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home renovation, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE, LIGHTING

Notice Any of These 7 Things? Call an Electrician Immediately

November 22, 2021

Many of us take for granted that our home electrical systems will allow us to carry on with life as usual. Most of the time they do, especially if they were installed correctly and have been properly maintained. Still, there’s always a chance that something could go wrong. Sometimes, people accept certain malfunctions as normal and simply ignore them. That’s not necessarily a good idea. Take a look at the following problems to get a better idea of when you should call a professional electrician.

1) Smoke or a Burning Smell

Smoke is a sure sign it’s time to reach out for help. Where there’s smoke or a strange burning odor, there could be fire to follow. This is especially true if an outlet, light switch, or appliance is the source of the smoke or smell. It’s a good idea to make the local fire department your first point of contact. From there, contact an Idaho Falls electrician.

2) Sparks Coming from an Outlet or Switch

Sparks flying from an electrical outlet or switch are also a sign that a problem has developed. Seeing sparks when plugging in an electrical appliance or device is an indication of trouble, too. In either situation, be sure to contact an electrician in Idaho Falls as quickly as possible.

3) Your Lights Are Flickering

This is one of those issues people often dismiss as a normal occurrence. It’s not uncommon for lights to dim or flicker a bit when an appliance kicks on. That doesn’t mean it should be happening, though. This may be a warning sign that your electrical system needs repairs or you’re placing more of a strain on the system than it can handle. If your lights flicker or dim from time to time, don’t hesitate to find an electrician for help.

4) Unusual Buzzing Sounds

Buzzing sounds coming from outlets, switches, or other portions of your home electrical system can certainly be unnerving. That’s your internal fight-or-flight response kicking in, and it means there’s a clear and present danger. It could indicate a serious problem with the wiring that could lead to shocks or a fire.

5) Outlets are Hot to the Touch

If you plug in an appliance or device and notice the outlet feels warm or hot, there’s a problem in the making. This is also the case if your light switches start feeling warmer than usual. Unplug any items that are plugged into the outlet or turn off the affected switch immediately. Consider shutting off the circuit breaker that controls that portion of the electrical system as well. Then, call an electrician near me.

6) Tripping Circuit Breakers

Do some of the circuit breakers in your home trip from time to time? This often happens when an appliance kicks on or someone plugs a new appliance or device into an outlet. Though you can often switch the circuit breaker back on to temporarily remedy the issue, it’s a sign that there’s a serious underlying problem that needs professional attention.

7) Lights or Outlets Aren’t Working

If some or all of your lights or electrical outlets aren’t working, it’s definitely a good idea to call an electrician. Problems like these can disrupt your life, but they’re more than minor inconveniences. They’re indications that there’s a potentially dangerous problem with the overall electrical system.

Keeping Your Electrical System Safe and Functional

Some electrical issues are easy to spot. Others may not really seem like much of a problem. Either way, it’s best to have them checked out and repaired as quickly as possible. Ignoring even a seemingly minor electrical problem can lead to major malfunctions and safety hazards down the road.

SHOP LIGHTING…

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CLEANING, home renovation, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Waste Disposal: What Items Is a Roll Off Dumpster Suitable For?

September 19, 2021

Most people know what they can and cannot throw away in municipal trash cans. However, there’s some confusion about how rubbish disposal regulations apply to roll-off dumpsters.

The best way to figure out what items are suitable for disposal is always to contact a qualified waste management company. However, there are also some regulations that apply to all roll-off dumpsters. Read on to find out what types of items are appropriate for this form of waste disposal.

Household Junk

Renting a Roll Off Dumpster is one of the easiest ways to declutter a basement, attic, garage, or entire home. Residents can dispose of most forms of non-hazardous household junk and debris, including:

Mattresses and boxsprings

Old toys

Clothing and rags

Tables and chairs

Boxes and documents

Household trash

Most furniture

Fire- or water-damaged items

And more

Almost all types of furniture can be disposed of in roll-off dumpsters. It’s fine to get rid of things like china cabinets and hutches, entertainment centers, couches, bookshelves, dressers, and other wood, cloth, metal, and particleboard items.

