CONSUMER REPORTS: What flooring to choose for each room | Leisure

Read article : CONSUMER REPORTS: What flooring to choose for each room | Leisure

Wood wins the prize as America’s favorite hard-surface flooring type, outselling vinyl, porcelain tile and every other option, according to market-research firm Mintel’s 2016 report on residential flooring. But wood can be a loser in the kitchen, where a dropped can of peas can literally leave a lasting impression. Or in the laundry room, where a splash of bleach can blemish its finish.

Consumer Reports analyzed key areas in a typical home and chose the top flooring materials to meet the challenges in each.

Kitchen and Mudroom

Though wood remains a widely used aesthetic choice, it won’t stand up well to that assault: Consumer Reports’ tests show that, in general, wood floors are far more prone to denting than other materials, and, with very few exceptions, foot traffic is tough on the finish.

Top choice: porcelain tile. A natural fit for high-traffic areas of the home, porcelain tile outperformed every other flooring material we tested for resistance to scratching and denting, says Joan Muratore, Consumer Reports’ lead test engineer for flooring. Plus, porcelain tile comes in a range of styles to fit any d￩cor. Tile is also low-maintenance, never requiring more than a vacuuming and mopping, and it’ll last a lifetime, says design-and-build contractor Rob Wennersten of Woodcliff Lake, N.J.

Bathroom and Laundry Room

These floors don’t face the stress of foot traffic or the constant sunlight that can fade solid and engineered wood. Rather, the flooring threats in these rooms come in liquid form. Bathers splash, showerers drip and toilets overflow.

Top choice: porcelain tile. Even purists who refuse anything but real wood should seriously consider porcelain tile for their bathrooms and laundry room. After all, tile is a traditional choice in these rooms because it holds up well in wet places, says architect John Cole of Fryeburg, Maine. Porcelain also allows for design-forward, barrier-free showers, where the bathroom floor extends straight into the shower without any lip. To avoid slippery-when-wet floors, choose a more textured product rather than one with a highly polished surface.

Dining, Living and Family Rooms

Though it’s true that furniture feet, pet claws, stiletto heels and kids’ toys with wheels can damage a wood floor, any other material can feel substandard in these cozy common areas.

Top choice: solid wood. By this, Consumer Reports means prefinished wood flooring, as well as unfinished wood flooring, which gets sanded and finished on site.

There are plenty of reasons to opt for prefinished planks: You won’t have dust from sanding or fumes from finishing to contend with during installation; depending on how it’s installed, you might be able to walk on the floors right away; and prefinished flooring also tends to be less expensive. Perhaps most important, the factory-applied finishes are significantly tougher-wearing than what your contractor would be likely to apply once the floor is installed.

1675 Lamington Rd, Bedminster, NJ 07921, Bedminster, New Jersey, United States For Sale

Read article : 1675 Lamington Rd, Bedminster, NJ 07921, Bedminster, New Jersey, United States For Sale

Firefly Farm is a captivating property set on woodlands management farmland-assessed land. It was transformed from a circa 1850 Pennsylvania barn into a luxurious residence in 2000. The result of a comprehensive re-design process is a comfortable home that interweaves 19th century features and modern amenities. Outside, a stone-walled bluestone courtyard, an in-ground swimming pool, green lawns and perennial gardens enhance the landscaped acreage.

Original appointments include rough-hewn ceiling beams, barn wood walls and ceilings, geometric trusses and wide plank pine wood floors. These details complement newer installations like a hot water radiant floor heating system serving most of the home, an updated kitchen combining old and new amenities, and spacious bedrooms. Oversized and transom-topped divided light windows brighten the open concept layout.

Introduced by French doors, the entry offers dramatic views into the open floor plan. Capped by a rough-hewn wood mantle, the walk-in stone fireplace is a commanding focal point in the living room. In the banquet-sized dining room, ambient lighting from wall sconces and spot lights are thoughtful features.

