(Family Features) Whether you’re looking to simply refresh your living space or planning a major home renovation, staying current with design trends not only enhances comfort and style but also boosts your house’s value.

As modern home design continues to evolve, trends are increasingly shifting toward long-term movements focused on versatility, sustainability and innovation. By embracing these elements in your 2025 updates, with these ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products – a leader throughout North America in innovation, design and production of high-quality, low-maintenance exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – you can ensure your living space remains stylish and functional for years to come.

Incorporate Versatile Design Elements
Because homeowners’ tastes are continuously evolving, it’s important to take an adaptable design approach when creating unique and harmonious indoor and outdoor spaces. Using products that offer exceptional design versatility, including siding, trim, stone, roofing and other exterior elements, can allow your upgrades to transcend fleeting trends and maintain their relevance and appeal over time.

Similarly, homebuyers are moving away from cookie-cutter designs, seeking bold aesthetics that enhance curb appeal and distinguish their homes from others on the block. This shift toward personalized spaces that reflect individual tastes requires mixing textures, finishes and colors to transform both exteriors and interiors to create visually dynamic and unique looks. Blending materials like brick with vinyl siding, stone with wood or modern siding with rustic stone veneer can add depth and character to facades.

Choose Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design
Homeowners are increasingly focused on sustainable and eco-friendly home designs to reduce their environmental impact, save on energy costs and create healthier living spaces. Complementing this trend, biophilic design is also gaining momentum as it seeks to strengthen the connection between indoor environments and nature. This approach goes beyond simply adding greenery, focusing on the use of natural light, improved ventilation and materials that mimic organic patterns and textures. Features like large windows, living walls and the use of natural materials, such as wood and stone, have become popular choices, blending sustainability with a deeper connection to the natural world.

Eco-friendly materials that use fewer raw materials, generate smaller carbon footprints and conserve water play a vital role in sustainable design and are in high demand. For example, reclaimed wood, recycled metal and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints are popular choices due to their reduced environmental impact. Innovative products can also help reduce energy consumption like US Tile Clay Roofing, which is naturally reflective, 100% recyclable and, when paired with a cool roof system, can save homeowners up to 22% per year on heating and cooling costs compared to a standard composition asphalt shingle roof.

Seek Functional, Innovative Solutions
Driven by the evolving needs of homeowners, modular and easy-install systems, like panelized stone siding, are gaining popularity due to their ability to simplify installation while mimicking traditional materials such as stone or wood. These functional systems save time and can empower homeowners to tackle projects themselves.

In addition, the rising frequency of severe weather events is increasing demand for smart, weather-resistant materials that enhance homes’ aesthetic appeal and offer superior protection against extreme conditions. An option like Versetta Stone, which delivers the authentic look and feel of stone in an easy-to-install panelized format, offers wind resistance up to 110 miles per hour and carries a Class A fire rating. The stone siding features a tongue-and-groove system for perfect spacing, has a built-in rainscreen and can be installed almost anywhere using screws or nails without additional footings for support.

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Find more home design trends and inspiration at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.

SOURCE:
Westlake Royal Building Products

Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner

(Family Features) If you’re like many homeowners who are considering ways to achieve greater energy efficiency, cut costs long term and reduce use of fossil fuels, replacing your gas furnace with an electric-powered heat pump may be part of the solution.

Like an air conditioner, a heat pump is installed outside the home and can cool it, but heat pumps are also capable of providing heat. In fact, many homeowners can’t tell the difference between a traditional heat pump and an air conditioner because they look alike and have similar hook-ups. However, in cooler months, a heat pump pulls heat from the cold outdoor air and transfers it indoors, and similarly, in warmer months, it pulls heat out of indoor air to cool your home.

When considering purchasing a heat pump for your home, it’s important to evaluate several factors to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are five key things to consider from the experts at Carrier, a leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions:

1. Energy Efficiency
Heat pumps are rated by their Heating Seasonal Factor, which is a measure of a heat pump’s overall energy efficiency during the heating season; their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2); and their Energy Efficiency Ratio. These ratings are like miles per gallon for a car: the higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the system is, which can lead to lower utility bills. For example, standard SEER2 ratings today are around 14.3 (and some older units are as low as 8), but units with a SEER2 rating above 16 have lower energy costs, which translates into higher energy savings.

2. Climate Suitability

Heat pumps are most efficient in areas with moderate temperate ranges. If you live in an area with extreme cold, you may need a heat pump designed for low temperatures such as Carrier’s Infinity Heat Pump with Greenspeed Intelligence, which operates at temperatures as low as minus 15 degrees. Or you can combine a heat pump with a gas furnace in colder climates for energy-efficient heating on all but the coldest days.

