If renovating an existing home or building a new one, don’t leave out the tech! If you want to sell that home after renovation, you might want to look into information such as how-to-find-the-right cash home buyers.
One of the best times to install home technology is during the building phase of a new home or when renovating. This allows you to incorporate technology components seamlessly, hide wires, and build out areas specifically for things like a home theater system.
The home theater market is expected to grow by $2.87 billion between 2020 and 2024.
With families receiving stimulus checks across the country, many are investing in their homes through renovations and tech additions to make their lives better.
There are several main IT components to choose from when building a home or doing a renovation. Don’t overdo it! But don’t forget anything either. Here are some of the most popular additions.
TVs and Home Theater
Home theaters with smart TVs and sound bars have been especially popular during the pandemic as people have been forced to stay inside. With all the new movies now being released digitally at the same time as in theaters, families can create their own theater experience in the comfort of their home and enjoy much cheaper popcorn!
Wi-Fi and Internet
Did you know that a wired ethernet connection to your modem can be as much as 10x faster than a Wi-Fi connection?
Most homes will use wireless internet to connect their computers and other devices to the internet. But, if you’re building or renovating, running hidden ethernet cables can be a simple project addition and give you much faster and more reliable internet for devices that stay in the same place most of the time.
Sound System
A rich surround sound system is one of the most important upgrades for a home theater or general entertainment room. It’s easier to place speakers exactly where you want them to be and hide wires if you tackle this during home renovation or builds.
Indoor/Outdoor Cameras
Indoor and outdoor cameras aren’t only used for security systems, they also make it possible for parents working away from home to keep an eye on kids or pets.
Positioning cameras so they’re not so noticeable inside or outside a home can be tricky. But if you’re installing a camera system during a home renovation or build, adding a small overhang or camera alcove can be simple and help camouflage cameras so they don’t distract from your home’s visual appeal.
Fire/Burglar Alarm system
Security alarm setups have become a popular home addition as prices have come down. It’s estimated that 27% of U.S. households currently have a security system.
Incorporating all the components of an alarm system, like door locks, window locks, and inside and outside cameras is another tech item you may want to include in a home construction project.
Smart Home Tech
People are more connected than ever, and it seems there’s no end to smart gadgets that make our lives easier. Some of the types of smart home tech you may want to consider during construction are:
- doorbells
- light switches
- smart light bulbs
- thermostats
- ceiling fans
- motorized shades
- garage door openers
- curb painting stencils
- and more
If you have a smart home system connected to your ac unit, make sure to schedule annual air conditioning services to maximize its energy efficiency. Depending on the condition and age of your current system, you might need a new and more modern air conditioning installation or HVAC repair. An experienced air conditioning contractor like J&M Cooling and Heating will be able to make this determination for you without too much trouble.
How to Approach a Home Technology Addition to a Construction Project
Many builders will present an AV installer to you much the same way they provide a plumber, drain cleaning expert, HVAC technician like Performance Air Conditioning of Texas, or electrician. Make sure the AV installer is aware of what you want and don’t just settle on a pre-configured package. Before work starts is the time to ensure you get exactly what you are looking for.
Consider working with a local technology expert like Two River Computer who will work hand in hand with you and your existing electrician to get you what you want and save money too!
At TRC we have been working with homeowners during the new home builds and renovations to get them the home tech upgrades of their dreams. We do this by truly understanding their needs and bringing our 15 years of experience to the table to ensure it’s done right the first time.
There’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot to add a TV outlet or speaker grouping in a room that’s finished and the electrician is long gone. Cutting holes in walls and having to repair and paint can be a pain, and it costs more.
So, if you’re building or renovating, ask us to work with your general contractor or electrician early in the process. We will provide the materials, map out locations where specific devices will be installed, and work with the electricians to get the right wires in the right places.
Once we confirm the electrician followed the plan, you won’t see us again until you’re ready to install anything, which usually occurs after the painting and floors are finished. That’s weeks or months depending on the size of the project. We will work with you to select the proper equipment to be installed and follow that up with expert installation and training, so you get the most out of your new tech and your new home.
Coordinating your tech installation pro with your construction pro ensures a smooth process with as few hiccups as possible.
