Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2023-09-09T05:01:00

(BPT) – Looking to make improvements to the overall look of your property before it gets too cold or snowy? This is a great time of year to address any cracks you may have noticed in your concrete driveway, patio, pathway or steps. As long as the temperature is staying above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, you can still take care of this type of task during the early fall months.

While concrete is very durable, cracks can occur due to weather conditions and temperature changes, amongst other issues, and over time could make your property look unkempt, as well as growing to cause a potential safety hazard. Taking care of the cracks you see as soon as possible — before they get any bigger — is an ideal way to help prevent further problems with your concrete surfaces. This is an easy way to help keep your property looking tidy, safe and well maintained.

Before the temps drop and the snow flies, here are steps you can follow to address any cracks you may be noticing. This is a project you can tackle in a single weekend, with the right supplies. One of the easiest products to use is Quikrete^® Concrete Crack Seal, which is a pre-mixed blend of latex emulsion formulated to fill cracks in horizontal concrete surfaces.

Before you begin, here’s what you’ll need for the project:

• Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal
• Wire brush
• Chisel
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

Then, follow these steps to ensure you get the job done right.

1. Check the forecast: If rain is expected within 24 hours, you should postpone this project until you know the weather will be dry. You’ll also want to be sure the temperature outside will be between 45 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (or 7-38 degrees Celsius). Do not use the sealant product if freezing temperatures are in the immediate forecast.

2. Prep the area: Use your chisel to remove debris inside the crack, and your wire brush to clean loose dirt, grit or gravel from the surface. You could also use a leaf blower, if you have one, to help clear away unwanted material. AA pro tip is to thoroughly clean the area with Quikrete Concrete & Asphalt Cleaner to ensure the best bond with the sealant.

3. Measure the crack size: If the crack you need to fill is deeper than 1/4 inch, it’s recommended to use a filler first, such as all-purpose sand. Fill the crack with sand to within 1/4 inch of the surface. When combined with the sealant, the filler will help ensure that a larger crack is completely sealed. Do not apply in cracks that are wider than half an inch.

4. Use the sealant: Start by shaking the container of Quikrete Concrete Crack Seal to make sure that the product is well blended. Next, cut the tip of the spout to make a 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch opening. Squeeze the formula into the crack, working slowly. Overfill the crack slightly, as the product will shrink. The sealant is self-leveling, and its color blends well with gray concrete.

5. Let it cure: After pouring the sealant, wait 24 hours for the product to cure. You can apply a second coat after 24 hours, as needed, to provide a more uniform finished surface.

Crack sealing is an easy and low-cost fix, but if you’re seeing multiple cracks and holes, it may be time to consider a more complete and permanent solution. However, sealing cracks now will help prevent future damage and give you time to plan for bigger projects in the future. With these minor repairs in place, you can be confident that your driveway or other cement surfaces will be in better shape by the time spring rolls around again.

2023-09-08T10:31:00

(BPT) – Planning a home renovation project? You may be feeling some excitement, anxiety or a thrilling mix of both. Of course, making changes to your home can be fun, but there are so many choices to be made, especially when it comes to choosing flooring that will serve you for years to come.

Flooring can make a huge impact on your space, and choosing the right material and style can make the difference between a room you like and one you love.

To help you through this process from selection to installation — and even make it enjoyable — LL Flooring created a simple, guided four-step flooring process for homeowners and pros alike to ensure that they find the flooring of their dreams.

“We’ve seen how the task of selecting flooring can be challenging, especially for first-time shoppers,” said Charles Tyson, President and CEO of LL Flooring. “This four-step process draws from our deep understanding of our customers’ needs and our ever-evolving flooring options to provide a smart, simple and streamlined experience that makes selecting floors easier than ever.”

1. Find the right material

First, you need to find the best material for your flooring project. Between solid hardwood, engineered hardwood, vinyl, laminate and tile, there are seemingly endless options of flooring styles to choose from.

To pick the right one, you’ll need to consider your lifestyle and space to ensure the material you choose will hold up to the elements in your day-to-day life. Factors to consider can range from your family, pets, regional climate and area of the home.

