Published on: 03 December 2018
Last Updated on: 19 July 2019
Stone veneers are a popular but often misunderstood product, though they’re slowly increasing in popularity. Installing stone veneer is a rather affordable way to add value to your property and improve the overall curb appeal. Let’s take a look at what stone veneers are and the main types of stone veneers on the market. Then we’ll share how you can increase the value of your home with stone veneers and where you may want to have them installed.
An Introduction to Stone Veneers:
Stone veneer refers to any outward facing material made from stone that is not designed to be load bearing. You can find both thin and full stone veneers. Full veneers are three to five inches thick and weigh far more than “thin” veneers. Thin veneers are three-quarters of an inch to one and a half inches thick. Because they are thinner, there is less time and labor required to install them. Thick “full” veneers may require advanced engineering to keep them in place, while thin stone veneers may be supported by the wall. Thin veneers can often be used on taller or higher projects. Now let’s look at how stone veneers add value to your home.
The Aesthetic Value:
Stone has a natural look and feel. Kafka natural stone veneer, for instance, comes in a variety of styles and finishes, so you can select the type that either matches the natural environment or accentuates it. You’ll create a look that will not only be a timeless classic but one that appears upscale, as the real stone is so expensive. This explains why a stone veneer project has roughly a 92% return on investment when you sell your home. Your home will also stand out from those around it that are clad in brick or vinyl siding.
The Simplicity:
Stone veneers meet pretty much all applicable building code requirements. Note that if you like the look of stone but don’t want to redo the entire home, you could have a stone accent wall put on the front of your home, or create stone pillars on the porch. Or you could put stone veneers around a gas or electric fireplace to make it resemble a real, stone fireplace without the time, cost and engineering changes necessary for a new stone fireplace installation.
The Structural Benefits:
Stone is very durable. After all, it takes a long time to weather. This makes stone an excellent choice for the exterior of your home; it will survive repeated freezes and thaws. A stone veneer wall can typically weather abuse by mother nature and casual impacts. It is water-repellent, pest-resistant and otherwise one of the most durable options on the market.
The Economic Benefits:
A properly installed stone veneer is maintenance free; you won’t have to repaint it as the colors won’t fade on exposure to sunlight or flake off with rain and wind. You won’t have to replace it in a few years because it has warped due to exposure to the elements. And as mentioned, stone veneers make a home appear high-end, resulting in higher offers for the property when you try to sell it.
Stone veneers provide you with the best of both worlds. They provide the durability, attractiveness, and strength of stone. This is all without the high cost and advanced engineering requirements necessary to install full stone walls.
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Moving can be a stressful time for some families. With so much to organise and a whole house to pack up into boxes, the process can feel overwhelming at times. With the right organisational strategy and a clear plan in place, you can move house without encountering a stressful experience. Use these packing and moving tips to reduce the hassle.
1. Prioritise safety
Many people worry about the safety of their possessions when moving house, particularly when moving fragile objects, valuable furniture, family heirlooms, or antiques. It’s important to have the right supplies available to pack your things safely so all of your treasured possessions get over to your new property in one piece. Invest in plenty of bubble wrap roll to make sure your boxes are securely padded, and use a moving company you know and trust so you can move without any worries.
2. Make a massive to do list
There’s so much to do when you move house, so it’s important to have a clear list to help you stay on track. Sit down with the whole family and craft a thorough to do list. Divide the list into categories for each family member to tackle, and make sure everyone ticks off their achievements once they’re completed. Include even seemingly minor details – every little task counts when you’re moving out.
3. Make sure your boxes are sturdy
The packing process will be much easier with the right supplies. If you’ve used the same old cardboard boxes for every move since university, it may be time for a change. Your possessions will be safest tucked away and wrapped up in strong, sturdy boxes. If you don’t have any of your own, ask around amongst family and friends to borrow some better boxes or to get recommendations for a supplier.
