A bathroom renovation is a fun and exciting time for a homeowner because they get a chance to update a room in their home that is used often by everyone in the family. There are many options when it comes to a bathroom remodel, and a homeowner must be aware of their budget and goals when taking on such a project. Below is a closer look at vanities and sinks and what to think about when replacing them.
Your Style
The bathroom is typically the smallest room in the home, but that does not mean it should be overlooked. When it comes tobathroom vanities with tops and sinks, property owners have many options to choose from. For example, will you choose a traditional bowl, pedestal, warm wood, or a sleek glass bowl for the sink? A budget will help in narrowing the choices, but having an idea of a particular style you like will help.
Consider The Mount
If you are looking for a sleek and fresh look to your sink, then you should choose a solid-surface, integrated sink. This is called anunder-mount sink, and it is installed under the countertop, which will result in an easy-to-clean counter surface. In contrast, a top-mount sink sits over the top of the counter and is the easiest style for the homeowner to install on their own. The third option for the amount includes the bowl set on a pedestal or a stand and is known as the traditional style.
Choose Material For The Sink
The most common bathroom sink consumers prefer is made of white porcelain (other colors are available for a greater price tag). Another option is an enameled cast iron sink that can be colored to fit any bathroom décor, as they are very durable and do not chip. Other materials include stone, glass, and metals, as they can all be shaped and molded to fit any size and shape for the sink. The newest and most expensive trend in bathroom sinks is wood.
Storage Options
Many vanities with sinks offer storage options to hold towels, shampoo, toilet paper, and other bathroom essentials the home’s occupants use daily. Replacing the sink is a great time to consider whether more storage space is needed in the bathroom. If storage space is an issue, a cabinet with a sink mounted on top is both functional and decorative.
Measure The Space
Putting in the correct sizevanity or sinkis important because you do not want to take up too much floor space. Likewise, putting a large vanity in a smaller bathroom is not ideal because it will result in a cluttered look for the newly renovated bathroom. For example, if the bathroom is on the smaller side, you may want to consider incorporating a pedestal-style sink. Pedestal sinks come in a variety of styles, colors, and open up valuable floor space.
It is always a good idea to consult a professional when starting any home renovation project. They have years of experience and can give you insight regarding different styles to consider. A bathroom remodels, when done well, can increase the home’s value when it is placed on the market for sale. In the meantime, the family has the chance to enjoy a newly renovated bathroom that is stylish, comfortable, and calming.
One of the most neglected areas in our home or business is our windows. Sometimes our windows are costing us money in the form of costly heating bills. They also need to be cleaned occasionally. We take them for granted usually because you don’t always see how dirty they are.
When they do get cleaned, the results are dramatic and we wonder how we didn’t notice how dirty they had been.
Many people dread washing their windows as it can be a chore. With some helpful tips, cleaning windows doesn’t have to be painful.
In this article, I will go over some ways to make cleaning your windows easier.
1 – Hire a professional
There are several reasons why you should just pay somebody to clean your windows. I am of the belief that some things should be left to professionals so I can concentrate on other things that are more suited to my talents.
If you are not able to move around well, due to age or injury, then you would do well to just have somebody come by and clean your windows for you.
Likewise if it is unsafe for you to clean them yourself. If you have multiple floors and don’t have windows that lean in so you can wash them from the inside, then a professional is the way to go. There is surely a company in your area like Brian’s Window Servicethat will give you an estimate so you know what you’re dealing with.
2 – Analyse your water
How easy or difficult your windows are to clean is heavily dependant on your water. If you have hard water, then many of the minerals will leave a residue on your windows. You may find them looking worse after you’ve washed them.
Do a test for hardness and heavy metals to see just what kind of water you are dealing with. You’ll need to use specialized cleaning products formulated for hard water. Vinegar is also very effective against hard water streaking on windows.
Alternatively, you can always get a whole house filter to remove the minerals so you never have to worry about your water quality.
3 – Don’t use newspaper
It is a given that newspaper is the ultimate tool for cleaning glass. The only problem is that they actually leave them dirtier.
On one hand, the ink gets dissolved by the cleaning product and then leaves a residue all over your windows. On the other, the fibers also get left all over, too. You’ll spend as much time trying to remove the fibers as you did cleaning the dirt from them.