If you need help picking the right material for your home renovation project, check out LL Flooring’s Floor Finder. Flooring experts are also available to speak with you online or at your local store.

2. Find the right style

How do you want your space to feel? When choosing a flooring style, make sure it fits the overall aesthetic of your room and home by choosing colors and textures that appeal to you and your unique sense of style.

You can see how your space will look using a digital tool like LL Flooring’s digital floor visualizer, Picture It! Paired with an in-store consultation, you can find the right flooring that expresses your style and complements your home.

3. Finalize your choice

Now that you’ve considered your needs and style, it’s time to get your hands on flooring samples. Order free flooring samples to test at home, so you’ll know exactly how they’ll look in your space. Seeing and feeling the potential options underfoot can help you make your final decision with confidence.

When reviewing your flooring samples, ask an LL Flooring expert about previous customer reviews and double-check that they will suit your lifestyle and interior design. This will help you narrow down the final purchase decision.

4. Install and celebrate

Finally, you’re ready to make your vision a reality. Whether you prefer to do it yourself or hire professional installers — available through LL Flooring — all the previous steps have come together to bring your home project to life. Once the final piece is in place, it’s time to celebrate your renovated space.

2023-09-06T01:01:00

(BPT) – Are you looking for eye-catching and practical ways to upgrade your home? Consider investing in an outdoor renovation project! From installing or remodeling a patio to adding an outdoor fireplace, these outdoor projects can make your home an inviting space in which you and others will want to spend time.

To inspire and help you along your outdoor design journey, Belgard^® — a leading provider of outdoor home products like pavers, retaining walls and other landscape features — offers five outdoor design inspirations you can implement in your next home improvement project.

1. Upgrade your patio

A patio or deck can be a wonderful addition to your home. It acts as an extension of your home and provides another livable space to relax and socialize with family and friends. You can even incorporate an outdoor dining area and workspace to create a multi-purpose patio.

Whether you want to add a patio or upgrade your existing one, doing so also adds value to your home. According to the National Association of Realtors Research Group (NAR) 2023 Remodeling Impact Report, a new patio typically costs $10,000-$10,500. However, homeowners that installed a patio recovered 95% of the value from the project.

When designing your patio, consider using concrete pavers to incorporate textures and colors. Concrete pavers are a great way to complete the feel of your outdoor space and seamlessly blend the hardscapes in with the existing layout because they complement various design styles. They’re also a great investment and have a life span of 30 to 100 years to withstand extreme weather and bear heavy weight.

2. Invest in landscaping

If you want to improve the appearance of your home and get an instant return on investment, upgrade your landscape. Not only does investing in landscaping enhance your home’s curb appeal, but it also extends a warm invitation into your home for visitors.

The NAR report found that lining your walkway of pavers with plants, or adding in raised beds and shrubs, allowed homeowners to recover 104% of the project’s cost. However, if you want to start small, adding flowering shrubs, shading trees or mulching are easy, cost-effective ways to revive your yard.

3. Add shade structures

During the warmer months, you’ll want shade structures so you can get the most out of your outdoor space, no matter the temperature. Escape the heat by installing a pergola on your patio.

Pergolas are a popular option because homeowners can choose various materials, styles and colors to fit their layout. A well-designed pergola can boost property values and increase the usability of the backyard.

Decorate your pergola with sun-blocking curtains and hanging plants to create the perfect private getaway in your backyard. For a more cost-effective option, a trellis with plants or greenery can provide both privacy and shade.

4. Install an outdoor kitchen

Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners and potential buyers. They allow people to spend as much time outdoors as possible while entertaining and feeding guests. It also means that you don’t heat up your house during the summer months.

Compared to other outdoor home improvement projects, outdoor kitchens offer a substantial return on investment. NARS found that homeowners recovered 100% of the cost of building an outdoor kitchen. The report also found that 99% of homeowners who added an outdoor kitchen felt a greater desire to be home and 71% felt an increased sense of enjoyment with their home.

