We all know that paints add color to blank surfaces. These surfaces can be found inside and outside our houses. Now, before you go grabbing buckets of paint or calling folks that offer painting services to make them colorful, here are some things you need to know: 

What’s in a Paint?

Paints are composed of resins, solvents, additives, and pigments. Latex paint has water as its solvent while its counterpart in oil-based paints is mineral spirits. In case you’re wondering what solvent does to paints, it keeps it wet enough to make it easy for us to use them. When the paint dries, the solvent evaporates and all that's left are the additives, pigments, and resins. 

The pigment is responsible for giving the paint its rich color. Resin, which can be made of silicone, epoxy, or acrylic, is what binds paint to the surface. The additives are what gives paint special properties like easy cleaning and application, or resistance to mildew.

Interior Paints

Paints used for different purposes have different properties. This is why it’s important to use interior paints for indoor painting and exterior paints for the outdoors.

Interior paints are formulated to resist stain and make for easy cleaning and scrubbing. Most of them are also water-based, since odor is a factor that needs to be eliminated when painting indoors. They also contain few to none volatile organic compounds (VOC) – toxins that can cause severe lung damage to people who are exposed to them for a long time. Although the VOCs present in interior paints are low in number, it’s still important to keep the windows and doors open when using them for proper ventilation and to avoid suffocation. 

Exterior Paints

Natural elements like water, wind, and sun can cause damage to exterior paints. They’re also prone to fading mildew which is why they contain a lot of VOCs. The last thing you want to happen to a painting service that is done perfectly is to them crack and peel off weeks after.

The application of exterior paints need to be done in moderation. You need to wait for 48 hours after applying to first layer for the VOCs to completely exude before adding the second layer. Once that is done, you need to wait for another 48 hours to add the third layer, and another 48 hours for the next one.

There are also paints that can be used for indoor and outdoor purposes. This is fine, but we highly suggest that you seek help from a professional before using them. The amount of VOCs present in each brand varies, which means the “dual-purpose” line on the label may be for marketing purposes only. Paints, especially the ones that are of good quality, can also be a bit pricey. Professional painters can help you look for paints that are worth investing in. They can also give you tips on how to prepare before, during, and after application.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Warren Long

If you’re planning a house move, congratulations! Now’s the best time to move into your dream home - or a home closer to your work and your kids’ schools. Regardless of your reasons, a house move can become an amazing way to start a new chapter in your life and show the world how you can become whatever you want to be. Thing is, performing a house move is much easier said than done - but not impossible. In fact, you may be able to DIY your house move and make it into a fun project you and the family can participate in! Here are some quick steps on how you can DIY your house moves and pull off the best house move you’ll ever have: 

