I work in IT remotely here in Schuylkill and my annual bonus this year is just over $15k. My wife and I have been thinking about how we want to spend it. 

Reflecting on the past two years, we think it’s time for a change. We love our current home- it’s the first home we bought together, where we’ve raised our three kids- but we know we need to upgrade to a house with more room. We agreed we’d like to think about selling.  

There are improvements that need to be made to the house, and I want to put this money towards them. 

What improvement has the biggest return? How do I increase home value? This is a new territory for our family and your advice is appreciated. 

Thanks, 

Cody from Tamaqua PA

Home Improvements With the Best Return

Cody, congratulations on the bonus and the decision to make a home move. Placing your home on the market is a big decision. I’m glad to hear you’re thinking ahead about how to get the most from your investment. 

Often, homeowners start with interior changes. They renovate the master bathroom or finish the basement. But whenever I’m asked this I recommend focusing on your exterior first to boost your curb appeal and take care of the “big” things the next homeowner doesn’t want to think about. 

Let’s take a minute to talk about the importance of curb appeal.

Coined in 1975, the term originally referred to the way buyers chose which homes to tour. But that was before the internet. Now, 89% of people research a home on Zillow before scheduling a showing. 

Even so, the first picture of your home listed on Zillow? The street view. 

If you’ve got the bright red “for sale” sign in your front lawn, passersby are taking note of your home. An updated exterior is a great way to get noticed.

And it’s not the only reason curb appeal matters. Did you know great curb appeal can increase perceived home value by up to 11%? 

Your curb appeal is your home’s first impression. It’s also one of the most important steps in the selling process. People are visual and an exterior improvement is the best way to connect with potential buyers. 

Not sure where to start? Here are three things homebuyers love when shopping for a new home. 

#1. Your Biggest Asset: A New Roof

Did you know a new roof can have a return on investment as high as 68%? 

It’s true! A new roof is a big project, but well worth it. It’s one of the first things I suggest to homeowners looking to sell. 

The huge ROI isn’t the only reason to replace your roof before selling. Here are some other benefits:

• A new roof will get you a higher appraisal 
• Homes with new roofs spend less time on the market
• Many home insurance companies offer a discount on homes with new roofs

The next question:

What Kind of Roof Should You Install? 

Often when asked about roof materials, I recommend a metal roof. They’re resilient, durable, and very popular. But metal roofs are a better fit for your “forever” home than one you’re looking to sell next season. 

With your goals I recommend asphalt shingles. They’re the most popular material in America, have a quick installation, budget friendly price, and stylish look. The average cost ($22k) is outside of your $15k bonus budget but when you factor in the 68% ROI, you’ll make an estimated $15,247 back when selling. 

Recently, we published an article about asphalt shingle roofs on a budget. 3-tab shingles might be just what you’re looking for. If you’d like to learn more about 3-tab shingles, and other affordable roof options, you can read about it here. 

When looking for a ‘budget’ option, it usually means compromising quality. But when you work with us, that’s never the case. 

We proudly work with GAF to provide the highest quality materials for your new roof installation. GAF roofs are built with durability at the forefront, and will protect your family for the next five years, and continue to protect after you’ve sold your home. 

All of GAF’s roofs come with a lifetime warranty- which carries over when you sell. With this improvement, you’re boosting curb appeal and creating an asset for future homeowners. 

#2. Shine a Light on Your Listing

Did you know often realtors will suggest painting your ceiling a shade lighter than the walls? 

It’s true- and it’s done to make the ceiling height seem higher than it is. 

Your wife might already be talking about how to ‘set the stage’ for potential buyers. And your realtor will work with you to create a space that connects with families walking through. 

I’ll let you in on another realtor trick: Brighter spaces- and natural light- makes every space feel bigger. Our eyes perceive light colors differently than dark. Light colors are more reflective and make a space feel larger than it actually is. Dark colors absorb light and make a space feel small. 

Natural light is one of your biggest assets when selling. Here’s an example of the difference natural light makes on a space. Look at this living room before the home improvement began:

And after: 

It doesn’t even look like the same home!

Other than some decor and a new paint job, the biggest change to the space is the windows. Instead of the small and awkward window, these homeowners opted to open the entire space up with a new bay window. 

And aesthetics isn’t the only point in favor of this improvement. Here are some practical reasons in favor of considering new windows before you sell your home: 

• Energy Efficient Windows can save up to $785 a year on energy bills. 
• Natural light helps fight off winter blues
• Windows offers one of the highest return on investments (estimated 85%!)

Choosing the Perfect Windows

One of my favorite things about a new window installation is the customization. Our supplier, Simonton, offers a large range of windows, each built with durability and quality at the forefront. 

A great example of Simonton’s skill and creativity is the garden window insert: 

Garden window inserts let in natural light, and create the perfect space for an in-home garden. They’re a beautiful design, and offer a creative twist on a standard window. 

Picture windows are another great style to consider: 

This style of window is also referred to as fixed windows. They don’t open and shut like standard windows. Because of this, they’re best installed in the living room or kitchen. The large windows are perfect for letting in light and increasing space on a budget. 