4. Plan ahead
Leaving packing until the last minute is a recipe for a crisis. Make sure things stay calm by scheduling your packing and moving plans well in advance so you know what the plan is for each day ahead of time. This includes enlisting family or friends for help or babysitting, booking the moving van, and arranging cancellations or transfers with your utility companies in advance.
5. Label everything
Your unpacking process will be a whole lot easier if you label everything clearly during the move. Use a thick pen and tape to mark down the contents of each box on the side and top of the box. Write down what’s in the box and what room it belongs in so you can bring it straight to its intended location when you move into your new house.
6. Pack essentials separately
There are certain items that you’re probably going to need to unpack immediately when you move into your new space. This may include toothbrushes, toiletries, a change of clothes, and bedding. Make sure you pack these essential must-haves in their own box that’s clearly marked to be unpacked first.
7. Ask for help
You don’t have to tackle the task of packing and moving all alone. Get the whole family on board to help out, and call in extra help if you need it. There’s no shame in needing a little extra support, and the help could reduce the stress of the move.
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When it comes to dining seating options, you do not only have to choose individual chairs all the time. A dining bench can be a great choice depending on many factors. Let’s find out more about dining bench seats.
What Is A Dining Bench?
A bench is a long seat that allows more than one person to sit. It is usually made of wood but may also be made of metal or synthetic materials. Other types of benches also come with cushions and upholstery to make them more comfortable and stylish.
In the dining room, a dining bench is a functional piece of furniture that creates a casual, cozy, and intimate dining experience while helping you save some space.
Reasons For Getting A Dining Bench
If you are hoping to convince yourself to get a dining bench seat, here are reasons why you may need one:
1. It Provides Additional Seating
Worried about extra seating space for guests? A dining bench can be a viable solution for accommodating them on the table without squeezing in additional chairs.
2. It Is Well-Suited For Families With Small Kids
If you are a big family with little kids, a dining bench can sit them comfortably without taking up much space for individual chairs. Even if you don’t have little kids, this setup is also helpful if your family members have small bodies.
3. It Is Suitable For Starting Families
New and starting families can use a dining bench that provides for additional seating in the future. A bench can also make an excellent adult-kid dining arrangement in one seat.
4. It Creates A Cozy And Casual Dining Room Setting
If you want a casual and laid-back dining atmosphere, a dining bench can help create this look and feel. You can also choose a dining bench for your patio, garden, or deck, where gatherings, snacks, and other fun things happen.
5. It Can Help Utilize Unused Spaces In Your Dining Area
Thinking about an awkward space by your window or corner in your room? A dining bench can be a perfect solution for utilizing unused spaces in your dining area. For example, you can use a dining bench in your bay window or alcove in your dining area.
6. It Is A Great Space-Saver
As long as you choose a dining bench with the correct dimensions, you can have real space-saving furniture. You can push your bench all the way under your table, which gives you a spacious area around the dining table when not in use. There are also built-in bench types, which are effective space-savers too.
7. It Makes Your Home Unique
If you want to create a unique home statement, get a dining bench. Most dining sets consist of a dining table and individual chairs. However, you can steer away from this setup and instead do a combination of a dining bench and individual chairs for a more unique look.
8. It Gives You Plenty Of Options
Variety is one of the benefits of getting a bench for your dining area. You will find many dining bench types made of different materials, dimensions, and styles to suit your needs. If you want to get more trendy, dining benches are also very easy to style with.
How To Choose A Dining Bench
If you decide to get a bench for your dining room, below are some tips that will help you choose the right furniture piece.
1. Pick The Correct Dimensions
To get the proper dimensions of a bench, measure your dining table first. Then, decide on the height and length of your bench. The usual height is between 18 to 20 inches or 46-51cm. The length would depend on whether you want your seat as long as your dining table or you want to tuck it under your table.