• Submit the right documentation as soon as possible. Before you perform any of the specific DIY things here, try to submit the necessary documentation to the necessary offices as soon as possible. For instance, you may need to file the right documents to get access to utilities and the right housing permits. If possible, try to ask whether you can submit your details digitally so you don’t have to leave the house. And if you do leave the house, try to multitask! And speaking of…
• Multitask whenever you have to leave the home. Time is of the essence when performing a move. As such, if possible, try to multitask whenever you leave the house. Depending on your moving calendar, try to check off as many items on your list as possible whenever you leave the home. For instance, if you’re already visiting your new neighborhood to file some documents or check on your new home, try to take pictures of your new house as reference for your inventory. Moreover, perhaps you can go on a detour to the hardware store to buy some packing materials before you go home.
• Create a digital inventory for the family. If possible, try to make your house inventory digitally, so everyone can plug in their details without any hassle. That way, you can access your necessary inventory files on the cloud and check which items belong in which room without having to scour notes. Moreover, this allows you to allocate duties for everyone in the family - for instance, your kids might be in charge of packing and unpacking their own rooms, as well as plugging items in their sheet in the inventory.
• Always label things when you pack them. Once you’ve started packing your things, make sure you always label the boxes with what’s inside as well. That way, you won’t get lost whenever you try to find certain items within those boxes. If possible, try to take pictures of the boxes themselves so you can look at them from your phone or gadget whenever you want to try to find a specific item. That way, you won’t need to panic or scour through boxes whenever you can’t find that particular favorite shirt. 
• Allocate packing days per room. If possible, try not to panic and conduct just one day for the entire packing session. In fact, that particular day you want to allocate for the move should be for final preparations, and not for a rush job. As such, you should try to allocate specific days so you can focus on packing certain rooms - that way, you can better remember exactly where you’ve placed things, and you can slowly try to put packing boxes in a single location instead of just scattering them outside the house. This also avoids any unnecessary loss of items.
• Hire a moving truck for an entire week. If possible, instead of hiring a moving truck for a particular set of days, try to secure an entire week for your moving truck. That way, you’re sure that you always have a truck to rely on to transport your things whatever happens throughout the entire moving timeline. This also ensures that you always have more than enough space (and time) to make any return trips as necessary to get more stuff at home or to fit more stuff in the space provided by the truck.
• Ask professional help for specific services. Just because you want to perform a DIY move doesn’t mean you can’t completely ask for any form of assistance. In fact, just because you can hire professionals such as a moving company doesn’t mean you need to depend entirely on them for the move. For instance, a lot of moving companies actually offer specific house moving services in order to accommodate your needs. Thanks to these services, you may be able to hire them for specialized things that can’t be DIY’d easily, such as proper loading in trucks or unloading various boxes into your new home.
• Organize a moving timeline according to your routine. Remember, if you’re making a moving timeline, always make sure it follows your daily routine and not the other way around. That way, you can make sure that only  days such as days off, paid leaves, or even allocated free times are spent on your move. This system also helps you avoid missing out on work tasks and other obligations so you won’t jeopardize your academics and/or your career. As such, try to also talk with your superiors or your teachers in order to see whether they'll be able to help provide you with much-needed time so you can pull off your move properly and without any hassle. 

DIY Your House Move: Conquer The Moving Timeline!

With the above tips in mind, it’s important to remember that it’s completely possible to perform a house move on your own terms and DIY it like any other house project. In fact, with the above tips, you may be able to have an amazing time with your house move - from planning your actual move, to performing the move itself on move day, and even settling in with your family. Thanks to the above tips, you’ll be able to conquer your house move and have a more delightful time with your family after you push through with your move in no time at all.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Forrest Wheatey

Moving for the first time can be a daunting experience. Given all the things that need to be done, you should know what to do to ensure a successful move for everyone involved. Typically, a house move for newbies can be quite hard to come by, but it doesn’t have to be. 

These tips will help you navigate the entire moving process without losing your mind along the way:

Create A Checklist

Moving can be stressful and without a checklist, you might lose track of all the tasks that you should do for the move. For newbies, you should have a moving checklist in place to guide you on what you should do to pull off a successful relocation. This checklist will include all the projects that need to be accomplished before the moving day. 

From finding the best interstate moving companies to packing all your stuff, all of these things should be listed down in your checklist. That way, you can quickly complete everything before the big day arrives. 

Declutter

One good idea to do for your house move is to go through your closets, drawers, and cabinets. Take a look at all the stuff that’s not being used, and sort it out. A lot of people throw out things that aren’t really needed, or they just can’t find a use for any of the items. If you don’t have much space to put your belongings, consider using boxes and storage bins instead of boxes and hampers. You can  keep your stuff more organized, and if you want to find something to replace some things, you can do so in the future.

When you’re sorting your items out, you should also consider using a cart to transport them. A cart can save space and money, because the things can be stacked until you run out of space. You can also place them on their side, which makes it easier to clean up. By decluttering, you can make the packing process less tedious for newbies like you. 

Start Packing As Early As Possible

It’s important to start packing when you know where and when you’re going to move. Make sure you start packing as early as possible, because moving can get stressful and you might not be sure what’s going to happen. You can still work with your current landlord or renter to help you out in case you’re moving within your apartment building. This will help you get some time off from work and make sure everything goes as planned. 

