HOME REPAIRS + MAINTENANCE, LIGHTING

Lowering Your Bills: When Are Electricity Rates the Highest?

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It’s frustrating to open your electric bill and see a jump in your utility charges. You want to know why the electric company is charging more when your usage hasn’t changed. Several reasons may explain this jump in your bill.

Electric companies often charge more during periods of peak electricity usage. They do so to balance supply and demand on the grid. The company charges more for electricity when use spikes upward. This increase in energy bills has led many people to look into solar companies near me to cut their energy costs. Why do prices increase at times?

Weekday Afternoons Are Most Expensive

Weekdays from around noon to early evening tend to see the highest electricity demand as homes and businesses are fully powered up. Usage then declines in the late evenings and overnight when fewer lights, appliances, and devices are running. Based on this fairly predictable pattern, some electric companies have introduced “time of use” rate plans that charge more per kilowatt-hour during peak afternoon hours and less during nights and weekends. The differential between the highest and lowest rates within a time-of-use plan can be substantial.

People might assume homes aren’t using as much power during these periods. Many individuals are at home or school. This doesn’t mean the homes aren’t using electricity, however. Men and women want to come home to a comfortable temperature, so HVAC systems continue to run throughout the day. This usage puts a demand on the electrical grid even as businesses are using more electricity to keep their locations at the desired temperature.

Summertime Brings Increased Air Conditioning Load

Electricity usage and rates also follow seasonal trends. The summer months of June through September feature the greatest demand in areas where air conditioning is widely used to cope with hot and humid weather. Running air conditioners for many hours per day puts considerable strain on the electric grid. Utilities often struggle to meet the heightened loads, meaning they must utilize more costly generating capacity. These extra expenses get passed along to customers through higher per-kilowatt-hour charges or surcharges during the summer.

Similar issues could be seen in winter when the temperature drops. People will run their HVAC systems more to keep their homes warm. This increased usage could strain the electric grid, leading to higher energy prices.

Extreme Weather Events Strain the Grid

Spikes in electricity prices can also occur when extreme hot or cold weather events happen that drive up heating and cooling use all at once. For example, an intense heat wave or an unusually frigid cold snap can drastically boost the demand on utilities to power homes and offices. When demand starts to approach or exceed available supply, power reliability declines for the grid as a whole. Utilities then often raise rates very quickly under these emergency conditions to reduce demand and encourage conservation behaviors. Governments may also institute temporary bans on certain electricity uses until the weather crisis passes. Nobody likes for this to happen, but it is sometimes necessary during extremes to protect grid integrity.

Weekday afternoon hours tend to have the highest regular peak usage. Summer also brings higher demand for cooling and more strain on the overall electric infrastructure, although winter can bring about increased demand. Extreme weather events can force utilities to impose exceptional rate increases or restrictions when the grid is under duress coping with spiking energy consumption. Understanding when and why electricity tends to be more expensive allows customers to plan and budget accordingly while doing what they can to shift usage to off-peak periods.

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BATHROOMS

7 Possible Reasons Why There is Low Water Pressure in Your Home

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Experiencing low water pressure in your home can be a frustrating issue, affecting everything from the efficiency of washing machines and dishwashers to the comfort of showering.

Various factors can lead to low water pressure, and identifying the root cause is the first step toward organizing the appropriate plumbing repair required and resolving the issue.

Here are seven possible reasons why your home might be experiencing low water pressure:

Clogged Pipes

Clogged pipes are one of the most common reasons for low water pressure. Over time, pipes can accumulate mineral deposits, especially in areas with hard water. These deposits can narrow the path through which water flows, significantly reducing water pressure.

In older homes, rust and other debris can also accumulate in pipes, leading to clogs.

Corroded Plumbing

Corrosion is a natural process that affects metal pipes over time, leading to a reduction in water flow and pressure.

This is particularly prevalent in older homes with steel or galvanized plumbing. As the pipes corrode, the interior surface can become uneven or constricted, reducing the water’s flow rate.

Partially Closed or Damaged Water Meter Valve

The water meter valve, usually located near the water meter, controls the flow of water into your home. If this valve is not fully open or if it’s damaged, it can restrict the flow of water, causing low pressure.

This valve is typically your responsibility as the homeowner, so checking its position and condition can be a simple first step.

