Real Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Home Cool this Summer

There are dozens of ways to keep your home cool during the summer months, but there are some tried and true old-school methods that are more effective than others. This year is expected to be a hot one, and due to the surge of moves across the country, many homeowners are finding themselves in climates they aren’t familiar with, and maybe without air conditioning for the first time (what a nightmare).  So before you crank up that A/C and run up your utility bill, here are some solid ways to keep your home cool during the summer. Bring in the cool night air Photo Credit: Alistair Mcrobert   Opening up the windows to let in cooler night temperatures is an old method that has demonstrated itself as a consistently effective way to quickly cool down a home. The details change from region to region, so if you’re new to an area, take some time to check the nightly temperatures and install screens to keep bugs and other critters out. Take note of the amount of sunlight your home receives and when. Make it a habit to check where and when sunlight hits your home in the morning, afternoon, and evening. After a night of pulling cool air into the house, close the windows and curtains/blinds on the sunny side of the house once the sun comes up. The shade side can still bring in residual cool air until noon when you’ll need to close those up as well. Though tedious, this method has shown to extend cooler internal home temperatures further into the day.   Create a cross-breeze and use fans   Every home is a little different, but one of the most effective ways to maintain a cooler temperature is to keep the air moving. Early mornings and late evenings are best, but occasionally breezy/cloudy days are optimal too. This method works best by letting nature do most of the work, but pairing it with ceiling fans, box fans, and even table-top fans makes a huge difference. Pro tip: If you have ceiling fans, always set them to spin counterclockwise during the summer, to push cool air down. Then set it to spin clockwise during the winter to move warm air up. Make sure your home’s insulation is sufficient Insulation not only keeps your home warm during the colder months, but it also keeps it cool during the warmer months. The goal of proper insulation is to maintain the internal temperature of the home no matter how warm or cold it is outside. This is strongly determined by the region your home is located in. Find your state’s insulation codes and standards in this handy guide here.   Curtains, cellular shades, shutters, and more Image Source: Deconovo   Windows are a heavy source of heat and there are a few different options available. Here are some thoughts on each: Curtains are a common and attractive option. High-quality blackout curtains with high UV energy ratings are best. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), “studies demonstrate that medium-colored draperies with white-plastic backings can reduce heat gains by 33%.” Plantation shutters are an option that is both attractive and practical, plus they add to the overall value of the home. Roller and Roman shades are a less expensive option, but are better for blocking out sunlight and offer less insulation against heat. Blinds and cellular shades and their effectiveness against heat are strongly determined by the size of the window and the quality of the material. Work with your local blind consultant for best results. Window Films are an option best for homeowners who are seeking to lower heat gains without disrupting the view. These are best installed by a professional and require extra care. Awnings are most effective for west-facing homes. Studies done by the DOE found that window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows, and 77% on west-facing windows.   Plant greenery around your home   Studies show that planting trees and shrubbery around your home can reduce energy costs as much as up to 50%. This is especially true when there is an established tree canopy, but even recently planted trees and shrubbery can help provide a substantial amount of protection from the heat by absorbing sunlight and providing shade for the home’s foundation.   Upgrade to energy-efficient windows According to the DOE, about 76% of sunlight that falls on standard double-pane windows enters to become heat. If you’re looking for a sound investment, energy-efficient windows are a huge plus. Although they tend to come with a heavy price tag, these types of windows not only help maintain your home’s temperature, but they add to its overall value.

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Top 5 Home Improvements That Boost Value

