Your spectacular Thanksgiving dinner will be ready in about four hours. The turkey brine that soaked overnight is browning nicely next to your Grandma’s homemade buttermilk rolls in the oven. The countless side dishes are prepped and ready to be warmed in the microwave, crockpot and stovetop before serving.

Millions of other families will enjoy Thanksgiving Days like this. Family members often travel hundreds of miles to gather, eat a delicious meal, and hold wonderful conversations. But have you ever wondered what the energy impact is on your beloved turkey day? We didn’t even mention the TV running all day, from watching The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade to the hours of football… the energy consumption is never-ending! Below, we share more insight into how solar energy can help you save money this holiday season.

 the Scenes on Thanksgiving Day May Surprise You 

Electric companies closely monitor aerial grid energy usage on Thanksgiving and other major U.S. holidays to address 

times. Knowing when to schedule maximum power generation means customers won't experience brownouts due to sudden surges in demand. Research into the energy usage patterns on Thanksgiving Day indicates peak demand for electricity occurs around noon, coinciding with the preparation of meals and desserts.

Although electric grid operators know when to start generating more power on Thanksgiving, they don't always anticipate external factors impacting the flow of electricity to millions of homes.

November Weather Doesn't Care About Your Thanksgiving Feast

Heavy thunderstorms and strong winds in the southern part of the U.S. can cause power blackouts lasting several hours to several days. Minor earthquakes on the West Coast could topple power poles and disconnect lines. Early winter blizzards in the northern states are often composed of heavy, wet snow that brings down poles and power lines. Midwestern states might experience a little bit of everything around Thanksgiving--bad thunderstorms, tornados, high winds, several feet of snow--but fortunately, no earthquakes!

Other Power Disruptors That Could Leave You in the Dark on Thanksgiving

Squirrels, opossums, and other small animals may invade transformers and inadvertently cause the transformer to blow. Vehicle accidents can knock down power poles, especially when the roads are covered in ice or snow. Depending on how well your power provider maintains their system, the possibility of deteriorating infrastructure involving frayed wires, corroded insulators, and other components buckle under peak demand stress on Thanksgiving Day.

Powering Your Holidays Reliably and Naturally With Solar Panels

By now, you've probably heard the expression "living off the grid." People living off the grid are primarily self-sufficient when obtaining water and power. Instead of paying monthly water and electric bills, they have well or spring water and use solar energy to power their home. Installing solar panels helps you save money throughout the year and holiday season.

By harnessing the sun's energy and converting this energy to electricity, you no longer have to worry about sudden power outages--and uncooked holiday meals.

Installing solar panels could save around $1,500 annually, or roughly $125 per month on energy bills. If you are curious how much it can save, 

 will help estimate your energy savings. Several factors can influence your savings, such as local area grid pricing, number of panels, climate (how much sun you get), and household energy consumption.

And with Thanksgiving on the horizon, it’s important to remember every solar panel installed contributes to a healthier future for your children, grandchildren, and beyond.

Before you dive into a purchase, knowing what you are getting into is important. Solar panels consist of 

 that convert sunlight to electricity. These low-maintenance panels have no moving parts and are not hampered by cords or wires.

A photovoltaic cell is manufactured by slicing ultra-thin disks out of crystalline silicon. The disks are then polished and coated with a substance that enhances their ability to convert sunlight into electricity.

When sunlight hits a photovoltaic "solar" cell, the cell starts a process known as the photovoltaic effect. This effect generates electrical currents using metal strips inside solar cells. This conversion of sunlight into electricity occurs instantly when solar cells are exposed to sunlight.

What Happens When Clouds Block Sunlight? How Do Solar Panels "Make" Electricity?

Solar panel users don't have to worry about cloudy days. Solar energy systems integrate battery storage that "saves" unused energy in reserve until needed. So, regardless of your Thanksgiving weather, your solar panels are guaranteed to provide uninterrupted power and a fully-cooked turkey!

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, connection and giving back. Incorporating solar panels into your home aligns with these traditions and brings an eco-friendly dimension to your celebrations. Here's how solar energy connects to Thanksgiving values.

Thanksgiving reminds us of the importance of resourcefulness and avoiding waste. Solar energy embodies these principles by providing a clean, renewable power source.

: Solar panels reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease water usage, and minimize your household’s carbon footprint.

: Switching to solar energy is a way to contribute actively to the health of the planet, ensuring its beauty and abundance for future celebrations.