Most Household Appliances

Household appliances that do not contain hazardous materials such as freon can be placed in roll-off dumpsters. It’s also perfectly fine to dispose of refrigerators, freezers, and AC units along with general household appliances, but make sure to drain freon and other hazardous fluids first.

Yard Waste

Most landfills dispose of yard waste such as trees, branches, grass, mulch, brush, and sod by mulching or composting it. Thankfully, that doesn’t mean yard waste can’t be disposed of in roll-off dumpsters, though. It just means renters who want to use their dumpsters for landscaping or yard clean-ups should keep their vegetative debris separate from household garbage and construction waste.

Construction Debris

Construction and remodeling projects generate a surprising amount of debris, most of which can be disposed of using roll-off dumpsters. Contractors often rent dumpsters to dispose of brick and stone, concrete, drywall, used or scrap wood, and even asphalt and roofing shingles. Construction debris tends to be quite heavy, though, so it’s important to check the weight limits on dumpsters before deciding which one to rent.

Commercial Waste

Residential property owners and rental tenants aren’t the only ones who can benefit from roll-off dumpsters. Many commercial businesses also rent dumpsters to facilitate things like office clean-outs, property renovations, and substantial landscape improvements.

Roll-off dumpsters can be used to transport all kinds of office waste, including furniture, paper documents, and even old carpeting, but don’t use them to dispose of computers and other electronics. Modern electronics, including computers, printers, and even TVs, are best disposed of through e-waste recycling programs.

What Can’t Go in Roll-Off Dumpsters?

It should be clear by now that roll-off dumpsters are quite versatile. However, they should never be used to dispose of hazardous waste or liquid-based items. Local and national regulations prohibit using roll-off dumpsters to dispose of items that could pose a hazard to human or environmental health, including:

Wet paint, stains, or lacquers

Household or commercial chemicals

Oil and other automotive fluids

Asbestos

Tires

Electronics and batteries

Propane tanks

Medical waste

When in doubt, contact waste management professional. He or she should be able to offer advice about how to dispose of potentially hazardous materials safely.

Dumpster Rentals Provide a Versatile Solution

Whether property owners want to clear out their basements or renovate an entire section of a house, roll-off dumpsters provide a simple solution to disposing of waste safely and responsibly. Reach out to a reputable dumpster rental company to discuss sizing and request a quote today.

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home renovation, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

5 Practical Construction Management Tips

September 3, 2021

Construction projects require a lot of planning. Project managers have to take steps to make sure every phase is planned in advance and all the contractors show up on time to ensure the job is completed according to schedule.

The good news is that there are plenty of tools and industry best practices that will make construction management much easier. Read on to find five practical tips that can help.

1. Leverage the Power of Technology

These days, apps to assist with construction management abound. It’s best to purchase software that was specifically developed to meet unique industry needs. Download a concrete app to manage foundation laying and the construction of concrete structures, find payroll management software to ensure that all the contractors get paid on time, and use broader construction management tools to keep all the ducks in a row.

2. Plan and Schedule in Advance

Adequate planning for a construction project takes some time, but it’s worth sorting out a detailed schedule in advance so that all the contractors are on the same page. Coordinate and organize tasks in a logical and efficient way, and take the time during the planning phase to ensure that all necessary resources, including manpower, tools, equipment, and materials, will be available when they’re needed. Work with suppliers and subcontractors to set a realistic timetable, then be prepared to adjust the plan as needed if issues arise.

3. Take on One Construction Problem at a Time

It’s easy for construction managers to get bogged down in details. While multitasking is an essential skill, it’s never wise to try to do everything at once. Prioritize issues in a way that makes sense.

For some construction managers, it’s easiest to tackle small problems first before moving on to larger ones. For others, it makes more sense to tackle the biggest issues first before focusing on smaller details. Either way, construction managers need to work with their project teams to develop solutions and address problems without creating unnecessary delays, and that requires focusing on just one thing at once.

