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3 Tips When Shopping for a Door Replacement
The front door of your home is an integral part of your residence. Your front door serves to protect you and your family, welcomes guests, and functions as the main access to your home. Your front door is not only a fundamental functional aspect of your house, but also a great way to show off your personality and aesthetic before stepping foot inside.

In fact, your front door can dramatically change your home’s curb appeal. The color, material, style, and glass used for your front door can add tremendous value to your home, and if you’re interested in buying new doors , knowing what to look for in a new door and knowing where to buy front doors are essential.

Three tips for buying a new front door

When you’re buying a front door, there are several things that you should consider: the material, the style, security, and where to shop. The best place to buy doors will be able to assist in choosing the best front door for you by helping you pick out:

1. Choose your front door material

The material used to make your door is really important. Your front door can increase the comfort of your home, save money and energy , and contribute to the look of your home. Because your front door will get a lot of use, finding durable material is also important. The materials we suggest looking for are:

Wood — The primary benefit of having a front door made of wood is that wood is naturally energy-efficient. Wood creates a truly beautiful and classic aesthetic for your home, and wood doors are the easiest front doors to customize. You can paint or stain them in just about any color or add glass window inserts.

Fiberglass — The primary benefit of a front door made of fiberglass is its durability. Fiberglass is a low-maintenance option that offers the best performance because it’s dent-resistant and won’t rust or corrode. You can also easily customize a fiberglass front door with a little paint. Fiberglass doors are a great style for transitional homes.

Steel — The primary benefit of a steel front door is how strong it is. Steel is naturally resilient, incredibly durable, low-maintenance, and extremely energy-efficient. Steel is resistant to shrinkage and swelling. Steel provides a high level of privacy and security and adds to modern and contemporary home aesthetics.

2. Choose your front door style

The style of your door speaks directly to your personal style and the style of your home in general. When buying a front door , it’s important to match the style of your door to the style of your home. The main styles of doors are:

Traditional — Traditional front doors are the real classic-looking ones. They typically have anywhere from two to 12 raised panels, which can have glass panes or colored inserts added to them.

Arched — Arched front doors have an air of elegance and romance to them. Arched doors fit well with most styles of homes and can be easily customized.

Rustic — Rustic front doors are usually made out of wood and complement homes made out of wood, brick, and stone. Rustic front doors have the most room to customize, and you can include raised panels, panes of glass, or make them arched.

Modern — Modern front doors fit nicely with contemporary homes. They’re very stylish and typically have sleek and straight lines, square raised panels, blocked raised panels, panes of frosted glass, or panes of translucent glass.

Craftsman — The most popular style of front doors are Craftsman doors that are usually made of wood or fiberglass due to the ease with which both materials can be customized. Craftsman-style front doors usually feature straight lines and a stained-glass window at the top.

3. Make sure your door is secure

Your front door is your home’s main point of access, and ensuring that you and your family are safe is a huge priority. Most materials used in front doors are sturdy and reliable, but carefully choosing the door’s hardware — such as the locking system and the hinges and nails used in the installation — is also really important. You can pick a locking and handle system that offers not only safety and security, but also a nice match for your door’s aesthetic style. For example, you may want a traditional lock and key for a classic door or a keypad entry locking system for a modern update.

Ready for a Door Refresh?

If your home is ready for a refresh and you’re looking for the best place to buy a front door , look no further. Our expert team is here to help you shop for the right front door to fit your home and style while keeping your home and family safe.
May 8, 2024
4 Bathtub Upgrades Dallas-Fort Worth Residents Should Consider

With the state of the housing market in Dallas-Fort Worth over the past couple of years, many people were lucky to find a home at all, much less the one of their dreams. Many residents stayed in their existing homes and took on home improvement projects in DFW.

Take a bathtub upgrade, for example. Like many other forms of home improvement, you have options, which have different benefits for different needs. Let’s discuss four of the most popular and recommended Dallas bathtub options available today.