Use your solar-powered home to host an eco-conscious Thanksgiving by integrating energy-efficient lighting, smart heating, and sustainable cooking practices.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on independence and resilience, themes closely tied to the use of solar energy.

: Solar panels reduce reliance on traditional external energy sources, which gives you more control over your usage and costs.

: Solar panels with battery storage provide reliable power during outages, ensuring your celebrations go uninterrupted.

As a bonus, some insurance providers offer better rates for homes with solar panels, as they are less likely to suffer expensive problems associated with blackouts or electrical accidents.

The Thanksgiving spirit encourages giving back—not only to others but also to the environment. Solar adoption is a tangible way to contribute positively to the planet.

: Many solar systems allow you to feed extra energy back into the grid, helping support your community’s energy needs.

Pair your solar-powered Thanksgiving dinner with a discussion on giving back to the environment, perhaps through planting trees, composting, or reducing energy consumption.

Thanksgiving also emphasizes community bonds. Solar energy connects neighbors and communities through shared benefits and collective sustainability efforts.

 that allow neighbors to share renewable energy resources.

: By reducing energy demand on the grid, your solar panels help improve energy availability and lower costs for everyone.

Solar panels operate quietly, unlike gas generators and other alternative energy sources, and keep both you and your neighbors happy.

Thanksgiving traditions remind us to consider the legacy we leave for future generations. Solar energy supports this vision by ensuring a healthier, cleaner planet.

: Choosing solar power today contributes to a more sustainable future for your children and grandchildren.

: Solar panels are a long-term investment, providing environmental and financial benefits for decades.

Depending on the roof material type, solar panels could extend the life of a roof by as much as five to 10 years, making it an investment for future owners.

Solar energy aligns beautifully with the values celebrated during Thanksgiving—gratitude, sustainability, and giving back. Consider how solar energy can power your celebrations and reflect your appreciation for the Earth’s resources and your commitment to future generations.

May your holiday season begin with a wonderful Thanksgiving!

If you aren’t quite ready to make the total solar investment, you might consider solar leasing. 

Learn more about how it works and how to qualify.

Rely on solar panels to power your home and enjoy more affordable holidays without worrying about unexpected electrical outages. Learn the benefits of leveraging renewable energy for guaranteed celebrations and significant savings. 

 Thanksgiving Power Prep: How Solar Panels Can Help You Save on Holiday Energy Costs |Popular Living 

 Thanksgiving Power Prep: How Solar Panels Can Help You Save on Holiday Energy Costs

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Welcome to the ultimate guide to mastering home renovations. Renovating your living space can transform it, boosting functionality and value. Yet, even the most promising projects can encounter costly setbacks without the right approach. This guide simplifies the complexities of renovation, offering actionable insights and practical advice to navigate common pitfalls and achieve success.

Renovation brings its share of challenges—from budget miscalculations to DIY blunders. With our expert tips, you’ll learn how to avoid these pitfalls, effectively plan your project, and make informed decisions that enhance your home’s appeal and utility. We'll debunk myths and arm you with strategic planning and budgeting tools, setting the stage for a seamless renovation experience.

Here’s how you can turn common challenges into opportunities for success, ensuring your renovation experience is as rewarding as the results.

Common Misconceptions about Home Renovations

Expert Insights: Overcoming Home Renovation Challenges

Learning From Home Renovation Mistakes for Future Success

Renovating your home is not just about adding a fresh coat of paint; it's a strategic move to enhance its functionality, efficiency, and long-term value. Understanding the practical reasons behind renovations can help you prioritize projects with the most benefits. Here are some compelling reasons why homeowners choose to renovate:

 Renovations allow you to tailor your home to meet your evolving needs. Whether expanding your living space for a growing family or updating your kitchen for better functionality, these changes can significantly improve your daily living experience.

 One of the most cost-effective reasons to renovate is to improve your home's energy efficiency. Upgrading windows, insulation, and HVAC systems can reduce your carbon footprint and lower your utility bills, marking a significant change in sustainability and cost savings.

 Strategic renovations can significantly increase your home’s market value. Projects like remodeling the kitchen, updating the bathroom, or enhancing the exterior, including landscaping, can attract potential buyers and offer a good return on investment when it’s time to sell.

 Keeping your home visually appealing is vital, not just for resale but for your enjoyment. Aesthetic updates can transform an outdated space into a modern and inviting environment. This is particularly important in areas where design trends directly influence property values.

 Sometimes, renovations are necessary to address safety concerns or urgent repairs. Fixing leaky roofs, replacing old plumbing, or correcting electrical faults can prevent further damage and avoid costly repairs.

