Home ImprovementFall
UPGRADES
Rooftop solar is becoming more accessible for everyone.
Can’t install them on your roof? Plug-in ‘balcony solar’ may be for you.
By MICHAEL J. COREN
The Washington Post
Fifty-three million U.S. households cannot install rooftop solar, primarily due to building and roof limitations, because they live in apartments or because of their status as renters.
I’m one of them.
But as prices plummet and technology shrinks, soon almost anyone in the United States may be able to plug in to the sun. For a few hundred dollars, portable panels that hang on any sunny surface can pump free solar electricity into your home via a wall socket.
“Balcony solar” and other portable solar equipment avoids the complicated installation, roof mounts, permits and other annoyances that can get in the way of rooftop solar — and drive up costs far beyond the panels themselves.
In Germany, balcony solar is hugely popular: as many as 4 million systems hang on railings there, equivalent to the capacity of several large power plants. (Yes, there is a one-word German name for it: Balkonkraftwerke.)
I wanted to test how a system might work at my home. So I called up Pranav Myana, a physics major who recently dropped out of the
University of Texas at Austin to launch a balcony solar startup, Zoltux. With his guidance, I threw four panels on my patio, hooked up an inverter and plugged the system into my wall. During the demo, on a cloudy San Francisco morning, I managed to generate about 200 watts — almost enough to power my fridge.
I was impressed that setup took only 15 minutes and would be easy enough for someone to do on their own, without having to pay for installation.
In sunny conditions, a four-panel, 800-watt unit like the one I tried should generate enough power to juice household appliances. With more hardware, these portable, modular systems can scale up to 4,000 watts, powering a significant share of the electrical load in the average home.
Unlike Germany, the United States doesn’t yet have clear rules for balcony solar. Only Utah explicitly allows it. There is no agreed national safety standard, and most utilities are, to say the least, wary.
As the technology proliferates, specific laws and guidelines are needed to ensure safe products and a reliable grid. But some companies aren’t waiting. Here’s what to know about plugging in.
How balcony solar works
Like rooftop solar, balcony solar relies on photovoltaic panels that convert sunlight into electricity. But whereas rooftop solar is typically hardwired into a home’s electrical system, small portable systems plug in to a normal wall outlet (safety caveats follow). They take advantage of the fact that electricity can flow in both directions: plugging something in can draw power or add it.
The most important piece of equipment is the inverter, which transforms direct current power to alternating current (AC) that your appliances can use. It can also ensure that electricity powers your home while avoiding pushing electricity back onto the grid.
Some kits incorporate a “smart plug” that can monitor flow and act as a circuit breaker to prevent overloads. A battery option can store electricity for when it’s most needed, further reducing your utility bills and reliance on the grid.
The portable solar options
The simplest plug-in systems are balcony solar, like the $399 Flex 200 sold by the nonprofit Bright Saver. It’s a starter system with a single panel that can hang on a wall, fence or balcony. If it receives direct sunlight for at least six hours a day, Bright Saver estimates it can generate about 140 kilowatt-hours annually, saving roughly $54 a year on the average utility bill in higher-price states.
Somewhat larger systems, such as the $1,199, 800-watt unit I tried, can generate about 1,400 kWh annually, saving as much as $450 annually in a state like California. State and federal incentives can sweeten the deal and reduce the payback period.
The next step up is “backyard solar.” These arrays, typically mounted on the ground or a wall, cost between $1,200 and $6,000. The more robust hardware (up to 4,000 watts) rivals rooftop solar in some cases (which costs about $29,000 on average before tax credits). Electrical installation costs range between $150 to $500. These systems are sold by Bright Saver, CraftStrom, EcoFlow and Zoltux.
Then there are more structural solar systems that you can
mount on carports, porticos, canopies and shade structures. These may be portable — such as one from Gismo Power that can charge an electric vehicle or plug in to a house. Others are more integrated, designed for smaller or unusual rooftops, such as Brooklyn SolarWorks’ multifamily solar canopies. High outputs require utility interconnection agreements but can save thousands of dollars a year.