Note: Ensure the kitchen is functional within your space and has shelter from rain or intense sun, so you have optimal time to utilize it throughout the year.

5. Incorporate a fire feature

Whether you choose a fireplace or pit, an outdoor fire feature will add value to your home and allow you to make memories with friends and family in a cozy environment huddled around whichever feature you choose.

Fire features also add 32% better functionality, livability and personality to your home and make your outdoor space more usable, so you can enjoy your outdoor space during a brisk summer evening or in colder climates.

Consider your budget, space layout and function for fire features to ensure you choose the right one for your backyard and family. A DIY fire pit is a great inexpensive option with versatile use and style. Opt for an outdoor fireplace if you’re looking for a more premium option. It can double as a privacy wall and takes up less space than a typical fireplace.

Let these five outdoor renovation projects inspire you to upgrade your home, add value to your property and make your home a place you and others want to spend their time. For more outdoor design inspiration, visit Belgard.com.

2023-08-29T05:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re taking a shower, cleaning the dishes or simply washing your hands, access to hot water is considered an essential in American homes. When you have to wait too long for that soothing warm flow, you may start to wonder if it’s time to upgrade your water heater. And worse, if access to hot water suddenly disappears, you may be forced to replace it quickly — and deal with chilly bathing in the interim.

A new water heater provides a fast fix to your problems, but it’s important not to make a decision in haste that impacts your comfort and operating costs for years to come. By educating yourself now about the difference between two main types of modern water heaters — tank and tankless — you’ll be prepared to make the best decision for you and your home whenever the time comes.

Jason Fleming, Executive Vice President at Noritz America, is an expert on water heaters and understands this can be a difficult decision. He answers homeowners’ top questions about tank and tankless options.

Do tank or tankless water heaters cost more?

The cost advantages depend on whether you want a quick fix or a long-term investment. Tank heaters cost less up front but are expensive to run and wear out sooner. Tankless heaters cost more up front, but save you substantially on your monthly bills. Comparing a standard 50-gallon tank heater with an equivalent tankless (condensed gas-fired unit), the tankless unit can reduce energy costs by 60% or more. Plus, tankless lasts up to two times longer.

Key takeaway: Tankless saves more long-term.

Which option is most efficient?

Energy efficiency is one of the biggest perks homeowners want from a new water heater. A tank heater operates continuously. That means it’s running even when you’re asleep, heating water that sits in a holding tank, which is not energy efficient. Tankless heaters are designed to save energy because they only heat water on demand. It’s a smaller, compact system that flash-heats water when you need it and turns off as soon as you turn off the faucet. That equates to less energy use and lower utility bills.

Key takeaway: Heating unused water is like dumping money down the drain.

Which is the greener option?

Homeowners have a growing interest in a green home that is eco-friendly. Tankless water heaters work to reduce carbon emissions. They do this by using less energy to heat the water since it’s heated on demand rather than maintaining a full tank of heated water. Additionally, tankless models last longer, equating to a decrease in landfill waste.

Key takeaway: Tankless options are ideal for eco-friendly homes.

Which is harder to install?

Both types of water heaters should be installed by a qualified, licensed contractor. Traditional tank water heaters are large and may require multiple service technicians to move and navigate in a utility room. Tankless units are compact and ideal for small spaces, great for opening up an existing space and making it easier for professional installers to navigate. In fact, tankless water heaters are about the size of a carry-on suitcase.

Key takeaway: Tankless are small but mighty.

Which is more expensive to install?

Tank water heaters may cost slightly less to install, but recently installation costs on tankless heaters have come down. In particular, the EZ Series of high-efficiency, condensing tankless water heaters from Noritz America is designed to cut installation time and cost when replacing larger, storage tank-type units. And because they are far more energy-efficient, you can further save on installation costs through federal and state rebates.

Key takeaway: Smaller units can make installation easier and less costly.

Are there leak concerns with tank or tankless?

It’s an unhappy scenario familiar to many homeowners: coming home to water everywhere, leaking from a busted water heater. With a tank water heater, that can be 40, 50, even 60 or 100 gallons pooled up, causing significant damage to the property. With a tankless water heater, you no longer need to stress about this because the system does not store any water. Even if the heat exchanger should become damaged (a rare occurrence), the leaks would be measured in dribbles and drops — far from the massive headaches too often caused by a leaking tank heater.