Credit: Zac Gudakov - Unsplash As tight inventory and higher interest rates impact affordability, many current homeowners are staying put in their homes. Instead of looking elsewhere to find their dream home, most homeowners (65% according to a recent Thumbtack survey) are opting to create it where they are. That means home renovations are top of mind. We’ve compiled a list of the Top 5 Home Improvements you can do to boost your home’s value.   Energy Upgrades: Credit:Raze Solar - Unsplash Improving your home’s energy efficiency has multiple benefits, from utility cost savings to adopting a greener lifestyle. With high inflation and increasing concerns about climate change, homebuyers are considering energy efficiency as a benefit in their home purchase. Also, there are government subsidies and tax benefits that can take some of the cost burden off of homeowners.   Some upgrades to consider include: Adding insulation to attic spaces Replacing old and/or drafty windows Switching to LED lightbulbs Installing low-flow toilets and shower heads Installing an electric charging outlet for electric vehicles Installing solar panels (check in with state guidelines for cost vs. benefit as each is different) Replacing old appliances with Energy Star certified appliances Redo landscaping with xeriscape or more drought resistant landscape that requires less maintenance and watering   Enhancing Outdoor Spaces: Credit: Collov home design - UnsplashThe COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the way people utilized and enjoyed their homes. During lockdowns, some homeowners saw an opportunity to maximize their space, both indoors and outdoors. This led to a rise in patio/deck additions and landscape overhauls. Although lockdown restrictions are gone, the trend of enhancing outdoor spaces is not. Consider adding a pergola to a patio for a covered area to enjoy meals under. Wood decks on average have a 90.2% ROI, making them an excellent choice when looking to invest in your outdoor space. Need more budget-friendly ways to boost value without breaking the bank? Consider adding potted plants, cafe string lights, and nice patio furniture to create an inviting outside oasis.   Minor and Major Bathroom Remodels: Credit: Hemant kanojiya - UnsplashBathrooms have long been a go-to when it comes to home improvements. These smaller spaces can be fairly inexpensive to upgrade while delivering a boost in your home’s value. Minor bathroom remodels on average have 102% ROI, meaning for every $100 you spend in upgrades, you’ll get $102 back. A simple fresh coat of paint and new light fixtures can transform your bathroom for a relatively inexpensive amount. These are also projects homeowners can do themselves, saving them more money and increasing their investment. Current trends stem from the pandemic, where homeowners were looking to add a bit of tranquility to their homes. Spa-like amenities, including relaxing soaking tubs, stone surfaces, and steam rooms have gained popularity over the past few years.   Minor and Major Kitchen Remodels: Credit: Roam in color - Unsplash Kitchens are the heart of a home. As trends change, they have become more than just a place to prepare meals. They are a place to gather, do homework, take Zoom calls, and entertain. This need for versatility is making homeowners look at the bigger picture to expand their kitchens into living spaces and add more seating options. These upgrades are some of the most costly in home renovations, as kitchens are regularly used and need more durability in finishes and design. Quality cabinetry with thoughtful storage solutions, smart appliances, and elegant surfaces are top choices when it comes to remodeling with your home’s value in mind. Kitchen renovations tend to have a 90-92% return on investment.     Boost in Curb Appeal: Credit: Zac Gudakov - UnsplashOne of the best ways to boost your home’s value is boosting its curb appeal. This long-standing strategy in real estate has helped many homeowners maximize their home’s presence on the market and ultimately their profit when selling. Your home’s curb appeal is its first impression, so take care to make it a good one! The extent of your exterior upgrades can range from simply adding potted plants or replacing exterior lighting to more significant structural changes/additions (like adding a front porch). Clean siding (whether power washed or freshly painted) instantly freshens up the exterior. Consider painting or replacing your entry door to modernize and liven your curb appeal. Neat landscaping and well-designed gardens also add value to your home. Consider consulting a landscape designer to complement your home with a beautiful yard!

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10 Fun Summer Activities to do in Idaho