Truly the heart of this appealing home, a country kitchen contains painted wood cabinetry, granite counters, a center island with seating, built-in corner hutch, double soapstone farm sink and walk-in pantry. A full complement of appliances includes an electric cooktop, double oven, built-in microwave, dishwasher and Sub-Zero refrigerator. Windows surround a breakfast nook with a built-in bench. Nearby are the brick-floored mud room, well-appointed laundry room and powder room.

Reclaimed bricks were used to create a wood-burning fireplace in the library. Built-in cabinets and shelves, a wet bar with refrigerator, beamed ceilings and 12-inch wide distressed wood floors lend additional character to this handsome space.

Privately situated on the first floor, a master bedroom contains two walk-in closets and French doors to the courtyard. The master bath includes a jetted Jacuzzi tub, two sink vanities, separate shower and garden views.

A staircase to the second story is detailed with reclaimed newel post balusters and hand railing. There is an open loft/study plus three bedrooms. Additional living space in the basement is comprised of a play room/media room, exercise room with wood floors and three storage rooms.

3 bedroom end of terrace house for sale in Highbury Terrace, BATH, Somerset, BA1 6DS, BA1

Read article : 3 bedroom end of terrace house for sale in Highbury Terrace, BATH, Somerset, BA1 6DS, BA1

Full description

The current vendors have made numerous improvements to the property to create a stylish home, which combines period features and a contemporary finish.

Highbury Terrace is an attractive terrace of painted Georgian properties in the heart of Camden, a popular area on the North East side of the city. Accessed via a no through road this lovely home feels tucked away, but is less than a mile from Bath city centre. Local amenities can be found on Camden Road, London Road or nearby Larkhall village. These include cafes, supermarket, public houses, deli and a number of independent shops. Bath city centre offers a wonderful array of retailers and restaurants. Communications include a direct line to London Paddington from Bath Spa station and access to the M4 is more convenient on the north side of Bath.

The hallway features Broadleaf lime washed oak flooring and leads to the spacious sitting room, a bright space enhanced by the later addition of a Victorian bay window with views to the city centre. It has stripped wood floors and period fireplace. Next door is a smart dining room with sash window to the rear. The kitchen is well designed and there is possible scope to extend this into the side return subject to correct permissions.

On the first floor the master bedroom has stunning city views and wood flooring. There are two further double bedrooms, one with a lovely period fireplace, and a bright and airy family bathroom.

The house features a plethora of period features including fireplaces, cornicing, sash windows and wood floors. There are plantation shutters to most windows. A bespoke lighting system features throughout with a range of different settings depending on mood and time of day.

Externally the pretty cottage garden has a flag stone patio, a variety of planting and lovely south facing views. There is parking to the side for more than one vehicle.
The current vendors have commissioned an impressive Bath stone garden room from the renowned Bath builder Emery. This versatile space has a high spec finish with an open plan reception area, kitchenette and a boutique hotel style wet room. It offers a variety of uses including office, studio, guest room or even AirBnB.