With so many styles to choose from, it can seem overwhelming. But when you work with our team, we help you find the right design and sizing for your space. 

#3. Spruce Up Your Siding

The adage “first impressions last” is more than an old saying- it’s science. Did you know your brain makes a decision within the first ten seconds of viewing something? 

So if your home’s siding is: 

• Layered in algae 
• Chipped 
• Discolored

A potential buyer only needs a passing glance to strike it off their list. 

Your siding takes up the biggest visual area of your home. If it’s not in good shape, you’re missing out on showings and hurting your chances of selling at your full value. 

Check out this home before and after adding new siding:

The old siding dates the house. However, the new improvement offers a fresh look (and you can’t go wrong with 2021’s color of the year- earthy green.)

When to Refresh… and When to Replace

Does your siding look dated and discolored? The good news is it might just need a quick refresh. Let’s take a quick moment to talk about safe DIY siding fixes. 

If your siding is growing algae, don’t panic! 

Instead, grab a bucket of warm water, bleach, and a brush. You’re ready to start scrubbing. It’s really that easy. 

Noticed tougher stains? Never try to power wash your siding. It’s incredibly easy to damage siding this way. Instead, call a professional for the job. 

Noticed your paint is discolored or chipped? Often homeowners will try and repaint the siding by themselves. Here’s why you should say no to this DIY project: 

• Painting siding can null your warranty
• If not careful, you can hurt the way your siding functions
• If it looks worn, it probably is. 

Maybe your siding just needs a good clean. But if it’s 20+ years, replacing it might be the best home improvement for your annual bonus. 

Replacing your vinyl siding has a 68.3% return on investment. Standard siding replacement costs an average of $14-16k, keeping you right in budget. 

A Home That Sells

Moving out of your starter home is a big shift and it’s good that you’re thinking ahead. It sounds like you’re blessed with a strong support system in your wife and family. You know you aren’t embarking on this new chapter of your life alone. 

If you’re ready to start on an exterior home improvement- we’re here for you. From start to finish, we offer the support you need. 

If you’d like to talk more, give me a call at 570-345-0436. 

Until next time, 

Vern Martin

The post Ask Vern: The Best Improvement for My Budget? appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

It’s weeknight dinners around the table. A pile of toy trucks in the corner of the living room. 

It’s Christmas morning spent together unwrapping presents by the tree. 

It’s hours together, just being, making memories, and growing as a family. 

Our home is filled with joy. I cherish the family we’ve raised here and look forward to so many memories we have yet to make. Although we’re years away from retiring…I never want to think about leaving.

And we’re not the only family to feel this way. Did you know that 90% of adults over fifty want to age in place? 

Americans want to live out their lives in the home’s they love, in the walls that still gather children and grandchildren together for Thanksgiving meals. 

This “age in place” idea, although growing in popularity, isn’t really a trend I expect to see fade out anytime soon. We all crave the comforts of home! And since the stay at home orders of the 2020 pandemic? All of us, young and old, are cherishing where we live more.

Caring for All Generations: Around the World

For American’s it’s a new(er) movement. But many countries around the world have a culture of supporting elderly family members. How is multi-generational living normalized in other places? 

In India, newlyweds move in with the groom’s family to help and support them in the stages of life. The mother-in-law suite is America’s take on this. 

The Netherlands- they have very compassionate views on elder care. The Netherlands is home to Hogeway Village. Half of the village consists of trained caregivers and the other half is dementia patients. Hogeway allows the elderly to live on their own with support from a community. 

Community building is an important factor to consider to age in place.

In France, home care is offered to elderly people and children are required by law to visit their parents regularly! In fact, France is rated as one of the best places to retire due to their increased care for their elderly population. 

We’re so happy to see our country’s perception of elderly members shift in a positive direction.

But it takes more than just a cultural structure to make it a success. You also need the physical structure to adapt to changing mobility needs. 

Lucky for us, Pennsylvania’s popular ranch-style houses make places like Schuylkill County an amazing area to spend your golden years. Whether you’re helping a family member make the adjustments to age in place, or you yourself are interested, there are simple proactive steps you can take to live at your own home- independently- through your 60s, 70s, 80s+

Here’s the key takeaway: You must start making these upgrades before you need them. 

I want you to enjoy your home for the rest of your life. So this week I’ve put together a decade-by-decade approach to age in place, featuring the best home remodels to make in every season of life. 

Home Upgrades To Make In Your 50s: Focus On The Outside 

Did you know 52 years old is the median age for repeat homebuyers? 

Why? 

Entering your 50s often means your home is kid-free! 

Maybe you just sent your youngest to college, or helped move them into their first apartment. Now you’re facing a new, empty-nest life and it’s time to make some decisions that put you first.

Couples scan the market for something smaller or more affordable. Believe it or not, many home buyers in their 50’s aren’t looking to move across the country…often they buy in the same neighborhood!

It makes sense. Remember how community was a top priority for Americans looking to age in place? Having your children enter adulthood is a change enough. Most of us just want a smaller place with less upkeep, but enjoy the connections we’ve made in our community. 