Key takeaway: No holding tank means no catastrophic leaks — ever.

Do tank or tankless heaters provide more hot water?

Tank heaters pre-heat a limited amount of water in their tank. If you use up all the hot water in the tank, you run out until it refills and reheats. Tankless heaters heat up water as it’s needed — whenever you turn on the faucet or shower. They can bring a steady flow of water up to soothing temperatures in a matter of seconds and provide it indefinitely. Water pressure may be a concern with tankless heaters if multiple sources are pulling hot water at once, but proper sizing and recent technology have made this much less an issue than in the past.

Key takeaway: Modern tankless technology helps ensure an endless flow of hot water.

Everyone wants to be comfortable in their home and that includes reliable access to hot water. These guidelines help you make the right water heater decision whether you’re replacing a dated unit proactively or are faced with a last-minute replacement decision.

2023-08-29T07:01:01

(BPT) – Homeowner demand for elevated outdoor spaces is on the rise across the country. Among the trends shaping outdoor designs, one material is emerging as a standout choice: tile.

“The appeal of stunning and functional outdoor living areas constructed with stylish, long-lasting materials is undeniable. Tile is the go-to for so many outdoor applications because its durability, design flexibility and functionality can’t be beat,” said Laura Grilli, director of product design for Daltile.

Grilli shares the top tile trends for creating beautiful outdoor living areas:

1. Blending the indoors and out

Flowing cohesive design from the indoors to outdoors connects aesthetics and elevates spaces. For example, the outdoor living space will be a visual continuation of the adjacent indoor living space. This is often achieved by using similar materials in both spaces, often including tile, to create consistency and connection.

2. Porcelain is the tile of choice

Tile is available in many different materials, but porcelain tile is trending for outdoor applications. Porcelain is inherently durable, stainproof, scratchproof, waterproof, frost resistant and fire resistant. Plus, advances including Daltile’s Xteriors porcelain line include many options in size, design, color and slip-resistance that are ideal choices for outdoor designs.

3. Focus on functionality and entertainment

Due to the bevy of benefits of porcelain tile, it can be used in near-endless ways. Many people desire outdoor spaces for relaxing and entertaining, so outdoor bars, fancy kitchens and beautiful sitting areas are trending. Porcelain lets homeowners enjoy the same high level of sophisticated style in outdoor tiles and countertops that historically was only available indoors.

4. Walkways and walkable surfaces

Creating pathways between outdoor spaces connects a property and facilitates movement. Products such as porcelain 2cm pavers are now making authentic stone and wood looks available to replace common concrete pavers that used to be the standard outdoor walkway option.

5. Style without maintenance

When it comes to outdoor porcelain tile, planks, slabs and countertops, you get the high-end look of stone, marble and wood without the maintenance, upkeep or wear concerns. No sealing is ever needed. Simply clean with mild soap and water to keep spaces looking like new.

“Incorporating tile into your outdoor design brings a multitude of benefits that go beyond aesthetics. Its durability and resilience make it a practical choice for withstanding the elements and maintaining its beauty over time. With an array of styles and patterns available, tile allows you to unleash your creativity and personalize your outdoor space,” said Grilli.

2023-08-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – The home is the ultimate place for creative expression. Each room acts as a canvas that can be crafted to reflect one’s unique sense of style and personality. From the color on the walls to the material of the furniture, every detail is important. When designing a room, consider how materials, colors and shapes play off each other and blend together, as the home is not just meant to be a place of function — it is also a space for fashion, creativity and style.

