush Door Hardware

Most flush doors are used in minimalist design styles. Therefore, bulky hinges and other hardware are not ideal. Most flush door hinges are concealed hinges that do not show when they are closed. Hardware like pulls and knobs have sleek and minimal design. Some flush door pulls are created from cutouts in the face of the door to minimize their impact further.

In other modern and contemporary designs, architects create concealed doors within door paneling. They use flush doors of the same material as the wall. Adjustable hidden hinges are useful in this context. This way, the homeowner can adjust the door on the hinges to create the closest fit.

Flush Door Designs

Flush doors make gorgeous interior, exterior, cabinet, and closet doors. We have gathered some designs to inspire you with their possibilities.

Wooden Flush Door

Here is a gorgeous wooden flush door in this industrial-style loft. The designer, simple brown design, used a flush wooden panel door that blends with the dark wood paneling behind the bed. The design allows the door to disappear into the background to keep the focus on the warm wood texture.

Flush Panel Door

This midcentury bedroom design features a flush panel door design. The wood panel features long vertical slats, so that the wood flush door disappears into the wall. Again, this is an ideal way to minimize the look of the door and maximize the simplicity of the overall room design.

Flush Cabinet Doors

Flush cabinet doors look stunning in a modern or contemporary kitchen. This kitchen, designed by Architecture in Formation, features medium-toned flush wood facings with invisible flush door cabinet hinges and few cabinet pulls.

Flush Entry Door

Flush entry doors are a common feature of modern and contemporary exterior home design. This door blends with the medium toned horizontal slats. The flush door pull has a simple design that blends form with function.

Flush Sliding Door

Flush doors work well using different closures including slides and hinges. Flush sliding doors work well in small rooms where floor space is a premium. Pocket flush doors recess into the wall so that they do not take up excess space when they are open. Laidlaw Schultz Architects use this pocket flush door to further simplify the design of this bedroom.

Flush Panel Garage Door

A flush garage door has a more streamlined look than a paneled garage door. These fit much better on midcentury homes. Turn Design created this midcentury style garage. They used a flat panel similar to the vertical paneled siding.

The post What Is A Flush Door? appeared first on Homedit.

A screen door is a hinged door with a frame fitted with mesh that allow light and fresh air into the home while keeping troublesome insects at bay.

There are four types of screen doors:

1. Traditional Screen Door

A traditional screen door, also called a hinged screen door, goes on top of an exterior door. Some traditional screen doors have minimal decorative detail so the emphasis is on the style of the exterior door beneath. Others have a unique design that is beautiful in their own right.

Pros

• Hinged screen doors are the most common type of screen door, so there are multiple sizes and styles that are available including single-hinged doors and double-hinged doors.
• This is a convenient option that most people can install themselves.
• These doors have a rustic and historic style that works well on a particular style home.
• Screen doors with dog doors are available in hinged doors.

Cons

• Swinging screen doors, like storm doors, cover and inhibit the look of the primary exterior door.
• Hinged screen doors create another layer over the exterior door that means you have to open two doors all the time.

2. Sliding Screen Doors

Sliding screen doors, also called rolling screen doors, are another popular screen door option. Unlike hinged screen doors, these doors slide or roll on a track. You can move them back and forth to an open or closed position. People use sliding screen doors on wide exterior doors like patio doors.

Pros

• Sliding screens have a modern look that is more sleek than traditional screen doors.
• Rolling screens have a less cumbersome style that you can operate with more ease than a traditional screen door.

Cons

• The hardware for sliding screen doors is more complicated because of the hidden tracks and rollers. This closing mechanism malfunctions more than hinged doors.
• Debris builds up in the tracks and on the rollers causing the doors to not slide well.

3. Retractable Screen Doors

In some settings, you want a screen door that is hidden but easy to access when you need it. A retractable screen door is an attractive option because of its ability to be invisible. Homeowners install retractable screens on the top or along the side of the door frame.