4. Improve Communication

Construction project managers need to be able to communicate effectively in both written and oral forms. It’s important to be clear and concise, and it’s always best to establish a detailed communication plan in advance that includes both a chain of command for information sharing and predetermined methods of communication for dealing with every circumstance.

There’s no one communication strategy that’s right for every stage of a construction project. While change orders should always be conveyed through written communication, it’s perfectly fine to send a quick email or text to convey less vital information. Just keep in mind that delays almost always result from poor communication, and projects always run smoother if all the contractors are on the same page.

5. Learn From Mistakes

Everyone makes mistakes, but construction managers can learn from them to improve efficiency on the next project. Take the time to perform a project postmortem to assess the team’s performance after each project is completed and identify both areas of concern and places where the team excelled. An honest assessment of the team’s performance can help to inform future project planning.

The Bottom Line

Even seemingly simple construction projects can be quite complex. They usually require working with multiple specialized subcontractors, all of whom need to be on the same page about project timelines and expectations. Construction managers who have had trouble juggling their myriad job roles can implement the tips above to help ensure that everything goes smoothly on the next project.

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CLEANING, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Best ways of dealing with pests in the home

August 29, 2021

There is nothing worse than finding a pest in the home. Whether they are cockroaches, flies, rats, spiders, or other insects, they can be a real menace to your home life. As well as disrupting your relaxation time, these pests may also carry harmful diseases. Depending on how drastic your infestation is, there are several ways to deal with pests. These can include doing it yourself or hiring a professional to deal with the problem. Even if you are hiring a professional there is plenty, you can do to manage the situation on your own. This article will give you some tips and advice when dealing with pests.

Exterminators

Services offered by professionals will often cover the following: termite control, bedbug control, and cockroach control. However, they can extend their services to more hairy menaces such as rats and mice. There are many considerations to take when hiring an exterminator such as experience, certification, professionalism, reputation, and price. It is a reasonable idea to speak to many different people in your area to get a good view of what local exterminators can offer you. Of course, your choice of professional may depend on where you live. Exterminator Brooklyn services have seen increased specialty in bed bug extermination as the population continues to grow. Remember to do your research before committing to a service.

Preparation

Before an exterminator arrives, it is important to prepare as best you can for their work. Things such as providing as much access as possible can make a huge difference to the outcome of your extermination services. Removing large pieces of furniture from the corners can mean that the extermination process candela with some of the thriving areas of pests. Equally, you should ensure that your clothes and jewelry are all packed away and covered so that the chemicals don’t interfere with them.

Additionally, you should think about clearing out your dustbins and countertops. Anywhere you store cutlery and utensils will likely need to be sprayed so it is definitely worth protecting them before the exterminator arrives. Cover the water outlet of your taps and water filter to ensure that you do not ingest any residual chemicals left by the process. You should also store all of your food in plastic containers. This will not only protect it from chemicals but stop the pests from seeking refuge within it.

Managing the problem yourself

If you are having problems with pests, then it is likely that something in your home is attracting them and that they have a way in. To stop attracting insects, you should store food in sealed containers and clean floors meticulously. One extra way to deter pests is to set up protective measures. These can include baking soda around the floors and the bed. These dehydrate the insects. Plants like mint and rosemary can deter fleas, flies, and cockroaches. The best way to combat pests is to prevent them.

Pests

Your home should be somewhere you can relax. There is nothing worse than feeling like your home is being invaded. By preparing your home adequately, you can prevent infestations from starting. Also, never forget that getting in a professional is nothing to be ashamed of. If It reclaims your home from the pests then it is worth it.

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home renovation, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Important Repairs to Complete Before You Sell Your Home

August 11, 2021

When you’re busy, it’s easy for time to slip away. Before you realize it, it’s been months since you’ve done any repairs in your home. Whether it’s antique clock repair you need, or the tiles on your roof need replacing, it seems that there is always something that needs to be sorted out. It can be difficult trying to stay on top of it everything you have to do in your home!

You might be happy living with a few broken items in your home until you find time to replace them or call a professional in to fix them. However, if you’re looking to put your property on the market in the near future, it’s a good idea to get any major issues fixed before you sell.