Entrance Lobby & Hall 
Original period front door with glazed panel above. Period style BISQUE column radiator. Solid oak flooring. Coving. Dado rails. Stained glass original feature door to entrance hall. Recessed designer lighting. Under stairs storage cupboard with flag stone flooring. Period doors to lounge, dining room and kitchen. Staircase to first floor with period barley twist spindles. Recessed LED lighting in skirting boards. Lighting control panel.
Lounge 
14'4 x 13'8
Original sash bay window to front with plantation shutters. Cornicing. Recessed designer lighting. Period style gas fireplace. Shelving and storage cupboards fitted in alcoves with hidden LED lighting. Two period style BISQUE radiators. High skirting boards. Stripped original wood flooring. Power points. Integrated home cinema network cabling. Sky TV cabling, phone and data network points. Lighting control panel.
Dining Room 
11'4 x 10'8
Sash window to rear with plantation shutter. Cornicing. Recessed lighting. Feature fireplace. Two storage cupboard with LED lighting. Period style radiator. Stripped wood flooring. Integrated ceiling speakers. Power points. Lighting control panel.
Kitchen 
9'3 x 7'9
Casement window to side. Single bowl stainless steel inset sink unit with drainer. Range of matching base and wall units with under lights, cupboards and drawers. Splash backs. Solid wood worktops. Space and plumbing for washing machine and dishwasher. Inset gas hob. Stainless steel extractor fan. Fitted electric oven. Space for fridge/freezer. Recessed lighting. Under cupboard lighting. Integrated ceiling speakers. Power points. Wall mounted radiator. Door out to rear garden. Lighting control panel.
Landing 
Recessed lighting. Painted wood flooring. Storage cupboard with light. Loft access. Original doors to all bedrooms and bathroom. Recessed LED lighting in skirting boards. Lighting control panel.
Bedroom 1 
14'5 x 10'0
Sash window with plantation shutters to front with far reaching views. Cornicing. Recessed designer lighting. Two built-in original wardrobes. Period style BISQUE radiator. Hidden period fireplace. Integrated ceiling speakers. Power points. Stripped wood flooring. Lighting control panel.
Bedroom 2 
11'4 x 10'10
Sash window with plantation shutter to rear. Recessed designer lighting. Period fireplace with in floor LED uplighting. Two built-in wardrobes with LED lighting. Period style radiator. Integrated ceiling speakers. Power points. Stripped wood flooring. Lighting control panel.
Bedroom 3 
10'9 x 5'8
Sash window with plantation shutter to front with reaching views. Recessed designer lighting. Period style radiator. Integrated ceiling speakers. Loft hatch. Power points. Stripped wood flooring. Lighting control panel. Built-in period cupboard.
Bathroom 
Casement double glazed wooden window with plantation shutters to side. Part tilled walls. Recessed LED lighting and integrated ceiling speakers. Panelled bath with electric shower over. Pedestal wash hand basin. Low level WC. Heated towel rail. Extractor fan. Loft hatch. Storage cupboard with new condensing gas boiler.
Studio/Kitchen/Office 
17'2 x 8'6
New building. Two double glazed period style windows to front. Skylight with motorized opening system. Limestone waxed flooring. Underfloor heating. Light and power points. Integrated ceiling speakers. Beach hut style architectural wall panels. Designer Floss Italian wall lights, recessed LED feature strip lighting, window and floor feature uplighting. Double glazed doors leading out to garden. Lighting control panel.
Wet Room 
New building. Automatic recessed lighting. Heated Hollywood designer mirror with lighting. Underfloor heating. Porcelanosa floor to ceiling tiles. Wall mounted eclectic shower. Glass shower screen. Limestone waxed flooring. Vanity unit wash hand basin. Low level designer WC. Built-in shelving with lighting. Recessed designer shower lighting. Integrated wet room ceiling speaker. Shaver point, toothbrush charger point.
Rear Garden 
40'0 x 22'9
Bath stone walls to sides and rear Integrated LED wall lighting and Integrated LED step lighting. Paved limestone and flag stone patio area. Garden well. Various herbs, shrubs, trees and flowers. Bath stone border walls. Bath Stone boarder walls. Original slate flower beds. A shed. Decking steps down to main house. Separate side access. Studio/Kitchen/Office. Stunning views towards South Eastern Bath.
Parking 
Parking area to the side of the property.

20 Houses Under $50,000: February/March 2017 Edition | CIRCA Old Houses

Read article : 20 Houses Under $50,000: February/March 2017 Edition | CIRCA Old Houses

by Elizabeth Finkelstein

Happy (almost) spring! I’ve combined our February & March issues into one extra-special, double-decker list of 20 gorgeous, full-of-potential historic houses under $50,000. Enjoy!
 
(If you come across any beautiful old houses for sale for under $50,000, send them along to us at letters@circaoldhouses.com)
 

 

1
 313 Main St, Unadilla, NY
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Hunt Real Estate ERA
$39,900 (foreclosure)
 
This is a Fannie Mae Homepath property! Gorgeous two story home located in Unadilla, NY. Covered front porch greets you upon entrance. Gorgeous hardwood flooring throughout the home and a spacious open floor plan. Living area is accompanied by a fireplace. Spiral staircase leads you upstairs. Open bedrooms and upstairs fireplace. Charming home takes you back in time and is located close to amenities!
 

