u/Legitimate_Car_4092

We’re adding A/C to the first floor of a home we recently purchased. The second floor already has central air, but the first floor does not. We’ve been told it’s not feasible to run new ceiling ducts, so our two options are:
- Central air with floor vents
- Mini splits

The first floor is large and very open concept. We would need 3-4 mini split units if we go that route.

We currently have mini splits in our townhouse, and I haven’t loved the experience. I find myself constantly adjusting the temperature, fan speed, and turning them on and off. I also don’t like sitting directly in front of them, and it seems like the room cools unevenly.

On the other hand, I’ve been told that floor supply vents aren’t ideal for cooling because cold air naturally settles, so they may struggle to cool the entire space effectively.

Ignoring cost, which option would you choose and why? If you’ve had central A/C supplied through floor vents, I’d especially love to hear about your real-world experience and whether it cools the space well.

We’re replacing 10 windows in an older home and trying to decide between two very different options and would love real world feedback.

We were originally planning on Andersen 400 Series Woodwright double-hung windows (wood interior, Fibrex exterior), but our contractor is strongly recommending Crystal Windows (vinyl), which come in at a little over 1/3 of the cost of the Andersens. For reference, both options have a the same U-factor on paper.

I really like the look and feel of wood interiors. It fits the style of our home much better and I also prefer the hardware options on the Andersen. That said, our contractor mentioned his carpenter could build interior wood trim and grids around vinyl windows to achieve a similar look.

A few questions I’m hoping to get insight on:

1. Has anyone used vinyl windows with custom wood interior trim/grids? How did it turn out in practice?
2. Is Andersen’s Fibrex actually meaningfully better in durability or performance compared to standard vinyl?
3. Any long-term experience with Crystal Windows specifically? Would you recommend them or avoid them?

Trying to balance aesthetics, durability, and cost here, appreciate any experience or advice.

We’re renovating our kitchen and I am in love with white Carrara marble. It is so timeless and beautiful I can’t get it out of my head. That being said we have a 2 year old and one on the way so I fear marble would get destroyed rather quickly. We are a messy in the kitchen family.

Would I be crazy to do marble? I really don’t like the look of quartz and haven’t found a quartzite I love yet.

Would love opinions on marble vs quartzite or whatever else. Thanks!

We’re building a new kitchen and going with a farmhouse sink but I’m overwhelmed with all the options. I need advice - is cast iron that much better than fireclay? Does price really correlate with quality? There is such a huge range.

Any favorite brands or specific models?

For reference we want single basin, white color, 30 inches wide, drain in the center.