By house shopping in your same area, you keep the existing relationships you have with your neighborhood friends, your church, and your hobbies.  

Started the hunt for a new home? Don’t just think in terms of bedrooms and bathrooms. Ask your realtor to show you houses with: 

• • Single level living
  • Yard space for gardening 
  • Large door frames and entryways 

Love your current home and plan to continue living there? 

This is the time to invest in lasting changes to your home’s exterior.

Empty Nest Renovations: Install a New Roof

When was your roof installed? 1990 is further away than it seems!

As your roof ages, it doesn’t function the way it used to. Older roofs run the risk of: 

• • Water damage in your attic 
  • Drooping and sagging roof 
  • Deterioration around soffit and fascia

But why is now the best time to replace it?

“A drop of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.

It’s cheaper and easier to care for your roof now than put it off and wait for issues to show up down the road. Besides, if you’re going to use your empty-nest years to travel a little more or take up a new hobby, the last thing you want to worry about is returning home from two weeks in Arizona to a leaking roof!

While a high-quality asphalt shingle roof will hold strong for your golden years, you might want to consider the resale value of your home. A metal roof has more than twice the lifespan of an asphalt shingle roof- and is incredibly low maintenance. 

If you’re interested in learning more about metal roofs, we cover the history, designs, and added benefits here. 

Another pro tip? Consider installing gutter guards. 

This quick installation cuts back on how often your gutters need to be cleaned. And with an estimated 135,000 people injured in ladder related accidents every year, it’s the safer choice, too. 

Are You A Homeowner in Your 50s? Start Thinking Long-Term Comfort.

In addition to making sure your roof is in good shape- now is the time to think about long-term comfort. 

You’re not as young…or as flexible…as you once were! Even if you are an avid DIYer, you want to set your home up so you don’t have a catastrophic emergency to handle. Make it easier on yourself by making a plan to update your major home systems, like your HVAC and hot water heater, to reduce the chance of system failure. 

Also, plan for energy-savings to keep your retirement fund going strong. Replacing windows can not only add comfort to your home- but save you money on heating and cooling. Read more here on how our new vinyl windows can keep you cosy during those Pennsylvania winters and save you money in the long run. 

Contact a reputable contractor (like us!) and start a long term relationship. Our crew can evaluate your home’s roof, foundation, exterior, and more to give you a good idea of what needs to be replaced now- and what can be done in phases over the next few years. 

Sixties: The Decade of Accessibility 

Welcome to your sixties! 

At this point in your life, any upgrades made should add to accessibility and comfort. It’s time to finalize all the big changes in your home that you won’t want to think about later in life. 

One of the most popular (and important) interior upgrades to make? A renovated bathroom. 

Bathroom injuries are one of the leading causes of emergency room visits. In fact, studies show that 80% of falls in the home happen in the bathroom. 

There are many changes you can make for added bathroom accessibility- like this walk-in shower:

It’s a great renovation that’s functional and fits into a modern aesthetic. Walk in showers are popular with the younger crowd and increase your home’s value. 

More of a bath person? Aging in place doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, only increasing it. For bathtub upgrades, consider: 

• • Placing grab bars by the tub
  • Switching to a walk-in tub 
  • Installing a bathtub transfer bench

Also consider making small low cost changes: 

• • Add slip resistant mats to high risk areas
  • Install LED light bulbs for minimal replacement
  • Opt for lever style door knobs, easier to use for homeowners with arthritis

Accessibility: Does It Decrease Home Value? 

You know planning ahead is key to staying in your beloved home for as long as possible. You’ve probably considered upgrading your accessibility to minimize risk and increase your safety as you age in place. But how will that change the look of your home? And will it decrease the value?

Often, we’re asked about transforming homes into an open floor plan for added accessibility.

We highly recommend against this due to the increased dangers in the case of a fire. Open floor plans leave less time for a fire to burn, creating larger and hotter fires. 

Instead, we recommend widening your pre-existing door frames. It’s a budget friendly and safe alternative! 

As far as interior changes go, your kitchen will require the most attention, second only to your bathroom. A skilled contractor will be able to retrofit your kitchen and lower counters and appliances for easier access. 

Want to know what younger home buyers think about “accessible” changes? I’ve got good news- read on.

A Front Porch: Relaxation and Socialization

Covid-19 has completely changed the way we do everything, including socializing. 

Outdoor spaces are more important than ever. A front porch offers a space to socialize, relax, and enjoy nature.

We’ve seen a huge demand in our own customer base for porch and patio builds. Studies show that a quarter of all homebuyers list a front porch as an essential feature for their new home.

A front porch creates a space for relaxation and mediation. It’s also a safety-boosting upgrade for homeowners who plan to age in place.

Why? 

A new front porch build means room for a ramp. Even if you remain fully mobile into your 90s, ramps are safer for year round use. 

Steps leading up to your home are dangerous in extreme weather conditions. Ice and rain can cause them to become slick and frozen over. And with Schuylkill County winters as cold as 18.4°, and an average of 35 inches of snow, it’s important to create a safer way inside. 