1. Walk-In Bath

If you have elderly family members or loved ones with limited abilities in your house, a walk-in bath can improve the safety and convenience of your bathroom. With a walk-in bath, the door swings inward for easy access and there is even a sitting area for added comfort. These walk-in tubs have the lowest and safest step-in threshold of any tub on the market in Dallas-Fort Worth today.

2. Jacuzzi® Tub

Another tub that is available in a walk-in version, a jacuzzi tub, mimics a hot tub with its heat elements and jets. If you have extra space in your bathroom and are interested in a bathtub upgrade, a jacuzzi tub can fit the bill. Not only will you add a new way to relax and rejuvenate, but you’ll be potentially increasing the value and appeal of your home as well.

3. Freestanding Bath

Also known as a standalone tub , a freestanding bath offers a bathtub upgrade that makes a statement in your Dallas home. Standing alone, they add a modern look to your bathroom and can enhance other design choices. Whether you’re looking for a style upgrade or a soaking oasis, a freestanding tub can deliver the hydrotherapy experience you’re seeking.

4. Bath-Shower Combo

Last, but not least (there are several other bathtub upgrade options available ) is the bath-shower combo. Like it sounds, this is a combination bathtub and shower and is an ideal replacement for a walk-in shower or traditional bath. With a bath-shower combo, you get the convenience of two bathing options, which is ideal for homes with multiple people. It can also save space compared to standalone tubs and showers, so it makes sense for several North Texas home situations.

If you’re interested in a bathtub upgrade in Dallas-Fort Worth , contact Expo Home Improvement today for a no-obligation quote.

May 1, 2024
4 Signs Your Front Door Needs to Be Replaced

You’d think it would be easy to tell when something as prominent as a front door is in need of a replacement. But, more often than not, problems with front doors tend to subtly increase over time, making them difficult to identify when you use them every day.

Is your front door warped? Does it get stuck often? Is it worn down and unsightly? These could all be signs that it’s time to replace your front door. Let’s cover the four biggest signs that your front door needs to be replaced .

1. Visible Damage

One of the most obvious signs that your front door needs replacing is visible damage. Over time, exposure to harsh weather conditions, Texas sunlight and general wear can take a toll on your door’s appearance. Look for cracks, splintering, warping, or rotting of the door material. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important not to overlook them, as they can compromise the security and insulation of your home. A damaged front door not only poses a security risk but can also result in higher energy bills due to drafts and loss of insulation.

2. Difficult to Operate

A front door that becomes increasingly difficult to open, close or lock is another sign that it may be time for a replacement. If you find yourself struggling to turn the key in the lock, the door is sticking to the frame—or it no longer sits properly on its hinges—it’s a clear indication that your door is not functioning as it should. These issues can arise due to structural problems, moisture damage or general wear and tear. Ignoring them could lead to a compromised security system and an inconvenience in your day-to-day life.

3. Energy Inefficiency

Have you noticed drafts or a significant temperature difference near your front door? This could be a telltale sign that your door is no longer providing adequate insulation. Over time, the seals and weatherstripping around the door can deteriorate, leading to air leaks that allow cold air in during winter and hot air in during summer. This not only affects your comfort, but also puts extra strain on your heating and cooling systems, leading to higher energy bills. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient front door will not only enhance your home’s insulation but also save you money in the long run.

4. Design and Security Concerns

Your front door plays a crucial role in enhancing the curb appeal of your home. If your door looks outdated, worn, or doesn’t match your current aesthetic preferences, it may be time for an upgrade. A new front door can breathe new life into the overall appearance of your home and create a welcoming first impression. Additionally, advancements in door technology have improved security features significantly. Investing in a modern front door with enhanced locking mechanisms and security features can provide you with peace of mind and deter potential intruders.

Your front door is not just an entryway; it’s an essential component of your home’s overall functionality, security and aesthetic appeal. If it’s time to replace your front door, make sure Expo Home Improvement is the first company you call.