Matte sophistication

Color within the home can evoke many feelings, from using muted tones to create a sense of serenity to selecting a strong tone to make a bold statement. It is an important piece of the puzzle when bringing together a space and should be a thoughtful choice when considering every accessory, fixture and element within a room. When choosing fixtures, especially in the kitchen and bath spaces, carefully consider the finish. Whether you use a matte finish to create a timeless and classic look, or a polished finish to create a glamorous look, there’s an option to suit every aesthetic. The Jason Wu for Brizo™ Kitchen Collection features its signature Matte White finish and Brilliance^® Polished Nickel handle, which captures both a modern yet elegant feel that takes its inspiration straight from the runway. A room does not require vibrant color to make a statement; sometimes the boldest statement in the room is one that is strikingly simple.

Intriguing details

Customization is a true marker of luxury. While one may be drawn to a particular faucet shape and style, the finish is a chance to really make it feel personal. Select a polished or brilliant detail with a shine, like the Brilliance^® Polished Nickel finish available in the Invari^® Bath Collection, to make the faucet the jewelry of the room. The tone itself is a juxtaposition of cool and warm, which adds a captivating touch to any space. A dark, moody hue conveys a modern sleekness that can quickly make an outdated space feel fashionable. For a dramatic look, select the Levoir^® Bath Collection in the daring shade of Brilliance^® Black Onyx. The onyx brings a sense of allure to the bath and intrigues the eye with its dark, luxe lacquer. Mixing and matching tones or using split finishes can add a unique perspective and creates an aesthetic that artfully blends materials. Look at finishes as a way to make a statement in a space. They should not be overlooked in the design process, as they are the very detailed element that brings a room — and the home — together.

2023-08-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – When a home’s interior is uncomfortably hot or the condenser starts cycling on more frequently to maintain the thermostat setting, most homeowners are quick to blame the air conditioner. While installing a larger “box” or condenser might seem like the obvious solution, the home’s cooling equipment may actually be in optimal condition.

You’ve probably heard that a system is only as good as its weakest link, and that applies to the comfort systems that contribute to a home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Comfortable air inside a home is a result of a system of components that work together with the home’s infrastructure. The air conditioner doesn’t do the cooling job on its own: It works in conjunction with ductwork, attic insulation and air return registers to keep indoor air comfortable.

Even the most energy-efficient HVAC equipment will not deliver its full potential if problems in the home put additional stress on the equipment. An air conditioning unit that must work harder to keep a home cool will consume more energy, leading to higher energy bills. This can potentially reduce the returns a customer should be enjoying from their investment in energy-efficient equipment.

Problems in attic spaces

What problems inside a home can cause its HVAC system to work harder? The attic area presents a number of challenges. Over time, attic ductwork that transports conditioned air throughout a home can become dented, crushed or loosened. Damage can result from activities in the attic, accidental contact or pests. Ducts can weaken and connections can come loose. Ductwork joints and seams may degrade as a home ages. Any of these issues can contribute to air leaking from ducts. Air leaks allow conditioned air to escape into the attic while letting contaminants from the attic infiltrate into ducts, where they’re distributed back into the home. An increase in dust levels is a common sign of compromised attic ductwork.

Climate conditions, including moisture and heat, present other concerns in attic spaces. If an attic has insufficient levels of insulation or is poorly ventilated, metal ductwork can be susceptible to corrosion. Prolonged exposure to extensive heat and moisture, such as the high temperatures, humidity and rainfall seen in many parts of the U.S. this summer, can cause ductwork to deteriorate.

A proactive approach to mitigating attic issues

All of the problems described above can result in a system working harder than it needs to in order to maintain temperature. By taking a proactive approach to address issues in the attic, homeowners can minimize stress on HVAC equipment and help reduce unnecessarily high heating and cooling bills.

Attic insulation prevents heat from escaping the home during colder months and infiltrating the home during warmer seasons. Mitigating these thermal challenges can reduce the load on a home’s heating and cooling systems. The payoff for customers can be reduced energy consumption and lower heating and cooling bills, as well as potentially extending the equipment’s service life.