The key is choosing a system that prioritizes safety. Kevin Chou, whose Bright Saver nonprofit aims to make solar more accessible, warned against buying “unreputable stuff” online: cheap systems that won’t survive the elements or protect your home. The market, he said, needs permission.
Establishing rules for portable solar
About a decade ago, Germany was in a position much like the United States is in now. Plug-in solar advocates like Christian Ofenheusle, chairman of the country’s plug-in solar association, were pushing for clear rules and political support. “Every step of the way, there was adversity,” Ofenheusle said.
But it worked. Solar panels are now sold at German supermarkets, renters have a legal right to balcony solar, and manufacturers have extensive data and product certifications proving the technology’s safety. Nearly 10% of German households have installed plug-in solar with no reported safety issues, Ofenheusle said.
The same, he said, could happen in the United States.
Apart from Utah, no state laws or rules explicitly permit — or prohibit — plug-in solar. Underwriters Laboratories, the premier standards body, has begun work on a standard for portable solar, with support from the Energy Department and Gismo Power. But anything approaching a national rule book may be years away.
Most of the components, though, are borrowed from rooftop solar and, if produced by a reputable manufacturer, should meet those safety standards. Using them for balcony or backyard systems is akin to using medication off-label.
There are two main safety concerns for portable solar. First, sending too much electricity into a home, potentially overloading wires and causing fires. And second, pushing power back onto the electricity grid without coordinating with the utility.
Both are manageable with technical solutions already on the market, Chou argued. Homes generally consume more power than the typical plug-in solar system generates. When there is excess, smart inverters and breakers can carefully monitor and manage the flow of electricity — and shut it down during a blackout, protecting anyone who might be working on utility lines.
Plug-in solar advocates like to point to Germany’s perfect safety record. Real-world testing has begun in the United States, too. EcoFlow ships to Utah, already a popular plugin solar state. Zoltux said it is piloting several of its systems in Texas. European stalwart CraftStrom, which also operates out of Texas, estimates it has sold about 4,000 systems in 35 states over the past five years.
CraftStrom co-founder Michael Scherer predicts portable plug-in systems will eclipse the popularity of rooftop solar for everyone, not just renters, because they’re cheaper and easier to install. If that happens, we may begin to think about solar equipment the way we talk about refrigerators and microwaves. “To move forward,” he said, “we need to turn solar power production into an appliance.”
Apart from Utah, no state laws or rules explicitly permit — or prohibit — plug-in solar. Underwriters Laboratories, the premier standards body, has begun work on a standard for portable solar, with support from the Energy Department and Gismo Power. But anything approaching a national rule book may be years away.
How to upgrade your home to accommodate modern living
By METRO CREATIVE
Remodeling projects allow homeowners to put their personal stamps on a property. In addition to choosing a color and design scheme that fits a particular aesthetic, homeowners may want to outfit their homes with various features that can make them more accommodating to modern living. Homeowners can use these ideas as a springboard for remodeling projects designed to modernize their homes.
• Open floor plans: Open floor plans remain coveted characteristics of modern home architecture. An open layout enables occupants to feel like they are enjoying spaces together without having to be on top of one another. Since sightlines are not obstructed in open floor plans, homeowners can enjoy a cohesive design style across each level of the home.
• Eco-friendly features: Eco-friendly features modernize homes and may even earn homeowners rebates from the government. From positioning rooms to take advantage of natural sunlight to using environmentally responsible materials throughout a home, modern homes can function with a much smaller carbon footprint than older structures.
• Smart home technology: A smart home is equipped with appliances and other devices that can be controlled remotely, typically from a phone or computer connected to the internet. Investopedia notes that smart home technology offers homeowners convenience and cost savings. Smart home technology is available across a wide range of budgets, ranging from thousands of dollars for a complete home automation to roughly $100 for a small change like a smart thermostat.
• Accessibility features: A home that can grow with its residents is advanta-
geous. When choosing renovations, features like slip-resistant flooring, stylish grab bars and low-threshold or barrier-free showers can enable homeowners to age in place more comfortably.