April 17, 2024
4 Signs Your Home Has Insulation Issues

Texas Summer Home Maintenance

As the temperature rises, signs of summer begin to pop up everywhere. You start seeing more sunglasses, shorts, and snow cone stands, for example. But there are certain signs indoors as well, especially if your home has improper insulation.

If you’re unsure about whether you need insulation installed or evaluated, here are four signs that could indicate your home has insulation issues.

1. High Electric Bills

Insulation is just one piece of the utility bill puzzle, but it’s a big one. If you’re experiencing high or higher electric bills than usual—and there is no obvious explanation for it—your home’s insulation may be to blame. When there are insulation issues (e.g. too little insulation, the wrong type, etc.), it makes your heating and cooling units work harder to maintain temperature. This is even worse during seasons of high or low temperatures, such as summer and winter.

2. Cold Walls and Ceilings

Are your walls cold to the touch during cold days? How about your ceilings? You won’t know this sign until you actually feel them yourself, so consider manually checking out walls and ceilings in different areas of your home to identify potential insulation problem areas. This is also more evident in the winter. The reverse can also be true (i.e. walls and ceilings warm to the touch), but it’s more difficult to identify insulation issues in the summer than the winter (for walls and ceilings, at least). Also, be sure to monitor your attic insulation effectiveness by checking temperature every now and then.

3. Inconsistent Temperatures

Is there a room or area of your home that is always warmer than others in the summer and cooler than others in the winter? This could be a sign of inconsistent insulation, which directly impacts temperature. If heat is retained better in certain rooms, these rooms likely have better or stronger insulation. The rooms that transfer temperature changes more easily could likely benefit from more effective insulation.

4. Plumbing Issues

Does your house often get water leaks or frozen pipes? If this is happening on a regular basis, your home’s insulation could be to blame. When it rains, leaks can damage your insulation and lead to extra moisture and wetness in places that usually don’t get it. (Ironically, a leak can lead to more leaks.) Freezing pipes can also indicate the temperatures inside aren’t being protected well enough from temperatures outside. This can lead to costly repairs and frustrations, so installing proper insulation to prevent plumbing issues alone makes it worth it.

If you need to replace insulation in your home, contact Expo Home Improvement today to schedule an appointment!

April 10, 2024
4 Signs Your Shower Needs to Be Replaced

Signs are easy to miss. This is why so many of us overlook exits we need to take and go the wrong way during road trips sometimes. Even when we’re looking for them, signs can elude us!

Home improvements are sometimes the same way.

Many of us don’t maintain or replace items in our home until it’s too late, which can lead to additional expenses and frustrations. But if you know what to look for, you can address issues before they get too bad. Your shower is a great example of this. Here are four signs of shower problems that may warrant a shower replacement.

1. Chipping and Cracking

Some minor chipping and cracking is to be expected with showers over the years, due to normal wear and tear. But excessive cracking, chipping and peeling can be a sign of a bigger issue. Shower bases in particular are prone to chips or cracks in the finish. Once cracks become too large (or chipping starts to cover a large area), it’s an indication that your shower might be on its last legs and will start to leak soon (if it isn’t already).

2. Leaks

Speaking of leaks, this is another big sign that your shower needs to be replaced (potentially). If you notice pooling around the base of your shower or other puddles (inside or outside of the shower) that don’t seem to dry, it may be due to a problem in your shower basin. These are not easily repaired and are best solved with a shower replacement.

3. Stains and Discoloration

Stains in your shower aren’t necessarily a functional problem, but they can look unsightly. If your shower is discolored in some way, it can be annoying or embarrassing, especially if the bathroom is accessible to guests. If thorough cleaning with chemicals doesn’t remove the stain or discoloration, it might be time to replace the shower entirely.