 
 

2
 402 N Pittsburgh St, Connellsville, PA
 
Source: Realtor, courtesy of Conn Realty, Inc.
$25,000
 
Spacious 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath home is perfect for your growing family. Plenty of character and potential in this gem. Conveniently located on a corner lot with off-street parking. Original woodwork, built-ins and fireplaces are added charm while you enjoy the convenience of a first floor laundry room and a full bath.
 

 
 
 

3
 651 N Main St, Kenton, OH
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Royer Realty LLC
$49,900
 
Vintage character! This Victorian home built in 1870 has great potential! Large rooms, high ceilings, hardwood floors, decorative wood moldings, fireplace, big windows, covered front porch, fenced back yard, one car detached garage plus an updated kitchen! 9 rooms, 5 bedrooms with one on main level, full bath and large walk-in closet upstairs and main level laundry in kitchen. Call today to see this spacious home!
 

 
 
 
 

4
 1701 Grand Ave, Emmetsburg, IA
 
Source: Zillow
$27,500
 
Victorian project home located near center of Emmetsburg, IA. Home was built in 1893 by the town mayor, and is approximately 3200 square feet, with 6 + 1 bedrooms, 2 baths (with space built out for master bathroom in master suite downstairs).

Home has been updated and renovated, but still needs additional love and attention. Each floor has approximately 1600 square feet of space, plus full walk-up attic and partial basement. Home includes beautiful original burled walnut woodwork and pocket doors, built in china cabinet, and one original fireplace. Home also includes one beautiful wood staircase, and second staircase off back of kitchen.
First floor includes master suite (plus build out for master bath), family room with fireplace, large living room with fireplace, formal dining room, kitchen with walk-in pantry, laundry, mudroom, and bathroom. Also includes two storage closets. Second floor includes five bedrooms with closets, small office/den, and full bath. The first floor has been renovated and updated. Second floor has been partially renovated, but will require additional work before several of the rooms are move-in ready.
Completed renovations and updates include:

*New 400 sq. ft. master suite downstairs with new carpet, lights, electrical outlets, and molding.
*New paint and electrical outlets throughout first and second floor.
*Kitchen counter and fixtures have been replaced, cabinets were refinished, and wood flooring was installed.
*New light fixtures and ceiling fans added to every room in the house.
*Popcorn ceilings have been removed and repainted throughout the house.
*Other minor modifications and updating throughout.
* Electrical panel and wiring was updated in 2014.
* New roof installed in 2003.

The house will require additional work prior to becoming move-in ready, including a furnace tune-up/repair, water heater replacement, bathroom fixtures installed downstairs, and possible minor plaster repair. The outside of the home will require new paint and fascia repair.
Looking for someone who will be able to take on this project home. Depending on taste, many of the constructions items can be included in the cost of the sale (including fixtures, molding, tools, etc.). House is currently assessed at $61,000 by the county assessor. Willing to sell AS-IS for $50,000.
 

 
 
 

5
 2453 Berdan Ave, Toledo, OH
 
Source: RE/MAX Preferred Associates
$39,900
 
FEATURES EAT-IN KITCHEN W/ GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, NEWER WOOD CABINETS & MATCHING APPLIANCES. FORMAL DINING RM. LARGE LIVING RM WITH FIREPLACE AND ACCESS TO SUN ROOM. WOOD FLOORS IN BED RMS. UPDATES TO FULL BATH. LOCATED ABOUT 2 MILES FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO. Selling as-is. Cash only. First 21 days on market for Owner Occupants only. Investor offers will be reviewed on day 22.
 

 
 
 

6
 23 Pittsylvania Ave, Halifax, NC
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Heaton Real Estate
$28,000
 
Own your own piece of History within The Historic Town of Halifax! Over 200 years old, built in the late 1700’s, early 1800’s, this beautiful Colonial Home formally known as The Price House & locally known as The Willie Jones House is in much need of repairs and restoration. NEEDS TLC and SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS! Yet, when fully restored it can be a prize show piece. Starting with a Victorian front porch, displaying original front door transom and sidelights, beautiful mantels and some original woodworking. This featured home is not only unique, but is also a work of art. This historic home is protected by covenants held by Preservation North Carolina and will apply to new buyer. Buyer may be eligible to receive historic preservation tax credits. Consult with the Town of Halifax first, but imagine converting this home into a small Bed n Breakfast in the historical heart of the County.
 

