Feature Article /
Apr 4, 2016

8 Product Upgrades You Should Consider for Your Homes

Kohler home products upgrades

Construction is a notoriously conservative industry that puts stock in tried-and-true methods that have worked for many years, but the industry evolves and new systems, techniques, and products are constantly being developed. Some are even worth adopting for your homes.

The if-it-ain’t-broke approach to building and remodeling is prevalent. For some individuals, the new-fangled techniques and products are not worth the time.

But contractors who refuse to embrace innovation need only look at what has occurred in the last 100 years: foam and blown-in fiberglass, low-E windows, insulated garage doors, cellular PVC trim, PEX and PVC plumbing, romex wiring (as opposed to knob-and-tube), engineered wood flooring, fiber cement cladding, dual-flush toilets, basement waterproofing, and on and on.

The conundrum for builders and remodelers is deciding which new advancements to accept and which ones to ignore. Sometimes the decision comes down to cost. Some innovations are budget-friendly, and they tend to dominate. It’s part of the reason most of the industry now uses drywall and joint compound as opposed to blue board and plaster.

Cheaper doesn’t always mean better, though. Some new products and systems are sometimes less expensive, while some may cost more upfront and save money over time. In some cases, you should consider a new product or system because it makes sense, saves money over time, or solves a problem for homeowners. Sometimes it might simply be better.

Here are some ideas that may cost a little more but will make life a little better for your clients and buyers.