Additionally, it’s also wise to book yourself a moving truck or hire reliable cross country movers before moving day. Typically, it’s best to work with professionals because you can save money since they’ll take care of everything that has something to do with your move. 

Clear The Area Around Your Old Home Before The Move

Another tip for house move for newbies is to clear the area around your home before moving day. Make sure you clear any storage spaces under the house that you don't have to take care of when moving. If you live in a small apartment or a studio, you’ll probably have to put up with a lot of stuff. Make sure you make the most of this space by putting furniture in an area where there’s no other clutter.

Also, make sure you clear the attic, basement, and stairs well in advance. You’ll need to move all the furniture that’s not being used, which is most likely your bed, bedding, nightstands, and tables. If your flooring isn’t in top condition, you may also need to sweep and vacuum it out. Aside from early packing, this can also be a great way to keep yourself organized throughout the relocation journey. 

Takeaway

Indeed, moving to a new house can be overwhelming to beginners like you. But, you have nothing to worry about because there are ways that can help you make your first move a great success. 

So, if you’re planning a house relocation anytime soon, keep these tips in mind and you’ll have a hassle-free moving experience even for your first time. 

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Forrest Wheatey

Carpets are a vital part of our home decor. They act as a source of comfort and coziness while keeping our home warm as well. But similar to every other item, carpets are prone to getting dirty and require cleaning after a set period. Although DIY cleaning the carpet is possible, you may not be able to clean it adequately without the right equipment. Therefore, here are some benefits to consider hiring a competent carpet cleaning company. 

Fewer Health Concerns

Maintaining a carpet’s cleanliness is crucial from a health standpoint. If left uncleaned, these carpets are likely to harbor dirt and serve as a breeding ground for microbes. Carpeted floors are also known for trapping fungi, dust mites. Having pets makes this even worse. If you or your co-workers experience an allergic reaction with an increase in sick days, it is high time to have your carpet cleaned. 

While equipped with modern technology and detergents, professional cleaners will make your life easier and safer. Therefore, hiring professionals will ensure overall employee wellness.

Productivity

Life in the US can be stressful, especially in states like Idaho. An unclean and orderly environment is likely to kill the productivity of your workspace. The employees, and you, are susceptible to get affected negatively by such circumstances. Cleaning the carpet yourself would be disruptive and tedious. So, what do you do? 

Our advice would be to hire the professionals experienced in such situations. Professional cleaners will allow the employees to focus on work while cleaning the carpet without disrupting the workspace. Moreover, being an Idaho resident, it would do you well to look for carpet cleaning services in Post Falls.

Skills and Experience

DIY carpet cleaning is always a hit or miss. Going off on a whim and cleaning with whatever you may deem fit is most owners' mindset. However, this mindset does not warrant the damage your carpet may suffer, let alone cleaning it appropriately. The durability is likely to decrease if dealt inadequately. 

Carpets are an expensive accessory for your home décor. Conserving them and managing to improve their lifespan is what all owners aim to achieve. Professional cleaners have the right skills and experience required to deal with all kinds of carpets. 

Time and Cost-Efficient

Professional carpet cleaners can clean carpets for a low cost and in a short amount of time. On the other hand, trying to clean carpets on your own is a mundane and time-consuming task. None of us have the time and patience to undertake such chores. 

Modern technology has made the tedious process rather effortless. Considering many owners are unlikely to buy the latest equipment, hiring the staff with those tools is also one way of going about it. Professional cleaners are known for their efficiency. 

Detergents

Similar to clothing and fabrics, carpets require the correct cleaning method based on its material and texture. Thus, the detergents and chemicals used for cleaning the carpet will affect its lifespan, for better or worse. Individuals use random and cheap detergents to clean their carpets. Not only does this harm the carpet, but it is also a health risk considering the detergent is unable to clean the carpet effectively. 

