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These Incredible Home Upgrades Are Out of Sight, Literally

When it comes to remodeling, most of us think of the cosmetic upgrades that will make our homes look beautiful and reflect our tastes. You may be dreaming of marble countertops, a huge walk-in shower, or floor-to-ceiling windows, but did you know some upgrades can’t be seen that you may like just as much? Hidden upgrades may not be necessary, but once you include them in your home, it will be hard to do without them. These are some of our favorite hidden home upgrades to consider for your home renovation:
Photo credit: Warmly Yours
Heated Floors
Radiant floor heating can add comfort in the bathroom or bedroom – keeping your feet warm first thing in the morning and after your shower during colder months. Radiant heating can be installed under most flooring materials, including concrete, natural stone, ceramic, and porcelain tiles, but it is less effective under wood flooring. Radiant floor heating is convection heat – water or oil is contained in the tubing – so it is energy efficient.
Heated Countertops

Like heated flooring, heated countertops are a feature you didn’t know you needed. Countertop heating mats are usually only installed in specific locations in the kitchen since the mats aren’t large enough to cover the entire countertop. Mats will heat the counter to a comfortable temperature, so it does not feel cold.

Heated countertops will keep your morning coffee warm longer and make it more comfortable to place your hands or arms on the counters. They are especially beneficial for people who have arthritis or joint pain.
Photo credits: Home Innovations, Houzz
Central Vacuum

If vacuuming is one of your least favorite chores, consider installing a central vacuum system. Central vacuums are permanently installed, and suction dust and dirt into the main collection tank. Rather than moving a heavy vacuum throughout your home, you take just the hose to one of many outlets installed in convenient locations. Another fantastic option for central vacuum systems is a baseboard or under-cabinet dust pan – especially in the kitchen. With the touch of your foot, it suctions dirt and debris into the collection tank. Many homeowners with central vacuum systems report that their allergies had improved as the system picks up more dust and allergens than regular vacuums.
Photo credit: QuietCool
Whole House Fan

A whole house fan pulls air in from open windows and exhausts it through the attic and/or roof. It provides attic ventilation in addition to cooling your house. Whole house fans reduce the need for air conditioning, lower energy costs, and improve your home’s air quality. With the active ventilation of a whole house fan, the powerful breeze from the windows allows homeowners to feel 5 to 10 degrees cooler within seconds of turning on the fan.

When going to bed, especially in a two-story house, during summer, it can be sweltering and uncomfortable. You can direct cooling air into your bedroom by opening a window across your bed and turning on your whole house fan. A whole house fan can also quickly remove unpleasant cooking or pet odors and help rapidly dry newly-cleaned floors and carpeting.

What other upgrades would you like in your home? We have ideas! Call us to discuss all the features you’d like to see – and some that you can’t – when we plan your home remodel.