Research shows that around a quarter of all house sales fall through due to problems found during a home inspection or environmental issues. To avoid your property sale being one of the quarter that falls through, you want to get as many things fixed as possible!

To make the selling process a little less overwhelming, here is a list of the important repairs you need to complete within your home before you sell.

Fixing the Faulty Wiring

You will not be able to sell your home if there are problems with any electrical wiring. Usually, electrical problems can be fixed quickly and easily by a qualified electrician. If your home requires a circuit breaker, you may need a replacement to comply with the local rules and regulations. Most homes are advised a maximum of 100 amps, but some larger homes may require a 200 amp circuit breaker.

Sorting Out the Walls

If there are any holes in your walls from previously hung photo frames or mirrors, fill them in using some filler. Once this has dried, don’t forget to apply a layer of paint to the wall to ensure it’s all the same color. Even if your walls are hole-free, giving them a fresh coat of paint can immediately make your home look more modern and inviting to potential buyers. If possible, stick to a more neutral palette for your walls as opposed to bright and bold colors, as this will appeal to a wider range of buyers and will increase your chances of selling.

Fixing the Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen is the heart of the home. Therefore, before you sell, get your kitchen in tip-top shape to impress any potential buyers. Replace or repair any chipped cabinet doors, make sure all of your handles are matching, and fix any issues with the plumbing system to the room.

Organizing the Bathroom

There are a number of repairs that your bathroom might need. Firstly, you need to check that none of your equipment is broken or damaged. Make sure the tiles aren’t chipped, the bathtub isn’t dented, and the cabinets aren’t scratched. Remember to take a look at the handles too, and check for any built-up dirt or rust.

From here, you’re going to want to make sure the sinks and faucets aren’t leaking and that all drains are clear. Turn on your taps and ensure there is hot and cold water flow. If you identify a major issue, it’s probably best to call in a plumber to take a look and fix any plumbing problems.

Next, take a look in the shower. Due to the moisture-prone environment of the bathroom, mold can start to build up in the corners of your shower before you even notice. If this is the case, grab some bleach and give your shower a good scrub. In the worst-case scenario, you may have to reseal the shower edges.

Fixing Heating Issues

Sorting out your heating system might seem like a non-essential task when you’re selling your home. However, if it’s the middle of winter and your home reaches extremely cold temperatures due to a lack of sufficient heating, nobody is going to want to buy it! If your current system is not working correctly, you may not need a full replacement. It may just need a few repairs by a qualified technician, and this shouldn’t cost you too much money.

Fixing the Lawn

If you’ve decided to sell your property, don’t forget about the outside as well as the inside! If you’ve managed to maintain your garden all year round, you might have very few things to do outside. Spend some time removing any weeds, trimming the bushes, and repairing any damaged fencing. You may also wish to apply a quick coat of paint to your fencing to give it a new lease of life.

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HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Is Your Roof Leaking? Here Are 10 Probable Causes

March 23, 2021

Recent reports show that there are currently around 140 million homes in America, including apartment buildings, single-family homes, and duplexes. While all those dwellings come in numerous shapes, sizes, and floor plans, they all have a few things in common. For one, they rely on electrical and plumbing systems to keep occupants comfortable and remain up to code. At the same time, they all have roofs in place to help protect their occupants, interiors, and structural components against the elements.

When Roofs Fail

Though roofs are built to hold up to almost anything Mother Nature sends their way, they’re not invulnerable. Over time or due to certain circumstances, they sometimes fail. Companies like roofec precision exteriors are available to help prevent roofing issues and step in to thwart further damage if issues arise. Roofs can develop leaks for any number of reasons, but take a look at a few of the most common causes.

1) Broken or Missing Shingles

One of the most common reasons roofs develop leaks is missing roofing components. These could be shingles, shakes, tiles, or sheets of metal depending on the type of roof you have in place. Those materials are designed to work with other aspects of the roofing structure to keep out moisture. If a portion of them is missing, this leaves a gap through which rain, snow, and condensation can gain entry to your home.