4. Dated Appearance

Finally, your shower may just look “”old.”” Whether due to its styling or any of the issues mentioned above, an ugly shower will not revitalize the senses. You want your bathroom to feel like a relaxing oasis, which is why upgrading to a more modern and convenient shower can give your entire bathroom new life. Extra shower heads, more space … these benefits await with a shower replacement.

If you’re ready for a shower replacement, Expo Home Improvement is here for you. Give us a call or text at 866-397-0816 for a quote today!

April 3, 2024
4 Summer Home Improvement Projects You Should Start Now

Time waits for no homeowner. But many of us still put off maintenance tasks and to-do lists until it’s too late (or not an ideal time, at least). Home improvements are no exception.

If you’re planning on completing a few summer projects around the house this year, the time to start is now. Why? As we approach summer, it will be more difficult to schedule them, supplies may run low, and you put yourself at risk for other last-minute problems popping up.

1. Improve Insulation

This is one of the most important ones to complete early, as summer heat will put stress on interior temperatures (and your home’s HVAC system) if there isn’t proper insulation. Especially for areas like the attic, you want to ensure the insulation is effective, of high quality and installed properly. At Expo Home Improvement, our eShield™ foil insulation is able to stop more than 97 percent of radiant heat, so it’s an excellent option to consider for a summer project.

2. Front Door Replacement

From spring to summer, many homeowners have an urge to switch things up. The front door is one of the easiest ways to do this, whether you simply give it a new coat of paint or you swap out the door entirely. The latter might be a better option, as you want your door to be strong, secure, energy efficient and attractive. If your current door isn’t any of those, it might be time for a switch. Also, consider replacing or adding a storm door as well.

3. Install New Windows

Another energy efficiency opportunity, your windows can leave your home unprotected from the Texas climate. Windows need to be the right type, measured correctly, and the best materials need to be used to ensure your window installation is done right the first time (with minimal effort and oversight from your part).

4. Other Interior Improvements

Finally, it’s a good time to make home improvements, in general. As mentioned above, many home improvement companies and contractors get booked up during the busy summer months and it’s difficult to get on their schedule. So, whether you’re interested in a bathtub upgrade, a bathtub-shower conversion or another interior home improvement, start researching and calling companies now.

If you need help with summer home improvement projects like windows, doors, bath upgrades and insulation, contact Expo Home Improvement today at 866-397-0816 .

March 27, 2024
4 Ways To Renovate Your Home for Remote Work

If you’ve moved into a remote role recently, you’re not alone. Not only did the number of remote employees skyrocket during COVID 19, “as of 2023, 12.7% of full-time employees work from home, while 28.2% work a hybrid model,” according to Forbes.

Whether you’re considering an off-site/hybrid role or you’re already in one, you might want to make a few changes at home to improve your quality of life. From the bathroom to the windows, there are a few ways to make remote work more enjoyable. To prioritize, here are four ways to renovate your home for remote work.

1. Convert a Room into an Office

One of the first things you’ll want to do is have a dedicated office space, if it works with your residence and budget. Working at the end of the bed or at a tiny desk in your bedroom will only work for so long. You can convert a room like a dining room or entryway into an office fairly easily and with minimal expense. Just make sure it has doors for privacy, electrical outlets and room for a desk with storage. The best part? You can usually write off these expenses on your taxes, since they’re job-related expenses.

2. Upgrade the Bathroom

Being able to shower at work is a luxury not every employee has. But if you’re a remote worker, you have access to a bathroom for just you and your family. As such, you want to make sure you’re able to bathe the way you prefer. If you’re a quick shower person, consider a tub-to-shower conversion, or replace your tub with a shower. On the other hand, if you prefer a long soak to start or end your day, you might want to install a freestanding bath or walk-in tub . You’ll be using your bathroom more if you’re a remote worker, so make the upgrades you need to turn it into a relaxing oasis.

3. Replace the Windows

Does the space where you plan to work remotely have enough light? What about energy efficiency? A comfortable environment includes being able to see properly and have a comfortable temperature. If neither of these currently apply to you and your home, replacing the windows can go a long way toward maintaining optimal temperature and giving you the much-needed exposure to sunlight that remote workers need.