 Finally, renovations offer the opportunity to personalize your home to reflect your tastes and preferences. Customizing your space can bring immense personal satisfaction and make your home truly feel like yours.

Let’s explore how to approach these renovations wisely, avoiding common mistakes that could hinder your project’s success with practical strategies and insider tips that ensure your renovations go as planned.

Renovating your home is exciting but riddled with misconceptions that can lead to costly mistakes. Understanding these can help you approach your renovation project with a more informed and realistic mindset. Here are some typical misconceptions and the truths behind them:

 It’s always better to have a large budget to ensure high-quality results.

While having a financial cushion is crucial, overestimating your budget can lead to unnecessary spending. Smart budgeting focuses on getting the best value for your money, prioritizing spending on structural improvements over purely aesthetic enhancements. It’s essential to research and plan your expenditures wisely, possibly through competitive bidding or investing in quality materials where they matter most.

 DIY renovations are always an excellent way to save money.

 DIY projects can be rewarding and cost-effective, but only if you have the right skills and tools. Overambitious DIY efforts, especially in specialized tasks like plumbing or electrical work, can cost more if mistakes occur. It’s important to assess your capabilities realistically and consider professional help for complex projects. This ensures safety and guarantees that the work meets industry standards.

Venturing into a home renovation project without a clear understanding of common pitfalls can lead to delays, increased costs, and stress. Here are some of the most frequent mistakes to avoid:

 Many homeowners jump into renovations with an overly optimistic timeline and budget.

Always add a contingency buffer of at least 20% to your budget and expect projects to take longer than initially planned. This lets you handle unexpected issues like material delivery delays or project scope changes without major stress.

 Overlooking safety can be a considerable risk, especially in DIY projects.

 Ensure you’re always equipped with the proper safety gear and follow guidelines strictly. If you’re unsure about the safety aspects of a task, consult a professional. Remember, cutting corners on safety can lead to severe injuries or even legal problems if building codes are violated.

By debunking these misconceptions and preparing for common mistakes, you can pave the way for a smoother renovation experience. Next, we'll look into debunking more myths and providing accurate information in our "Home Renovation Myth Busters" section to help you confidently navigate your project.

Misconceptions can cloud judgment and complicate decision-making during home renovations. This section aims to clarify prevalent myths, providing factual information to help you make more informed choices and avoid common mistakes.

 Opting for cheaper materials will help keep renovation costs down.

 While initially less expensive, cheaper materials often lead to higher maintenance and replacement costs. Due to their durability and longevity, investing in higher-quality materials can prove more cost-effective in the long run. Balancing quality and cost is crucial, as well as focusing on long-term value rather than just upfront savings.

Permits Are Unnecessary for Small Renovations

Small or internal changes don't require permits.

 Many homeowners mistakenly believe that minor renovations, like updating a bathroom or changing flooring, do not require a permit. However, most structural changes, even minor ones, require legal approvals to ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. Skipping this step can result in fines and complicate future home sales, besides posing potential safety risks.

 The most expensive contractor quotes guarantee the best results.

 While cost can indicate quality, it’s not the only factor to consider. It's essential to research contractors' backgrounds, check reviews, and examine past project results. Mid-range quotes often offer the best balance of cost and quality, especially if the contractor is highly recommended and has an excellent track record.

 Every renovation will significantly increase your home's value.

Not all renovations yield a high return on investment. Kitchen and bathroom updates typically offer better returns than purely aesthetic enhancements. Before undertaking any renovation, it's crucial to consider its potential impact on your property’s value, particularly if you plan to sell in the near future.

DIY Renovations Always Increase Personal Satisfaction

Personal involvement in home renovations always leads to higher satisfaction.

 While DIY projects can be fulfilling, they can also be frustrating and exhausting, especially if they exceed your skill level. It’s important to assess your expertise and time commitment realistically. Hiring professionals for complex renovations can often result in greater satisfaction with the finished product.

By dispelling these myths, you ensure that your renovation decisions are based on practical considerations and factual information, leading to better project outcomes. Now, let's get into a detailed DIY Home Renovation Guide, offering technical advice and tips to help you manage your renovation projects effectively.

Following these guidelines, you can confidently tackle DIY home renovations, knowing you're well-prepared to manage planning, budgeting, and execution like a pro. Now, here are some expert insights on overcoming common challenges during home renovations, providing you with additional tools to ensure your renovation success.

Home renovations can present various challenges, from unexpected structural issues to budget overruns. Here, experts advise effectively navigating these challenges to ensure your renovation projects are successful and stress-free.

