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Creating an Energy Efficient Home: Simple Steps for Sustainable Living 

Creating an Energy Efficient Home: Simple Steps for Sustainable Living 

Living in a way that is good for the environment isn’t just a trend; it’s a must. Many homeowners are rethinking how their homes use energy because of rising energy bills, worries about climate change, and the desire for healthier living environments. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on new equipment or major renovations to make your home more energy efficient. You can make your home more comfortable, save money, and have less of an effect on the environment with some careful planning and a few simple improvements.

This longer article goes over useful methods for making your home more energy-efficient, everyday strategies for conserving energy at home, and long-term eco-friendly home upgrades that will help you live more sustainably and turn your house into a really energy-conscious home.

Use the sun’s energy

One of the easiest and best ways to save electricity at home is to let in as much natural light as possible. Sunlight is free and plentiful, and it can help you use less artificial light and heat.

During the day, open your curtains and blinds to let in natural light. To make dark rooms brighter, think about putting in skylights or mirrors in the proper places. If you’re building or remodeling, facing your home south can let in natural light and warmth in the winter, which means you won’t have to use as much heating.
These methods for living sustainably will not only save you money on energy, but they will also make your home feel more welcoming. Also, getting natural light offers health benefits, like making you feel better and helping you sleep better.

Seal the Deal: Weatherization Is Important

A home with drafts wastes money and energy. One of the best eco-friendly house upgrades is to use caulk or weatherstripping to seal up air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. Proper insulation in attics, walls, and crawl spaces helps keep the temperature comfortable all year long, which makes heating and cooling systems work less hard.

Start here if you want to know how to make your home more energy efficient without doing a lot of work. Weatherization is cheap, simple to do, and works right away. Sealing and insulating can make a big difference, even in little spaces.

Get new appliances that use less energy.

Newer appliances work far better than older ones. Look for the Energy Star label when you buy a new refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine. This is one of the best methods for saving energy at home because it will save you money on your power bills in the long run, even though it costs more up front.

Energy-efficient appliances are a key part of making your home more eco-friendly because they help cut down on greenhouse gas emissions. A high-efficiency washing machine, for instance, consumes less water and energy, and a smart refrigerator saves electricity by optimizing cooling cycles.

These modifications may not seem like much, but when you put them all together, they make a tremendous impact in how energy-efficient your home is.

Start Living Green

Daily practices can sometimes bring about the biggest improvements. To avoid phantom energy drain, unplug electronics while you’re not using them. When you can, wash your clothes in cold water and let them air dry. Put in a programmed thermostat so that you may change the temperature when you’re not home or when you’re asleep.

These methods for making your home more energy-efficient are easy to follow and will save you money over time. For example, turning down your thermostat by a few degrees in the winter or up a few degrees in the summer can save a lot of energy. You can make a whole plan for living sustainably by integrating tiny changes in behavior with bigger eco-friendly house upgrades.

Home improvements that are good for the environment in the long run

Some improvements cost more up front but pay off in the long run. Low-E windows with two panes of glass keep heat in and lower energy expenditures. Solar panels are expensive at first, but they give you clean energy and save you money in the long run.

Using eco-friendly materials like bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood when you remodel adds style and helps you live a more sustainable life. You may also help the environment by using water-saving fixtures, composting systems, and cleaning products that are good for the environment.

Not only can these eco-friendly home upgrades make your home work better, they also raise its market value. More and more, buyers are looking for homes that are good for the environment.

Intelligent Technology for Better Homes

Technology is a big part of how well things work these days. You can keep an eye on and adjust your energy use in real time with smart thermostats, lighting systems, and energy monitoring devices.

Smart thermostats, for instance, learn your routine and change the temperature automatically. Smart lighting systems, on the other hand, turn off when no one is in the room. These new ideas are some of the best ways for busy families to save energy at home.

Adding smart technology to your house is one of the easiest methods to learn how to save energy while still being comfortable and convenient.

Saving water is the same as saving energy.

It’s not just about power when it comes to energy efficiency; it’s also about water. It takes a lot of energy to heat water, so using less water will save you money on your energy bills.

Install low-flow showerheads and faucets, fix leaks as soon as you notice them, and consider adopting tankless water heaters that only heat water when you need it. These home improvements that are beneficial for the environment save money and resources.

Water conservation is a vital part of living sustainably, yet advice on how to make your home more energy efficient typically leaves it out.

Get Your Family Involved

Everyone in your family should work together to make your home more energy-efficient. Show your family how to save energy at home and offer them age-appropriate tasks like turning off lights or taking care of a compost bin. You need to set an example if you want eco-friendly habits to become a part of your daily existence.