4. Add Space-Saving Storage

Finally, a smaller renovation that is ideal for remote workers is adding storage, preferably one that fits well in the typically small spaces that home offices occupy. Your desk is one option, as are cabinets, as well as shelves and freestanding bookshelves. You’ll need storage in a remote or hybrid role, so find solutions that work for you and your home.

In addition to these four ways to renovate your home for remote work there are other ideas, of course—like renovating the kitchen to include a coffee or tea station—but these four ways will get you started on your journey toward a comfortable remote lifestyle. To get a no-obligation quote for bathroom remodeling, window replacement or other home renovation services, contact Expo Home Improvement today.

March 20, 2024
5 Home Improvement Ideas for Spring

Spring cleaning is at a certain time on the calendar for a reason. As we exit the winter months, we have to address areas of our home that have laid dormant or unused for weeks. This often means giving these areas proper cleaning, but it could also apply to home improvement.

After all, you’re not limited to cleaning in the spring. Here are five spring home improvement ideas to inspire you this season.

1. Insulation

Spring is the best time of the year to install insulation in Texas. Why? Since we live in a hotter climate, our homes are taxed most during the summer months. That makes now the best time to install insulation, as there will be more homeowners trying to book home improvement companies in limited slots as we approach summer. Installing a product like eShield™ Foil Insulation in your attic can reduce your energy bills and strain on your AC system significantly. If you want an improvement you’ll enjoy the rest of the year, insulation might be the best way to go.

2. Windows

All of the light that comes with spring and summer can lift your spirits, but it can also lift the temperature in your home if your windows are transferring heat easily. Energy-efficient windows can be an ideal solution here and there are a variety of window types available, from single- or double-hung windows to awning windows, bay windows, bow windows, and more. Replacing windows is a home improvement idea that can really upgrade the look of your home as well.

3. Doors

Like windows, doors can leech cold air out from your home. It’s important to ensure your doors are insulated, installed properly, and made from the right materials. This could be a functional home improvement idea for spring, but also an aesthetic one, as replacing the front door to your home can play a big part in its curb appeal.

4. Shower

Why not use the spring season as an excuse to consider a bathroom remodel? Many people choose to only focus on one room or area for spring projects and the bathroom is an ideal choice. Some ways you can improve or upgrade your shower situation include walk-in showers, shower-tub combos, shower enclosures, tub-to-showers, roll-in showers, and custom showers.

5. Bathtub

Likewise, there are lots of options to improve your bathtub as well. If you have the space, a standalone bathtub can be a statement-making focal point in any modern bathroom. Other bathtub upgrades for spring to consider include spa or jacuzzi tubs, tub-shower combos, and bath conversions. Whatever you’re envisioning, go for it!

If you’re planning your next home improvement project, let Expo Home Improvement show you why we’re the Texas home improvement company you can trust. Call us at 866-397-0816!

March 13, 2024
5 House Remodeling Ideas for First-Time Home Buyers

If you’re shopping for your first house, chances are high that you might have to choose one that requires a little… love. (This is typically called a “”fixer-upper,”” because there are some areas of the home that likely need fixing.)

Or you might want to immediately upgrade your new home to improve or match your lifestyle.

Whatever your reason—all are valid to us—here are 5 house remodeling ideas for first-time home buyers.

1. Replace or Refinish Flooring

It can be tough to negotiate flooring replacement for first-time home buyers, even though it’s usually needed. Carpets are especially known for harboring hidden germs and dirt from previous homeowners and it’s an ideal time to replace it before you start moving your furniture and other belongings in. If you can’t afford to replace or refinish flooring in the entire home—the budget for first-time home buyers is usually pretty tight—at least consider replacing wood floors or carpet in the areas that get the most traffic.