Instead, use a microfiber or lint free cloth.
4 – Clean when it is cool or cloudy
If it is sunny then the glass of your windows is hot. When you use the cleaning product it will dry before it has a chance to actually clean. And this is how streaks happen.
Make sure it is a cool day, or better, that there is some cloud cover so your windows are not hot.
Not only is it a new year, but it’s also the start of a new decade and what better way to ring in the roaring 20s than to get organized?We all love The Addams family but who has the luxury of entire closets just for knick-knacks? Organizing all your closets can feel very intimidating so just think of one at a time! Where does one start the day? Tackle your coat closet first with some masterful hacks from The Home Blogto get your morning rolling.
Kitchen Confident
There is nothing more demotivating (at least for me) than an untidy kitchen. Edit your crockery and other kitchen equipment or utensils and get rid of the excess (but never the teaspoons… can’t have too many of those). Having fewer dishes to dirty means you have fewer to clean later on and keeps things simple! No clutter also frees up your brain to get creative with all those meal prep ideas you’ve been dying to try but haven’t found the time.
Space Oddities
Every single home, whether it’s astudio apartment, duplex or sprawling four-bedroom house has those weird spaces that nothing seems to fit in. That weirdly shaped stairwell or really high cupboard shelf may be worth investigating for its storage potential. Investigate the myriad of custom storage ideas on offer from companies or tackle a DIY project to utilize those odd corners of your home.
Garage Bland No More
How many movie plots are built around cleaning out an old, badly packed garage and discovering something marvellous? Far too many, but although quite a cliche, you too may have the pleasure of that discovery. For many, a garage is simply a place where the car sleeps but it has so much more potential! Don’t have a car? Turn it into an entertainment space or even a home office with the addition of some shelves and a nice rug or two. Do have a car? The storage options abound! From floating shelves to stackable storage and even suspended shelving from the roof beams there’s very little reason not to make the most of this oft-neglected space.
The Office
Working from home sounds luxurious but as the initiated well know, it can drive even the most stoic of humans to madness! The antidote to this insanity is bringing order to the chaos. Getting a professional filing system might seem absurd but having that security for your important documents is a huge relief. Without the stress of losing paperwork, you can spend that energy on tackling your business goals for 2020 and keep track of all the progress you’re making.
Having an organized home is not just about the physical simplicity and ease it brings to your life. It also helps keep the mental clutter at bay! There are a plethora of ways you can life-hack your way into a more organized and productive year and hopefully, these have just gotten you started! Go forth and conquer!
Residential property owners must follow the necessary steps to prevent foundation damage. Gutters are installed underneath the edges of the roofing to allow rainwater to flow away from the property. The installations lower the risk of foundation flooding. However, gutters aren’t the only fixture that protects the property or affects the foundation. Property owners read through the 10 signs your foundation is in need of repairs and decide if the signs are present in their home.
1. Cracks or Damage in Sheetrock
Cracks and sheetrock damage are clear signs that the foundation is damaged, and moisture from the lower levels of the property have reached the walls. Unfortunately, moisture is a leading cause of mold and mildew that increase respiratory diseases for the homeowner. Property owners hire contractors to investigate the sheetrock damage and find out if there is mold and where it has spread.
If mold is found, the homeowner faces the expense of mold remediation and restoration services. An insurance claim might help the homeowner get the coverage they need to pay for the foundation repairs and mold remediation. Unfortunately, homeowner’s insurance providers aren’t cooperative always when it comes to existing mold. Some policies restrict coverage according to how long the mold and property damage have been present. Property owners must stay on task and discuss issues with their repair service before major catastrophes occur.
2. Cracks in Exterior Walls
Flooding around the foundation is a leading cause for damage in upper levels of the property including the exterior walls. Siding that is disconnected and falling off the outside of the home is a sign that serious damage has traveled upward, and too much moisture is a real problem for the homeowner. The exterior walls are often rotten, too.
If wood rot is present, larger sections of the exterior walls require repairs and could present a more complex repair project for the property owner. Underlying wood rot spreads to surrounding materials, such as the framing. The contractor might have to remove the entire section of the exterior wall to restore the property and prevent the depreciation of its value.