These tips for living in a way that is good for the environment help develop a culture of being responsible and caring for the earth. The effect is stronger when everyone takes part.

Examples from the region: Seattle and beyond

MSR Communities builds modern houses in places like Seattle, where eco-friendly home upgrades are commonly included in new construction. Many developments have energy-efficient windows, smart thermostats, and materials that are good for the environment as standard features.

If you’re looking for a single-family house or a townhome for sale, picking a builder that puts sustainability first can make sure your home is efficient from the start. This is a real-world example of how to make your home more energy-efficient without starting over.

Last Thoughts

Living an energy-efficient life is a process, not a goal. Every little thing you do to make your house and the world a better place, like sealing a window, replacing appliances, or going green, helps.

You may save money on your bills, be more comfortable, and feel good about making a difference by following these recommendations for making your home more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. You can live sustainably, it’s easy, and it’s worth it.

Start small, keep going, and remember that every little thing you do to make your home more energy efficient gets you closer to your goal.

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Best Summer Activities in Lynnwood, WA 

Best Summer Activities in Lynnwood

Looking for the best summer activities in Lynnwood, WA? Whether you’re a resident or a potential homebuyer exploring the area, Lynnwood offers a plethora of family-friendly activities to enjoy during the sunny months. From outdoor adventures to cultural events, there’s something for everyone to make the most of the summer season. 

 Explore the Great Outdoors 

  • Lynndale Park 

Lynndale Park is a local favorite, offering a variety of recreational opportunities. Families can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and playing on the well-maintained playgrounds. The park’s extensive trail system is perfect for a leisurely hike or an invigorating jog amidst the lush greenery. 

  • Scriber Lake Park 

Scriber Lake Park offers a serene environment with features like a floating boardwalk, nature trail, and scenic pathways. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring the trails. The park also provides restrooms and parking facilities for convenience. 

 Family-Friendly Events 

  • Edmonds Farmers Market 

While the Edmonds Museum Summer Market is not in Lynnwood itself, it’s an easy drive to get there in Lynnwood’s next-door neighbor city of Edmonds, WA. This is a great way to spend a summer morning and afternoon. Held every Saturday from May – October, the Edmonds Museum Summer Market offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food from local vendors It’s a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying a memorable day with your family and friends. 

  • Movies in the Park 

During the summer months, Lynnwood hosts Movies in the Park, where families can gather at local parks (check the City of Lynnwood website for which park) to watch popular films under the stars. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a magical movie night in the open air.  

 Indoor and Outdoor Adventures 

  • Lynnwood Recreation Center & Pool 

The Lynnwood Recreation Center & Pool is a must-visit for families looking for indoor summer fun. The center features water slides, a lazy river, and play areas that cater to kids of all ages. It’s a perfect place to cool off and enjoy some quality family time. 

  • Meadowdale Beach Park 

Meadowdale Beach Park offers a beautiful beach area along Puget Sound. It’s an ideal spot for a family day out, where you can enjoy beachcombing, picnicking, and exploring the tide pools. The park’s trail leading to the beach is also a popular hiking route. The park is approximately 5 miles from Lynnwood, making it a convenient and scenic destination for residents and visitors alike. 

Educational Activities 

  • Lynnwood Heritage Park 

Discover Lynnwood’s rich history at Heritage Park. The park features historical buildings and exhibits that provide a glimpse into the city’s past. It’s an educational and fun experience for the entire family. 

  • Summer Reading Program at Lynnwood Library 

Encourage your kids to keep reading during the summer by participating in the Lynnwood Library’s Summer Reading Program. The program includes fun activities, reading challenges, and rewards that make reading a delightful adventure. 

 Community Engagement 

  • National Night Out 

Join the community for National Night Out, an annual event in August that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. It’s a great way to meet your neighbors, enjoy games, food, and learn more about community safety. 

  • Volunteer Opportunities 

Engage in volunteer activities as a family. Lynnwood offers various volunteer opportunities, from park clean-ups to assisting at community events. Volunteering is a rewarding way to spend time together while giving back to the community. 

Thinking of Buying a Home in Lynnwood? 

These summer activities are just a taste of what Lynnwood has to offer. With its beautiful scenery, family-friendly atmosphere, and exciting events, Lynnwood is a fantastic place to call home. If you’re considering buying a home in Lynnwood, this vibrant community offers something for everyone, making it the perfect place to raise a family, enjoy an active lifestyle, or simply relax and soak up the summer sun. 

Start planning your summer fun in Lynnwood today! This dynamic city offers endless possibilities for creating lasting summer memories. Enjoy your summer in Lynnwood, and don’t miss out on the exciting opportunities for family fun and community engagement. 