Faulty Pressure Regulator

Some homes are equipped with a pressure regulator, which maintains water pressure at a safe level. If the regulator fails or malfunctions, it can result in either too high or too low water pressure.

A faulty regulator will often require replacement by a professional plumber.

Municipal Water Supply Issues

Low water pressure can sometimes be due to issues beyond your property, such as maintenance work on the municipal water system or a significant leak in the city’s main water line.

Check if your neighbors are also experiencing low water pressure, as this might be the cause.

Leaks in Your Home’s Plumbing

Leaks in your home’s plumbing can divert water away from where it’s needed, leading to noticeably lower pressure.

Even a small leak can have a significant impact on water pressure. Inspect exposed pipes for signs of leaks, such as wet spots, mold, or water damage, and listen for the sound of running water when all taps are turned off.

High Demand Within the Home

Occasionally, the issue isn’t with the water supply but simply due to high demand. If multiple water-reliant appliances are used simultaneously, or if your home’s plumbing system is outdated and unable to cope with modern demands, water pressure can suffer.

This is particularly common in older homes that haven’t had their plumbing systems updated.

Addressing low water pressure often starts with identifying the root cause. You might be able to carry out some simple checks yourself, however, for more complex issues like leaks, clogs, or corrosion, it is often necessary to consult with a professional plumber.

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CONSTRUCTION

Pouring Concrete: Examining the 8-Step Process

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Pouring concrete is relatively easy. You can probably do it yourself for your home or business.

However, you must ensure you follow all the steps and don’t neglect any of them.

Poured concrete can last you a long time if you do the job correctly. Let’s run down the list of steps you’ll need to follow if you’re going to tackle this project.

Prep the Site

Site prep will come first. You should remove any shrubs, trees, rocks, grass, old pieces of broken concrete, etc. If you’re doing a large pour, you can use an earth mover for this. Otherwise, you can probably handle this by hand.

Set the Forms

Setting the forms for a residential pour is normally done with either wood or metal stakes. You can attach forms to the stakes you put down with either special nails intended for the purpose or screws.

Mix the Concrete

Next, you’ll want to mix your concrete. The mixture should have water added to it according to the instructions on the bag. You will require a concrete mixer for larger projects. For small residential ones, you can get by with a shovel and wheelbarrow.

Place the Concrete

You will next pour your wet concrete into the forms you have laid out for the occasion. Make sure you fill each form up to its top edge. After you’ve poured out the wet concrete, use shovels or rakes to smooth it out so that there are no air pockets.

Do Your Early Finishing

Early finishing should come next. Use a flat wooden board or piece of metal designed for the purpose of screeding the top of the poured wet concrete. You need to do this so that any low or high areas are smoothed out. Large bull floats work best for broader areas, but you can utilize small hand-held floats for any detail work or edges.

Trowel Work

If you want the finished product to appear smooth, use a steel trowel at this point in the process. You can use the method called skating to guide your steel trowel along the surface of the hardening concrete. You can trowel small areas one at a time this way, or you might also trowel larger areas with a long pole called a fresno.

Do Your Final Finishing

After you are all done with your troweling, you must do your final finishing. This involves what those in the construction industry call a “broom finish.”

You can get a special broom designed for the purpose and sweep it along the drying concrete to create a rough texture. There are other types of finishes as well, so you might want to read up on those to see if you would prefer a different kind, like stamped, for example.

Let It Cure

Letting the dry concrete cure comes last. The process can last a full four weeks, but the first 48 hours are the most vital. You will want to apply a liquid chemical curing compound during this time.

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BATHROOMS

10 Easy Tips for Transforming Your Bathroom with Elegance

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The bathroom is a vital part of the home since you spend much time there. If you want to put more effort into making your bathroom more elegant and comfortable but don’t know how then read on.

We’ll cover some easy-to-apply tips on changing your bathroom to feel more elegant.

1. Add bright lighting

Lighting is a significant factor that influences your bathroom’s appeal. Not only that, but you need good lighting in your bathroom to help you groom yourself in the bathroom. Therefore, you want bright lighting to make the details as straightforward as possible.

You don’t only want to get the brightest light for your bathroom. You also wish to have a light that’s flattering to you, incredibly the light near your bathroom sink, where you will most likely look at yourself often.