3. Cost and Incentives
While heat pumps can be more expensive initially, their efficiency can lead to long-term savings. Research available incentives, rebates and tax credits that can help offset some of the upfront cost. Many governments, manufacturers and utility companies also offer financial incentives for installing energy-efficient systems. For example, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 provides several tax credits, up to $2,000 for qualified heat pumps, and is available through 2032.

4. Size and Capacity
It’s essential to ensure the heat pump is the appropriate size for your home. An undersized unit may run virtually nonstop to try and maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home while an oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency and lifespan. A professional Carrier dealer can help you determine the correct size based on your home’s heating and cooling needs.

5. Installation and Maintenance
Professional and proper installation are crucial for optimal performance. Choose a reputable, experienced HVAC contractor to install your heat pump. The average lifespan of a well-maintained heat pump is 15 years. However, with varying conditions and homeowner habits, it could live well beyond that.

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Understand the heat pump’s maintenance needs, including regular filter changes, coil cleaning and annual inspections to ensure longevity and efficiency. Without regular cleaning and maintenance, dirty coils can cause your system to work harder to keep up with demand, decreasing efficiency and increasing stress on the fans, motors and system components. Dirty, clogged air filters can restrict airflow, resulting in reduced comfort, higher utility bills and, in extreme cases, a total shutdown of the system.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a heat pump that best meets your home’s needs and provides efficient, reliable heating and cooling. Learn more at Carrier.com.

SOURCE:
Carrier

Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner

(Family Features) For many homeowners, the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is among the home’s most important, and most costly, features. This system ensures the home remains at a comfortable temperature, and it also plays a significant role in the home’s energy usage.

HVAC

If you’re in the market for a new HVAC solution, you probably know there’s no shortage of installers. Before you hire a contractor, there are some important factors you should consider, according to the experts at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), a leader in heating and cooling innovation.

Product Options
A qualified technician will have the knowledge and flexibility to install a wide range of products and solutions. As the country moves toward electrification, your contractor should be well-versed in conventional HVAC systems and more sustainable options such as energy-efficient, mini-split ductless and ducted heat pumps.

It’s also important to know about a prospective contractor’s experience with the equipment, including installation, maintenance, and repair. Accreditation, licensing, and training will give you a good idea, but you should also explore the contractor’s reputation and reliability through references and reviews.

Price
When exploring your options, get a written quote that details the proposed equipment and labor costs. Ask about incentives available at the time of service, including discounts, rebates, or other pricing specials. If you are installing an energy-efficient heat pump, you might also be eligible for incentives through the Inflation Reduction Act, such as tax credits and state rebate programs.

Financing
Replacing or repairing your HVAC system can be an unexpected expense. More HVAC contractors are beginning to offer financing options to help customers with upfront costs. Ask about financing options – preferably low-interest options – early on in your conversations with contractors. If any are offered, ensure the contractor is working with a trusted, reputable lending provider. If you are investing in an energy-efficient system, your heating and cooling savings may even allow you to recoup your loan over time.

Warranty
Many HVAC manufacturers offer equipment warranties that can help offset future repair costs, but it’s important to understand what’s covered. For example, Diamond Contractors, specially trained in installing Mitsubishi Electric equipment, allow for a 12-year warranty on parts and a 12-year warranty on compressors after equipment has been registered.

Equipment Issues
A qualified technician can help you understand the various options and explain terms you don’t know. You should feel comfortable asking questions and requesting the information in writing.

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Learn what else you need to know before making a big investment in a new HVAC system at mitsubishicomfort.com.

Asking the Right Questions Matters

You’ve done research, budgeted for upfront costs, and compared units, but can’t make sense of the different HVAC systems. Hiring the right contractor can help alleviate these concerns.

Asking the right questions is especially important if you have specific energy goals in mind. Consider these questions:

1. Are you certified in HVAC installation, repair and maintenance?
2. Do you have insurance?
3. Do you have references I can speak with?
4. What are the indoor unit options for my home’s design and square footage? How many units do I need? How many of these systems has your company installed in the last few years?
5. Does my home’s design support ductwork, or are ductless systems the best option for me? What are the pros and cons of each?
6. What’s the temperature range this system can manage?
7. How does this system handle partial loads? (“Load” is the amount of heating or cooling needed to bring a space to a comfortable temperature.)
8. How frequently does the system need to be serviced? What kind of maintenance does the system need? What kind of maintenance program do you offer?
9. What kind of utility cost savings can I expect comparing a split-ductless heat pump system to a conventional HVAC system?
10. Will I need any supplemental equipment to achieve my energy usage goals?

SOURCE:
Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS)

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