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When Do I Need Building Permits for Home Improvements? 

Building Permits for Home Improvements

Transforming your living space is an exciting journey, but before you start knocking down walls, it’s essential to understand the world of building permits. Building permits act as the guardians of safety and ensure your home improvement dreams conform to local building codes. Skipping this step can lead to costly delays, fines, or even the nightmarish scenario of having to redo your entire project. So, how do you know if your home improvement project qualifies for a permit? Worry not, this blog post will be your trusty guide, demystifying the permit process and ensuring your home renovation runs smoothly. 

if navigating permits and renovations feels overwhelming, consider new construction homes for sale. These move-in-ready options eliminate the need for permits and renovations. Find a home that already fits your needs, allowing you to focus on creating memories in your dream home. 

Building Permit Details: A Deep Dive 

Understanding the specifics of when building permits are required can save you time, money, and frustration during your home improvement project. Let’s delve deeper into each category: 

Structural Changes: 

  • Identifying Load-Bearing Walls: These walls support the weight of the upper floors and roof. Removing a load-bearing wall without proper reinforcement can lead to a structural collapse, so it’s crucial to have a qualified engineer or architect assess the wall before demolition. They can design appropriate support beams or columns to take on the load. 
  • Adding a Room: This typically involves creating new walls, installing a roof, and potentially adding new windows and doors. All of these modifications involve structural elements and almost always necessitate a permit and inspections to ensure they comply with building codes. 
  • Building Dormers: These are protruding window structures that add light and space to upper floors. They can add stress to the roof, so permits are required to ensure proper structural reinforcement is incorporated into the design. 
  • Changing the Roofline: This alters the overall pitch or shape of the roof. Depending on the complexity of the change, a permit might be mandatory. Even minor changes may require a permit to ensure proper drainage and structural integrity. 

Electrical Work: 

  • Knob-and-tube wiring: If your home has this outdated wiring system, any electrical work will likely require a permit and necessitate replacing the entire system with modern wiring to meet current safety standards. 
  • Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs): These devices protect against electrical shock in areas prone to moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms. Adding GFCI outlets often requires a permit to ensure proper installation. 
  • Increased Electrical Load: Adding appliances or fixtures that significantly increase the electrical demand on your system may necessitate a permit to upgrade your breaker box or service panel to handle the additional load safely. 

Plumbing Work: 

  • Sewer Line Work: Any modifications to the main sewer line that connects your house to the public sewer system almost always require a permit and inspections to ensure proper installation and prevent leaks or blockages. 
  • Gas Lines: Installing or modifying gas lines for appliances like water heaters, stoves, or fireplaces requires a permit due to the inherent safety risks associated with natural gas. A licensed plumber must perform the work and inspections are mandatory. 
  • Shut-off Valves: Adding readily accessible shut-off valves for water supply lines to fixtures like washing machines or dishwashers is a wise safety measure. While typically not requiring a permit, it’s a good practice to consult with a plumber to ensure proper installation. 

Major Renovations: 

  • Converting a Garage: This involves significant structural changes, electrical rewiring, plumbing modifications, and likely adding insulation and drywall. A permit is essential to ensure the new living space meets all safety and building code requirements. 
  • Finishing a Basement: Similar to a garage conversion, finishing a basement often involves structural reinforcement for walls and floors, electrical and plumbing work, and potentially new egress windows. A permit is mandatory for such a major renovation. 
  • Adding a Bathroom: This requires plumbing modifications for water supply and drainage, electrical work for fixtures and ventilation, and potentially structural changes to accommodate the additional weight. A permit is crucial to ensure the bathroom meets all plumbing and building codes. 

Roofing: 

  • Permit Requirements: The need for a permit depends on the extent of the repairs or replacement. Minor repairs like patching leaks or replacing a few shingles typically don’t require a permit. However, if the repairs involve replacing over 25% of the roof’s surface or modifying the roof structure (such as adding a skylight), a permit is mandatory. 
  • Inspections: Permits for roofing projects often involve inspections at various stages, including verifying the underlayment installation, ensuring proper ventilation, and confirming the final installation meets code requirements. 

Fences and Decks: 

  • Height Restrictions: Most localities have height limitations on fences and decks, usually around 6 feet. Building a fence or deck exceeding this height almost always requires a permit. 
  • Setbacks: Local codes often specify setbacks from property lines for fences and decks. A permit ensures your structure complies with these regulations and avoids potential neighbor disputes. 
  • Materials: Some localities have restrictions on the materials used for fences and decks. A permit helps ensure your chosen materials comply with local regulations. 