Ideally, it shouldn’t be too harsh to lend an unflattering shadow to your visage as you look at yourself in the mirror.

Many people also like to find ways to incorporate some natural lighting into the bathroom. Double-glazed windows can help add more natural light to your bathroom. If you want to go further, glazed stained glass windows will still add a decorative hue to your bathroom windows while maintaining privacy.

Photo by Paul Kansonkho on Unsplash

2. Choose a freestanding bath

If you enjoy taking a bath to treat yourself, you might be interested in getting a freestanding bathtub.

With freestanding baths, you create a visual focal point for your bathroom that can elevate the atmosphere. Simply changing the kind of bathtub that you have can make your bathroom look more elegant and chic, which is precisely what a freestanding bathtub can help you achieve.

Also, a freestanding bath gives you a deeper soak, perfect for taller individuals who feel like the usual bathtubs aren’t deep enough. They even come in various designs, so you can find one that fits the aesthetic you like.

Some things to note about getting a freestanding bath would be that if you bring them in a bathroom, not on the ground floor, you will need to reinforce the flooring.

Since the shower is freestanding, you’ll need to get a separate shower, so if you have a small space for your bathroom, you need to weigh this wisely.

3. Choose a light color palette

A bathroom that looks bright is more appealing and relaxing. Plus, it’s easier to tell whether specific colors work together when they’re brightly colored. That’s why opting for a lighter color palette is an excellent choice if you want an easy way to have a consistent color theme in your bathroom to make it elegant.

Another reason you should choose a lighter color palette is that it would be easier to decorate with color. While your bathroom could be beige or off-white, you can add pieces to it that will add pops of brighter colors as accent pieces.

For example, your bathroom rugs and even your bathroom cabinets are the perfect canvas to add to the pops of color in your bathroom.

4. Upgrade your bathroom fixtures and hardware

Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

Since your bathroom fixtures and hardware are a huge part of your bathroom, consider upgrading them if you have the budget. Sometimes, just upgrading your bathroom fixtures without changing anything else about your bathroom can make it feel like new.

Aside from that, upgrading your sinks, toilets, showers, etc., can even increase your comfort in the bathroom and elevate your overall experience.

Ideally, when you upgrade your bathroom fixtures, don’t just go for looks. Although there’s no harm in changing for aesthetics, consider upgrading functionality too. For example, if your sink can’t provide hot water, you can use this opportunity to make it able to do that.

5. Supersize your storage solutions

If you like pampering yourself or have an extensive bathroom routine, consider adding more storage solutions to your bathroom to help clean up the area.

When your sink counter space is filled to the brim with all sorts of potions, creams, lotions, gels, and the like, it can make your whole bathroom seem messier than it is. Instead of getting a crowded sink, accommodate your lifestyle better with supersized storage solutions.

You can have storage solutions that help you keep items you don’t need daily. However, you can also get larger storage spaces that will assist you in seeing everything that you require for bathing and grooming yourself all in one place without rooting around for them.

6. Keep your bathroom fresh

A bathroom that smells good adds that special touch that elevates your bathroom and makes it more elegant.

Adding spaces to place things like misters and diffusers can help your bathroom smell great. Some essential oil misters look good and can be decorative pieces around your bathroom.

If you like to light a candle while taking your bath, adding a place to hold your candles is a great choice. Just make sure you don’t forget to blow it out when you’re done. Also, please don’t put it near aerosol cans, like hairspray, as that is a considerable fire hazard. Please don’t put it near the towel rack or anything that can catch fire.

7. Select premium fabrics

Photo by Thu Huynh

The fabrics are another part of your bathroom that you can upgrade for increased elegance.

Treat yourself and get a set of towels that are extra soft, like microfiber. Bamboo towels can also be a great alternative. Consider bringing a luxurious bathrobe while you’re at it.

You can also get more comfortable and absorbent bathroom rugs so your feet can enjoy a soft step out of the shower or bathtub. These small touches add to an elegant bathroom that also increases the comfortability of it.

8. Add mirrors with unique frames

If you still feel like you want decoration for your bathroom but don’t want also to crowd your bathroom, then consider replacing your bathroom mirror with one that comes in a unique frame.