 
 
 

7
 800 Main St, Ely, NV
 
Source: Estately, courtesy of Silver Rio LLC
$45,000
 
Built in 1900 and operated as the Historic Cherry Creek Saloon until 2013 when it was converted to a residence. Includes the original structure and 5 lots. Furnished main living and kitchen areas 616 square feet. Additional 280 feet with two rooms and bathrooms all unfinished. For Sale in AS-IS CONDITION.
 

 
 
 

8
 1258 County Road 35, Guilford, NY
 
Source: Hunt Real Estate
$49,900
 
This is a Fannie Mae Homepath property! Beautiful old world charm in this Colonial style home. Tons of extra storage options with plenty of large rooms! Great open floor plan that allows tons of natural light throughout! Located close to your needed amenities! Dont miss it!
 

 
 
 

9
 872 Wall St, Iva, SC
 
Source: Berkshire Hathaway C. Dan Joyner
$45,500
 
Diamond in the Rough!! – Home with character located on 5 acres, this is a country lover’s dream! Large home with rocking chair front porch, enclosed back porch, 2 outbuldings, and so much more. The attic could be converted to more GLA as well… 3 bedrooms ( one has no closet and one is plumbed for another bathroom), huge living room with fireplace, Den with built-ins, Large kitchen and 1 bath.
 

 
 
 

10
 1935 SW Buchanan St, Topeka, KS
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Miller & Midyett Real Estate
$35,000
 
HISTORIC BRICK 2 1/2 STORY VICTORIAN ON LARGE CORNER LOT. 4 BEDROOM, 2 BATH IS READY TO BE RESTORED TO FORMAL ELEGANCE. HARDWOOD FLOORS, HIGH CEILINGS, LOTS OF ORIGINAL FIXTURES. COVERED FRONT PORCH. PREVIOUSLY CONVERTED TO TWO SEPARATE LIVING AREAS ONE ON MAIN AND ONE UP. PRIVATE ENTRANCE TO UPPER STORY. ATTIC HAS HIGH CEILING & COULD MAKE FOR FUTURE EXPANSION. FULL UNFIN. BSMT & DET GARAGE WITH OFFICE/WKSHOP. PROPERTY HAS BEEN IN SAME FAMILY FOR MANY YEARS. SOLD AS IS. CLOSE TO WASHBURN UNIV.
 

 
 
 

11
 12720 Still Pond Rd, Still Pond, MD
 
Source: Trulia, courtesy of Doug Ashley Realtors LLC
$39,900
 
This Victorian, located in the quaint village of Still Pond, is ready for renovation! A new well and BAT(Best Available Technology) septic system was installed in 2014. Wood floors, a nice staircase and large rooms make the possibilities endless! The well and septic alone probably cost what this property is listed for. Great opportunity to own a piece of history & renovate it to today’s standards.
 

 
 
 

12
 6896 Us Highway 29, Reidsville, NC
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Atkinson Real Estate
$29,900 (offer pending)
 
Some attractive wood work in subject, extra LRG Fireplace in LR, Mostly HRWD floors. Old farm style w/ Master BR on 1st fl, 4 BR, 2 Full baths. Has many possibilities. SOLD AS-IS Property is eligible for the FMFL initiative through 1-1-17. website for more details.
 

 
 
 

13
 1311 Walnut St, Sweetwater, TX
 
Source: Realtor, courtesy of Hunter Ranch and Realty
$25,000
 
Large 2 story, 8 bedroom, 2 bathroom house on huge corner lot! House needs lots of work or the lot could serve as a good spot to build! For more info call listing agent Justin Wilburn @ 325 338 5099
 

 
 
 

14
 1609 Virginia Ave, Connersville, IN
 
Source: RE/MAX Preferred Choice
$29,900
 
GREAT INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY!! PRICED TO SELL. GREAT PRICE IN A GREAT LOCATION. NEEDS FIXED-UP BUT WORTH THE EFFORT. NEIGHBORING PROPERTIES CURRENTLY PRICED IN THE UPPER 100’S!!
 