Not every contractor is an expert when it comes to caring for a home’s indoor air. Owens Corning certifies contractors that specialize in caring for homes’ indoor air. Owens Corning equips Certified AirCare^® Professionals with tools to evaluate attics and make home-specific recommendations to support comfort and usage throughout the whole home. HVAC technicians certified as AirCare^® Professionals are trained to spot conditions that could be reducing a home’s energy efficiency and compromising occupant comfort. During a thorough inspection of the attic, a Certified AirCare^® Professional will evaluate ductwork, looking for holes, loose connections or signs of degradation. This inspection will help inform suggestions for repairing or replacing ductwork to support improved comfort and energy efficiency.

Beyond inspecting ductwork, the Certified AirCare^® Professional will measure attic insulation levels and suggest the optimal level to achieve improved energy efficiency and comfort. Proper levels of attic insulation also help maintain a more consistent indoor temperature, supporting a comfortable indoor environment in all seasons. Additionally, adequate attic insulation can help lighten the load on HVAC equipment, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing the need for repairs.

Attic insulation can deliver non-thermal benefits as well. For example, sufficient levels of insulation can help reduce external noise entering the space and less energy usage may reduce a home’s carbon footprint.

Homeowners have long relied on HVAC technicians to regularly service and maintain heating and cooling equipment. Having a home’s attic inspected by a technician certified by Owens Corning as an AirCare^® Professional takes that diligence to a new level by caring for the home’s air as an intrinsic part of whole home comfort and value.

©Owens Corning 2023. All rights reserved.

2023-08-24T04:01:00

(BPT) – How clean is your home? Even if you have a daily, weekly or monthly cleaning routine, you might miss some nooks and crannies that often go unnoticed and uncleaned. These hidden areas can easily collect dust, dirt, grime and allergens that are unsightly and can compromise your overall home hygiene.

If you want to have a truly spotless house, make sure to regularly clean these five commonly overlooked places in your home.

1. Ceiling fans and light fixtures

When was the last time you cleaned your ceiling fans and light fixtures? Because they’re situated up high, it’s easy to overlook them during your regular cleaning routine. Over time, fan blades and light covers collect dust and cobwebs, which are released as the fan rotates and lights are turned on, polluting indoor air.

Use a tool like the Casabella Multi Angle Extendable Microfiber Duster to easily reach and properly clean fans and lights. The extendable handle and pivoting head allow you to clean hard-to-reach areas at any angle. The duster’s microfiber head attracts and holds dirt, dust, cobwebs, pet hair and other allergens. Best of all, the plush dusting head is completely removable, so it can be machine washed and used again anytime. Regularly you should also wipe down these fan blades with a damp cloth to prevent the buildup of allergens and keep your home’s air quality in check.

2. Air vents

Cleaning air vents is necessary to maintain good indoor air quality. Over time, dust, pet hair and other airborne particles can clog vents. Not only does this decrease your air quality, but it can also impact the efficiency of your air circulation system.

As part of your weekly cleaning routine, regularly vacuum, dust and wipe down air vents to help promote better air circulation. Cleaning air vents can also help reduce allergen levels in your home, so you can breathe easier.

3. Behind large appliances

Do you move large appliances when cleaning? If you don’t, you’re in for a nasty surprise when you do. The areas behind and underneath refrigerators, ovens and washing machines quickly collect food crumbs, dust and pet hair. Once a month or more, unplug and move these appliances and thoroughly clean these hidden spots as well as the surrounding areas.

To ensure these areas are truly clean, you’ll need essential tools like the Casabella Power Core Broom and Dustpan. Designed with an angled, extra-large broom head, you can quickly and comfortably sweep at any angle. The dustpan’s rubber lip makes for fast one-pass pickup and built-in teeth allow you to clean the broom bristles after each use. When you’re done, simply clip the dustpan onto the pole for easy storage.

Now that you’ve thoroughly swept, it’s time to mop! The Casabella Clean Water Spin Mop spins away dirt, grime and excess water and separates clean and dirty water into a dual bucket system, removing 99% of bacteria. The reusable mop head is machine washable and features an anti-scratch scraper to tackle even the most stubborn, stuck particles.

4. Baseboards, crown molding and trim

Baseboards, crown molding and trim add a touch of elegance to your home but are often ignored during cleaning routines. If it’s been a while since you’ve cleaned these decorative elements of your home, don’t feel bad. Because they’re down low and up high, they’re easy to miss.

