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Stop the Mud (and the Madness) with an Organized Mudroom

With all the torrential rain and afternoon thunderstorms we’ve been getting lately, it’s a pretty safe bet that there’s some mud and dirt being tracked unnecessarily into your home. Sure, you’ve equipped yourself with an arsenal of brooms, dustpans, vacuums, and mops to battle the mess, but it’s an endless fight that you’ll never truly win. Mud Stopper One option that goes a long way in helping to gain an advantage in fighting the mud and dirt from getting into the recesses of your home is a mudroom. A mudroom is basically a room or designated space between your primary point of entry and the rest of the home – usually just inside the garage and preferably adjacent to the laundry room/area  – that usually incorporates seating, storage, and a mud-friendly floor. Seating & Storage Since you’ll be stopping in your mudroom to remove your shoes, rain/snow boots, and the like, you’ll be best served by putting some bench seating in the area. Bench seats can incorporate storage space underneath that can be used for shoe and boot storage. Consider using overhead storage shelves to keep frequently used items within convenient distance of the door and within easy reach. For added convenience, use hooks along the walls to catch jackets, bags, backpacks, and other necessities. Extra Amenities In addition to the basic features, you can also maximize the available space by adding some custom amenities that add form as well as function. Some mudrooms go the extra mile when it comes to organization by incorporating individual “lockers” or cubbyholes that can be assigned to each member of the family for personalization and convenience. Basically, you’re limited only by your imagination when it comes to renovating or adding on a new space. Whether it’s a space for an umbrella stand to hold your wet umbrellas until it’s time to head out again, a floor length mirror to catch one last look before leaving the house or, for the ultimate in convenience, a tiled, mini-shower with drain that can double as a pet-bathing station and kid-rinsing room to get the extra mud off after a dirty day playing outside. And last but not least, make sure to go with a tile or laminate floor that can withstand the elements and is easy to sweep and mop. Adding a mudroom to your existing space doesn’t just make your life easier, it also adds value to your home, which is always a great thing when it comes to home renovations and upgrades, which makes it a win/win. Trust Green Remodeling to make the most of your budget and your available space, whether it’s a mudroom or any other space inside (or outside) your home. Contact the home remodeling and renovation experts at Green Remodeling for your free estimate today!
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3 Summer Home Renovations That Cut Energy Costs

With the official arrival of summer, it’s also that time of year to welcome the sweltering Southern heat and the increased cost of keeping your house cool. It seems as if the constant heat is rivaled only by the constant need to run your air conditioning 24/7. Here are few investments and home renovations you can make to help keep energy costs down when the temps go up. Energy Efficient Windows If you live in an older home or find that you are spending way too much on energy costs, perhaps it’s time to look into replacing your existing windows with energy efficient windows that will save you money all year-round. While it’s not exactly a cheap fix, installing energy efficient windows is an investment that not only cuts energy costs, but adds to your home’s resale value. Energy efficient windows have a wide price range and feature everything from double panes, reflective coating, and weather stripping, all the up to having argon gas between the panes. Replacing your windows also allows you the opportunity to seal up drafty spots around the windows, preventing cool air from escaping when it’s hot outside and keeping warm air from escaping when it’s cold outside. Make sure to look into available tax credits when replacing windows, too. Insulation To further “seal up” the house, it may also be time to add new insulation. When it comes to energy costs, the attic and basement (foundation) are – pardon the pun – hot spots for increased energy costs. If you have an unfinished basement, make sure to have a professional add sealant to any exposed concrete. If your basement is finished, make certain that your walls are properly insulated. If they’re not, you can have a professional add loose-fill insulation without having to open the wall up. As for insulating the attic, there are many different forms of insulation that you can use to get the job done. Whether spray foam, fiberglass or cellulose, proper insulation will add comfort and cost savings year-round. Look for special tax credits, as well. Storm Doors Summer is also a great time to upgrade your front (and/or back) door with the addition of a storm door. Installed in front of your existing exterior door, a storm door features glass and screen panels that allow you to keep your exterior door open to allow natural light and air in while keeping the entryway closed and secure from bugs and other things you wish to keep out. In addition to the extra curb appeal, the increased ventilation can help to keep air moving throughout the house, bringing your cooling costs down. Trust a Professional For over a decade, Green Remodeling has worked hard to turn their clients’ dream home visions into reality. With an experienced staff of licensed designers and project managers, they will consult with you during every facet of your project – from start to finish – to ensure that your home remodel/renovation project exceeds expectations without exceeding your budget or timetable. Whether it’s something as simple as helping to improve your energy savings or a full renovation that transforms your kitchen or bathroom into an amazing blend of form and function, they offer a full assortment of services guaranteed to improve on the very personal and precious investment known as your home. Contact Green Remodeling for all your home improvement needs.