Anticipating and Managing Unexpected Issues

Conduct Thorough Inspections: Before beginning any work, have your home inspected by a professional to identify potential hidden problems such as electrical issues, plumbing faults, or structural weaknesses. You can find a licensed inspector through organizations like the 

American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)

Experienced renovators often use advanced tools like thermal imaging to detect hidden water leaks or insulation gaps that are not visible to the naked eye.

Realistic Project Timelines: Experts suggest adding an additional 20% to your time estimates to accommodate unforeseen delays.

Budget Management: Keep a detailed ledger of all expenses and review it regularly to ensure you stay on track. Consider using renovation budgeting software or apps to keep all financial information easily accessible and organized.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE HOME RENOVATION BUDGETING SPREADSHEET

Clear Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with any contractors involved. Regular meetings can help ensure everyone is on the same page and that project milestones are being met.

Use a written contract that includes a detailed scope of work, payment schedule, and timelines to minimize disputes and misunderstandings.

Regular Quality Checks: Conduct regular inspections of the work done, especially for critical tasks like framing, electrical, and plumbing, before moving on to the finishing touches.

Bring in a third-party inspector or consultant for an unbiased review of critical work to ensure everything is up to standard.

Navigating Structural Changes: Structural Integrity: When planning structural changes, consult with a structural engineer to ensure that your plans are safe and feasible.

Digital modeling can help predict potential issues with structural changes before they are implemented.

Handling Sophisticated Electrical and Plumbing Work: Professional Assistance: Hiring licensed professionals is crucial for complex installations or major upgrades. This will avoid costly mistakes and ensure compliance with local codes.

Consider advanced technologies like smart home systems early in the planning phase, as they may require special wiring or integration with home systems.

Dealing with External Factors: Plan exterior projects based on seasonal weather patterns. Avoid starting major external renovations close to rainy seasons or extreme weather conditions.

Use weather-resistant materials and techniques to safeguard against climate-related damages.

By leveraging these expert insights and preparing for common challenges, you can enhance the efficiency and outcome of your home renovation projects. 

Conclusion: Learning From Home Renovation Mistakes for Future Success

Renovating your home can be complex and challenging, but each project offers valuable lessons to enhance your skills and knowledge for future renovations. Here’s how to embrace and learn from the mistakes to ensure ongoing improvement and success in your home improvement journey.

 Post-renovation reflection is crucial for continuous improvement. Take the time to review what aspects of the project met your expectations and what did not. This could involve a breakdown of budgeting accuracy, timeline adherence, and the quality of workmanship.

 Keep a renovation journal or log where you can note observations, and strategies that worked and what didn’t. This record will be an invaluable resource for planning future projects.

 If you worked with contractors, ask for their insights on what could have been done differently. This feedback can provide a professional perspective on improving processes and outcomes.

 Renovations rarely go exactly as planned. Learning to be flexible and adaptable without compromising safety or quality is key.

Always have contingency plans for unforeseen issues, such as supply chain delays, unexpected structural challenges, or budget overruns.

Focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. This approach will help you overcome obstacles more effectively and maintain momentum during the project.

 Home renovation is always evolving, with new techniques, materials, and technologies emerging regularly.

Keep up with the latest trends and innovations in home renovation by attending workshops, reading industry publications, and participating in online forums.

 Use software and apps designed for home renovation planning and management, which can help streamline processes and enhance project precision.

Build a Network of Trusted Professionals: 

Having a reliable network of skilled professionals can significantly enhance the quality and efficiency of your renovation projects.

Build and maintain good relationships with contractors, designers, and suppliers. This network can provide advice, services, and materials when needed.

Don’t hesitate to consult with architects, interior designers, or structural engineers before making significant decisions. Their expertise can prevent costly mistakes and add value to your project.

Regardless of size or complexity, every home renovation project provides a learning opportunity to enhance your future renovation endeavors. By taking the lessons learned, embracing continuous improvement, and staying informed, you can transform your living space while avoiding common pitfalls.

Remember, the goal is to create a beautiful and functional home and enjoy the journey of transforming your space. With the right approach and mindset, each renovation project can be a stepping stone to greater success in your home improvement adventures.

Home renovations can be both exciting and intimidating undertakings. They present an opportunity to breathe new life into your living space, enhance functionality, and increase the overall property value.   However, navigating the landscape of home improvement can be a minefield of complexities, particularly for the inexperienced. This article serves as a comprehensive guide, demystifying...