• Dual owner’s suites: Dual owner’s suites can be an asset for couples who choose to sleep separately. The Sleep Foundation says individuals choose to sleep in different rooms for a variety of reasons, notably reduced sleep interruptions and improved sleep quality. Plus, an extra bedroom can come in handy when one person is ill or in the event a partner snores. Rather than one person in the relationship getting the “lesser” space, certain homebuilders now offer plans for dual owner’s suites so both people get the features they desire in a bedroom.
• Three-season room: Many homeowners aspire to bridge the gap between the indoors and outside. Three-season rooms help transition from the yard to the interior of a home, and offer a touch of nature without the bugs or unpleasant elements.
A number of home improvements can bring homes up to the standards of modern living.
Investopedia notes that smart home technology offers homeowners convenience and cost savings. Smart home technology is available across a wide range of budgets.
cost-conscious
Tips to renovate on a budget
By METRO CREATIVE
Renovations around the house require an investment of time and often considerable amounts of money. Findings from the 2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study show that home renovations are becoming more expensive. The median renovation spending for homeowners has gone up 60% since 2020. Angi, a home services website, reports the average renovation cost for homes between 1,250 and 1,600 square feet is $51,772, but the final cost of home renovations depends on the scope of the project.
Homeowners who are conserving funds can rest assured that it is possible to make meaningful changes both inside and outside a home without breaking the bank. Here are some ways to renovate a home on a budget.
• Create a budget and don’t waver. Figure out exactly what you can afford for a renovation and then make that your maximum dollars spent. Research comparable projects in your area and be honest about whether you can afford the renovation as-is or if you must adapt ideas to fit your price. Make sure to build in a cushion of around 15 to 20 percent for any unforeseen expenses that may arise once a renovation is underway.
• Maximize an existing floor plan. This Old House suggests looking for ways to maximize your current layout before you invest in major renovations like an expansion. Bring in a designer with an eye for utilizing space. For example, see how you might be able to replace shelves with pull-out drawers in the kitchen. Moving furniture around or rethinking floor plans also can help to lower costs.
• Balance DIY with hiring contractors. You can save money by tackling some projects yourself, but only if you are confident in your renovation skills. Rather than risk making costly mis-
Finding ways to perform home renovations on a budget may require some creative thinking, but it’s possible to get results at the right price point.
takes and having to redo things, hire well-vetted professionals but ask if there’s any DIY work you can do to cut costs.
• Check clearance and resale stores. Shop discount stores for building materials to save money. For example, if a builder ordered too many cabinets they may offer them to Habitat for Humanity ReStores, which are nonprofit home improvement stores and donation centers. Checking the clearance and markdown sections of other stores may yield considerable savings on items needed for a renovation. Warehouse retailers like Costco or Sam’s Club also can be great places to find certain home improvement materials and furnishings.
• Take advantage of free services. Certain stores may offer things like free consultations
with designers who can show you what a renovation can look like. This is advantageous to the stores because once you see the potential you’re more likely to buy the products, even if it’s not mandatory.
• Resurface instead of redo. Certain items can be made to look new with minimal effort. Paint is a relatively inexpensive tool that can transform walls and more. A good hardwood flooring company can buff out a floor and put a new coating instead of an entirely new floor. Kitchen cabinets can be resurfaced instead of replaced as well. Finding ways to perform home renovations on a budget may require some creative thinking, but it’s possible to get results at the right price point.
Metr o Creative
curb appeal
Signs a home exterior needs updating
By METRO CREATIVE
Renovations are a great way for homeowners to reshape their homes. Some may aspire to renovate so their home is more reflective of their personal taste, while others may do so in an effort to make their homes better align with modern styles and sensibilities. Regardless of why a homeowner chooses to renovate, the need to do so is often evident to the naked eye, especially when the time comes to update home exteriors.
Curb appeal is often discussed in regard to the effects it can have when selling a home. But curb appeal is equally important for homeowners who aren’t putting their homes on the market. A well-maintained, aesthetically appealing home is a source of pride, while a home with fading curb appeal can make homeowners feel a little sheepish. Homeowners who want their homes to maintain their curb appeal can look for signs that
it’s time to update their home exteriors.