It’s an easy way of getting an art piece into your bathroom without needing to get more wall space and making your bathroom feel more crowded than it is. It’s most impactful for bathrooms with a minimalistic style or lacking a focal point at the moment.

9. Invest in frameless glass doors

If you have a freestanding shower, consider using frameless glass doors instead of shower curtains. Shower curtains can be delicate, but you can make your bathroom look much better with glass doors.

Of course, glass doors require more work when installed and cost more, but once they’re there, they will significantly improve the look of your bathroom.

10. Maintain a clutter-free bathroom

Sometimes, your bathroom might already be elegant, but there are too many items and clutter in the way for you to see it. So, ideally, you should maintain a bathroom that’s as free of clutter as possible.

One of the reasons your bathroom is cluttered could be the need for more storage space, which is why we mentioned earlier to consider more storage space.

A good rule is to keep your sinks as free of toiletries and other items as possible, as that’s where your bathroom can start looking a bit too crowded.

Conclusion

These tips are all reasonably manageable, so you can create a bathroom that evokes elegance without much effort. Next time you plan on changing the atmosphere of your bathroom, apply these tips so you can feel like royalty in your porcelain throne in the bathroom.

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home renovation

9 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Property’s Interior Structure

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Are you planning on upgrading your home’s interior, but are you still looking for ideas to try out? Then, read on; this article will cover some easy upgrade ideas for your interiors.

1. Create an open floor plan design

An open floor design is when you remove the nonstructural walls of your property to create a vast and more spacious interior. This floor plan design has become more popular with many interiors, not only in one’s home interior but also in many office designs. That’s because it creates a more welcoming and open environment for people in it.

If you plan on creating an open floor plan design, it’s crucial to be mindful of your home’s structural integrity.

You can hire professionals to create and draft the structural design of your floor plans for you so that it’s more accurate and structurally sound than if you made it yourself. You can collaborate with them so that your design fits what you imagine your interiors while ensuring that your interiors are safe and follow regulations.

Photo by R ARCHITECTURE on Unsplash

2. Install new doors

Doors aren’t the most obvious thing you would change if you plan on changing your interiors in any way. However, changing them can have a massive impact on the look and feel of your interiors.

You can play around with doors in many ways to change how your interiors form. It’s a great way to open up a space.

A great example would be sliding doors leading to your gardens or backyard, which can give your home a more open vibe. On the other hand, doors that don’t have glass windows invoke a sense of privacy that is best for bedrooms or any other place in your home that you want to be more closed off from the rest of the house.

You can add a door to connected rooms that you want to combine without wrecking down a wall that you need to be there for structural reasons.

3. Install high-quality hardwood flooring

Hardwood flooring can increase your home’s value and adapt to several interior design styles. It can fit any design theme in your home, whether modern, minimalist, boho, etc.

If you have carpeting in your home, replacing it with high-quality hardwood flooring can be a better choice. It will be easier to clean and is quite durable.

One thing to note with hardwood flooring is that you should consult with professionals to ensure the hardwood won’t warp because of humidity levels in your home. If you live in a place where humidity levels fluctuate frequently, it can affect your hardwood flooring. However, getting high-quality hardwood flooring should help avoid that altogether.

What’s excellent about hardwood flooring is that it comes in different grain patterns to find styles that best fit your design preference.

4. Transform your space with a fresh coat of paint

Photo by Roselyn Tirado on Unsplash

An affordable way to feel like you’ve upgraded your interiors would be to get a fresh coat of paint.

If you choose the right paint, you can even change the atmosphere of a room. For example, if you get or use brighter colors for your walls, your interiors will feel a lot more spacious and grand. On the other hand, if you get darker colors, they can evoke a sense of elegance and privacy in your interiors.

Some people opt to add an accent wall when they want the rest of the walls to have an otherwise neutral color. This accent wall can serve as the room’s centerpiece and pull focus into a room.

Your accent wall can be a great way to go wild with more exciting patterns and colors you wouldn’t want the rest of your interior walls to look like.

5. Enhance your lighting

When enhancing your interior lighting, consider your natural light sources and the light fixtures around your interiors.

With strategic placements of natural lighting, you can light up your home and make it more inviting while saving on energy in your interiors. On the other hand, your light fixtures can help light up parts of your interior that you would want to either emphasize or create a specific atmosphere around.

