Page 18 - 9-26-22

Page 18, RURAL-URBAN RECORD, September 26, 2022

Fall Home & Garden

FROM PAGE 16 What to know about floor- cient floor-to-ceiling windows will likely cost more due to ex-
televisions, as live streaming sports has not yet caught up cess energy consumption.
to streaming movies and TV shows in terms of reliability or to-ceiling windows
even availability. As a result, many sporting events remain Privacy and fading
available via cable television only, while even those that can It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the view floor-to-ceiling
be streamed tend to have a few hiccups during the game. Modern homes showcase many dazzling features, but windows provide, especially in homes surrounded by se-
perhaps none draw as much as instant attention as floor- rene natural settings like woods or properties that abut
2. Sound to-ceiling windows. Often seen in high-rise apartments that waterways. But that view outward also provides a view in,
Though televisions and projectors tend to come with built- boast panoramic city views, floor-to-ceiling windows also are potentially compromising privacy. All that extra exposure to
in audio, the quality of that sound often leaves much to be right at home in single-family dwellings. sunlight also can cause fabrics to fade over time. Floor-to-
desired. So homeowners will want to choose a sound sys- Homeowners considering floor-to-ceiling windows may ceiling blinds and shades can protect homeowners’ privacy
tem that provides theater-quality sound. If the room is being have lots of questions. The following rundown can provide and reduce fading on furniture, but this extra feature will add
renovated from scratch, such as a full basement remodel, in- some basic information that can help homeowners decide if to the final cost of the project. Smart window tinting is anoth-
stalling speakers in the ceiling can create a genuine theater floor-to-ceiling windows are right for their homes. er way to improve privacy and reduce fading, but this feature
experience. Ceiling speakers also can be installed in existing also will drive up the cost.
rooms, though that will likely cost more and extend the time Cost Floor-to-ceiling windows can be awe-inspiring. Homeown-
it takes to complete the project. Surround sound is a must in Cost is often the primary consideration when mulling a ers considering such windows for their homes are urged to
any entertainment room. Homeowners worried about wires home renovation, and that’s even more significant as the do their homework to ensure their homes are well-suited to
need not fret, as modern wireless surround sound systems world confronts the rising costs associated with inflation. this unique feature.
are available at many different price points. Some systems The cost of installing floor-to-ceiling windows depends on
are better suited to small rooms than others, so homeowners a host of variables, including how many windows will be Affordable ways to make
should measure the room and choose a system that best needed and where homeowners live. According to Modern-
suits its dimensions. ize®, a service that facilitates connections between reno- homes more appealing to
vation-minded homeowners and local contractors, a floor-
3. Seating to-ceiling window wall costs somewhere between $700 to modern buyers
Whether you’re using the space to watch the big game or $1,600 per linear foot. Framing and glazing will add to those
fire up the latest blockbuster (or both), chances are you’re costs. Homeowners considering floor-to-ceiling windows are
going to be spending considerable time sitting in your new urged to receive several estimates for the project prior to Home trends come and go. Today’s must-have items tend
entertainment room. A modular sofa might be ideal, as it can choosing a contractor. to become tomorrow’s outdated features in the blink of an
be reconfigured depending on what you’re watching and how eye.
many people are watching along with you. Comfort is indeed Lighting and energy efficiency Homeowners who plan to stay in their current homes for
important, but you’ll also want seating that provides ample One of the more appealing aspects of floor-to-ceiling win- years to come needn’t prioritize modern trends over person-
support so you aren’t battling any aches and pains once you dows is all the natural light they allow in. Of course, all that al preferences. However, homeowners looking to sell their
leave the room. That support also can keep residents and light also can drive up energy costs on sunny summer days. homes can consider these favored features to increase their
guests from dozing off. One way around that is to install energy efficient windows. properties’ appeal to modern buyers.
Everyone has their own ideas on what makes the ideal Such windows include extra insulation to prevent cool air · Separate laundry room: According to the National As-
entertainment space. But sports fans, movie buffs and others from escaping the home on summer days, which can reduce sociation of Home Builders’ 2021 What Home Buyers Re-
can all agree that an entertainment room worthy of the big the need to lower the thermostat on your air conditioning. ally Want report, a separate room dedicated to laundry was
game or the latest blockbuster has a sizable screen, pristine A wall of glass also can provide less insulation against the the most desired feature among prospective home buyers.
sound and comfortable seats. cold. The extra insulation in energy efficient windows also Though it might not inspire the awe of an outdoor living room
helps keep warm air from escaping a home in the winter. or floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a wooded backyard,
Energy efficient windows may cost more than less efficient a laundry room fills a direct and universal need. Perhaps
Support Your Local Businesses alternatives. However, over the long haul, a wall of less effi- that’s why 87 percent of buyers want a room dedicated to