Contractors must remove the siding in the damaged area to find out if more issues are present. Under the circumstances, the homeowner sees large cracks in the exterior walls and bricks that are sticking out from the exterior walls if they have a brick home. Homeowners who find the signs schedule foundation repairs for preventing additional damage to their homes.
3. Obvious Signs of Uneven Floors
Uneven floors are an obvioussign of foundation damage. The floors are starting to give and present a hazard to the homeowner, their family, and anyone who enters their property. Homeowners notice the difference in the floors when spills seem to flow in a downward or opposite direction instead of puddling in one spot of the floor. It could mean that the support is sagging nearby causing an incline in the property, too.
Tripping hazards occur due to uneven flooring, and homeowners are at a greater risk of facing liabilities, such as premises liability or accident claims. Homeowners who entertain guests more frequently increase their risks if they don’t get the flooring repair quickly. An inspection of the foundation helps owners prevent more risks, and they can replace their flooring after the foundation is fixed to prevent new sections of the flooring from becoming damaged.
4. Separation Around Windows and Doors
Separation around windows and doors is caused by foundation damage, too. Homeowners notice that there is a space between the window casing or the door framing when the issue arises. The space offers an entry point for pests and could lead to a serious infestation. If the separation continues without action, the security of the home becomes a major concern, too.
Window and door separation causes irregularities, such as doors failing to close properly and warping window casings. It increases the odds of breaking window glass and potential safety risks for the owner and their family. Cracks in the windows are often visible when separation occurs.
Exterior temperatures enter the property causing the thermostat to detect inaccurate temperatures and engage the heating or cooling system. Property owners see rising energy costs and consumption due to heat transfer and loss. The exterior air comes in through cracks in the walls, too.
5. Signs of Weakened Floors
Bouncy floors are a sign of serious damage that leads to the floor caving in and causing personal injuries. It means the flooring has been compromised and has weakened. It won’t provide adequate support for the homeowner or their family. Property owners who notice a bounce in their step when walking across their floors need to take immediate action and replace their flooring. Foundation damage is often the cause of flooring damage due to moisture and dampness.
Homeowners should take note of all sections of the flooring where it is bouncy and tell their repair service provider. They should move around their furniture and find out if there are weakened flooring sections underneath heavier than average furnishings, too. If the flooring is weak underneath the couch or an entertainment center, the furnishings could cave through the floor without warning.
6. Cracks in Tiling
Tiling lifts from the flooring when moisture is present in lower levels of the property. Homeowners notice chips and sudden breaks in their tile floors when moisture builds underneath each section. The tiles disconnect from the subflooring when the wood is rotten or damaged. Homeowners must replace the entire subflooring along with the tiles under the circumstances.
Ceramic tile starts to chip and break as it is lifted off the flooring. It can chip and break into powder presenting a financial loss to the property owner. Acting quickly could present the owner from facing the expense of replacing each individual tile.
7. Nails Popping Out of Drywall Consistently
Nails popping out of drywall consistently are a sign of wet sheetrock. Moisture has built up behind the walls and is causing the drywall to stay damp, and it is no longer supporting the nails. Nails won’t stay anchored into the sheetrock if it is wet, and some might fall out of the sheetrock entirely. Homeowners need a complete inspection of the affected wall to determine if the framing and all the drywall is wet.
The cost of moisture removal is high, too. Service providers use dehumidifiers whenever possible to draw the moisture out of the walls and prevent more damage. Sections of drywall are often replaced due to moisture.
8. Expansion Joint Separation
Contractors install expansion joints to prevent structural instabilities due to land shifts, increasing humidity levels, and consistent changes in the temperature. Foundation damage causes structural instability and the expansion joint isn’t able to compensate for the sudden change. The joint fails, and the portion of the property where the joint was installed begins to crack. Sudden cracks could lead to complete separation of the walls leading to framing and roofing instability causing the entire property to become structurally unsound.
9. Signs of Rotten Wood
Foundation damage causes moisture to spread throughout the property. Most residential properties have wooden supports and framing. Wood rot is a serious risk to the property and could create a total loss for the owner.
Wood rot could also present a food source for termites and cause a major termite infestation underneath the home. Termites are a major risk to residential properties. The insects destroy wooden framing and support, and the termites could multiple and build colonies quickly with a dedicated food source nearby.