2) Skylights

Skylights are beautiful and functional additions to homes. They improve interior and exterior appearance, allow natural light to flow in, and can increase property values. That being said, they’re also well-known culprits when it comes to roof leaks. If the skylights themselves are cracked or broken from falling debris, the damage is usually obvious. Some less visible reasons they might leak include worn or damaged seals and improper installation. In any of those cases, they become major sources of interior damage.

3) Punctures

Storms can toss a barrage of falling limbs and other debris at your roof. In some cases, those hazards hit the roof with such force that they puncture the roofing materials. They may not penetrate into the attic, but a serious surface wound is all it takes to cause a leak. Punctures may be visible from the ground, or they might not be noticeable at all without an up-close inspection.

4) Damaged Flashings

Flashings are unsung heroes of the roofing world. They’re installed under shingles and along the joints of the roof to provide barriers against wind and moisture. They can crack or warp over time because of extreme temperatures, heavy rains, and high winds. When they do, they leave the joints exposed and open the door for roof leaks.

5) Ice Dams

Ice dams are lengths of ice that form along the edge of a roof or in clogged gutters. They prevent snow and ice melt from draining off the roof properly. In some cases, they can work their way under the edges of roofing materials and cause damage. All this detracts from the effectiveness of the roof and can lead to extensive interior damage if not repaired promptly.

6) Damaged Vent Pipe Covers

All homes are required to have vent pipes in place to prevent air and other gasses from building up the plumbing system. Without them, or if they’re clogged, drains might not drain as well as they should, and potentially dangerous sewer gasses could build up in the home. Since they emerge through the roof, holes have to be cut in the roofing materials to accommodate them. Then, covers are installed where the pipes come through to prevent leaks. If those covers become cracked or worn, though, they don’t work properly and allow leaks to form.

7) Poorly Sealed Valleys

Valleys are the areas where different portions of the roof come together. They’re fitted with seals to help deflect water that runs along them from rain or melting snow and ice. If those seals are damaged or aren’t installed properly, though, they won’t work as they should. Instead of flowing safely along the roof and into the gutters and downspouts, water will seep into the attic through the valleys.

8) Damaged Roof Vents

Roofs are equipped with vents to allow for adequate airflow. Without them, heat and moisture would build up in the attic and cause condensation that would lead to mold growth and other issues. These vents vary in design, but all of them are prime spots for leaks to form. They’re designed to ward off leaks, but they can become worn or damaged and not work as well as they should.

9) Chimney Problems

Chimneys are notorious areas for leaks because so many things can go wrong with them. Damaged caps or crowns, cracks in the stone or brickwork, and damaged flashings around the chimney are only a few of the most common problems in this regard. Figuring out just which issue is the one causing the leak can be difficult, and in many cases, several of them are at work.

10) Time

Not all roof leaks come from storm damage, low-quality materials, or improper installation. Time may heal all wounds, but it doesn’t work the same way for roofs. Be sure to have the roof inspected at least once or twice per year and following major storms to catch problems early and prevent further damage. Still, all roofs need to be replaced at some point.

This varies widely depending on the type of material used. Asphalt shingles can last about 15 to 30 years whereas composite shingles last up to 20 years. Wood shingles can last as long as 25 years, and metal roofing may hold out for 75 years. Clay tiles and slate have been known to last a century or longer under optimal conditions. Keep in mind, the materials underneath the shingles, tiles, shakes, or metal may not last as long as the outer layer.

Keeping Your Roof in Top-Notch Shape

Roof leaks are common problems for homeowners. Some develop gradually due to normal wear and tear while others come from storm damage or poor craftsmanship. Time, alone, may be your roof’s worst enemy. Be sure to keep up with inspections and routine maintenance, and have damage repaired as soon as possible. All this will keep your roof in top-notch shape and help safeguard your home and belongings against damage.

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HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Should You Repair or Replace Your Current Boiler?