Plan carefully and hire pros when needed to avoid underestimating costs and time in home renovations.

Home Renovation Mistakes: Avoid Pitfalls & Ensuring Success | Popular Living

Home Renovations: A Step-by-Step Guide to Avoiding Common Mistakes and Ensuring Success

So, you're ready to pull the trigger and invest in solar panels for your home. Congratulations! You're making a financially sound and environmentally conscious decision. But now you have a big decision - which solar company to choose for your purchase. There are multiple vendors on the market, and it can be hard to understand which is the best option for your situation. Luckily, we can help you narrow things down. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best solar companies on the market, including each one's pros and cons.

Learn More 

Best Solar Companies 

What to Look for When Choosing a Solar Company

Before we dive into the details of our list of the best solar companies, let's ensure you know what makes a great vendor for solar installation. Here are some of the things you'll want to look for when selecting your solar panel vendor:

 You don't want to be a company's first, or even tenth, customer. Ask them how long they've been in business for. The more operational years under their belt, the more experienced they are.

This qualifier is similar to the above. You want to work with experienced vendors. Ask how many solar panel installations they've done so you can feel confident in their skill level.

: Almost all solar panel installers provide a warranty on the parts and/or their installation services. You'll want to ask if they provide a warranty and the details of the warranty.

 When someone installs solar panels on your home, they'll spend a lot of time on your roof. You'll want to ensure the business has proper insurance coverage if someone gets hurt or your roof is damaged. You can ask the vendor about their insurance coverage so you know you won't be stuck with big bills if an accident occurs.

 You only want to work with a licensed and bonded contractor for your solar panel installations. There are many industry-standard certifications available for solar installations. For example, one of the most well-known organizations is the 

North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP

). Ask the business if all their workers are licensed to work with solar panels.

 Always take the time to look at reviews before you consider a vendor. A solar panel company with bad reviews, or few reviews, is risky to work with.

: You can't compare vendors without taking into account pricing. You want to get quotes from a few places for your specific job and avoid anyone who seems to be charging too little or too much.

According to Architectural Digest, the average cost of installing solar panels nationwide is

. The average range is between $17,430 and $23,870 when considering the size of your roof, the type of panels, your home's energy needs, and tax incentives in your area.

Solar panels are an investment in your home. You can see a return on your investment (ROI) from the money you save from utility charges, but it typically takes many years to see that ROI. Most experts say that you can expect to see your return on investment within 10-15 years (if you live in a relatively sunny place).

But, you don't necessarily have to wait around that long to see your purchase be worthwhile. If you choose to sell your home, your solar panels will drive up the value of your home.

Knowing the average cost of solar installations can give you some context as you approach vendors and get quotes. You know what to expect and will be able to recognize when someone is trying to overcharge you.

If the idea of having $20,000 on hand to purchase solar panels feels impossible, don't worry. The good news is solar panel purchases often come with financing options.

You can get a solar loan, which will work like a mortgage or auto loan. You'll make a deposit and pay monthly installments on the loan for a predetermined period. Of course, loans come with interest, so it does mean you'll pay more for your solar panels in the long run.

Alternatively, you could also consider a solar lease. A solar lease, also sometimes called a power purchase agreement (PPA), is when you allow a third-party company to install solar panels on your roof. The company sells you the electricity produced from these panels at a rate typically 10-30% lower than 

A solar lease has some downsides (such as the fact that you never actually own your panels), so do your research before considering this option.

Whether you pay outright cash, finance, or lease your panels, it can be an excellent investment if you can afford it.

learn more ways to slash your energy bills

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s take a look at some of the best solar companies:

 is a top-tier company that has been selling residential solar panels since 2011. The company offers a comprehensive approach to solar panels, giving customers everything from solar design to financing and maintenance.

Warranties are great and offered for 25 years

Installation isn't done in-house, but you can be connected with a Palmetto Partner for installation services

Active system monitoring services cost extra

 from over 200 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. The average cost for solar panels from Palmetto Sour is estimated to be around $15,000 to $20,000.

2. Most Efficient Product: SunPower Solar

 was founded in 1985 and is proud of its long history. One of the company's taglines is "With nearly 40 years of dedicated solar experience, we're the only U.S.-based solar company that's been around longer than our 25-year warranty."

The company offers solar, backup battery, and electric vehicle (EV) charger installations.

Product and production guarantees on all solar panel installations

Panels have 20.9% to 22.8% efficiency ratings, which are higher than average for the solar panel industry

Higher than average cost compared to other options on the market

 from over 750 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. The average cost for solar panels from SunPower Solar Sour is estimated to be around $24,000 to $36,000.