Carpet cleaners have extensive knowledge of detergents. They are easily capable of assessing the carpet and suggesting the appropriate detergents for it.

Professional Advice

Although the primary reason for hiring cleaners is to clean your carpet, there is another reason for doing so. Professional carpet cleaners will provide you with numerous tips and tricks to maintain the carpet's tidiness. Moreover, this will ultimately result in fewer occasions for you to clean your carpet. 

As mentioned before, the longevity of your carpets is imperative. The advice offered by the cleaners will do just that. The cleaners will also teach you how to light clean the carpet, free of cost.  

Eco-Friendly 

With environmental concerns rising with each passing day, it has become challenging to identify what products to use. Residents and business owners alike are still using products that threaten the environment and their workspace. Blaming the owners would be immature considering their lack of knowledge and expertise in the said field. However, professional cleaners use eco-friendly products, putting neither your workers nor the environment at risk.

Conclusion

Professional carpet cleaning has become a necessity in our lives. It is essential to preserve a healthy lifestyle at home while keeping the workspace productive and trouble-free. Therefore, instead of risking either of the aspects, it is crucial to hire individuals skilled in their work line. Professionals offer unparalleled cleaning at affordable rates, so why not give them a try?

partnered post • cc-licensed image

Many people dream of building a house to completion. There is that satisfactory feeling of building your home from the ground up. Good things tend to have a story behind them. It is fair to note that there is a long process involved in building a home, and you must be ready to experience it. There is a lot that comes into play when building your home. Those who might be doing it for the first have a lot to learn. It is unwise to get into something without at least learning a few things to expect. Luckily, you are going to learn some useful tips on what to expect when building a house here.

Planning

Before doing anything, it is essential to make a plan. The process of building a house should not be taken lightly. You need to understand that there is a lot you need to consider. Many people tend to make the mistake of not planning. Those who construct a building while making changes and adjustments along the way tend to regret it in the end. You need to get your plan going before doing anything else. The plan should include everything to be done until the house is completed. You should begin by looking at the plans that might interest you online. Doing so will help you create a reliable and effective plan. To make a great plan, you should consider seeking advice from an expert in the field. For an expert opinion, you should visit this website and make your home-owning dream come true.

Budget for More

Unfortunately, money tends to be a crucial issue when it comes to building a house. It is essential to prepare yourself financially before embarking on the project. Most people who build their homes tend to spend more than they initially planned, and this is because many items tend not to be included in the initial budget. They may include electrical cables and furniture. The prices of things like timber may increase. It is wise to have more money on hand in case you need it. Those who don't budget for more than they expect to end up getting frustrated when they can’t meet the demand for more cash.

Choose the Right Builder

The builder you choose will determine how your house will look. Picking a builder for the project is one of the most crucial decisions you will make. It is essential to choose someone with a great personality. This is crucial because you will have to communicate with the builder for a long period as the house is being constructed. Before choosing a builder, it is critical to ensure that the person has good credentials and also make a point of checking his or her past work. The style of the house you intend to have will also determine the type of builder you choose. A good way to find a builder is to ask your friends or other people who have successfully constructed quality houses.

Conclusion

The process of building a home is not always easy. Make sure to consider the tips above when you are building your home.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Bob Dass

A broken toilet can rank anywhere from a minor inconvenience (if you have multiple bathrooms), to a major emergency (if you’re a one-bathroom household). Even if the broken toilet isn’t one that you use regularly, small plumbing problems can quickly become big disasters if they aren’t properly repaired right away. Luckily, toilets can be one of the simpler plumbing fixtures for homeowners to troubleshoot and repair.

While most residential toilets have the same components and setup, not every toilet is the same, so these fixes might not apply to your situation. If you have any concerns about making the repair yourself, contact a plumbing expert in your area for help.

Here are some common problems with residential toilets that you can troubleshoot on your own.