Under the circumstances, the owner will have to spend more money exterminating the termites and cutting the colonies off from food sources. The services are necessary before the homeowner starts any repairs. After the insects are gone, the property owner faces the expense of replacing all wood that rotted due to the foundation damage.
10. Signs of Wall Separation
Wall separation is the greatest risk to a residential property and is caused by foundation issues. If the homeowner notices wall separation, major construction and repair services are needed to correct the damage. It means the walls are rotten, the framing is damaged, and the sheetrock inside the home must be replaced.
It also presents the possibility of electrical issues if an outlet was installed within the section of the wall. In addition to tracing the cause of the wall separation, the homeowner must make sure that the electrical connections weren’t disturbed. Frayed wiring could cause an electrical fire and the total destruction of the property.
The foundation of the home is a vital part of the overall home design. It keeps the property structurally sound and stable. If the foundation cracks the property shifts and presents a major risk to the owners as well as a potential financial loss. Knowing the signs of foundation damage helps property owners lower the changes of surrounding damage, such as rotten wood, broken support beams, and flooring instability. Acting quickly and scheduling repairs protects the home and restores property values.
A bathtub can offer relaxation and spa-like feeling in a home. Determining the best type of bathtub to choose will depend on the owner’s needs and desires. Space is another consideration a homeowner must consider. Nothing is more relaxing than soaking in a tub with a good book or listening to relaxing music on a hot winter night or after a stressful day. There are so many bathtubs to choose from, it can be a hard decision.
Tubs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Colored bathtubs were popular 50 years ago because of the tile that surrounded them. Over the years, manufacturers make white tubs and homeowners surround it with their choice of tile or wall panels. If a homeowner has the room, they should consider the installation of a Painted Clawfoot Bathtubs. This bathtub is freestanding. They are constructed with a deep basin and provide a distinct look a homeowner will like.
Clawfoot Bathtubs
Clawfoot bathtubs are in the freestanding category of bathtubs. They need more space than a traditional bathtub. For a unique look, a homeowner should consider a painted clawfoot bathtub. A painted bathtub can offer the look of copper, scorched platinum, and other variations of these colors. These various colors can add a focal point to the bathroom instead of the typical white fixture in the middle of the room or under the window. A tub can be customized to meet the owner’s needs. An owner can feel confident that no one else will have a tub that looks exactly like theirs. Clawfoot tubs are ideal for a cottage-like home or feel. Slipper tubs also fit into the free-standing category.
Alcove Tubs
For homeowners who have a limited budget, an alcove tubmight be their answer. Most alcoves are only 60 inches long and will fit into a three-wall enclosure. This is the type of tub most individuals grew up with. The alcove helps to maximize the space in a bathroom. They can range from 53 to 72 inches with the standard length being 60 inches. The walls around this type of tub can be tiled or fitted with an appropriate surround. This type of tub is used as a combination bathtub and shower in many bathrooms.
Drop-In Bathtubs
Drop-in bathtubs require a contractor to build a deck or peninsula for the tub. The tub is then installed in the structure or alcove. Usually, these types of tubs are used in a more open area. The price for this tub is usually higher than the standard alcove tub.
Corner Bathtubs
Corner bathtubs are a great way to have a bathtubin a larger space or near a corner window. This type of bathtub is not put in a child’s bathroom but is usually installed in a master suite’s bathroom. A corner bathtub is five-sided, and couples can bathe in pairs or trios. It provides more capacity and more water volume in the tub.Choosing a tub is a large investment for a homeowner. A bathtub offers other options than just water. There are jet tubs that provide the feeling of a hot tub without having a separate unit. Investment in a bathroom provides a great return in the event the house is sold in the future.
Buying a home for the first time can be a very stressful and time-consuming experience. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage loan and finding the right home is difficult. But what many don’t realize is that once you a home that you actually want to purchase, the real work will begin.
Without the right amount of maintenance, a home is bound to fall apart. For this reason, new homeowners need to focus on maintaining vital parts of their residence such as the roof. The following are some of the tasks a homeowner should undertake to keep their roof in good shape.