2. Replace Your Bathtub

Another element of the home that can cause first-time home buyers to squirm is the bathtub. After all, thinking about how many times the previous occupants have used the bathroom causes most of us to think about all of the germs potentially lying in wait there. Replacing the bathtub is a smart initial house remodeling idea, as you can pick the style of tub you want (e.g., walk-in tub ). Or you can convert the bathtub into a bath-shower combo or another option.

3. Update Windows

If you want to improve your home’s energy efficiency from the start (and already increase its value), consider updating the windows. Window replacements featuring modern, energy-efficient features can save you money with your utility bills and put less pressure on your heating and cooling systems. Even if you don’t have standard-shaped windows, custom windows can be an option and Expo Home Improvement is happy to provide them.

4. Add Insulation

Another good way to start saving on energy costs is with insulation. Especially ideal before the winter or summer months, insulation keeps your home energy efficient and helps with soundproofing as well. The time between when you buy the home and move in is ideal for this, as you won’t have to figure out what to do with your belongings or move them somewhere while the insulation is being added or replaced.

5. Paint!

Last, but not least, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for improving the aesthetics and feel of your first home. You want to feel comfortable during this new adventure and a coat of paint is an easy, affordable way to freshen up the look of your new residence. This is another house remodeling idea that is easier when your stuff isn’t occupying the space.

These are just a few house remodeling ideas for first-time home buyers. To learn more about our home improvement services and get a no-obligation quote, contact Expo Home Improvement today.

March 6, 2024
5 Surprising Health Benefits to Using a Whirlpool

When you first think of a whirlpool, the image of an upscale, high-end spa is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Purchasing a whirlpool or jetted bathtub for your home may seem like one of those needlessly extravagant things you’d only see on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous, but the truth is that whirlpools can be found in all kinds of homes from modest to mansion.

Getting a whirlpool walk-in bathtub may be a bit of a splurge but what if I told you that there were some sneaky health benefits that come with the purchase?

So what are these benefits?

Stress Relief

The primary reason to soak in a whirlpool (aside from actually getting clean) is to relax. There’s something about sitting in heated water and bubbles that simply melts away stress. It’s no secret that stress quite literally kills, and so any efforts you can take to reduce stress in your life can only have a positive impact on your overall health and emotional well-being.

Weight Loss

Surprised? Don’t be. This is backed by simple science. Sitting in heated water will raise your heart rate and really get your blood pumping. And what’s a side-effect of an increased heart rate? Spent calories. Yes, you read that correctly. You can actually burn a few extra calories while relaxing in your jetted bathtub. The increased circulation can be beneficial to your muscle and skin tone as well.

Reduced Inflammation

The water in your whirlpool is heated to over one hundred degrees Fahrenheit. This heat can help provide immediate relief of any pain or discomfort you might be experiencing due to injury. The increased blood flow will help decrease stiffness, aches, and inflammation in your muscles and joints.

Detoxification – Heat also opens the pores in your skin. With your pores open and the drawing effect of the hot water, toxins and other accumulated gunk can start to slowly seep its way out of your body. Bonus points if you add extra ingredients to your bath that help facilitate this process.

Better Sleep – If you have trouble winding down at night (and a lot of us do), then taking a quick soak in your whirlpool walk-in bathtub can help send you peacefully off to dreamland. The combination of relaxed muscles, improved circulation, and the gentle massaging effect of the spa jets is better than anything you can take in pill form. No more counting sheep!

Get Started on Your Whirlpool Walk-In Tub

You can see that purchasing a jacuzzi for your home can actually be a healthy choice. But just a quick word of caution. It’s best to consult a medical professional before making your final purchase. A doctor will be able to tell you if having a whirlpool is the right choice for you given your specific medical history.

When you’ve decided a walk-in tub is right for you, the experts at Expo Home Improvement are here to help! Simply give us a call or fill out our online form, and we’ll help transform your bathroom into the spa destination your body

February 21, 2024