 
 
 

15
 713 S 6th St, Coshocton, OH
 
Source: Peddicord Rice Auction Realty
$45,000
 
CHARACTER! Check out this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with all kinds of character. Beautiful woodwork throughout the home including pocket doors, french doors and lovely built-ins in the dining room. Home has had several updates including electrical, gas service, hot water heater and more.
 

 
 
 

16
 634 Laurels Rd, Johnson City, TN
 
Source: RE/MAX Checkmate
$49,900
 
Circa 1875, Tennessee Federal Style Home with Creek Front. Remodeled during 80’s, Home is in need of rejuvenating. Nice Large, Level Lot, popular location between JC, Unicoi, and Happy Valley Communities.
 

 
 
 

17
 620 Edward St, Branchville, SC
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Dorchester Real Estate Services
$45,000
 
PRICE REDUCED!! Early 1900’s Home in the Historic town of Branchville. When you walk up to the home you are welcomed by a beautiful wrap front porch that was a fixture of homes of this era. +/-2084sqft with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Enter the front door into the foyer with living and dining room. Nice size kitchen and eating area. This home has the original wood floors and high ceilings. If you are looking for an older home this may be just the one for you.
 

 
 
 

18
 421 Mckinley Ave, Butler, PA
 
Source: CENTURY 21 American Heritage Realty
$37,900
 
POTENTIAL TO BE REMARKABLE PERIOD HOME. ORIGINAL UNPAINTED WOODWORK. AMAZING PILLARS THRU WIDE OPENING INTO LIVING ROOM. BREATH TAKING INTO THE ENTRY! STAINED GLASS IS AMAZING! SOME NEWER FLOORING, WINDOWS, NEWER PAINT IN SOME ROOMS. 3RD FLOOR HAS 4 ROOMS–2 FOR BEDROOMS AND 2 FOR WALK IN CLOSETS. HOUSE NEEDS SOME WORK BUT HAS VERY GOOD BONES. NICE, PARTIALLY FENCED IN YARD, QUIET STREET, PLENTY OF PARKING.
 

 
 
 

19
 301 Crook St, Coin, IA
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Crawford & Co Real Estate
$39,900
 
An older home that has had some updates and some unique features. This home has 4 bedrooms and two full baths. It has a newer hi-ef furnace and some newer wiring. On the main floor you will find a kitchen with attached laundry room, a full bath, large living room with fireplace, a foyer, and two stairways. The upper level has four bedrooms and a full bath. The basement has four large rooms and high ceiling with potential for living space. There is a one car garage. The home sits on a large lot. The home has oak floors, set of French doors and a large fireplace. There is a wraparound porch, partially enclosed and an enclosed back porch.
 

 
 
 

20
 308 Calhoun St, Johnston, SC
 
Source: Zillow, courtesy of Edgefield Southern Realty
$49,900
 
Beautiful Antique home with lots of heart pine floors, beautiful windows, and original tin shingle roof. Wide front porch for lemonade afternoons. Privacy fenced back yard with detached carport at rear. Back screened porch waiting on your rocking chair. Kitchen has hand painted details and contemporary colors. Come view today and make this house your home!
 

 
 

 
Follow CIRCA’s latest Instagram feed at @CheapOldHouses, on which we showcase only gorgeous historical homes for sale for under $100,000.

 
 
 

AUTHOR ELIZABETH FINKELSTEIN

Elizabeth is the founder of CIRCA and a practicing writer, architectural historian and preservation consultant living in Brooklyn, NY. Elizabeth has loved historic houses for as long as she can remember, having grown up in an 1850’s Greek Revival gem that was lovingly restored by her parents. Elizabeth, her husband Ethan and their beagle Banjo remain on a relentless hunt for their perfect “Thanksgiving house.”