Pros

• This is a screen door option that disappears until you need it. This gives you a full view of your landscape unlike visible screen doors.
• Retractable screen doors are more durable because you do not need to leave them exposed unless you are using them.
• You can customize retractable screens based on the color of your trim and the location and door size you want to fit.

Cons

• Retractable screen doors are more expensive than other varieties of screen doors.
• These screen doors are higher maintenance than other screen doors. They have more parts including housing hardware and braking systems so that the screens don’t snap back.

4. Magnetic Screen Doors

Magnetic screen doors are a temporary option that homeowners use to enhance and protect their home during just the summer months. For these screens, weighted mesh panels attach to your house by using Velcro or other fasteners. After someone passes through the mesh panels, the magnets bring them together to close.

Pros

• Magnetic screens are a temporary option if you don’t want to leave the screen up all year.
• Installation of magnetic screens is easy. 
• It is possible to transport this door to another location like an RV if you need it elsewhere.

Cons

• The magnets are not always a reliable closure as they will wear down over time.
• The opening of this door is a slit and the small opening at the top can be difficult for a tall person to fit through.
• Magnetic screens are not as attractive as the more decorative screen doors like hinged doors or the screens that disappear.

Frames

• Wood – Wooden screen doors are the most traditional type of screen door. These are appropriate if you want to create a rustic or country-style home. Wooden screen doors require some maintenance like painting or staining if you want the wood to keep its integrity. Bare wooden screen doors will deteriorate if exposed to extreme weather and moisture.
• Aluminum – Aluminum screen doors are powder coated to resist rust and maintain the integrity of the metal material of the door. You can customize aluminum doors to complement many trim colors. Also, these are one of the lighter screen door options available.
• Fiberglass – Fiberglass has become one of the most popular materials for all doors including screen doors. This is a strong and durable material that stands up to all kinds of extreme weather. This low maintenance material is one of the most expensive screen door frame options available today.
• Vinyl – Vinyl is one of the most cost effective options for screen doors available. Also, it does not require the maintenance that wood screen doors require. Vinyl is less durable than stronger materials like wood or fiberglass.
• Steel – Steel screen doors are a more secure screen door option. These doors, also called security screen doors, have strong steel frames. The heavy-duty steel frame construction provides an extra layer of protection for your door.

Screens

You can also customize your screen door by distinct varieties of screen material.  

• Fiberglass Mesh – Fiberglass mesh is one of the most common types of screen mesh used in residential screen doors. It is flexible and easy to use, so it is common in DIY projects. Also, it is a low-cost screen choice.
• Aluminum Mesh – Aluminum mesh is a good choice for high-traffic areas and doors that will receive constant use. Aluminum mesh is more rigid and can bend and warp during installation. 
• Vinyl Coated Glass Mesh – Vinyl coated glass mesh is one of the clearest types of screen mesh. Vinyl is also more energy efficient because it can trap cool air inside better than other mesh materials.
• PVC Mesh – PVC mesh is a flexible and long-lasting mesh material. It is easy for anyone to use, and it will not become brittle like fiberglass or rust like aluminum mesh might. It is one of the most cost-effective mesh options.

The post What Is A Screen Door? appeared first on Homedit.

When building or renovating, various types of doors can be categorized based on factors such as location, style, materials, and closure.

Location

• Interior Doors – Interior doors are distinct from exterior doors because they are not built using weatherproof material. An interior door cannot be sealed to the same degree as an exterior door. Manufacturers build these doors from lightweight materials like MDF, wood, or glass. These lightweight doors are either solid core or hollow core.
• Exterior Doors – Exterior doors are built to keep your home secure from the weather and to maintain privacy and safety. Manufacturers build exterior doors with solid materials like fiberglass, steel, and wood.