Toilet Not Flushing

If you push the handle to flush the toilet and nothing happens, then there’s a problem with the hardware somewhere inside the tank. Most commonly, the problem is a simple result of chain disconnecting between the handle and the other flushing components. If that’s the case, you only need to reattach or replace the connection between the handle and the valve, and the problem should be solved. 

If there’s nothing wrong with that connection, then your problem is likely with one of the other valves in the flushing system, which can be much more difficult to diagnose. In that case, you’ll want to review the specific instructions from your toilet’s manufacturer to determine how to proceed. If you don’t want to spend the time required to troubleshoot the problem, an experienced plumber will likely be able to find and repair the problem quickly.

Clogs

Ah, the dreaded clog. Although clogs are extremely common in residential toilets, they often appear at the worst, most embarrassing times. If you have a plunger nearby, you’ll be able to resolve most clogs without too much fuss. However, if the clog is especially stubborn, or if you are having issues with repeated clogs, there may be a more significant problem with your sewer line. In that case, it’s best to call out a plumber who can auger the line to clear out any obstructions that could be causing the problem.

Slow or Incomplete Flushes

If your toilet bowl empties slowly or doesn’t flush all the way, it might be a result of clogged holes under the rim of the bowl. This is most commonly caused by hard water deposits or a build up of cleaning agents under the rim. The simplest solution to get water flowing quickly again is to clean out the holes using wire and a mirror. Be careful not to scratch the bowl with the wire. Damaging the porcelain can cause more problems in the long run.

Toilet Constantly Running

A toilet that’s constantly running can waste thousands of gallons of water and add hundreds of dollars to your utility bills. The most common reason for a continuously running toilet is a flapper that isn’t sealing properly against the opening of the flush valve. Replacing the flapper is usually a simple and inexpensive fix to the problem. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s possible that the water level in the tank is too high and is causing water to constantly flow over the overfill tube. If so, adjusting the water level on the refill valve should take care of the problem.

Phantom Flushes

Similar to a toilet that’s always running, phantom flushes, or spontaneous flushes occur when the toilet seems to flush on its own. This is almost always caused by a very slow leak from the tank into the bowl. This problem is also usually associated with the flapper not sealing firmly. Check the flapper and the flapper seat to find the problem and correct it quickly.

Water Leaks

Just like any plumbing fixture, toilets can develop water leaks in a variety of places. Leaks in different areas can be fixed with varying degrees of difficulty. For example, a leak at the shutoff or supply line is usually easily resolved by replacing a washer or another basic part. Leaks from the tank or base of the toilet can be significantly more complicated to troubleshoot and repair. For example, a leak at the base of the toilet will require the entire toilet to be uninstalled to find the source and repair the leak. Although removing a toilet doesn’t have to be complicated, it may be a more extensive plumbing repair than you want to take on yourself. In that case, you should find a local plumbing expert to help.

Getting Help With a Broken Toilet

Whether your bathroom toilet needs a simple flapper repair or a completely new toilet installed, getting expert assistance with your plumbing problems is always a good idea if you’re at all uncertain of your skills. Incorrect plumbing fixes can lead to water leaks which can result in severe damage to your home over time. In addition, leak toilets can create serious health hazards, if the water leaking from the toilet contains human waste. Instead of taking the risk, consider calling the experts. 

partnered post • cc-licensed image by clement

So you’re a homeowner and you’re ready to tackle that first major DIY project. Whether you’ve been inspired by HGTV or something you saw on Pinterest, or simply a desire to get your hands dirty and make the place your own, starting your first DIY project can be very exciting and more than a little overwhelming. If you’ve never done a major DIY project, it can be easy to overestimate the simplicity of the project and underestimate the costs. All of that can add up to a project that drags on for weeks or months, instead of the simple weekend makeover you had planned.

In order to avoid that fate and get your project done right, here are the steps to take in planning your first DIY project.

Decide on the Scope

So, you’ve decided to dive in and do your first big DIY project. Your first step will be to decide on the scope of the project. If you’ve ever watched a remodel show on cable, you know how quickly projects and costs can creep out of control, so it’s always best to start with a solid plan and scope. Here are some important issues to consider when deciding the scope of any DIY project.