2. Choose The Appropriate Material
The material you choose for your bench will depend on factors like homestyle, comfort, and its users. For a traditional homestyle, for instance, a solid wood dining bench would look fitting. On the other hand, if you want more comfort, you can choose a cushioned, upholstered dining bench. Finally, if you have little children around, you can go for a leather-upholstered dining bench to make cleaning easier.
3. Decide On The Bench Type
Dining benches come in different types, including the ones compared below. Just go for the one that matches your needs, dining space, style, budget, and the look you want to achieve.
Bench with backrest vs. bench with no backrest
Banquet or built-in bench vs. detached bench
Full-length vs. tucked-in dining bench
Wooden vs. upholstered bench
A dining bench can combine both functionality and style. If you want a practical solution to a limited dining space, choosing a dining bench is sensible. As an added bonus, it can give your dining room a unique look and casual feel.
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Signage plays a crucial role in communicating important information and guiding residents and visitors at apartment complexes. From practical wayfinding signs to eye-catching banners advertising available units, the right signs can make all the difference.
This blog explores the array of sign options that apartment managers have at their disposal to effectively convey messages, improve accessibility, and enhance curb appeal.
We’ll look at everything from illuminated “Vacancy” signs to inform potential renters of availability to parking designation signs that help maintain order in lots.
Metal laser cut signage like building and unit number markers also make it easier for emergency responders, delivery drivers, and visitors to navigate complexes.
Plus, promotional banners can attract interest from passersby. With a thoughtful signage strategy, managers can ensure their apartment community puts its best face forward while helping residents and guests seamlessly get where they need to go.
Effective Safety Signage for Apartment Complexes
Strategic safety signs are a must for any apartment community, helping to mitigate risk and give residents peace of mind. Required by law in many cases, these symbols and warnings serve an important function by alerting residents and visitors to potential hazards, emergency resources, and proper protocols.
Exit signs with directional arrows provide critical guidance in the event of a fire or other emergency evacuation. Highly visible hazard signs denoting slippery floors or wet paint caution people to avoid dangerous conditions. Signs indicating the locations of safety equipment like fire extinguishers and defibrillators can save critical seconds in an emergency.
Parking and traffic signs help maintain order in complex lots and garages. Warning symbols for loud noises, falling objects, or other construction hazards around work zones keep passersby safe.
When properly placed around an apartment community, these simple but essential signs convey a message of preparedness and attention to safety that gives residents confidence in their building management.
Contemporary Signage for an Inviting Apartment Atmosphere
An apartment community's signage makes a strong first impression on prospective residents. To keep pace in a competitive market, modern, stylish signs are a must in showcasing an up-to-date, inviting atmosphere.
Sleek, backlit LED signs at a complex's entrance identify the property while seamlessly blending contemporary aesthetics. Likewise, stylish building IDs with minimalist lettering and colors that pop evoke modern tastes. Parking signs with clean lines and high-visibility reflective vinyl or thermoplastic lettering also exude a contemporary vibe.
Inside leasing offices, wayfinding signage with intuitive pictograms, sans-serif fonts, and bright accent colors speaks to today's sensibilities. Outdoor banners sporting vibrant images, short impactful phrases, and a distinctive modern style attract the gaze of passersby.
Signs with polished, contemporary finishes appeal aesthetically and communicate professionalism and quality. By partnering with an innovative sign company, apartments can keep their image fresh, memorable, and inviting for new generations of renters.
Promotional Signage for Apartment Events
Special events help apartment communities build a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among residents. To generate buzz and boost participation, targeted signage is an invaluable promotional tool.
Eye-catching vinyl banners prominently displayed at a complex's entrance build anticipation and awareness of upcoming holiday parties, poolside barbecues, and other resident events.
Sandwich boards stationed in high-traffic common areas like mailrooms spread the word on everything from movie nights to fitness classes. For events like trick-or-treating or a pet parade that will draw outside visitors, roadside signs posted nearby grab attention from passersby.
Temporary signage like corrugated yard signs, A-frame sidewalk signs, and posters hung in common spaces ensure residents receive frequent reminders leading up to each event.