Style

• Panel Doors – A panel door is one that has vertical lengths of material called stiles and horizontal rails to hold flat panels of wood or other materials. Different types of paneled doors have varying styles and numbers of stiles, rails, and panels.
• French Doors – A French door is any kind of door that utilizes glass panes in its construction. The door can have a single or multiple glass panes.  
• Louvered Doors – A louvered door consists of multiple horizontal slats attached to vertical stiles. These louvers, or horizontal slats are on the whole door or on a certain portion of the door. These slats maintain privacy but still allow air and light to pass through. These doors resemble shutter panels.
• Dutch Doors – A dutch door consists of an upper and lower section that can open and close independent of one another. There are Dutch doors with solid panel doors as well as Dutch doors with glass panes on the upper portion.
• Screen Doors – A screen door is an exterior door that goes in front of an exterior door. This kind of door has a screen to keep insects from flying into your home.
• Flush Doors – A flush door is made from just one piece of metal or wood. This means that it is flat, or with no raised panels, on either side.  
• Storm Doors – A storm door is one that homeowners fit over exterior doors in order to protect them from the elements. These are sturdy doors made from aluminum and security glass.

Material

• Wooden Doors – A wood door or a timber door is composed of solid wood or wood elements. People use wooden doors as interior doors and exterior doors. There are solid wood doors and solid core doors.
• PVC Doors – PVC and uPVC doors are made from polyvinyl chloride. This is a man made material that mimics the look of other materials like wood. Homeowners use them as both interior and exterior doors.
• Glass Doors – Glass doors are constructed from glass panels held in frames of wood or metal. Glass doors can be used as interior or exterior doors. A glass door has a versatile look that fits different design styles from contemporary to traditional.
• Fiberglass Doors – Fiberglass is glass fiber reinforced polymers, similar to the material that they use to make airplanes, surfboards, and cars. Fiberglass doors are strong and durable. Also, these doors mimic the look and feel of more solid materials like wood.
• Steel Doors – A steel door is not made from solid steel but instead is a door with steel panels on either side and a synthetic core. Most people use steel doors as exterior doors, but there are times when homeowners use them to secure interior locations.
• FRP Doors – Fiberglass reinforced polymers are a type of molded door. Homeowners use these as both exterior door and interior door applications because they are strong and low maintenance.
• Aluminum Doors – Doors made from aluminum are strong, easy to clean and maintain. Most aluminum doors are exterior doors.
• MDF Doors – MDF stands for medium-density fiberboard. This means that manufacturers make these doors from gluing wood fibers with resin and wax. These have become popular with homeowners as they are inexpensive and come in a variety of styles.

Closure

• Sliding Doors – Sliding doors, also known as bypass doors, move back and forth on a track rather than a hinge. Homeowners use sliding doors, like sliding glass doors, to access outdoor areas from the home like from porches or patios.
• Bifold Doors – Most bifold doors feature a set of two collapsible doors with a hinge in between them. Most people use these doors for closets and pantries. Some feature solid panels and others a single glass panel. The glass doors are used as exterior doors.
• Revolving Doors – Revolving doors feature three or four doors on a central shaft that rotates to allow people to always enter. The exclusive use of revolving doors is business rather than personal.
• Hinged Doors – A hinged door is the most common type of door. These doors feature a set of double or triple hinges on one side of the door that allows it to open and close.
• Pocket Doors – A pocket door operates by sliding on a track open and closed. It recesses into a pocket in the wall, so this is a good option if you need to save space. Pocket doors can be solid or feature glass in their construction.
• Roller Doors – A roller door is one that opens and closes in a vertical direction. Fabricators make these doors from solid material or glass panes. Most people use these for garage doors, but there is a rising interest in using these doors in interior spaces.
• Pivot Doors – A pivot door has a hinge on the top and bottom rather than the side. These doors rotate on a vertical axis though the location of this axis will change based on the size of the door.
• Swing Doors – Swinging doors feature hinges that allow the doors to swing in either direction.