Budget

One of the most important decisions to make when planning a DIY project is how much you’re willing and able to spend on the project. Try to consider all aspects of the project when completing your budget. You’ll need to purchase materials and tools and account for ancillary costs like demolition and disposal, permits, etc. You’ll also want to include a contingency to account for unexpected expenses that crop up. The size of the contingency will depend on the size of your project, but should be at least ten percent of the total project cost.

Project Size

Once you’ve started on a DIY project, it can be very easy to let it creep in scope while you’re working. For example, a simple project to replace a bathroom vanity can turn into a full bathroom remodel after you decide to replace the flooring while you have the vanity out. Do yourself a favor and stick as close to your originally planned project as possible.

It’s true that not every possible pitfall can be anticipated. For example, you may take out that vanity and discover a water leak which necessitates the replacement of drywall, flooring and/or pipes. However, you should do your best to stick to your original plan and complete other wishlist items in future projects. There’s no better way to sour on do-it-yourself work than to have a project drag on for months because you keep adding things to your To Do list.

Timeline

Watching experts complete a project on television or on YouTube can give you an unreasonable expectation of the timeline it will take you to complete a similar project. Be sure to pad your expectations and give yourself plenty of time to finish the project before diving in.

Extra Help

Are you going to need an extra pair of hands for lifting heavy fixtures into place, installing drywall or any other parts of the project? Will you need to schedule experts to help with plumbing, electrical, concrete or other major structural work? Be sure to schedule your project so that it aligns correctly with any help you might need.

Contingency

What’s your Plan B? If a major problem crops up or your skills aren’t up to finishing the project, what’s your backup plan? Will you call in professionals to finish the job? Or can you leave it unfinished until you have more time and money to complete it? With DIY projects, it’s always a good idea to hope for the best and plan for the worst.

Educate Yourself

Although enthusiasm is a great asset for DIY projects, you’re going to need to back it up with some real know-how. Educate yourself with any available resources you have access to, such as friends and family who are experts in the field, watching YouTube videos, and reading instructions from experts. When searching for how-tos online, be sure that the people you’re following actually are experts and are demonstrating safe and correct ways to get things done. Remember that anyone can post a video online, and it doesn’t mean that they’re doing something right. If you’re in doubt about how to do something, it’s always in your best interest to consult a local expert for advice.

Get Started

Now that you have a project plan in place and you’ve armed yourself with the knowledge to do the job, it’s time to get started. Do your best to gather all of your supplies and tools beforehand. This will reduce the need for multiple trips to the hardware store while you’re working, which can put a serious dent in your project timeline. You’ll want to begin by preparing the area where you intend to work to ensure that no unintended areas will be damaged and that the dirt and debris don’t get into non-construction areas. Taking before and after pictures is a great way to document your progress and show off your skills when the project is completed.

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of a big DIY project? Or started something that you don’t have time to finish? You might just be better off getting some help from the experts in home repair and renovation. With a professional plumber or electrician on your side, things can get a whole lot easier.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Next Day Blinds

From the listing:

Located in North Berkeley among architecturally significant homes and prominently sited at 1325 Arch Street, this 5-BD Swiss Chalet-style house was designed by Bernard Maybeck in 1906, a true architectural jewel. Shielded from the street, a wisteria-covered arbor greets you as you enter. Filled with the brilliance of its heritage and the beauty of natural materials, it has been restored with exceptional attention to its lustrous originality while blending modern features and amenities. Spaces for gathering and other rooms for private contemplation blend throughout. Redwood interiors, wraparound balconies, private flourishing garden, & magnificent views to SF, Golden and Bay Bridges & Mt. Tamalpais. The feeling of union with the environment can be experienced throughout. The suppleness of the wood, anchored with copper nails, can best be appreciated as the sun flows in through the many windows and doors. The flourishing garden offers a private portal to flora & fauna of surrounding lush landscape.