1. Keeping Tree Branches Trimmed is Important
Maintaining a high level of curb appeal is something most homeowners view as a priority. Having trees is pretty normal for homeowners in the United States. However, if these trees are not properly trimmed, they can do a lot of damage to a home’s roof.
The average homeowner will spend around$9,000 a year on maintenance and repairs. Using some of this maintenance budget to pay a professional tree service to trim the trees around a home is crucial. Allowing large and heavy branches to grow over the roof of the home is a recipe for disaster.
2. The Gutters Need to be Cleaned Regularly
A home’s roof has a number of important components. Perhaps the most important part of a roof is the gutter system attached to it. These gutters are designed to remove rainwater from both the roof and the home’s foundation.
As time goes by, these gutters will start to fill with leaves and small branches. If the gutters are full, they will be unable to do the job for which they were intended. This is why a homeowner needs to have their gutters cleaned two to four times a year. Be sure to check outhttps://www.erieconstruction.com/blogto find out more about the importance of gutter maintenance.
3. Inspect the Flashing on the Roof
Most homeowners have chimneys and HVAC vents coming out of the roof. In most cases, metal flashing is installed around these areas to reduce the chance of leaks occurring. The longer this flashing is in place, the higher the chance becomes of it rusting and malfunctioning.
This is why a homeowner needs to work with a roofing professional to get their flashing inspected. If this part of the roof needs to be replaced, professionals will have no problem getting this work done. Ignoring the need for new flashing will lead to leaks and mold issues, which is why getting it replaced is so important.
4. Pay Attention to the Roof Shingles
Another important part of a home’s roof are the asphalt shingles it has. These shingles are exposed to direct sunlight for multiple hours each day. As time goes by, this exposure will start to dry out the shingles and make them brittle.
A homeowner will need to inspect their shingles regularly to see if any of them are missing. If there are shingle pieces laying in the yard after a bad storm, contacting a roofing professional to come take a look is crucial.
5. Take a Look in the Attic
The attic in a home is where unused possessions are put. This means that most homeowners don’t go in their attic very often. Taking the time to inspect an attic can help a homeowner discover roofing leaks early on. As soon as signs of leaks surface, a homeowner needs to take swift action to fix them.
Roof Maintenance is Important
Maintaining a home’s roof may be time-consuming and expensive, but it is worth the investment. With the help of a knowledgeable professional, getting a roof repaired will be easy.
If you have ever stayed in a plush hotel you will probably have enjoyed a comfortable night’s sleep luxuriating in a king-sized bed and appreciated the comfort and space it offered.
Why not replicate that experience on a nightly basis by installing a king-size bed in your own bedroom?
When you shop around you will see that you can get more from 360Homewarethan just the bed frame, for instance, and if you still need a good reason to justify purchasing a bed that could transform your sleeping experience, here are ten of them for good measure.
Room to stretch out
It is nice to snuggle up to your partner in bed but when you want to get a good night’s sleep there is much more chance of doing that when your bed is big enough to give you that option.
If you are squeezing yourself into a standard size bed that works out at just two feet and three inches of space. To give you some comparison as to how small that actually is, a baby in a cot is afforded more space than that.
If you really want to stretch out and get comfortable it is clear that a standard bed measuring four feet and six inches is not going to help you achieve that aim.
Weighing up the cost
An obvious barrier to buying a new bed, especially a king-size version, might be the financial outlay, but when you add up how much you use a bed and how long you might keep it for it soon translates into a bit of a bargain.
The average time that we keep a bed for is about seven years or so and if you divide the cost of your king-size bed by that number of days it will soon seem like the cost is actually very reasonable.
Improve your chances of a better sleep
As already stated, a standard double bed doesn’t give you much room to stretch out and get comfortable, and that idea is supported by some ergonomic studies.
The bottom line is that if you spend just a few weeks sleeping in a king-sized bed and then return to a standard double bed afterward it has been shown that a high percentage of people would choose to buy a bigger bed once they have seen how it can improve your sleep.
More wriggle room
You might be surprised to learn that if you are anything like the average person you will most likely wriggle around to get yourself comfortable at least sixty times, or more, every time you retire for the night.
It stands to reason that if you have more space to do that wriggling around you won’t disturb your partner.