Your living room can benefit significantly from a lot of natural light since it seems warmer and more welcoming.

On the other hand, your nooks and bedroom can use some more atmospheric lighting that is dimmer so that you can feel relaxed while you’re there.

6. Transform your kitchen space

Photo by Bailey Alexander on Unsplash

If you constantly use the kitchen, remodeling it can be a great way to improve your property’s interiors.

You can update your kitchen appliances with a more transformed kitchen space whenever possible. It’s also a great chance to reorganize your kitchen so that the placements of kitchen appliances, tools, and the like make the most sense for you.

When upgrading your kitchen, ensure you’re mindful of whether or not you plan to resell your home. Otherwise, modifying your plan to suit your tastes might make reselling harder.

Renovating your kitchen is also a great way to give yourself more counter space or convert it into a space where people can hang out if you often entertain them.

7. Update your windows

Just as changing your doors will change the look of your home, so does changing your windows.

When your windows are outdated or broken, they can be unappealing elements of not only the inside of your home but also its exterior. That’s why updating your windows should be something you consider when updating the look of your home.

You want windows to be in places in your home where you want more ventilation and natural light. At the same time, you want the ability to make parts of your interior private whenever you need to.

Don’t forget the window treatments that go with it, such as curtains and blinds, as those can also affect the home’s appeal.

8. Renew your bathroom space

Since your bathroom is something you are in every day, you should pay more attention to it and renew it when you can.

Changing the water fixtures, lighting, and even the tiles can make an otherwise practical space into one you enjoy being in.

Don’t forget to consider your bathroom’s storage space on top of your bathroom counter and cabinets.

9. Craft custom built-ins for your space

Nothing can make your home feel more luxurious regardless of whether your expenditures for them or not match custom built-ins for your space.

For example, you may have pets running around your house. Creating custom storage spaces for their items can ensure they adapt to the home rather than just placing them here and there.

If you’re not planning on reselling your home, then customizing your home for your specific lifestyle can make you feel more at home.

Conclusion

With these interior ideas, you should find at least one thing that resonates with your lifestyle. Whether upgrading your home for better resell value or making it as comfortable as possible, these design ideas inspire you to try at least one.

Next time you can upgrade something in your home’s interiors, consider these ideas for your property.

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REAL ESTATE

Is Alabama a Tax-Friendly State?

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Taxes are a necessary part of life, but the tax laws in some regions can break the bank. When considering a move to Alabama, people often ask themselves, “Is this a tax-friendly place to live?” Spoiler alert: Alabama is very tax-friendly, especially for retirees! Luckily for those relocating to the state, tax laws might just work in their favor. Keep reading to explore all the tax benefits individuals might enjoy in The Heart of Dixie.

Low Property Taxes

Property taxes are a considerable expense for homeowners. Every state charges homeowners different rates, but Alabama maintains one of the lowest property tax rates in the country. Combine that with affordable new homes for sale in prattville al, and people can actually save quite a bit of money just by moving to the area.

Alabama currently has the second lowest property tax rate in the country. How much can homeowners expect to pay each year? The median property tax bill for 2023 was $398. In comparison, those living in New Jersey, which has the highest property tax rate, can expect to shell out over $6,500 per year!

And if low property taxes weren’t enough reason to plant roots in Alabama, the state sweetens the deal even more for homeowners. Those living in a single-family house as their primary residence may be able to claim the homestead exemption. This tax benefit reduces a homeowner’s tax liability, saving them even more money. Further, seniors over 65 who own a private residence are exempt from state property taxes!

Tax Haven for Retirees

Retired individuals usually live on a fixed income. Therefore, finding ways to cut costs is a must. Alabama lures in retirees with plenty of money-saving tax laws. For starters, the state doesn’t tax Social Security benefits, regardless of a person’s overall income. This rule saves seniors a significant amount of money annually.

Pensions are another way retirees get to save money in Alabama. Most pensions are tax-exempt in the state. These include teacher, military, and state employee pensions. Even most retirement pensions from private employers are tax-free. However, the state fully taxes any withdrawals from public retirement accounts.

The tax savings don’t stop there. Retirees also don’t have to pay state taxes on many types of retirement accounts. For example, distributions received from 401Ks or traditional IRAs are exempt from state income taxes. Once again, this helps seniors stretch their retirement savings as much as possible.