A Porch for Every Home

I’ll let you in on a little secret: 

When you work with the right contractor, every home can be retrofitted for a new porch and a ramp. 

Worried that adding a ramp will decrease the value of your home- or limit its sellability later down the road? Don’t be! Ramps are another addition that, when added to blend into the existing features of a home, are a welcome feature to younger homebuyers with small children. 

We often hear homeowners worried that installing a new porch might compromise their home’s look. But it doesn’t have to!

Take the historic Burd Patterson home, for example. We talked about it when covering five historic homes in Schuylkill County.  This home, built in 1830 features a beautiful Queen Anne Style home, added to the home 70 years after its original construction. 

Creating accessible entrances that blend multiple levels isn’t always easy- but it can be done! Recently, we started work on upgrading a family home to accommodate a mother-in-law suite. 

You can read more about the project and how excited our in-house architect is to work on it here. 

Want to talk more about exterior accessibility for your home? Give us a call at 570-345-0436 to get started on your project. 

Seventies: The Tech Decade

Yes, you read that right. We joke about feeling old whenever we upgrade to a new phone, but the older you get the more you’ll actually want to embrace technology in your everyday life. 

Your seventies is the time to relax and enjoy all the hard work you’ve put in leading up to this point. If you’ve followed our advice, you don’t need to worry about essential home upgrades…you can enjoy what you’ve built!

In your 50s, you replaced your roof, your siding, and your windows. 

You upgraded your hot water heater and HVAC in your 60s- and finished up some major accessibility construction. You’ve made the small changes, like replacing door knobs with lever handles…and the big changes like your bathroom remodel are already in place. 

Now, let’s introduce some technology that can make your life that much easier. 

The Best Tech for Your Home

#1 Keypad and Code: Instead of a front door knob and lock, opt for a keypad and code for your doors. This change is easier on homeowners with arthritis and joint pain and allows family or caregivers to enter without you having to get up from the kitchen table. 

#2 Medical Alert Systems: If you age-in-place, especially if you live alone or are caring for a less-able spouse, you’ll want a way to alert medical help in the case of an accident. A medical alert bracelet isn’t your only option! 

Amazon’s Alexa or a Google Home work great as alert systems. 

Last year, Amazon updated Alexa’s features to help those who are or plan to age in place. The update allows family members to monitor when the Alexa was activated for the day, and also enhances communication between caregivers and those aging in place. 

Besides working as an alert system, these devices are great for setting reminders and schedules. Having these types of systems in place can put your family at ease and keep the peace in your decision to stay at home. 

#3 Motion Detected Lighting: Besides being eco-friendly, this style of lighting is perfect for easy navigation. No need to worry about struggling to locate a light switch at night. Simply get up and the sensors will automatically light your way.

These systems offer safety and comfort to age in place. Technology is creating more options for people of all ages, and is a great upgrade. 

If you need help setting up your home with these new upgrades, recruit one of your tech savvy grandkids. They’d love to help! 

Support for the Home You Cherish

Family always comes first. That’s what we’re all about. 

As a family owned company, we understand the importance of caring for those you love in every walk of life. 

If you or a loved one are ready to take the steps to age in place safely, our team would love to help.  Whether that be with a new roof install, a front porch upgrade, or any other installation, we’re here to help. 

Give us a call at 570-345-0436 to start the conversation and schedule your new project.

The post Remodeling to Age in Place appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

The year’s 1921, and the world is grappling with the aftermath of the 1918 flu pandemic. 

This pandemic advances in the medical world. Doctors began to understand germs and how illness was spread. Before this, sickness was blamed as a result of poor living conditions and genetic makeup rather than microorganisms carrying disease.  

As a result, hospitals became more sanitary than ever before. Wooden hospital beds were switched out for metal beds that could be easily cleaned between patients. Hospital rooms were cleaned before and after treatment to prevent further spread of illness. 

But this new understanding of disease in the wake of a pandemic didn’t just change the medical community- it also created major design changes in housing. The most remarkable of these design changes were found in the American kitchen. 

This focus on cleanliness paired with the extra time spent in the home revolutionized kitchen trends

Fast forward a hundred years to 2021 and you’ll see that this year’s biggest kitchen trends look remarkably similar to the last time we weathered a pandemic in the United States. 

Why?

First- families are spending more together- that means rethinking the way we use our kitchens. 

And secondly- with a need for cleanliness means we also want easy organization and traffic flow. 

Just like Americans did in 1921. Does history repeat itself? Well, when it comes to design, let’s just say we like looking to the past.

Ready to be inspired by five updated kitchen trends that got their starts in the 1920’s? 

Read on. 

A Classic Beauty: The All White Kitchen 

The all white kitchen trend of the 1920s was less of a design choice and more of a design constraint. At the time, kitchen appliances were only offered in one color- white. 

Folks in the wake of the flu of 1918 wanted a modern solution to keeping things sanitary and associated white surfaces with cleanliness. Reasoning that it was better to see that something was dirty and be able to clean it (than not being able to detect dirt in the first place), the white kitchen has remained a classic ever since…dooming every household with toddlers to a perpetual siege against spaghetti-os…

Just kidding. Well, sort of. As I write, our own two tornados are doing a number on our countertop on the Martin household so- if you have littles in a white kitchen- I feel you. 