Common Interior and Exterior Doors by Style

French Doors

There are few doors that can match french doors for their elegant and classic style. These doors are large and feature a modern black frame. Unlike most french doors, the door frame for this door is steel. These doors echo the black framed window in the rear and give the neutral colored room more definition.

Pros:

• French doors complement different style homes from traditional to modern.
• French doors allow in ample natural light because of their single and multiple glass panels.
• Manufacturers craft them from different materials such as fiberglass and wood, so you can use them as both interior or exterior doors.

Cons:

• These are hinged doors, so they require more space to open and close.
• French doors are not as energy efficient as they have glass panes that do not hold the air in as well as paneled doors.
• These doors are more expensive than hollow core doors.

Paneled Doors

These are triple panel double doors with a solid traditional style. These are the most common types of doors that people use as entry doors and interior doors. Most paneled doors now have a hollow core and are made from MDF, but there are still solid wooden doors such as these in the example above.  

Pros:

• These doors have a simple design that is beautiful and works for disparate design styles.
• Depending on the material used, these doors are durable.
• These doors are among the easiest to install.

Cons:

• If you buy panel doors of solid wood these doors will be expensive.
• If you have a door with multiple panels, they can be more difficult to keep free of dust.

Dutch Doors

A dutch door is a historic style door that people used in indoor/outdoor settings. This style allows light and air into interior spaces. The designer highlighted the design of this dutch door with the deep blue paint and brass hardware.

Pros:

• Dutch doors have a unique style that has instant appeal.
• These doors allow you to open the top for fresh air and light while keeping the bottom portion closed for the safety of children and pets.
• You can receive deliveries by opening the top portion so that you feel more secure.

Cons:

• Dutch doors can be more expensive than standard doors because they are a custom style.
• These doors have multiple moving parts, so they can be difficult to install.
• It can be hard to install screen doors on the dutch door. Some people add retractable screens to the door frame, but these are a custom option and more expensive.

Flush Doors

A flush door, unlike a panel door, is flat on both sides and does not have stiles, rails, and panels. Architects feature this door in different types of designs including contemporary, modern, and mid century. In this design, the door has a converging pattern of chevron wood strips to create more depth.

Pros:

• These doors have a sleek and simple style.
• Because they fit tight against the door frame, these doors absorb sound well.
• These are a more cost-effective type of door than more intricate styles.

Cons:

• There are limited design and sizes styles of flush doors.
• Because they have a single surface, these doors are more difficult to repair.
• You cannot expose these doors to severe weather as they will warp.

Common Types of Doors by Material

The door material that you choose is another important factor in choosing your doors.

Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors come in various styles and will look amazing for years. The use of fiberglass for doors is new, but it has become a popular choice for exterior doors among homeowners.  

Pros:

• Fiberglass doors are durable as fiberglass does not warp, crack, break, or rot.
• These doors are insulated, so they save you money on your utility bills.
• Fiberglass doors mimic the styles of other more expensive doors like wooden doors.
• These doors need minimal care and will last for years.

Cons:

• These doors come in standard sizes, so custom sizing is more difficult.
• Fiberglass doors are not as expensive as wood, but more expensive than vinyl.
• Some fiberglass doors come complete with door frames, so you need experience or help to install these doors.

Wooden Doors

Solid wood doors are some of the most expensive door options. Yet, there is no door that is comparable to the natural wood surfaces of a wooden door.  

Pros:

• Wooden doors are some of the most solid and durable door options available.
• Real wood provides wonderful color and texture to any location.
• Wood doors fit disparate design styles and you can customize them for different-sized doorways.

Cons:

• Wooden doors require maintenance like painting and staining in order to stay looking fresh.
• Wooden doors are heavier than other doors of the same size.

MDF Doors

In recent years, MDF has become one of the most popular interior door options. These are chosen because of the versatile design and size options, MDF doors are also one of the most inexpensive options. Consider this shaker-style MDF door. It has clean simple lines that complement most homes.