The vibrant, festive designs set a fun tone. After an event concludes, a thoughtful "Thank You" sign shows appreciation for those who participated. With the right signage strategy, apartment managers can generate buzz and bring their community together around special activities and gatherings year-round.
Clear Identification Signs for Apartment Buildings
A clear signage strategy is essential in any apartment community to help residents and guests easily identify buildings, units, and common spaces. Proper identification guides traffic, minimizes confusion, and improves the overall living experience.
Illuminated building numbers and address signs ensure emergency responders can quickly locate the correct structures. Unit number signs on floors and doors give each residence a sense of identity. Room ID signs labeled with easy-to-read text and icons help differentiate laundries, fitness centers, lobbies, and other shared amenities. Custom room name signs add personality to spaces like game rooms or theaters.
Well-designed identification signage also reinforces security. Authorized access signs for private lobbies or gated garages deter unwanted visitors. And placards labeling restricted areas like electrical rooms or roof access help keep people safe.
Finally, a clear wayfinding signage strategy with directionals pointing to different building exits or parking areas simplifies navigation. With thoughtful placement and durable materials, identification signage provides clarity, security, and convenience for years of daily use.
Accessible Signage for ADA Apartment Compliance
In apartment complexes, proper ADA-compliant signage is a legal requirement to accommodate residents and guests with disabilities. Following ADA guidelines help ensure equal access and inclusion for all.
Signs must have high visual contrast between lettering and background without glare or shadows. Grade 2 braille placed below the text provides accessibility for the blind and visually impaired. Raised characters and pictograms allow signs to be interpreted non-visually by touch.
Accessible signs use simple, intuitive icons that transcend language barriers. Directional signs assist with wayfinding. Room signs identify amenities. Informational signs indicate accessible routes, entrances, exits, and areas of rescue assistance. Stairway signs guide users towards ramps.
By law, permanent spaces like unit entrances and common rooms require ADA signs. Temporary signs like parking warnings should also follow recommendations. With a thoughtful sign plan incorporating contrast, braille-raised characters, and icons, apartment complexes demonstrate their commitment to creating a welcoming, navigable environment for all residents and visitors.
Intuitive Wayfinding Signage for Apartment Complexes
A clear wayfinding signage strategy is essential for any apartment community, allowing residents and guests to seamlessly navigate between buildings, amenities, and parking areas. Intuitive signs reduce frustration and reflect thoughtful management.
Directional signs posted at complex entrances and key intersections point visitors toward leasing offices, guest parking, and specific buildings. Trailblazer signs on main walkways provide ongoing orientation. Arrows, international symbols, and maps further aid navigation at junctions.
Building directories found in main lobbies centralize location information for amenities like fitness centers, pools, and business centers. Illuminated unit number signs outside stairwells and elevators confirm users are on the correct floor. Parking signs with color coding and space numbers help distinguish lots and spaces.
With thoughtful placement and highly visible reflective materials, wayfinding signage ensures visitors quickly find their destination. This cuts down on circling, enhances first impressions, and communicates a resident-focused environment. Simply put, good wayfinding equals good management.
Conclusion
An effective signage plan is invaluable for any apartment community, serving practical and aesthetic purposes. From illuminating building numbers that assist emergency response to wayfinding signage guiding foot traffic, signage provides orientation, security, accessibility, and visual appeal.
Managers must consider permanent signage needs like room IDs and ADA compliance and options for changeable messaging to promote leasing availability or resident events. The finishes and design details of all signs should align with the complex's contemporary style and branding. Utilizing sign types from digital displays to sidewalk A-frames provides flexibility.
With the help of an experienced sign company, managers can develop a comprehensive signage strategy tailored to their complex's specific spaces, needs, and aspirations. From influencing first impressions to sustaining long-term functionality, signage positively impacts apartments in countless ways.
When thoughtfully designed, fabricated, and placed, signage cements an apartment community's identity as an inviting, navigable place residents are proud to call home.
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