It’s important to understand that Alabama does have a state income tax. This tax ranges from two to five percent, depending on a person’s income. Retirees only have to pay this tax if they receive wages from an employer.

The Truth About Alabama Sales Tax

Taxes in Alabama sound pretty nice, but like all good things, there are some downsides. Sales tax just happens to be Alabama’s pitfall. Local governments rely on sales tax to collect revenue. The amount people pay amount varies from state to state. Unfortunately, Alabama has a 9.24% sales tax rate, making it one of the highest in the country. However, when combined with the many tax benefits listed above, the state still remains a highly affordable place to live.

Retire With More in Your Pocket

Nearly five million seniors call Alabama home for a very good reason. It’s incredibly tax-friendly. Thanks to the state’s tax law, retirees get to keep more money in their pockets. All these tax exemptions for seniors make Alabama a very affordable state to retire.

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OUTDOORS

11 Creative Ways to Create a Cool Retreat in Your Yard

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Your yard shouldn’t just be a part of your home that you leave alone to do its own thing. There’s untapped potential there that you can modify to create a yard that will become a well-loved part of your home. Here are some ideas you can apply if you want something from your yard.

1. Add a pergola for charm and shade

Image by Toprak Kılıç from Pixabay

One of the most charming additions to your yard that can open it up as a great place to hang out would be a pergola or a pavilion.

What’s great about a pergola is that it turns a part of your yard into a specified area for lounging in. It creates that visual boundary that makes it inviting for you to hang out in your yard. Also, it adds shade without removing the sun’s rays since hanging out in the yard is the point.

You can get the help of pergola builders in Sydney to help get not only a customized pergola based on the layout of your home but also a quote. That way, you’ll know whether your custom pergola is realistic or within your budget.

Also, pergolas are a significant part of your yard that you can use to decorate. You can add vines to it or lights when you want to.

2. Create an ambiance with outdoor lighting

Photo by Arcwind on Unsplash

You may not only want to hang outside your yard when the sun is out. So, having some outdoor lighting in it can be a huge help.

With outdoor lighting, you can make your yard a more inviting place to hang out, even during the evenings. This choice is even better if you live in a city where the stars aren’t quite visible. The outdoor lighting will serve as the stars on the ground that you can admire and stare at quietly as the sun sets.

With outdoor lighting, you can even start organizing some dinners with friends and family in your yard since you can use the outdoor lighting to emphasize pathways while creating a romantic or quiet ambiance.

3. Design a comfortable seating arrangement

Your yard won’t be a great place to lounge in if it doesn’t come with places where someone would be able to lounge in the first place. So, you should ensure that you have some comfortable seating arrangements in your yard.

At the main lounging area, you can invest in comfortable lounge chairs and sofas that withstand the elements. Ensure that the cushions and fabrics you use for your outdoor lounging area are water-resistant and can withstand the sun. That way, your fabrics don’t fade out after a few usages.

Don’t forget to add tables, both small and large, on there. Also, sprinkle some benches throughout the parts of your yard that may not be in the main outdoor lounge area.

4. Add a serene water fountain

Photo by Robin Jonathan Deutsch on Unsplash

Having some water fixtures in your outdoor area creates an even more inviting atmosphere to hang out in whenever you want. You can transform your yard into a more magical space with just some moving water, and you can do that with the help of a water fountain in your yard.

With a water fountain, you’ll have a relaxing view in your yard that you can admire and a centerpiece to decorate your yard.

Just be mindful of the water fountain’s noise; some fountains can be pretty noisy. However, some fountains have a quieter sound, like those with a more pouring style rather than a splashing style.

5. Hang a hammock for ultimate leisure

Photo by Steph Q on Unsplash

Nothing says leisure more than lying around in a hammock with the sun above and a cool breeze making the leaves of trees sway in the wind. If you have a tree or a solid foundation, you should hang a hammock somewhere. Ideally, it should be somewhere with a shade so you don’t burn yourself under it.

If you plan on having a hammock in your yard, ensure the ground beneath the hammock will be soft. Sometimes, you can get into a tangle, and the hammock can cause you to fall. You wouldn’t want to land on rough gravel and hurt yourself, so having grass or anything soft under can help avoid that.