White kitchens are also a versatile style option. Yes, when you think “white” you might envision a condo in a city high rise- but I’ve seen great white kitchens that cross into shabby chic territory, too. 

Plus, white kitchens are truly…. 

1. 1. Easier to Clean. Yes, you read that right. Stainless steel appliances retain fingerprints and streaks but white stays clean longer.
   2. A Design to Make Your Space Seem Bigger. White reflects light and natural light is the best way to make any space feel bigger. When talking about mimicking an open concept feel without the hazards, we discussed the effect a lighter paint color has on opening up a space. Go for an all-white kitchen and see that effect multiplied tenfold.
   3. A Way to Increase Your Home’s Value. A kitchen renovation is one of the most powerful remodels to make when selling your home. But did you know that 42% of millennial homebuyers prefer an all white kitchen? 

Back to styling. What do we mean when we talk about the all white kitchen trend? 

Modern or Vintage White Kitchen? 

Question: What’s the hardest part about shifting to an all white kitchen? 

Answer: Deciding how to style it. 

Do you stay true to the era with a 1920’s inspired kitchen trend? Or embrace a more modern approach? 

If you’re a fan of the vintage style, check out how these homeowners decorated their all white kitchen: 

The all white appliances and cabinets? The fun tile pattern? I feel like I just walked into a kitchen from the 1920’s. Those pops of color feel energizing, don’t they?

When styling your vintage kitchen, minor details matter. These homeowners choose stools and decor that are time accurate but made modern upgrades, too. There’s a nice balance of dedication to the classic 20’s style and modern conveniences that make this work.

Looking for more of a modern approach?  Check out this upgraded beauty:

The kitchen looks spacious enough to host a ballroom dance class. The dark hardwood floors and benches are the perfect break up in color so the white doesn’t become too “clinical”.

Side note: Need help deciding the finished look of your kitchen? Let me know. Our team loves taking your Pinterest boards, magazine clippings, and wild dreams and fitting them perfectly into your space. Kitchen remodels are our favorite here at Martin.

Out of the Subway, Into the Kitchen 

First designed for use in the subways these tiles became one of the top kitchen trends as a result of the 1918 flu. 

I mentioned how people were beginning to understand germs and how diseases spread. Hospitals began installing white subway tiles as a way of spotting dirt and grime as soon as possible. 

Shortly after, restaurants began installing the tiles to mimic the sterile and clean feel of a hospital- and encourage customer confidence. It was the easiest way to ensure restaurant goers that they were dining in the safest fashion possible. 

And, in the same way that white kitchen appliances were a sign of cleanliness, homeowners adopted the tiles, too. 

This style rose again in popularity a few years ago- and is still going strong. 

Subway tiles are: 

• • Budget friendly option
  • Versatile (tons of color options)
  • Easy to clean (We recommend gloss over matte for easiest clean) 

Let’s talk about versatility because color isn’t the only factor. Check out this kitchen’s blue and angled subway tile backsplash: 

Absolutely gorgeous. 

Or this floor to ceiling subway tile: 

No matter the angle or color, subway tile compliments every kitchen. Real ceramic or porcelain tile makes a kitchen feel quality However, you never want to choose a style that will look dated too soon for an application this large- because it’s expensive to tear out and update.

With subway tile- history is on your side. It’s a classic choice that’s here to stay. 

Your Kitchen: A Work of Art

With Victorianism art coming to a halt in the 1920’s, art deco quickly took its place. 

Characterized by rich colors and geometric shapes, this style of art is the perfect representation of the roaring 20’s. 

And although art deco has fallen out of popularity, there’s something to be said for the importance of art in interior design. Everyone has art in their home. But this year? It’s become one of the top kitchen trends. 

What’s caused that shift? 

This past year we’ve all spent more time in the house than ever before. We’re rethinking the way we use spaces. The kitchen has morphed from a place to cook to a sanctuary for creativity. 

From sourdough starters and failed Great British Baking Show inspired pavlovas, to evenings spent together at the kitchen table, Americans have spent the last year getting reacquainted with a love of hands-on cooking. 

Want to add a little more personality to your kitchen? Art is a great start.

The first step to this kitchen trend? Get inspired. 

Walk through your local art museum. Stock up on your favorite home improvement magazines. Sort through your kitchen Pinterest board. Go to a local art fair and support someone you know.

Once you’ve determined the artwork and aesthetic you’re going for, it’s time to start decorating! 

How to Add Art to Your Kitchen

Change the way you think about your kitchen. These homeowners saw their walls as blank canvases and I love the way they chose to decorate it:

The selected pieces look beautiful together. They remind me of prints from “old masters” that I’ve seen hanging at my elderly neighbor’s house and out on garage sales. I would have never thought about it, but pairing them with a white modern kitchen completely transforms this space. 

Instead of a blank wall- you create a focal point that encourages the eye to land and roam around to discover the other great details of the space.