December 23, 2020

Buying a new boiler is expensive, and it’s normal to be reluctant about it. There are some cases when your current boiler can still be salvaged, even if it’s showing signs that it’s on its way out. This could give you the extra time needed to cushion the blow and do your research on which boiler type or model you should buy next. However, there are some cases when you’ll have no choice but to replace it or when repairs are not worth it. Let’s take a look at what would be the best decision based on your situation.

Think Boiler Safety

The first thing you have to do is check to see if your current unit is running safely. And, in most cases, old boilers don’t meet new safety requirements. Consult a team like nonpareilsolutions.co.uk to see if your boiler is safe. They will also be able to tell you if it can be repaired safely or if it needs replacing.

It’s important to remember that even after a fix, your unit could still be unsafe, and, in worst cases, you could end up exposing yourself to things like carbon monoxide. Only an engineer will be able to tell you how much life your boiler still has left in it. Only once you’re sure that the boiler is safe can you consider the option of repairing it.

Could You Make Energy Savings by Replacing?

Another thing you have to consider when repairing a boiler is whether you could be making savings by buying a more energy efficient unit. You could eventually end up recuperating the initial cost quickly when you take away the money you would’ve spent on repairs.

Not only will a new boiler be more energy-efficient, but it will also be better at heating rooms fast. If you already have a modern and efficient unit, however, having it fixed by a registered professional could be the best option.

How Much Will It Cost to Repair?

Another thing you have to consider when having an old boiler repaired is that repairs could end up costing much more on an old unit than on a new one. That’s because some of the parts might be more expensive and harder to find.

You should also know that there’s the possibility that something will go wrong in the immediate future. So, make sure that you assess your costs and see if replacing would make more sense from a financial standpoint.

You should repair your unit only if the procedure is simple, or if it can be done at a low cost. You also have to make sure that you’ll be able to run it for a long time without worrying about future breakdowns. If you have a new boiler, then chances are it’s still under warranty, which could not only cover you for parts but service as well.

Conclusion

As you can see, deciding between replacing or repairing your boiler doesn’t have to be complicated. Make sure that you look at all the factors cited above and make the right choice.

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HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

7 Tips to Protect Your Beautiful Home Interior

November 26, 2020

You’ve put a lot of time, effort, and creativity into creating a beautiful designer-style home interior. Just looking at the results gives you a good feeling, but now that interior decor has to stand up to its greatest test: the rough-and tumble of daily life. Keep it gorgeous for longer with these handy hints and tips.

1. Take Precautions Against Plumbing Mishaps

Running water is a wonderful thing – but not when it’s running through the ceiling and all over your stunning decor. Burst water pipes and water heater disasters can all-too easily turn your home into a flood zone causing untold damage to furniture, ceiling boards, and paint finishes. All in all, it’s best to avoid the nightmare altogether. In the first place, get expert advice on preventing burst pipes in your home. Even so, accidents can happen. If they do, it’s worth being aware that water damage restoration experts are out there. Call for help and see what can be saved or restored.

2. Protect Upholstery and Carpets From Mishaps

From careless kids to errant pets and those butterfingers moments when that glass of red wine slips through your fingers, it is possible to protect your carpets and upholstery from mishaps, thrills, and spills. Knowing that little accidents can be easily cleaned up will be a big stress-saver. When it comes to stain protection, Scotchguard is the big name that everyone knows and trusts – this is no sales pitch, but it has to be said. If you can find a good alternative, feel free! Either way, being able to relax and laugh off little slips that would otherwise cause costly damage is a plus that will make your and your family’s home life pleasanter.

3. Ensure that Wood Finishes Can’t Get Water Marks

If you feel the need to rush around with coasters before anyone rests a cup or glass on a wood surface, it’s time to think about protecting wood so that it can’t get unsightly water marks even when there’s an unnoticed spill. You don’t need to spoil that warm finish – it’s just a matter of finding the right product to repel moisture so that you and your guests can relax. There are plenty of options on the market. Enquire at your local hardware store, or look online to see what your options are.

