You commute to work. You struggle to fit in workouts where you can. Your teenager is 30 hours into the science fair project that would never end. Our lives seem fuller than ever - and our hours more scarce. For that reason, we work with our clients to build low maintenance homes - ones that will save time, energy, and expense in the long-term. Why else do we seek out a new home - a larger home, a smarter home, a newer home? It's all about quality of life and for that reason, we consider these key elements of low maintenance home design for every client.
When considering the features of your custom home, consider folding a few of these in the mix.
Quartz Countertops: Durable, Stain Resistant, Easy-Clean Surfaces
Natural stone countertops are a consistent favorite among our clients - creating a classic, elegant look in the kitchen. We recommend considering countertops that include a quartz element - which ensures extreme durability and stain resistance - increasing the overall life of your countertop.
A favorite material for many of our clients is Silestone. Made from a combination of quartz and other raw natural materials, Silestone Natural Quartz has the beauty of natural stone, with the extra benefit of more strength and durability.
Silestone is non-porous so it is better able to resist stains from coffee, wine, oils, and everyday household products. Our homeowners have found they don't have to be concerned about the fissures and cracks that typically develop in stone countertops. This becomes an added value as it prevents bacteria and mold growth in your food preparation space. Additionally, granite countertops often require annual sealing to protect from spills, heat, chipping, and more while quartz compostie does not require sealing or regular maintenance.
Cement Fiber Siding: Storm Resistant 50-Year Siding
An obvious choice when looking to build a low-maintenance house is to choose James Hardie Siding. Not only does the cement board siding come with a 50-year limited transferable warranty, but it provides incredible protection for your home from weather and other environmental damage. Hardie siding is rot and insect resistant, storm resistant and fire resistant.
Hibbs Luxury Homes builds in St Louis, MO and Park City, UT - both are areas that have frequent spring and summer storms and wildfire issues. Because of it's durability, we prefer Hardie Siding over vinyl siding because it is 5 times thicker than vinyl - providing incredible resistance to hail damage. The cement materials also are resistant to fire and heat damage.
Composite Decking: Never Seal Your Deck Again
One home maintenance task that most homeowners dread is staining their deck. Coupled with replacing boards every few years due to rot or insect infestation and many homeowners start to wonder if outdoor living spaces are a worthwhile the trouble.
If you envision a deck or porch in your final home design, consider a maintenance free decking material, like Trex composite decking. Trex is one of our clients' favorite materials because you have no sanding, staining or repainting - you just get to sit back and enjoy your own backyard.
Metal Roofing: Low Maintenance from the Top Down
Not only is metal roofing more durable than asphalt shingles, concrete or clay tiles - it is also very on trend for homes with modern style architecture! We use it in almost all of our Park City projects because it reflects the sun's rays, making it significantly more energy efficient and it is more durable against the heavy snowfall.