Southern Idaho is the perfect mix of quiet country and bustling city, offering boundless opportunities to get out with friends, family, or a significant other. One of the best times of the year to enjoy the great Idaho outdoors is during our beautiful summer season! From the back country of Marsing, ID to the heart of downtown Boise, ID we're here to share some of Idaho's greatest hidden gems and add 10 Fun Summer Activities to your bucket list!   1. Jump Creek (Photo by: Xander Lacy) A tranquil waterfall can be found tucked away in the canyons of Marsing, Idaho. This hidden gem features a variety of outdoor activities and adventures including multiple hiking trails, lush greenery full of wildlife, and the best part - a relaxing pool of water below the falls!  Located only about an hour drive from Boise, this destination makes a great day trip!   Jump Creek Recreation Area, Marsing, ID 83639 VisitIdaho.org Cost: Free   2. Terace Drive-In Theatre (Photo by: Canva.com) Thinking about taking the family out to see a movie? Or maybe a date night with your significant other? Instead of driving to big box cinemas, support a local business and make it outdoors all in one! Located in Caldwell, Idaho, the Terrace Drive-In Theatre takes you “back to yesteryear” by offering a fun, 1950’s experience for everyone! No need to stop for popcorn and candy along the way, the concession stand is full of yummy snacks to enjoy throughout the movie!   4011 S Lake Ave., Caldwell, ID 83605 (208) 455-1433 | TerraceDriveIn.com Cost: Adults $10.00, Senior Citizens (60+) $7.00, Children (4-11) $3.00   3. Lucky Peak State Park (Photo by: Katie Wallace) Beach day? Some may say there’s no such thing in Idaho, but we’re here to tell you they’re wrong! Located just within a 30 minute drive from downtown Boise, Lucky Peak State Park offers a variety of summer activities to keep you busy for an entire weekend! From paddle boarding, fishing, camping, picnics or boating, this short road trip will keep you busy from sunrise to sunset.    Located off ID Highway 21 (208) 412-2278 | Parks and Recreation Idaho Cost: Free   4. Float the Boise River (Photo by: Canva.com) Want to beat the heat during a 80+ degree summer day? Then the Boise River Float is a “must do” on your bucket list. This six mile long water adventure begins at Barber Park and ends at Ann Morrison Park while carrying you through an oasis of forestry and lush greens. Don’t have your own raft? Boise River Raft and Tube Rentals offers a variety of flotation devices.    Barber Park Website Cost: $   5. Quinn's Pond Boise (Photo by: Canva.com) Quinn’s Pond located in Boise is adjacent to the Greenbelt and the Boise River near Esther Simplot Park in the West End. This popular hangout spot is surrounded by sand, definitely giving off beachfront vibes perfect for picnics or catching some rays of sun! Quinn’s pond is most well-known for its water activities such as fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.   3206 W Pleasanton Ave, Boise, ID 83702 Cityofboise.org Cost: $   6. Boise Farmers Market (Photo by: Shelley Pouls) Do you love supporting our local community by purchasing fresh, healthy produce? If the answer is yes, then check out the Boise Farmers Market, where Boise brings the farms to you. This event takes place every Saturday morning from 9am to 1pm at 1500 Shoreline Drive in downtown Boise. Come out and enjoy those crisp, fresh weekend mornings and take home even fresher fare to make for dinner.   1500 Shoreline Dr, Boise, ID 83702 208-345-9287 | Website Cost: $   7. Boise First Thursday (Photo by: Alden Skele) Thursday is the new Friday! If you are a lover of art, family fun activities, fine dining, and live music then Boise First Thursday is the hangout spot for you. This event takes place in the heart of downtown Boise during the first Thursday of every month. Did we mention the event typically runs from 5pm to 9pm? No need to worry about work getting in the way, Boise First Thursday is the perfect evening event to relax and rewind before those busy summer weekends!   600 S Walnut St, Boise, ID 83712 208-385-7300 | Website Cost: Free   9. Ste Chapelle Winery (Photo by: Danyelle Tolan) Kick back, have a drink and relax at Ste Chapelle Winery located in Caldwell, Idaho. This picturesque winery is perched on rolling vineyards overlooking the Snake River and Lizard Butte. Soak up some sun while enjoying a glass of wine and a delicious charcuterie board on their wrap-around patio with breathtaking views from every angle. Ste Chapelle also hosts afternoon events such as wine tasting and live music from local musicians.    19348 Lowell Rd, Caldwell, ID 83607 (208) 453-7843 ext. 3 | Website Cost: $   9. Payette Brewing Company (Photo by: Canva.com) Our fur babies love to enjoy the fresh summer air as well, and what better place to take them than Payette Brewing Company! Not only do they have tasty beer, this local brewery is one of the most dog-friendly in all of Boise! Payette Brewing offers a unique beer garden with an outdoor fire pit and yard games! Dogs and local beer...it doesn’t get any better than that!   733 S Pioneer St, Boise, ID 83702 Website Cost: $   10. Hike Table Rock Trail (Photo by: Toelynn Christopher) If you live in Boise and have not visited Table Rock yet, you are missing out! The Table Rock Trail is a 3.7 mile pet-friendly hike located in the Boise foothills. This trail offers amazing views of downtown Boise, the Botanical Gardens and the historic Old Idaho Penitentiary. At the top of Table Rock stands a 60-foot cross that can be seen throughout areas of downtown Boise, especially when lit up at night. One of the best times to hike the trail is right at sunrise and right before dusk, to catch those breath-taking skyline sunset views!   15 Table Rock Trail, Idaho 83712 Alltrails.com Cost: Free    

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