Buying a king-size bed will give both of you a better chance of an undisturbed sleep when you have more wriggle room.
Follow the trend
Although it is unlikely to be your primary motivation it is worth noting that a growing number of countries consider larger bed sizes as the default option and if you want to follow that trend and invest in a bigger bed you will be in good company.
Give yourself some growing room
Our bodies do a bit of growing during the night and all of us actually grow a little longer while sleeping.
The average growth rate is about 2cms, which might not sound too much, but if you are a bit cramped in the first place, it stands to reason that any extra room to accommodate your nightly growth spurt would be a good idea.
More options to tailor your options
We are all individuals and that means some of us are taller or heavier than others and because body shapes are also so varied you will want as many options as possible to get your sleeping arrangements sorted.
If you have a king-size mattress and bed to support you it shouldn’t be so relevant how tall, short, heavy, or light you are.
A justifiable expense
When you add up what you spend on other parts of your home when carrying out improvements it really is a minor purchase in comparison to buying a king-sized bed, especially when you consider how much use you are going to get out of your purchase.
The average kitchen or living room makeover will cost you a lot more than good-sized bed and mattress but the enjoyment that you will get out of having the space to stretch out and really get comfortable will probably make you feel that this purchase is money well spent.
Get into a proper sleeping position
We all tend to adopt a default sleeping position when we get into bed and when you are in a smaller bed there is always the risk that you might end up having to compromise on that if you don’t have enough room.
When you upgrade to a king it should give you the opportunity to get yourself truly comfortable and adopt a sleeping positionthat helps alleviate any pressure points and focus on getting into a sound sleep pattern almost as soon as your head hits the pillow.
Some noticeable health benefits
It is always a good idea to try and look after your health as best as possible and one way that you could do that would be to buy yourself a king-sized bed.
Having enough space can help you achieve a better blood flow, which will help banish any pins and needs that you might otherwise feel when you wake up after a night in a cramped double bed.
More space allows you to stretch your legs out and that will also ease the pressure on your Achilles and ankle tendons.
Another key point to consider is that when you are sleeping close to your partner in a smaller bed there is always a chance that your respiratory system can be slightly compromised because it is more compressed.
Sleeping in a bigger bed gives you more room to breathe because of the extra space and that fact alone should be enough to convince you that your sleep could be transformed if you invest in a king-size bed.
When it comes to a humid space like a bathroom, tile is always going to be the best option for a floor. Tile is water resistant, which makes it practical for spaces where the floor is likely to get regularly wet. However, there are so many options currently available on the market that you won’t feel hemmed in by choosing tile. From cork, to marble, to vinyl and laminate, the options for your tile floor are endless.
So what are some of the best options out there for your bathroom floor? We have seven of our favorite tile options for you to consider when you start shopping for your bathroom reno.
Vinyl Tiles
Vinyl tiles have come a long way from the gregarious patterned plastic sheets that used to be in your grandmother’s kitchen. Vinyl tiles now come in an almost endless variety of colors and options–some which look surprisingly realistic. Vinyl tiles are not only practical and attractive, they are also very affordable. Vinyl tiles are also softer on the feet and more durable than many other options on the market. If you’re a bit handy and are looking to install your bathroom floor yourself, vinyl tiles are self-adhering and easy to handle. You simply cut them to size with a utility knife and lay them down.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles let you get creative, and we mean really creative. There are ceramic tiles that mimic the look of wood, colorful penny tiles, terracotta tiles, hexagons, or almost anything in between. They come in every shape, size, and pattern imaginable, which you can see samples of at Simple Bath’s Bathroom Showroom, and they add quite a bit of aesthetic appeal to a bathroom. Ceramic tiles are also easy to maintain, however they are not nearly as comfortable on bare feet as vinyl tiles. This is why many people opt to install radiant in-floor heating when they’re doing their bathroom floor in ceramic tile.
Stone tiles
The natural beauty of stone can look really stunning in a bathroom. Marble, limestone, granite, or slate come in a variety of natural colors that range from muted greens, golds, reds, and blues or in more sated hues like black, white, or cream. Stone flooring also comes in many different textures, which can add a nice feeling to a room. Stone tile, however, requires more maintenance than ceramic tile. Regular cleaning and sealing is recommended to keep your stone floors looking new and stone is typically more expensive.