3. Best Customer Service: Blue Raven Solar

has only been around for ten years, but they’ve made impressive strides in that short time and now have over 2,200 team members. The company offers solar and backup battery installations, plus solar equipment monitoring.

Warranties are offered for 10 or 25 years

Installs SunPower Brand panels, which are very efficient

Reviews online complaints of aggressive sales tactics

 from over 1380 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website, which holds the highest rating out of all our picks on this list. The average cost for solar panels from Blue Raven Solar is estimated to be around $20,000 to $22,500.

Tesla Solar is probably the most well-known brand on this list. Tesla Solar operates under the branch of Tesla Energy, which is the "clean energy division" of Tesla. The Tesla solar panels are known for their aesthetic design. You can purchase traditional solar panels, solar roofing shingles, EV charging stations, and backup battery installations with Tesla Solar.

Price estimator online for transparent pricing

Some online reviews complain of poor customer service and long wait times for repairs

Tesla also has another option, known as Tesla Solar Roof. This option is much more innovative and has a sleeker-looking design compared to Tesla Solar. However, the Tesla Solar Roof is incredibly expensive, often coming at two to three times the price of a typical solar roof.

 from over 300 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. As outlined above, Tesla Solar is the most affordable choice, but it comes at the cost of good customer service. The average price for solar panels from Tesla Solar is estimated at $16,000 to $23,000.

Working with a solar company is a significant decision, and being well-informed is crucial. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about working with a solar company:

Look for companies with strong track records, 

, relevant certifications, and experience in the industry. It's also beneficial to compare quotes and services from multiple providers to ensure you get the best value and service.

What costs are involved in installing solar panels?

Costs can vary widely depending on your system's size, location, the quality of the panels, and additional equipment like inverters and batteries. Solar companies typically provide a detailed quote that includes the total installation cost, potential rebates, and incentives.

Are there any incentives or rebates available for solar panel installation?

Many regions offer solar panel installation

. These can significantly reduce the upfront cost. A reputable solar company will have up-to-date information on local and federal incentives and can assist in the application process.

How much money can I save by installing solar panels?

Savings vary based on your electricity usage, the size of your solar system, the cost of electricity in your area, and how much energy your system generates. Solar companies often provide estimates of potential savings during the consultation process.

Most solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years or more. However, their efficiency might gradually decrease over time. It's important to ask about the warranty and what it covers.

Looking to buy solar panels soon? This guide can help. Find out what the best solar companies are in 2024 and what makes each one so great. 

The 4 Best Solar Companies in 2024 | PopularLiving 

The 4 Best Solar Companies in 2024 

Home renovations are typically filled with eagerness and excitement, whether you're expanding your living space, upgrading your kitchen, or improving your home’s curb appeal. However, what many homeowners may not know is that a large percentage of home renovations inadvertently violate building codes. According to FEMA, 65% of cities, counties and towns across the United States do not comply with local building regulations.

The organization or often-times government agency responsible for monitoring these codes is called the 

. The code requirements will vary by state, and checking in with your local authority is essential to avoid potentially serious consequences, including fines, legal disputes, and complications when selling your home. Also, it's important to note that 

building codes can be updated as frequently as every 3 years

. Hence, you must stay informed and check in before starting any new project to see if any laws have been revised.

Below, we share some of the most common mistakes homeowners make when violating building codes. We will also explain the potential consequences of non-compliance and offer practical advice on ensuring your next renovation project follows the rules.

Building codes are the regulations that dictate how construction projects must be completed to ensure the occupants' safety, health, and general welfare. These codes cover everything from structural integrity and electrical wiring to plumbing systems and fire safety measures. They vary from state to state and sometimes even city to city, as each municipality can impose its own requirements. Hence, why we will say it again: it's so essential that you check with your local entity to ensure everything you are doing is up to code.

Violating building codes can happen unintentionally when homeowners undertake DIY renovations or when contractors cut corners. Even if the renovation looks perfect, hidden code violations can result in costly fixes later on. Some of the most common areas where homeowners unknowingly violate building codes include electrical systems, plumbing, and structural modifications.

Over 65% of U.S. cities, counties, and towns lack adopted building codes. Learn how this affects your home renovation, the common violations, and how to stay compliant to avoid fines, insurance issues, and safety risks.

65% of Cities, Counties, and Towns in the U.S. Have Not Adopted Building Codes - Is Yours Next?

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