Pros:

• These doors are some of the most inexpensive.
• MDF doors are light and easy to hang.
• There are versatile style options and variations with MDF doors.

Cons:

• The joints that connect the hinges of MDF doors weaken over time.
• MDF doors are subject to water damage, so these are suitable for just interior not exterior spaces.
• MDF doors are not as durable as doors that are of solid construction.

Common Types of Doors by Closure

Doors have a variety of ways that they close. These closure styles impact the way that these doors are shaped and the ways that people can use them.

Sliding Glass Doors

The manufacturers framed these sliding glass doors in steel and they have a clean and modern look. They are a good door style if you need a door that does not swing and take up extra space in the room.

Pros

• Sliding glass doors allow ample light into interior spaces.
• They take up less room than other doors of the same size.

Cons

• These doors do not provide the privacy that solid doors do.
• They are more difficult to keep clean because of fingerprints.

Hinged Doors

An arched shape makes even hinged doors exceptional. The brass door hardware and subtle color also give this door a more distinctive look than standard hinged doors.

Pros

• Hinged doors can open wide for the delivery of large items.
• There are considerable options for size and finishes for hinged doors.

Cons

• Because these doors swing, they take up more room than sliding doors.

Pocket Doors

Dramatic pocket doors like these are more common in historic homes. Standard size pocket doors have become more popular in recent years as there has been a greater priority on space savings.

Pros

• These doors save space as they recess into the wall when they open.
• These doors have a unique appearance and a custom look that sets your room apart.

Cons

• These doors may require specialized maintenance as some of their hardware is behind the wall.
• Pocket doors and pocket door hardware are more expensive than standard doors.

The post Popular Types of Doors For Your Home appeared first on Homedit.

Louvered doors are defined by horizontal slats, called louvers, that overlap and connect to vertical stiles. Available in both adjustable and fixed configurations, the slats on fixed doors are angled downward, remaining open at all times.

Louvered doors work well in different settings, but these doors have a unique style which means that they won’t work for every situation.

Pros:

• Ventilation – Louvered doors provide privacy but still keep the room fresh by allowing air to circulate from one area to the next. This is beneficial in most areas but works best for small rooms like closets with little air flow. Louvered doors for furnace rooms are also essential as your furnace needs proper airflow to function best.
• Light – The slats of both adjustable louvered doors and fixed doors allow light to filter through but still provide privacy.
• Appearance – Louvered doors have a more custom style than standard pre-hung doors. They work well with traditional, coastal, bohemian, and farmhouse style.

Cons:

• Cleaning – Dust also builds up inside the slats and because the slats are close together, they are difficult to clean.
• Maintenance – The hardware for louver doors is more complex, so it breaks more often and is more difficult to fix.
• Appearance – The louvered door has a unique look that does not work for a variety of home decor styles.

Louvered Doors Styles

1. Bifold Doors – Bifold doors are the most common interior louver doors. Most people use them as closet doors. These doors have two panels that are hinged together and slide on a fixed upper or lower track. They fold in a vertical direction when you pull them open. Bifold doors save square footage compared to standard doors because they do not swing wide to open. You can hang these as single or double doors.
2. Hinged Doors – A hinged louvered door is hung with two or three vertical hinges on one side of the door. People use these as standard interior or exterior doors that open in one direction. Also, you can mount small louvered doors with pivot hinges so that the doors open and close in either direction.
3. Pocket Door/Sliding Doors – Pocket louvered doors or sliding louver doors slide on a track along the wall or into a recess in the wall. This door option works well if you want to save floor space. This is helpful in small rooms like laundry rooms, bathrooms, or a home office where square footage is a premium.

Louvered Door Design Ideas

Louvered doors have a distinct style that works well in particular contexts. We have gathered some of the best-louvered door images to help you visualize the way these doors could work for you.

Louvered Closet Doors

Yellow Bungalow designed this masculine-style home office. They minimized the look of the louvered closet doors by painting them the same color as the walls.