It’s important to regularly clean these three architectural elements, as dust and pet dander settle on these surfaces, detracting from the beauty of your home. Using your extendable duster, you can easily reach high crown molding and trim as well as low baseboards. Aim to do this once a week to prevent allergen accumulation and so they continue to look good.

5. Laundry room appliances

Because you’re already cleaning your clothes in there, you may forget to clean the laundry room appliances. Just like in the kitchen, unplug and move large appliances like your washer and dryer so you can clean behind and underneath.

While your dryer is out, clean the access vent so your dryer runs efficiently and lasts longer. Once it is back in place, open your dryer and wipe down the drum. Run an empty wash cycle to clean the washer’s drum.

To finish off your laundry room cleaning routine, wipe down the outside of the washer and dryer, paying close attention to any knobs, handles and buttons. Aim to clean the laundry room and appliances once a month.

Maintaining a clean and healthy living space doesn’t have to be difficult. Keep these five hidden spaces in mind when planning your cleaning routine, so you can relax with the knowledge that your home is truly spotless.

2023-08-22T12:01:01

(BPT) – As the world of interior design continues to evolve, homeowners and decorators alike continue to explore innovative ways to elevate their living spaces. The past few years have welcomed a wave of fresh wall and ceiling trends that aim to transform home décor, including the most recent revival of textured walls and ceilings.

“Homeowners are always looking for fresh and simple ways to incorporate eye-catching elements into their home,” said Raquel Beckett, senior product manager at DAP. “While texture is not a new concept, it is a novel way to effortlessly add a sense of depth and dimension to any room. We are seeing it in everything from accent walls to full covered ceilings.”

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to add texture to walls and ceilings is with aerosol products. Here’s how to achieve this sought-after look with spray texture:

Select a texture.

Choosing the right texture for your walls and ceilings can significantly impact the overall atmosphere of your living spaces. Texture can help hide wall imperfections. Some of the most popular spray texture options are Knockdown, Orange Peel and Popcorn. Knockdown offers a more subtle and understated approach with a textured surface that features flattened peaks. It’s an excellent option if you desire a textured look without an overpowering visual effect. Orange Peel is a classic and versatile choice with a texture that mimics the surface of an orange peel. It’s subtle, yet visually appealing, and suits a wide range of home decors. Popcorn is perfect for those seeking a textured look with a vintage touch. It creates a bumpy, stippled appearance that adds depth and character to ceilings. Homeowners can easily achieve any of these compositions through aerosol spray texture applications available from local home improvement stores.

Prep the area.

Before getting started, take time to properly prep the wall or ceiling area. Use a drop cloth or sheet to cover the floor or any furniture, then clean the surface area and allow it to dry completely. If there is existing texture on the area, be sure to remove it prior to applying the new texture. Lastly, practice the application before jumping in to ensure you are comfortable with the spray applicator to achieve the best results.

Apply texture.

Use a spray texture product that is easy to apply and will give you a consistent level of texture throughout the area you are covering. DAP’s line of 2in1 Wall and Ceiling Spray Texture is an ideal choice for both pros and DIYers tackling texture. The aerosol cans feature Aim Tech technology that offers a patent pending 60-degree adjustable nozzle to easily cover vertical, overhead and hard-to-reach areas. The nozzle also allows you to select a fine, medium or heavy level of texture when sprayed. Hold the can approximately 12 to 18 inches away from the surface using intermittent bursts, sweeping across the area in a quick, continuous motion.

Sand and paint.

Finish your project by sanding or painting the textured area. DAP Spray Texture only needs 30 minutes of dry time for water-based formulas and five minutes for oil-based, before you can sand or paint. Be sure to follow your paint manufacturer’s instructions on best results for applying paint to textured surfaces. If you are applying the texture on the exterior of the home, you’ll need to use an exterior grade paint.

With the new Spray Texture line from DAP, anyone looking to repair their textured areas or spruce up their living spaces can do so easily. For more tips and products to help create your wall or ceiling texture, visit DAP.com/spray-texture.