If you’re building or renovating, budget is likely top of your mind. However, you don’t want to overlook those little touches that could add value to your property or improve your life down the track.
If you’re building a home from scratch, you have the opportunity to create a property that meets your needs and showcases the best in modern design and technology.
Here are a few suggestions for cost-effective additions to build into your home.
1. Power points aplenty
Most homes never seem to have enough power points!
Our lives becoming more and more connected and with that we require more and more power points. Think about putting in sockets with four plug points instead of two, double power points with double USB, USB A & C and now available, Charging draws in the kitchen to hide all the messy cords.
A popular product, commonly installed in kitchens and bedrooms, is a double power point with double USB. This product allows you to charge your devices without taking up valuable power point space. You can also get A+C USB chargers to keep up with the ever evolving technology
Also, think about where you can place them. Not all power points need to be down near the floor. Think about where you will display the Christmas tree and external Christmas lights.
2. Smart lighting
Bluetooth, wifi and Sensors.
Bluetooth connected light switch enable you to operate your lighting from an app.
Wifi connected light switch enable you to operate your lighting from anywhere in the world.
From there, you can then control the timing (turning lights on and off) and dimming from a smart device. For example, you may choose to have multiway switching and dimming control from your bedside and doorway, to control the ambiance in your bedroom. There is also the manual option of installing a dimmer dial and a motion sensor.
Sensors are great for places like butlers pantries, garages and soft led night lighting.
3. An adaptable light switch
Functionality plays a huge part but you need to take style into account too. Some brand offer the ability to change the style of your light switch by simply changing out the cover plate or skin with something that suites the style of your home.
Smart lighting and an easily adaptable look? Score.
4. LED downlights
The last thing you want to realise after completing your build is that you didn’t give yourself enough light. You also don’t want to retrospectively try to add downlights to your home.
From the wiring to the cutting holes in your roof, it’s not a quick fix!
Ensure you plan ahead when it comes to lighting and, if you want downlights, make the call before your build is finished.
It Is also worth considering where you may need multiway switching and dimming control. That is, the ability to turn on and off lights at the top and bottom of staircases or at each end of a hallway. These decisions are easily implemented during the building process so consider how your electrical choices can make your life easier.
5. Under-floor heating
Heating and cooling is a key consideration of every new build.
First, think architecturally about how you can best take advantage of the elements, such as having north-facing windows and cross ventilation. You may also want to consider your building materials.
Then, start with your artificial heating and cooling methods. The main thing that is relatively inexpensive when building – but will cost an arm and a leg should you want it down the line – is under-floor heating. If you want it in your home, it pays to plan ahead.
6. A great ceiling fan
A ceiling fan is much cheaper to install and far more energy efficient than air-conditioning. Even if you still want air-con, many will recommend also having a ceiling fan to aid in air flow and allow you to cut back your air-con dependency. So, don’t discount fans in your build.
The main gripe many have with ceiling fans is that they’re not the most stylish features.
7. A security system
Finally, this is another item that will require plenty of wiring to set up. Therefore, it’s not the type of thing you want to do retroactively.
While most systems nowadays aren’t too demanding to add on after a build is complete, consider if this is something you would want and add it to your build. Extra security can only be a good thing.
johansenelectrical.com.au 