These homeowners installed a shelf for extra counter space and to display their favorite artwork: 

Another old-world art choice paired with a modern look here. 

Homeowners in the 20’s knew the importance of wallpaper and that kitchen trend is back in. Except now we’ve gone from this: 

To this: 

When it comes to wallpaper, you don’t have to transform your whole kitchen into a funky pattern. Try styling just one wall with it as an accent piece. 

Or if you have shelving, you can fill in the blank space with wallpaper, like these homeowners did: 

The great thing about a busy wallpaper pattern? It hides the inevitable kitchen splashes. And when you choose a vinyl wallpaper- it can be wiped down, too!

All of this to say: Your kitchen doesn’t have to be a work zone where you act as a short order chef for the family before school. Transform it into your own personal statement piece with artwork that you love and make it your own.

Gardening Year Round

Imagine this. 

You’ve spent all of spring and summer in the garden. Your plants are in bloom, your yard a cascade of color and life. 

But as fall approaches, the days grow dark earlier, and your plants have gone dormant for the year. 

Now, what if I told you there’s a way to enjoy your garden year round? 

Let me introduce you to the garden window insert. 

These inserts offer a customizable space to your home, and allow you to grow your indoor garden year round. 

We’ve talked about garden window inserts in past articles, but here’s a quick refresh: 

These windows are designed for enjoying flowers year round. They’re a beautiful kitchen addition, adding a touch of life to your home. 

Traditionally, they’re installed over the sink, but these vinyl windows are easy to install anywhere in your kitchen. 

Our supplier, Simonton, offers these beautiful windows, but aesthetics isn’t the only feature they boast. Garden window inserts are designed with extra insulation to help keep your house warm year round. The vinyl windows are also low maintenance and designed to last for decades. 

Although garden window inserts are a new kitchen trend, 1920’s homeowners knew the importance of indoor gardening. 

In 1926, Monrovia nursery in California became the first nursery in the United States to sell potted plants. From there, the popularity of indoor plants continued to grow. 

Popular potted plants in the 1920’s include: 

• • Jasmine
  • Potted citrus trees
  • Ferns

We’ll leave the gardening up to you, but if you need help with window installation, we’re here to help. 

The Secret to Making A Small Kitchen Feel Big

If there’s one thing all homeowners agree on it’s this:  the more kitchen counter space, the better. 

Modern kitchens follow the 3×4 rule. This means that you need at least three separate kitchen counters and they should all be four feet long. 

But in the 1920’s, counter space was not a necessity. Most kitchen appliances were standing, including the pantry. These pantries, called hoosiers, were a huge upgrade in the 1920’s. 

Because it could store food and kitchen appliances, it meant less things on the limited counter space. The invention of the hoosier meant the beginning of hiding appliances and creating more space in the kitchen. 

Now, we have walk-in pantries, kitchen islands, and generally, loads of counter space. But that doesn’t mean we aren’t always looking for ways to maximize what we have. 

A great rule of thumb when it comes to maximizing kitchen space? If it can be hung up, display it! 

Hanging pots and pans in the kitchen gets them off the counter, and clears cabinet space for other kitchen necessities that aren’t as pretty to look at. 

Installing shelves along the kitchen is another great way to get things off the counter. Plus, shelves are another great way to decorate and show off your favorite kitchen items. 

2021: The Year for Your Dream Kitchen

Kitchen trends come and go. But when something stays in style? You know it’s for a good reason. The best part about renovating a kitchen in 2021 is that today’s trends are rooted in timelessness. That means it’s a perfect time to find the widest range of classic materials to make your dream kitchen gorgeous for decades to come. 

Whether it be easier maintenance, or a fresh and updated look, we’re so glad these trends have stuck around. 

Fallen in love with one of these kitchen trends? Ready to update your kitchen? We can help! 

Whether it be new cabinets, tiling, or window installation, our team at Martin can make your dream come true. During the winter, we love keeping our crew busy with interior renovations. Could a new kitchen be the perfect Christmas present for your family?

If you’re ready to get started on designing, or still have questions, we’d love to talk! Give Vern a call at 570-345-0406 and get started on your project.

The post 2021 Kitchen Remodel Trends appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

Our daffodils have awaken from their winter slumber and I hear those first lines of Robert Frost’s poem A Prayer in Spring:

“Oh give us pleasure in the flowers today;

And give us not to think so far away.”

Spring is the very definition of hope and happiness. And gardens? There’s no better representative of the seasonality of life, and the anticipation of blessings to come.

I enjoy every season here in Pine Grove, PA. Living in Africa for a few seasons in the mission field gave me a deep appreciation for the ebb and flow of our weather. But spring holds a special place this year as the world slowly recovers from 2020 disruptions and we return to the people and activities we love with renewed appreciation.

I sat down today to tell you about garden window inserts: those green-house style windows above the kitchen sink, sheltering colorful plants in our deep snowy days.