• Curling shingles: The roof may not be the first thing people think of when pondering curb appeal, but a damaged roof can contribute to problems that ultimately affect the exterior and interior of the home. Multiple curling shingles indicate it’s time to replace the roof. The sight of curling shingles is not pretty, but the larger issue in such instances is the potential for costly water damage when water gets in through the affected shingles.
• Dated entry door: Many home improvement experts insist they can determine when a home was built or most recently renovated simply by looking at the front door. Steel and glass doors are popular in modern homes, so homeowners with front doors with ornate designs and oval glass inserts can likely benefit from an upgrade to their entryway. A modern front door can make a statement and real estate experts note how popular updated front doors are among buyers.
• Unsightly landscaping: It’s not only the physical components of the home that may suggest an update is necessary. Homeowners without a green thumb may have exterior landscaping that has seen better days. If a spring or summer day spent tending to your landscaping is not your ideal weekend pastime, then consider replacing unsightly landscaping with low-maintenance plants or hardscaping. These alternatives to more needy plants can create curb appeal without requiring any extra work for homeowners.
• Cracked driveways/walkways: If the driveway looks like a busy road at the end of snow plowing season, chances are that’s adversely affecting the impression people have of your home. In addition, cracked walkways indicate a need for renovations, as these areas are front and center when welcoming guests.
Updating a home’s exterior can restore curb appeal and help homeowners feel better about their properties.
covering costs
Financing
By METRO CREATIVE
Renovating a home is a great way to impart personality indoors and out. Improvements can make spaces more livable and address safety issues. Home renovations often take residents’ lifestyles into account, and changes can be customized to accommodate a growing family or an empty nest.
No matter the job, home improvements tend to be costly. According to the financial resource SoFi, on average, the cost to renovate or remodel a whole house runs between $10 and $60 per square foot. Certain rooms demand a higher cost, with a kitchen or bathroom remodel costing around $100 to $250 per square foot due to electrical and plumbing needs. Figuring out how to pay for the improvement project is as essential to the planning process as picking out materials and contractors.
The following are some financial considerations and financing options for homeowners looking to renovate their properties.
• Consider if the investment is worth it. Remodeling magazine routinely assesses common improvements and how much homeowners can expect to recoup on the investment in its annual “Cost v. Value” report. In 2022, a homeowner spending $4,000 on a garage door replacement recouped 93.3 percent of the investment, whereas adding a midrange bathroom at $63,000 would only offer a 51.8 percent return. Homeowners must decide if they want to go forward with the project if they’re likely to get just a $33,000 return when they choose to sell the home later on.
• Refinance the home mortgage. Homeowners can use a cash-out mortgage refinance as a way to access thousands of dollars for a remodel. This taps into a home’s equity. Keep in mind that the mortgage will then be a new mortgage at the current interest rate and an outstanding balance higher than what was the current one. Typically 20 percent equity in the home is needed to refinance.
• Take out a personal loan. For those who do not want to refinance, a personal loan or home improvement loan can be good for midsized projects, according to American Express. Personal loans for home renovations typically require no collateral and one’s credit score determines the interest rate.
• Utilize a home equity line of credit. A HELOC is a form of revolving credit, like a cred-
Factors to consider before making home improvements
it card. Homeowners borrow against the credit line granted with the home being the collateral. As a person pays down what is owed, he or she can borrow more. This is a good idea for recurring or long-term home improvements.
• Try a home equity loan. Home equity loans use the home as collateral like a HELOC. The home equity loan is an installment loan for a fixed amount on a fixed monthly schedule for a set term. These are sometimes called second mortgages.
• No- or low-interest credit card. Smaller projects can be financed using credit cards. Many will offer introductory rates with no interest for a few months. This is generally only preferable if a person can pay off the balance before interest is charged.
These are the primary ways to finance home improvement projects when costs exceed available cash on hand.