6. Install a fire pit for warmth and atmosphere

We’ve mentioned adding outdoor lights to make your yard more inviting, even in low-light situations or in the evening. If you will be hanging out in the yard, consider adding a fire pit to that cozy environment in the evenings.

Nothing will make people want to hang around on a cool evening more than a warm fire pit to huddle around together. Think of all the smores you could be making with a fire pit. 

One thing to note is that your fire pit shouldn’t be near any flammable structures or structures. The fire pit embers might bounce out of the pit and cause a fire. So, be mindful of your seating placement and plants or shrubs.

7. Opt for organic textures in outdoor decor

Consider adding organic textures for decor to create a serene atmosphere in your yard. For example, using rattan in outdoor furniture can add to the naturalistic, peaceful atmosphere.

Other examples would be using a tree stump, some bamboo, ropes, twines, feathers, and all sorts of natural elements that can be used for decoration without feeling out of place amongst the outdoors.

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KITCHENS, OUTDOORS

Reasons To Consider Having An Outdoor Kitchen Installed In Your Backyard

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If you have a deck or patio, consider an outdoor kitchen as your next home improvement project. It’s usually not the first project people think of, but once you do it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t install an outdoor kitchen years ago. Your friends will want the extra space too once they see the benefits.

Benefits of an Outdoor Kitchen:

1. There’s More Space for Socializing

Guests love to congregate in kitchens, but it’s hard to get things done with everyone milling about. If you have outdoor tables and chairs, they will head outside. You’ll be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is outside. With an outdoor kitchen, you can cook and enjoy your guests at the same time.

2. Your Indoor Kitchen Will Stay Cool

When you cook outside, especially with a pizza oven or regular oven, your kitchen gets hot. You end up sitting down to dinner with friends and family all hot and sweaty. Outside, the heat dissipates and you’ll stay cool and save on your air conditioning bills as well.

3. Your Kitchen Will Stay Cleaner

You can just hose off the floor of your outside kitchen. If you don’t have walls, they won’t get grease splatters on them. Also, people with muddy feet won’t be trampling through your kitchen, especially if you have an outdoor cooler.

4. Smells Dissipate Outside

Do you want to cook some healthy fish for your guests? Fish, no matter how delicious, leaves a smell that lingers in your kitchen.

5. Being Outdoors is Good for You

Increased serotonin levels can make you feel more positive and happy. If you have a landscaped backyard, you can put a few benches out and let guests enjoy the warm weather and sunshine.

6. You Can Keep Your Guests Together

Usually, guests will hang out in the kitchen or living room while you prepare meals. Then they will move to the dining room to eat. An outdoor kitchen with tables to eat at and comfy outdoor furniture will keep your guests together and enjoying each other’s company.

7. No Long Drive Home After Seeing Friends

You’ll be hosting a lot of gatherings if you have an outdoor kitchen. You won’t need to get a babysitter, as you are at home. Once your guests leave, you can go right to bed if you’re tired. Your indoor kitchen will be nice and clean for breakfast in the morning and you can clean up outside at your leisure.

Concerns About Outdoor Kitchens:

1. Rain

Are you concerned about rain ruining a meal or your appliances? Always put a high roof over your outdoor kitchen, so you can enjoy it during rainstorms and keep everything dry.

2. Cold Weather

If it gets chilly in the evenings, have a fire pit outside where guests can stay warm. There are also outdoor fireplaces, which are ideal, but you can’t roast marshmallows over them. You can also give your guests small, cozy throws to put over their legs.

3. The Expense

To build a functional outdoor kitchen, you’ll need water and electricity to run. You also need to buy your appliances, countertops, and cabinets. Nevertheless, an outdoor kitchen will add value to your home. When potential buyers come to look at your home, the extra living space will impress people, especially those who like to entertain. You might even find buyers in a bidding war over your unique home.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Belgard

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FAMILY, KIDS

What Are the Four Main Types of Personalities in Children?

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Personality refers to the various quirks and qualities that you possess, all of which come together to create your character. Your personality will have been developing and adapting since birth, and is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

If you have your own children, know somebody with young kids, or work with children as part of your job, you’ll notice that every child has their own personality. They have their own interests, quirks, and strengths, all of which contribute to their overall character.

Although each child‘s characteristics and personality traits differ from the next, based on their unique genetics and upbringing, children’s personalities can be categorised into four main types.