4. Protect Walls From Scuffs and Scrapes

Presumably, you’ve taken the precaution of using high-quality wall-coatings that allow you to wash away the occasional grubby fingermark – but scuffs and scrapes are another matter. From bed headboards to doors that bang against walls when carelessly opened, it’s easy to spot the areas that are vulnerable. Protecting your interior wall finishes and maintaining those carefully chosen paint colors could be as easy as installing rubber stoppers in the right places. Look for possible problems areas and prevent damage before it can happen.

5. Invest In Sun Protection

Natural light is glorious, but the direct rays of the sun can fade fabrics and damage artworks faster than you might imagine. Keeping drapes closed spoils the feeling of airiness and freedom you get from having big windows that let the light shine in. Fortunately, there are many more ways to protect interiors against sun damage. These range from film coatings for windows to exterior awnings that let in the light but not the sunshine. While protecting your decor, they will also help to reduce your summer cooling bills.

Do you need this kind of protection? Pay extra attention to South-facing windows (or, if you’re in the Southern Hemisphere, North-facing windows) and see whether the sun’s rays pose a risk to the longevity of your interior decor investment.

6. Maintain Leather

Light-colored leather makes a great style statement, but it can stain quite easily. Once again, your answer lies in choosing the right products. Look out for leather furniture waxes and conditioners that help leather to shrug off stains. It’s not just a matter of spills. The dye from denim or the natural oils of skin and hair resting against surfaces can create ugly, dark marks. Choosing darker coloured leather helps, but if you’ve gone for light shades, do keep your preventative maintenance schedule up.

7. Hello Kitty

Most of the time, cats don’t actually damage furniture – but if they take to claw-sharpening on the corner of your expensive couch, the harmony between you and your feline companion will be short-lived. Scratching posts offer an alternative, but cats don’t necessarily feel the need to think the way we do. There are ways to train cats not to scratch furniture, but while you’re working on it, you might want to consider unobtrusive couch corner protectors or thick throws to protect that upholstery.

Nothing Lasts Forever: When it’s Time to Freshen Up your Interior

You’ll know when it’s time to freshen up, but do check out ways to refresh or restore items that are starting to look a little tired. In many instances, it is possible to give good quality furnishings a new lease of life. Consider doing a few simple repairs even if you want a complete change. The resale value of your furniture will be much better if it isn’t looking too tired – and the proceeds can go towards your next decorating project.

SHOP HOME DECOR NEUTRALS….

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CLEANING, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

10 Common Causes of Mold in a Household Environment

November 9, 2020

Mold is a common household problem that’s potentially unhealthy. Mold spores travel and if inhaled cause all types of respiratory issues and allergies. Moreover, it can lead to lung problems including pneumonia. Here’s a look at some of the common causes of mold in the home.

How to Spot Mold:

Mold is a fungus that can be several different colors and may look fuzzy on the surface. Mold thrives in damp and wet conditions and spreads quickly. Homeowners with a mold problem need to call a specialist. Anyone who needs Mold Removal Melbourne FL needs to get help from a reputable company.

#1 Check the AC System

One of the most common causes of mold is a leaking air conditioner. The system can leak behind drywall and spread mold onto the carpet in the next room. Air conditioning systems cause a type of mold known as mucor which is highly allergenic. You will need to have the leak sealed and make the necessary repairs to get rid of the mold.

#2 Inspect the Foundation

If your landscaping is off just a bit you could become a mold victim. The drain system is supposed to move mold away from the home. However, there’s a slope in the landscaping that causes water to pool around the foundation. This scenario contributes to mold inside the home.

#3 The Basement

Aren’t all basements damp? That’s a definite no or at least they shouldn’t be. A damp basement smells horrible and gets moldy quickly. The basement sits below the ground and is particularly susceptible to leaks and water problems.

#4 Flooding

Mold is a fact of life if you’re the victim of a flood. These natural disasters bring rushing water into the home and a major clean-up is necessary. It takes a while for a house to dry up after a flood. Unfortunately, mold will grow and build up. Floods often trigger toxic mold growth.

#5 Wet Clothes

It’s not uncommon to forget there’s a load of clothes in the washer. Hopefully, the clothes don’t sit too long. Remember, mold begins growing in 24 hours. If the clothes are left too long, wash them again in hot water.