Exterior Louvered Doors

Zak Architecture used pocket louvered doors to connect this master bathroom to the private patio. These exterior louvered doors slide into a recess into the wall when they are open. This removes any visual barrier between the interior and exterior space.

Louvered Cabinet Doors

In this bathroom design from C. Kramer Interiors, the painted louvered cabinet helps to enhance the coastal vibe. Louvers work well on cabinets with clothes and toiletries so that they do not become too stuffy.

Louvered Bifold Doors

For this small laundry room, Talianko Design Group used these bifold louver doors to save space and create ventilation. The louver doors work well with the plantation shutters used throughout the home.

Louvered Shower Doors

Louvered doors are a great look for this outdoor shower in this coastal home. This gives the shower privacy while still allowing air and sunlight to filter through.

Interior Louvered Doors

Window Treats used dark stained bifold doors as shutters to cover this large picture window. This is a way to provide privacy and enhance the mid-century rustic look of this bedroom.

Bright Colored Louvered Closet Door

Schlage designed this contemporary bathroom in Indianapolis. They used a louvered closet door painted in bright yellow to create a focal point for the room.

Louvered Front Doors

Louvered front doors complement various home styles including the double louvered doors on this eclectic home in New Orleans. Louvered exterior doors also work well with coastal, midcentury, and traditional home designs.

The post What Are Louvered Doors? appeared first on Homedit.

To convert square inches to square feet, divide your value by 144, as there are 144 square inches in 1 square foot.

Square feet = square inches ÷ 144

Reference the table below for the most common square inch to square feet conversions.

How to Convert Square Inches to other Measurements

Here are formulas to convert square inches to other units of measurement.

What is a Square Inch?

A square inch is a measurement from the British Imperial and United States Customary Units Systems. While a regular inch measures length, a square inch measures area. It is equal to a square with one-inch sides. Standard abbreviations for the square inch include sq. in., sq in, sq inch, and inch².

How to Figure out the Square Inches of a Room

Square inches = width x length

You can calculate the square inches of an area by measuring the length and width in inches. Then multiply those values. For example, to calculate the square inches of a room that measures 144 inches by 120 inches, multiply 144 x 120. The answer is 17,280 square inches. 

If you’d like to convert your inches squared to feet squared, divide your square inch number by 144. So, in this case, the 120 x 144-inch room equals 17,280 square inches or 120 square feet.

The post Square Inches to Square Feet Conversion (sq in to sq ft) appeared first on Homedit.

1 inch is equal to 0.0254 meters, to convert from inches to meters, multiply your inches value by 0.0254. There are 39.3701 inches in one meter.

Meters = inches x 0.0254

Reference the table below for common inches to meters conversions.

Difference Between an Inch and a Meter

The inch is a linear measure from the Imperial and United States Customary Systems. There are 12 inches in one foot. An inch can measure length, depth, or height. 

Here are examples of objects that are about one inch:

• A U.S. quarter 
• The length of a standard paperclip
• Bottle cap
• Canadian one-dollar coin

The meter is a measure of distance from the metric system. A meter is about 39 times the length of an inch. 

An Example of Converting Inches to Meters

If you’re measuring an item and need to convert inches to meters, here’s what to do:

• Use a tape measure to determine the number of inches 
• Multiply the inches total by 0.0254

For example, if you measure a desk and its length is 48 inches, it would be equivalent to 1.2191 meters. You can also use this formula to convert height from inches to meters.

How to Convert Feet and Inches to Meters

The easiest way to convert feet and inches to meters is to start by converting your feet to inches. You can then multiply by 0.0254 to determine meters.

For example, if your total is 4ft. 6 in., multiply your feet value by 12 and then add your remaining inches.

• 4 x 12 = 48 inches
• 48 + 6 = 54 total inches
• 54 x 0.0254 = 1.3716 meters

The post Inches to Meters (in to m) conversion calculator appeared first on Homedit.