Is the Cheap Option the Best Option?
As you begin your next home remodel endeavor and start looking for what to buy, think to yourself, is the cheap option my best option? If you do some research, the answer might surprise you.
Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are two of the easiest places to make a mistake when renovating your home. They can be very problematic if the right resources are not invested. Windows and doors can rot, warp, leak, fog up, and much more.
Vinyl windows are the cheapest option. They offer many of the amenities that higher priced windows deliver, but fall short on a few key criteria. The plastic vinyl will fade or tint yellow over time. To make up for low structural integrity, the frames must be made very thick. This leads to a smaller glass pane. Low structural integrity means that they are also prone to warping. Therefore caulking and insulation must be checked regularly to assure a draft has not developed. Wood windows are very similar to vinyl windows. They cost around the same but are extremely prone to warping and must be maintained with stain or paint to protect it from the elements.
Fiberglass windows are a growing trend because of their resistance to moisture. This means they will not warp, rot, or rust. Unlike vinyl, they are paintable and come in faux wood designs. They cost 30-50% more than a wooden or vinyl frame, but their lifespan tends to be around 40% longer than wood or vinyl. It is also considered eco-friendly because of its small carbon footprint from production. Even in extreme temperatures, fiberglass windows will remain airtight and provide the best air efficiency; saving you money on your electric bill. If they are foam filled, they will provide the highest insulation value available on the market.
Hardwood vs. Laminate
Wood floors have been a classic addition to beautiful homes for a very long time. Their natural appearance sets a warm and inviting tone to the home. Even though wood has been used as a building material since antiquity, polished hardwood floors did not become commonplace until the late 19th century. Before then, wood floors were much more humble then you would expect. A well executed wooden floor design can be one of the most stunning details of a home. But it tends to come at a steep price. That is, compared to laminate flooring. Laminate flooring is a synthetic flooring material made by fusing layers of fiber board with melamine resin. Laminate manufacturers lay a design to simulate the look of real wood. But which is the better option?
Well, at first glance, it would be easy to assume that since the laminate is cheaper, it is the better option. But is it really? Laminate may cost less, but there is a reason why quality hardwood floors cost more. Real wood floors have to be harvested from real trees from the ground. This connection to the earth gives your home a sense of authenticity that laminate flooring just cannot provide. Because of this earnest beauty, hardwood floors will significantly drive up property value as it is a timeless look that always satisfies. According to realtor.com, hardwood floors can add up to 2.5% to your property value.
Siding
There are a few different options when deciding on new siding for your home. The most popular option currently is vinyl siding. Vinyl siding is an easy choice for many because of its affordability and quick install. One square foot costs around $2-$3. Properly installed vinyl siding will last for 20-30 years, but is cheaper always the best option? Many choose to go for other siding materials for a variety of reasons; the most popular being personal aesthetic preference. Vinyl siding has been used so extensively across the country in constantly growing suburban neighborhoods. It has been made ubiquitous and many are seeking something a bit more unique.
Wood siding is a great way to get a rustic and natural curb appeal. It is also extremely durable. Wood siding can last for up to 100 years if taken care of properly. One square foot costs around $3-$10.
Stucco siding is very popular in the southern states where it can get very hot in the summer. Stucco costs around $6-$9 a square foot and is a great insulator for the home. This can be over double the cost of vinyl siding but because of the way Stucco is manufactured, it creates a blanket around the home and insulates it. This allows your HVAC system to not work as hard, leading to a lower electric bill.
Stone veneer siding is the most expensive option but many people believe it is the most beautiful option. It costs around $8-$10 a square foot but natural stone can cost up to $18 a square foot. Because it is so expensive, most choose to accentuate their normal siding with a well paired stone siding. As long as the stone veneer is manufactured using non-toxic materials, it is the most sustainable option for all sidings.
You Get What You Pay For
In general, the saying “you get what you pay for” holds strong in home remodeling. As with any industry, some laborers and companies are more skilled than others. Some are more expensive than others. For contractors, the relationship between low skill and low cost tends to be very pronounced. Let’s look at a few examples of this relationship.
I hope you weren't planning on using either of these drawers.
This flying car garage came a bit too early.
When you want to hose down the living room after the big game.
For when you get tired of simple four sided doors.
For when you need a nice tumble down the stairs to get your morning started.
Whatever the project may be, remember that a low price should not be the only deciding criteria. Price should aid you in coming to a decision, but do not forget about the implications of each buy.