Each year brings about new trends in everything from clothing to food, to designing kitchens. This year, is no different. Kitchen designers are now starting to introduce curved shapes to the kitchen, just like other parts of the house. Gone are the days of sharp and straight looks, as it’s now being replaced by a softer appearance.

The easiest way to add curved shapes and bump up your kitchen with a contemporary look is through the introduction of rounded sinks, maybe bowed cabinets, or even curved faucets. If you can afford a bit more, you should think about adding a curved kitchen island. Some of the high end home design magazines are already featuring curvier kitchens.

Until recently kitchens were designed with a particular style and set of materials but the trend this year is to mix and match materials and styles to get your unique look. An example for you is to blend brick walls with stainless steel cabinets. If you’re really brave, you can use different cabinet styles too. Designers say since the kitchen is such an important room, you really need to fill it with items you really love. One idea is to add some old world romance by adding a chandelier. Nothing is out, if you love it, why not put it in your kitchen!

If you have old, inefficient appliances it’s time to consider replacing them.

There are so many benefits to replacing them.

The most significant benefit of energy efficient appliances is that it preserves the environment. This is based on the fact that the energy we use to run our homes comes from power plants. Power plants burn fossil fuels to power electric products. The burning of fossil fuels causes air pollution and is the main cause of acid rain, smog, and global warming.

Experts say, we could remove the need of 25 power plants if every American home used energy-efficient major appliances. Another benefit of energy efficient appliances, it saves money. Lots of money. By using energy efficient appliances, you can save up to $400 per year on utility bills.

Plus energy efficient appliances have an extended working life. By buying energy efficient appliances, you qualify for an energy tax credit on top of saving on your monthly utility bill. Happy saving!

Many people love the character older homes have, but not the problems that come along with them. Experts say there are things you need to do in order to properly maintain an older home.

The first thing you should do is get the roof repaired before any further damage is done. The next thing is to have the electrical updated to code to reduce chances of an electrical fire. Plumbing would be next, but make sure you have taken into consideration all that you plan to do to the home. For instance, you don’t want to have the plumbing modified, then decide to remodel a bathroom or kitchen and have to redo what you’ve already done.

Older homes will most definitely have windows that are far from energy efficient. There are window companies that can help you pick out new, Energy Star windows that will match your old world style. When you get your first energy bill, you’ll be glad you switched them out.

Are you trying to go green? Experts say if you want to start living a “greener” lifestyle, your bathroom is a great place to start! Some simple adjustments to a bathroom can reduce its impact on the environment.

Here are a few tips to green it up:

• Installing aerators on the faucet and showerhead will reduce the amount of water used.
• Faucets and showerheads with aerators use half the water flow with twice the power. If they were used nationwide, aerators could save 250 million gallons of water a year.
• Using a low-flow toilet will use less water.
• Replacing a tanked water heater with a tankless model will reduce the amount of energy consumed and the cost to heat water.
• A tankless water heater will heat only what is needed, when it’s needed.
• Compact fluorescent bulbs use less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
• When redecorating, look for paint with a low volatile organic compounds (VOC) label. These paints are less toxic.
• Even little things like selecting all-natural fabrics can help make your bathroom more green. Plus all your friends will think you are so hip and ahead of the times!

Never worry about your roof again.

New metal roofs installed by Erie Construction will last a lifetime. We back that up with a lifetime warranty.

Asphalt roofing needs to be replaced every 10 to 20 years. Metal roofs with their unmatched durability may be the last roof you ever have to put on your house.

For the last roof your home will ever need contact Erie Construction Midwest