If you found yourself cultivating a succulent collection during the pandemic- or having a renewed interest in homestead gardening- this easy home addition is a great way to customize your space. These windows are not only a beautiful way to capture the life of spring year-round in Pennsylvania- they boast benefits like:

• • Versatility: use them in spring to start seeds, in the summer to promote growth in tropical plants, or in the winter to bring houseplants out of dormancy
  • Energy Efficiency: your drafty kitchen needs new windows anyway- so why not add something special that also decreases your utility bills
  • And Increased Natural Light: Does winter get you blue? Boosting natural light in your home is a great way to lift your spirits year-round

Designing Around Your Green Thumb with Garden Windows

I had to laugh when I read Domino’s executive director Kate Berry designs her home “houseplants first, furniture second.”

Kate Berry has next-level houseplant commitment.

Still, we all have some favorite plants we tend with love. Whether it’s a Dracaena trifasciata you got when you were first married (and is still miraculously alive!) or an amaryllis you bought last week to enjoy the first red bloom, you aren’t alone in finding a little inside greenery a source of comfort.

When a client comes to us for window replacements as asks about garden windows for their kitchen or sunroom, I’m thrilled. Why? I know the level of enjoyment they’ll get from an addition like this, season after season. Call me sentimental, but that makes me happy.

New Window AND New Garden in One!

By swapping out your classic windows for a window designed to grow plants, you’re creating an in-home garden.

Plus, these windows are designed with insulation in mind to guarantee your plants (and home) stay warm.

Garden windows can be replacement windows or a completely new build. Garden windows brighten and add a touch of life to your home. Is your office overcrowded and dim? Does your kitchen feel closed off and uninviting? A garden window can transform these spaces into a place you love to spend time in.

Garden windows are versatile in both design and function. On top of adding a customizable space to your home they also:

• • Save on power bills by being energy efficient
  • Add insulation to protect from freezing winter drafts
  • And are low/no maintenance

Sold on the idea, but want a little inspiration before you book your project? Here are a few favorites to help you fall in love.

Add a Touch of Hope to Your Kitchen

Another famous poet, Chilean-born Pablo Neruda, always- and only- wrote in green ink. He claimed it was the color of “esperanza”. Hope.

With green trending as a kitchen cabinet color this year, too, I can’t think of a better way to incorporate all of our wishes for 2021 than to make space in your kitchen for plant-life.

Your kitchen is the life of your home. It’s where your family spends the most time growing together. Celebrate that by putting fresh herbs within reach and creating a place to watch as seedlings sprout for your vegetable garden outside.

Our two littles at home love being a part of anything outdoors, and miss that interaction when they’re cooped up in the winter. What a great way to grow something, and enjoy something, together.

Garden windows are boxes, designed to sit further out from your home than standard windows.

Our supplier, Simonton creates the most durable vinyl windows on the market- and their windows can be customized to fit your space and shelving needs.

(Want to know more: Vinyl is the most durable material for windows.)

Despite the name, garden windows aren’t just for gardens. They can be used to showcase family heirlooms and treasures collected from travels. This family used their window to store kitchen goods and add a touch of color to their kitchen:

Adding Garden Windows to Your Bathroom

Another great place for garden window inserts? The bathroom.

I know what you’re thinking:

Why would I want a window in the bathroom? 

Trust me, you’re going to love:

• • How natural light makes your bathroom appear larger than it is
  • The extra protection against mold/mildew the fresh air gives your space
  • Plus, plants in the bathroom increase air quality and protect from bathroom bacteria

Worried about privacy?

We’ll work with you to design the best window for your bathroom. Our supplier specializes in glass surfaces (reflective, frosted, and more) that can be easily changed for privacy needs.

Are you so excited about garden windows you’re thinking about putting them everywhere?

Bad news: These windows aren’t great for large application.

Good news: Let’s talk about bay windows.

The Perfect Window for Your Living Room

Bay windows are perfect for brightening up large spaces- like the living room. The name comes from the word ‘baee,’ an old french word that means opening.

Bay windows are made of three or more windows that meet at an angle, leaving extra space for decorating, sitting, eating, and more.

Need a place to showcase your plants and watch them flourish? Give them the best space in the house:

Some house plants grow better with direct sunlight. Succulents and cacti love all the sunlight they can get, whereas herbs grow better in a garden window where they’ll get consistent indirect light throughout the day.

Have you always wanted a reading nook? Doesn’t the idea of a warm and comfy spot to sit and read sound amazing? Check out how these homeowners did just that when designing their bay window:

Bay windows look great in bedrooms, too! Take this home for example:

The window makes this otherwise small room feel large and inviting.

Book a Garden Window or a Bay Window Remodel for Your Home

All that’s left to do is call us and reserve your spot on our schedule. Most window replacements take just one day- and the impact on your home’s design value is just as stunning as it looks!

Call my husband Vern at 570-345-0406 and we’ll help you design the perfect fit for your space.

Make next winter as beautiful as this spring with a garden window in your kitchen- or a built out bay in your breakfast nook.

Until then, enjoy the beautiful weather-

Jenny Martin

Never miss an article! Keep up with the latest at Martin Roofing and Siding by signing up for our email list here:

The post Garden Window Inspiration for 2021 appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.

It’s a question we get often as the winter weather sets in.