Plastic Laminate
Plastic laminate tiles can be printed to look like wood, slate, or almost anything you want. They are similar to laminate in that they don’t significantly raise the height of a floor, helping for room-to-room transitions, and they are also equally affordable. They are durable and easy to clean, however, they are not as moisture resistant. Standing water can infiltrate the coreboard, which can cause it to expand and buckle, so it’s best to wipe dry any plastic laminate floors that get wet.
Sometimes we outgrow our homes. A great way to get the home you need without moving is to add an extension. If you are considering this, there are a few things you need to give thought to before going ahead.
How much extra space do you need?
There is no point in building an extension then finding out you miscalculated and could have benefited from even more space. That’s why it is so important that you carefully consider how much space you need before you start. It is also important to give thought as to how the space will be used and by whom. Make sure your proposals tick every feasible box.
Who will carry out the work?
Whether it’s a loft conversion, a kitchen extension or a garden room, you need to get the right people for the job. Hiring trade specialists will ensure things go to plan. Many companies can coordinate more than one trade making the process even smoother. Captain Electric, for example, can not only carry out your electrical needs but can undertake all your plumbing needs too. The fewer trades you have to deal with, the easier it will be in the long run.
How much can you spend?
Budget is one of the main factors when considering the size and specification of your proposed extension. Whilst you may want a huge double storey addition, your budget may only allow for a small single storey. You need to be realistic. Get some draft plans drawn up together with some rough quotes. This will allow you to focus on what is feasible rather than what you are dreaming of. They may not be the same!
Be prepared
Whether it’s a percentage of your proposed costs or a set figure, having a contingency is always recommended. Timescales can extend, materials can change and labor costs can increase. A contingency ensures that if anything doesn’t go to plan, you have the financial means to deal with it. You don’t want a scenario where you have an unfinished build because you have run out of money.
Getting approval
Once your draft plans are drawn up, you will need to contact the relevant authorities for permission to proceed. They will look over plans and details and ensure that these conform with current building regulations. Don’t allow any works to be started without these. The last thing you want is to have to pay your builder to remove what they have already done.
The finishing touches
Once your extension is complete, you will want to add some colorand finishing touches to your project. Consider in advance the color schemes which would go well in your newly created space. Flooring, wallpaper, window coverings and paint all need to be chosen so make sure you allocate a good amount of time to make these decisions. Once it’s complete and your final items added, all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your extra space.
Gifts under $50 – Gifts that sparkle for under $50….
The Holidays are for sparkle! I personally love to wear a bit of bling everyday – sometimes it’s subtle and sometimes it’s a bit bolder. I love to receive a great jewelry piece but I love to give a great accessory, too!
What I love so much about jewelry is that it can really transform an outfit from day to night or it can just spruce up a very basic outfit. A touch of bling can also really show off your personality.
I have rounded up my favourite gifts that sparkle and they are all under $50 …..
These are some of my personal favorite pieces. I wear these regularly – to work or on a date night. I love for different reasons – the horn necklace is perfect for someone who loves to layer. The hoops are a classic (I have them in silver and gold) – they are a great day to night transition piece. The sculptural bangle is another classic that I often wear with my hoops – it’s very simple but so chic (I also love the gold version). The Ulani ring (which is on a HUGE sale right now) is very minimalist but so unique – it’s perfect for someone who likes to be different but still simple. The pave orbital ring – I wear almost everyday! It is very flattering on – it can be worn everyday or for special occasions.
The Star Climber earrings are subtle but a bit edgy with a touch of bling! When I don’t want a simple diamond stud – I reach for these….The XOXO studs are a great gift for a teen or pre-teen girl – so cute! For someone who loves an arm party (ie stacking bracelets) both the Attica and the Dorado are great options – as they are one piece but they look like you have multiple bracelets on – so chic and I get a tone of compliments on my Attica (also the clasp is magnetic – so it’s really easy to put on and take off)…The Love necklace is also a great layering necklace (the cursive script is really cute) and a great gift for a teen or pre-teen (they also have matching hoops and it comes in silver or gold) – who doesn’t love love?
To give the gift of sparkle you really don’t have to drop a small fortune – you can add some bling on any budget ….
