Give your home some TLC; it will love you back | News, Sports, Jobs – Warren Tribune Chronicle

Your home may never be a castle, but it can definitely be a haven your own private refuge (at least after the kids are asleep) from the mayhem outside.

Creating a stress-free and soothing home environment can mean hiring a contractor to install serious soundproofing or a spa-worthy steam shower pricey upgrades that are likely to add property value. But just as often, its about simple things you can do without laying out a cent.

Ready to boost your homes relaxation quotient? Here are some easy ways to do it:

l Clear the decks Clear open surfaces of extraneous stuff, clean out closets and generally straighten up. This kind of orderliness really helps people feel more energetic and cheerful.

l Muffle irritating noises If youre serious about blocking out noise such as traffic you can soundproof walls and ceilings by doubling up on drywall and caulking gaps where sound enters. Carpets, drapes and other soft materials help absorb sound. For walls, a quick, cheap, sound-muffling solution is Homasote, a recycled cardboard material that costs about $25 for a 4-by-8-foot sheet. It doubles as a pinboard, making it especially suited for childrens rooms and home offices and takes paint like a dream.

l Soak out the stress A prefab steam shower can run you $5,000 or more, but there are less pricey ways to take your bathroom in a spa-like direction. If your existing tub isnt deep enough, a 30-inch-deep soaking tub starts at around $500 (plus installation, of course). Dont forget the bath salts.

l Color yourself calm Blue is considered a restful paint color, which is why decorators often choose it for bedrooms. Followers of the Chinese art of feng shui believe pink calms a room, while green because it symbolizes nature is serene and refreshing. As luck would have it, classic blue is the color for 2020.

l Light it right Overhead lighting can be glary and unflattering, whereas light at lower levels creates warmth and intimacy. Balance an overhead fixture with wall sconces and table lamps, and be sure to put that ceiling fixture on a dimmer, especially over a dining table.

l Flickering flames Sitting by a crackling fire has nurtured souls from time immemorial. If youre lucky enough to have a fireplace, use it to create relaxing ambience.

l No fireplace? Make the most of candlelight for a cool spring mood boost. Plain, long-burning candles from the supermarket are so inexpensive ($7 for a box of 72), youll feel free to use them in abundance.

l Flower power Freshly cut flowers provide measurable uplift. Chrysanthemums last the longest; they can go up to three weeks in a vase, with alstroemeria, roses and lilies a close second.

Remember, when its time to sell or buy a new home, contact the Warren Area Board of Realtors. They are the experts and can help you through the real estate process.

Cunningham is the 2020 president of the Warren Area Board of Realtors.

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Give your home some TLC; it will love you back | News, Sports, Jobs - Warren Tribune Chronicle