Every article you read on personality types is slightly different and you may see different professionals using other categories or each kid personality test giving inconsistent results. There is no one-size-fits-all and many children will fall into more than one general category because personality traits are so versatile and unique.

We’re going to discuss four of the most commonly used categories for children’s personalities in this article.

The Strong and Resilient Personality

Most children exhibit strength and resilience, especially those that have been through aversity during their early years. However, some show more strength and resilience than others.

The strong and resilient personality type is seen in children with high emotional intelligence and resilience to challenges. They demonstrate a remarkable ability to overcome difficulties and adapt to new situations very quickly.

Children with a strong and resilient personality type tend to show optimism in tough situations and are better able to form and maintain strong relationships with other children their age and adults. They tend to be more flexible to change and cope relatively well with stress.

The Shy or Anxious Personality Type

Some children are naturally more reserved and cautious and fall into the shy or anxious personality type. Although shy in larger groups, children with this type of personality can thrive individually or in one-to-one situations.

Introverted children can take a while to feel comfortable with new people, environments, and situations. They tend to be sensitive to stimuli, such as excessive lights or noise and prefer quieter environments, such as a relaxing living area at home.

The Ambitious Personality Type

Goal-orientated children can be categorised as having ambitious personalities. They strive for the best, and their determination and focus are noticeable from a young age.

These children can set high standards for themselves and are willing to put in the time and effort to accomplish their goals and achieve their dreams. They might show interest in academics, sports, or creative activities and can channel their energy and focus into their passions easily.

The Extroverted or Energetic Personality Type

Certain children can take a shine to social situations and display unmatched confidence from a very young age. These children fall into the extroverted or energetic personality type, where they display enthusiasm and have high levels of energy in most environments.They thrive in social settings and enjoy being the centre of attention. They are friendly, welcoming, and outgoing, often having strong teamwork and communication skills.

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EVENTS + PARTIES, FOOD + DRINK, HOME ENTERTAINING

The 3 Essentials To Create A Romantic Valentine’s Day Dinner At Home

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Valentine’s Day is a special occasion celebrated by couples around the world. It’s a time to show love and affection to that special someone in your life. One of the best ways to do this is by creating a romantic dinner at home. 

If you’re having trouble finding the right Valentine’s Day gift for your special person, then think about creating a memory with a romantic dinner. To make it special, you have to take some measures that elevate it beyond a regular dinner at home. In this article, we will go over several tips to help you pull off a romantic Valentine’s day dinner. 

1 – Planning the menu

The success of the night hinges on getting the menu right. You want it to be elegant and special, but also make sure it is achievable based on your skills and time you have to dedicate to cooking. 

Starting with appetizers, light and aphrodisiac-focused starters can set the mood. Think of dishes like oysters or a shrimp cocktail. These choices are not just delicious but also not difficult to prepare.

For the main course, you want a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. An A5 Wagyu steak is a perfect choice. It’s luxurious and full of flavor, and it doesn’t need complicated seasoning or cooking methods to shine. Pair it with a side of grilled asparagus or a light salad, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress.

To finish the meal, something with chocolate is a must. A great way to impress is by serving up a chocolate fondue with strawberries to dip. 

2 – Set the mood

Creating a romantic vibe for the evening is critical. You can’t just have the atmosphere be normal. Start with the lighting. Dim, warm lighting or the soft glow of candlelight can instantly transform a room into a cozy and romantic setting. 

Music is also an important factor when creating the right atmosphere. Choose a playlist that both you and your partner enjoy and that also creates a vibe. Whether it’s soft jazz, classical melodies, or your shared favorite love songs, the right music in the background will complement the evening perfectly.

The table setting is where you can really add a personal touch. Some freshly picked flowers and fine silver dinnerware can make a huge difference. 

3 – Try cooking together

Cooking together can be an intimate part of your Valentine’s Day celebration. When you cook with your partner, you’re creating memories and strengthening your bond. The key is enjoying each other’s company and being playful while you create a memorable meal.

When choosing recipes to prepare together, look for recipes that allow both of you to be involved without being overly complex. Simple pasta dishes, homemade pizzas, or even baking a dessert together can be great choices. These types of recipes can still be creative but they’re also forgiving enough for both cooking novices and experts.

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