#6 Poor Ventilation

Never completely shutter your home if you leave for a while. There has to be a way for air to circulate. Mold naturally grows on surfaces in the home and a closed house is a perfect place for mold to grow.

#7 Condensation

Condensation is a factor in winter due to changing temperatures. It’s cold outside and warm on the inside. If condensation is a problem, open a window so air can circulate in that room. Further, be sure to check pipes and concrete surfaces for condensation.

#8 Leaking Roof

Be sure to inspect the roof on a regular basis for leaks. Leaky flashing and shingles let water get into your attic. This is a prime breeding ground for mold.

#9 Pipes

Pipes are everywhere in the home. Pipes are in the ceiling, under the floor, and in the walls. If pipes leak, mold grows behind the drywall. You may also notice mold on the ceiling and walls.

#10 Humidity

Your home is a molding target if you live where there’s a lot of humidity. Many homes located beside bodies of water have this problem. Make sure the home is well-ventilated.

Mole can be hazardous to your health. The elderly and young children are most at risk. Make sure to take the necessary precautions to keep your environment mold-free.

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home renovation, HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE

Hassle-free and durable building materials for your home

October 22, 2020

A home is a place where a family gathers to enjoy the warmth and make memories. With the harsh and unpredictable climate that most states experience, owners need a strong structure. When building a house, it is advisable to consider high-quality and resilient materials to enhance durability. It is possible to live in a residence where you rarely have to repaint the walls, replace the roof, or rebuild the deck.

Most durable building components need minimal maintenance. For example, you can opt for cedar, copper, slate, aluminum, and galvanized steel for the roof. Property owners always have a choice to go for relatively cheap materials that they will replace in a decade or two or pay more for a sturdy structure that will outlive them. They may also consider granite fabrication to make the home’s countertops durable and stylish.

What’s in a Roof?

Roofs are crucial because they shield the occupants of a home from the weather. The direct effects of freezing and thawing are felt most by the roof. When building a house, a low-maintenance roof is not one that lasts 20 years—it’s one that lasts for several decades or a lifetime. The cost of the materials and installation will determine how long the roof lasts. Some of the materials include:

· Clay tiles. Just like concrete, clay tiles can last up to 100 years.

· Slate. Although it may be challenging to source slate, this material may last for a century and beyond.

· Copper. Copper lasts for 70 years or more, but finding reliable installers may be a problem.

· Galvanized steel. Metal is ideal for snowy areas and can last for decades. However, high-quality metal roofs can be costly.

Why Invest in Indestructible Exteriors?

While appearances are always important, the exterior must withstand harsh weather conditions. Remember, the surfaces suffer the wrath of extreme weather conditions. Choosing the best materials is not enough because some builders may not know how to install them correctly.

Insist on sturdy materials that can withstand the repeated effects of freezing and thawing, and get them installed properly by a professional builder. The exterior trim may necessitate maintenance more than any other section. With your builder’s help, you could use the following:

· Fiber cement

· PVC· Aluminum

· Wood

Ensure Your Wood Siding is Low-Maintenance

Natural materials like cedar and redwood require minimal maintenance. For instance, materials like Western Red Cedar will be appealing even without applying any coating. In addition, cedar could last up to 60 years without the need for repairs or replacement.

However, after painting any wood, you may have to recoat it periodically. Although such maintenance costs were minimal in the past, things are different these days. Labor is relatively expensive, and so is the paint. Uncoated wood is ideal for any property, but it may attain a grey color as it ages.

Budget Materials Appropriately

Some products, like uPVC windows and doors, are meant to be low-maintenance. However, employing the principle of proper installation applies. When installing the windows, it is imperative to hire experienced contractors to achieve the best results. Budget appropriately to ensure you get the best low-maintenance materials for the home.Scheduling maintenance and repairs is vital. All the low-maintenance materials, however good, require some care. Ensuring that preventive maintenance is done on time might guarantee low upkeep. It is important to work with a reputable professional that will work with your schedule.

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