Anyone know who updated the wood? Parts look more modern, although they certainly match Maybeck’s original interior & intent. Looks like it could have been Kip Mesirow or another Berkeley woodworker of a similar aesthetic & high level of skill.

Are you relocating to a new city, or perhaps moving to a different neighborhood? Either way, planning and executing a move is always a stressful experience. Aside from the emotional stress associated with transitioning to a new home, you have to combat physical exhaustion and fatigue.

You have to disassemble all your furniture and fixtures, pack your delicate antiques and decoratives, and streamline thousands of chores. Many approaches can make the entire process less stressful and exhausting. In this article, we will help you plan and execute a smooth move without the overwhelming bouts of stress.

Here, take a look:

MAKE A CHECKLIST

Making a checklist is the first and foremost step in planning a stress-free move. Be sure to create a binder to hold your checklists and other notes and reminders. Your list must contain all the big and small tasks that need to be planned and executed. A list will assist you to stay on track with your milestones and ensure that you don’t forget anything.

SETTING PRIORITIES

Shifting to a new place comes with many changes and transformations. Most homeowners consider decluttering and prioritizing the fixtures and furniture they want to take with them. If you have invested in a fully-furnished home, or one that comes with appliances, you will have to declutter efficiently.

If you are living in the Southern United States or nearby and want to rent space, there are plenty of options available for storage in Grand Prairie, TX. It is a viable solution for homeowners who seek safety and affordability. If you’re planning an interstate move, renting a storage space to store your appliances and fixtures is a great solution.

HIRING PROFESSIONALS

Many homeowners consider the DIY route to save money, but it ends up being highly inefficient and horridly burdensome. A move requires a great deal of labor, aside from packing and storing items. You will have to move heavy furniture and appliances, which can also lead to injuries if handled ineffectively.

On the other hand, hiring professional movers will allow you to sit back and relax while they manage all the chores. It gives you peace of mind needed to plan an efficient move and make a smooth transition to your new home. If you’re worried about the costs, consider exploring options that allow affordability. Movers will not only pack and transport your belongings, but they will also help with installation and settling in.

ROOM-BY-ROOM APPROACH

Most homeowners take a haphazard approach towards packing, which lacks structure and strategy. It is ideal for working with a room-by-room approach and beginning with the rooms that are least needed. Until the very last day, you will need one master bedroom and a functional kitchen. It is ideal to start with rooms that do not directly support your lifestyles, such as the basement or attic.

You can streamline the packing strategy by starting with your decoratives, antiques, and photographs. Then, gradually work your way towards fixtures, furnishing, clothing, bedding, and other items. If your new home is nearby, consider transporting small items by car and installing your appliances and fixtures beforehand. It would help you make a smooth transition as your fixtures and appliances will be ready to use.

COLOR-COORDINATING & LABELLING

Labeling and color coordinating boxes is a great strategy to ensure efficiency and eliminate errors. By labeling delicate and easily-damaged items, you can ensure that they move with care. More importantly, you won’t have to open every single box to find that one item you urgently need.

It would help if you create a list of items packed within each box and paste that list on the box. It will help you prevent theft or misplacing certain things. With this approach, you can pack up each room and furnish each room when you arrive at your new home.

Conclusion

Moving is a stressful and exhausting endeavor, but if you plan it with a solid strategy, you can make it easier. It is crucial to avoid overloading yourself with stress and burdens so that you can begin your new journey with positivity. All that matters is making a smooth transition in your new home, and nothing should jeopardize that. Being overworked and exhausted with steal the joy of moving to your new home.

Have you ever thought about why organizations think about expansion despite risks? These risks can be about finances, ruined attempts, or business fallout. But still, they go ahead with their plans, proceeding to materialize them. They do so despite the threat of a recession, workforce mishandling, or worksite accidents. They do it because they realize that not capitalizing on a situation will deprive them of an opportunity. Worse, not expanding may carry the risk of losing existing ground in the longer run.