Demolition Projects: 

  • Safety Precautions: Demolition projects, especially those involving load-bearing walls, can be dangerous. A permit ensures a qualified inspector verifies your demolition plan and ensures proper safety measures are in place to protect workers and neighboring properties. 
  • Asbestos Abatement: If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a chance it contains asbestos-containing materials. Demolition permits often involve inspections to identify asbestos and require its safe removal before demolition begins. 
  • Debris Removal: Permits often specify how demolition debris must be disposed of responsibly. This helps prevent environmental hazards and ensures proper waste management practices are followed. 

Always Err on the Side of Caution 

If you’re unsure whether your project requires a permit, it’s always best to consult with your local building department. They can provide specific requirements for your project and ensure a smooth and safe home improvement journey. Obtaining a building permit may seem like a hassle, but it protects you from potential safety hazards, ensures your project complies with building codes, and safeguards the value of your home. 

Would you rather search for a brand-new home instead of making improvement to your current one? We have many new construction homes for sale now in the Greater Seattle area. We also offer customization options! Explore our communities today. 

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Soak up the Sun: Best Summer Activities in Kenmore, WA 

Best Summer Activities

Summer’s here in Kenmore, and with it comes a bounty of opportunities for fun in the sun! Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly events, or laid-back relaxation, the city of Kenmore and the surrounding area offers something for everyone. 

Embrace the Great Outdoors: 

  • Parks and Trails: Kenmore boasts a network of parks perfect for a summer picnic, frisbee toss, or leisurely stroll. Explore Saint Edward State Park’s scenic trails, unwind amongst Rhododendron Park’s vibrant flowers and lush green spaces, or unleash your inner child at the playground in Log Boom Park. Wallace Swamp Creek Park offers a peaceful escape with its wetland boardwalk, perfect for birdwatching or a quiet nature meditation. And of course, bike roller blade, or jog on the Burek-Gilma Trail – all the way to Seattle if you’re up for it. 
  • Hit the Water: Kayak or paddleboard on the calm waters of Lake Washington, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Kenmore Boat Launch is right next to Rhododendron Park, or if you’re already at Log Boom Park, launch from the Tracy Owen Station. For the more adventurous, head to nearby Bothell Landing for windsurfing or kitesurfing lessons (check online for days and times). 
  • Summer Night Flicks: Gather your friends and family for Kenmore’s community movie nights under the stars! Pack a blanket, some popcorn, and enjoy classic films projected outdoors – a perfect way to unwind on a warm summer evening (check local listings for dates and locations). 

Local Summer Activities for All Ages: 

  • Kenmore Farmers Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Kenmore community at the weekly Farmers Market. Stock up on fresh, local produce, handcrafted goods, and delicious treats. Live music often adds to the festive atmosphere.  
  • Support Local Businesses: Explore Kenmore’s unique shops and restaurants. From artisan cafes and trendy boutiques to family-owned eateries, there’s something to discover around every corner. 
  • Brewery Hopping: For the craft beer enthusiasts, explore Kenmore’s budding brewery scene. Sample local brews at Cairn Brewing Company, 192 Brewing Company / The Lake Trail Taproom, or Postdoc Brewing and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with friends. 
  • Kenmore Community Events: Stay tuned for exciting events happening throughout the summer! From art walks and live music performances to community festivals, there’s always something on the calendar to keep you entertained. Check the City of Kenmore website or local bulletin boards for upcoming events. 

Bonus: Hidden Gems and Rainy-Day Activities 

Seattle is known for its rain, and even in the summer, showers put a damper on outdoor plans. But fret not, Kenmore offers hidden gems and rainy-day activities to keep your spirits high! 

  • Kenmore Community Club: This local hub provides a space for connection and activities. Check their calendar for workshops, game nights, or book clubs – a great way to meet fellow residents and enjoy some indoor fun. 
  • Kenmore Library: Escape the rain and get lost in a good book at the Kenmore Library. They often host author talks, story time for children, or movie screenings – a perfect option for an afternoon indoors. 
  • Indoor Fun Centers: Rainy days are a great excuse to unleash your inner child! Head to one of Kenmore’s indoor fun centers, offering bowling alleys (Kenmore Lanes anyone?), arcade games, or laser tag for a dose of friendly competition. 
  • Day Trips: For a change of scenery, a short drive opens up a world of possibilities. Explore the Seattle Aquarium, visit the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), or catch a ferry to Bainbridge Island for a day of exploring. 

So, step out, explore, and make the most of summer in wonderful Kenmore! Join the vibrant community spirit, embrace the outdoors, and create lasting summer memories. 

And if you’re considering putting down roots in this vibrant area, explore our new construction homes for sale in Kenmore. We can help you find your perfect place to call home!