Homeowners can use a cashout mortgage refinance as a way to access thousands of dollars for a remodel. This taps into a home’s equity.
expanding your space
What to expect of a room addition project
By METRO CREATIVE
There are many reasons homeowners consider adding a room to their current homes. Some outgrow an existing space, while others take up new hobbies or have different needs that were not apparent when purchasing the home. Indeed, a room addition can remedy a host of issues affecting a home.
Those considering adding a room may wonder what is involved in this type of project. According to The Spruce, no home improvement project is more complicated or expensive than building an addition. The National Association of Realtors says building an addition can cost between $90,000 and $270,000, depending on the size and intended purpose of the room. An addition structurally changes a home, which requires the work of professionals whether homeowners plan to build upwards or outwards.
With so much to ponder when considering a home addition, here’s a look at what homeowners can expect of the process.
• Design and planning: Homeowners must determine the purpose behind the addition and how it will integrate with the existing home. A bedroom design likely will be different from a garage addition or family game room.
• Hire an engineer and contractor: An addition changes the footprint of a home. Homeowners will require professional contractors and structural engineers/architects to properly design the addition and ensure
that it will not compromise the existing structure. Detailed architectural plans will be drawn up considering the layout, size and integration with the existing structure. The home may require a new property survey as well.
• Comply with building codes: The project will have to meet with local zoning regulations, building codes and homeowners association rules.
• Timing involved: Adding a room is a major overhaul of a space. It may require months of a home being in upheaval. If the renovations are particularly extensive, homeowners may need to temporarily move out of the space. Electrical, plumbing and HVAC must be considered, and drywall and finishing the interior are some of the last steps to make the room habitable.
• Demolition: Adding a room may involve taking down walls or modifying existing spaces, necessitating hiring a dumpster to remove debris. This is an added consideration and expense. Putting an addition on a home is a complex process that will take time and money. Such a project requires careful planning and consultation with an array of experts.
home improvement
5 signs it’s time to renovate
By METRO CREATIVE
Homeowners renovate their homes for a variety of reasons. Renovations can increase the value of a property and make homes safer and more comfortable for their occupants. Improvements also can be made to stay current with the times or to give a home a new vibe.
Statista projects $510 billion will be spent on home improvements in 2024. The home improvement market is generating significant revenue. In fact, nearly a quarter of Americans opting to renovate their homes will spend an average of $10,000 on their projects.
Kitchens and bathrooms often get the most attention when it comes to home improvement. However, every room and space in a home may need a renovation at some point, and the following are five signs it’s time to renovate.
1AGE
The National Association of Home Builders states that 50% of U.S. homes are over the age of 40. That means that age alone could dictate a need to renovate, particularly if some materials are original to the home. For example, asphalt roofs typically last 25 to 30 years, while window frames can last 20 to 50 years depending on how well they have been maintained.
2 INCONVENIENT LAYOUT
Some homeowners scratch their heads when faced with awkward floor plan layouts. While one may live with the inconvenience for some time, typically a floor plan that isn’t working for the homeowner is a major driver of renovations.
home improvement
3 OUTDATED LOOKS
A home can look dated even if it is a relatively recent build. That’s because trends change quickly. For example, dark, cherry cabinets that were popular just a little while ago have now been replaced by lighter color palettes. Homeowners whose homes do not match the looks emulated in design magazines may consider a change, particularly if they’re planning to sell soon.
4 DETERIORATION
Signs of water, storm or structural damage should be addressed as soon as possible. Any deterioration should be a strong indicator that it’s time to renovate.
5 EFFICIENCY
Escalating utility bills could be indicative of an inefficient home. Homeowners can conduct energy audits and then improve the areas where energy loss may be occurring, such as windows, doors, siding, and insulation.
In summary, homeowners can renovate their homes when they see fit, but these signs may warn that it’s time consider updating or remodeling a home.
NEW SEASON EFFICIENT HEATING
and $100,000, respectively. Late charges may apply. Complete terms and conditions and Truth in Lending disclosures will be set forth in the Retail Installment Contract which you should review carefully. ^Lennox