No one likes a draft. It doesn’t matter how many fleece blankets you pile on or how high you set the thermostat- if there’s a steady breeze of icy air next to your favorite spot, it’s hard to unwind.

But are windows the best route to a comfortable home?

From the advertisements I get, window manufacturers would have you believe that the money you spend will always pay itself back in just a season or two of heating and cooling bills. And while that’s true if your windows are leaking, it doesn’t mean every drafty house will reap the big benefits promised.

Why?

Because not every drafty home has window problems. 

Windows are one of many systems that work to keep your home healthy and comfortable. High utility bills and cold rooms can also be caused by weak points in your home’s building envelopes (and something we call “the stack effect” in the construction industry).

What’s that?

I’m glad you asked. In this article, I’m going to give you the tools you need to make the right decision for your winter home problems.

Building Envelopes: Layers of A Comfortable Home

“My home has envelopes? What on earth are you talking about, Vern?” -You

A “Building Envelope” is something builders use to describe the pockets of conditioned and unconditioned spaces in your home- and how they work to provide layers of protection against weather and temperature.

Take a look at this diagram:

In a solid home, there’s a strong barrier between heated and unheated spaces such as your bedroom and the attic, or your kitchen and garage.

With little to no crossover, a home like this heats and cools easily….and your kids are no longer dramatically pulling on extra sweaters or begging you to turn up the heat in the winter.

But building envelopes aren’t always solid. Remodeling, years of settling, and weather damage can compromise important barriers in your home’s construction. This leaves it vulnerable to drafts.

It’s more common than you might expect. Even a poorly installed ceiling fan could be the cause of lost heat!

Do You Have A Leaking Envelope?

Do any of these situations sound familiar to you?

• You replace your flush-mount fixtures with can lights to bring a modern look to your living room. But can lights are a literal hole in your drywall ceiling…could warm be escaping into your attic?
• You put a new roof on your home to fix some pinhole leaks- but did you check the insulation in your attic? Leaks can lead to compacted fiberglass. Crushed or compacted insulation mean weak points between your heated and unheated space. (Side Note: Do you need a new roof? See how we can help here!)
• Your family is always in and out the garage door off the kitchen- especially when it snows. You notice when you put your boots on, they’re ice cold. How does the seal on your door look?
• It doesn’t matter how high you set your furnace, your feet are freezing. Fleece socks, fleece slippers… nothing helps. Is the crawlspace under your floor stealing your heat?

Most homeowners understand why leaky windows keep your house from getting warm.

(Have you ever cracked open a window while making Christmas dinner, forgotten about it, and come back to an icy room? Failing window seals or windows that just don’t close all of the way can turn any room into a refrigerator!)

But other issues- like gaps from a settled foundation, cracks in your vinyl siding, or air gaps around your light fixtures- aren’t as easy to see.

What does your vinyl siding have to do with your cold house?

Let me introduce you to “The Stack Effect”.

The Whole House Chimney: The Stack Effect

Ever lit a fire in a wood stove or chimney? You’ve had firsthand experience with the Stack Effect.

The Stack Effect helps explain how air is pulled through the lower entry points of your house- whether that’s a hole in your crawlspace or an open front door- and up through your attic.

Here’s how it works in the winter:

“During the heating season, the warmer indoor air rises up through the building and escapes at the top either through open windows, ventilation openings, or unintentional holes in ceilings, like ceiling fans and recessed lights. The rising warm air reduces the pressure in the base of the building, drawing cold air in through either open doors, windows, or other openings and leakage.”

Just like opening or closing the damper on your shop’s wood burning stove to control the draft, we can “close the damper” on where your home is letting in cold air. We can also “close the damper” on hot air leaving your living spaces. And fixing those problems? That’s what will really keep your home warm.

What it comes down to is this: If your home is drawing up cold air from the ground floor and letting warm air out the roof? No amount spent on window replacement will keep it warm.

Instead, you need a professional to evaluate your home’s exterior armor and interior insulation to determine the true cause of your drafts.

The Good News: Your Home Doesn’t Need to Be Drafty

Smart homeowners want to know they’re putting their money towards the right solutions for their home.

And at Martin, I want to equip you with the right information you need to make those decisions.

While it might be disheartening to hear new windows might not be the answer you need, the good news is our team can help you make the best decisions for your budget. We aren’t just a siding company or a window company, we’re full-service contractors who truly want the best for your home and family.

Whether it’s

• sealing up foundation issues,
• replacing cracked or gapping siding,
• new insulation in the attic,
• or sealing around can lights and ceiling fans,

We can look at your home as a whole and give you options for making your home comfortable, season after season.

And yes, that might mean new windows! If so, we can help you take care of that, too. But before you spend money, let’s work together to find real reason your home is drafty.

If you’re in the Schuylkill County Pennsylvania area, give me a call to book a consult: 570.345.0406

Until next time, stay safe and warm.

Vern Martin

Never miss an article! Keep up with the latest at Martin Roofing and Siding by signing up for our email list here:

The post Fix A Drafty Home appeared first on Martin Roofing & Siding.