However, this doesn't mean that they throw all caution to the wind and make their move haphazardly. Instead, the organizations calculate their approach well and take steps cautiously. They even hire the staff that can take care of the entire process. The owners also draw out contingency plans and plan on minimizing probable damage. In simpler words, they find out about the things that they should consider when moving business to a new location. Informed decisions bring substantial results.

When that location is a new country, we need to take things in a more calculated way. In addition to the things mentioned above, we also need to take care of the local demographics and facts. It's a significant task from local hiring to renting storage and buying of equipment to legal fulfillment. However, that's what we will assist you within this article. We will put forth the things you need to be careful about when making your move. So, let's begin. 

• The Business Plan

You will need to devise and evolve a sound business plan to ensure that your new move turns out to be a success. A business policy is your policy document, and you try to make it a reality. And when you craft the plan, you will need to organize meetings with the stakeholders and colleagues. It will ensure that it comprises all the essential elements and doesn't miss out on any. It is at this point that your expansion move can be either successful or unsuccessful. That is because evolving a plan is half of the job.

• Financial Factors

Every success plan needs to take into account the monetary issues. If we don't calculate the costs of shifting, the strategy could eventually backfire. It is essential that we sit down, have a careful look at our existing budget, and estimate the upcoming expenses. When we say finances, then we mean a lot more, such as taxes and levies. So, let's be mindful and include them in the plan. 

• Workforce Hire

One of the most important things to consider is the hiring of the workforce locally. Understandably, we cannot move all existing workforce to a new country. Instead, we will need to plan the stages we will be employing local talent.  And, it is wise to start looking for potential employees long before we make our move.

• Marketing Plan

By all means, every good business owner will craft a plan to market themselves and the business. It is imperative to stand the competition in the new country and gradually generate revenue. A marketing plan begins with networking online and offline and organizing brand awareness events.

• Client Impact

In a new country, we will have to create new clients and reach the modern marketplace with a substantial impact. We can only gauge our success if we have a sound strategy to win over clients and become familiar with our product. It is the clients and their recommendations that can enable us to continue winning. 

Final Word

Moving to a new city location is an uphill task, let alone moving to a state or a country, per se. It is essential to play out in advance and carve out a plan that comprises all necessary elements above. We can only expect the success of a project if we have things in place and working.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Quintin Gellar

Are you tired of the old structure of your house? Well, a home remodeling session can help you enjoy a different appearance of your house in no time. Wouldn’t it be fun to have your old house remodeled into a better and more relaxing place? Amidst all other changes in your life, bring a few changes to your living place too. It deserves some betterment and retouches. The idea is exhilarating, but it can exhaust you until the remodeling is complete. Ideally, you should get help from experts for home remodeling and give the best retouch to your house. Innovative, trendy, and eye-catching ideas come bouncing out of the pros’ heads. With their remarkable skills, you can get a finely remodeled home in no time. 

Apart from all the hiring and innovative ideas, have you ever wondered about how to begin this process? The majority of people do not know about remodeling and end up messing up their place. If you want to avoid all these problems, make sure you have sufficient information about home remodeling before getting started. The year 2020 has been a rollercoaster, and the construction sector has faced millions of ups and downs as well. Acquiring knowledge about remodeling, interior design, and renovation has become essential more than ever. The trends are continually changing, and you need some tips before beginning the remodeling adventure. Do you want to lay your hands on some of the finest remodeling tips and ideas? Then here is what you must know. 

• GET A TEMPORARY PLACE TO STAY FIRST

Living in a place under construction is stressful and may lead to anxiety. The best way to avoid any problems in living peacefully, you can opt for temporary housing solutions until remodeling is complete. These houses provide shelter and all other necessities to spend your time comfortably, and the best time to benefit from them is home remodeling. 

• DO RESEARCH ON THE PROJECT 

Since you have made up your mind and acquired a temporary place to stay, you need to perform research on the project first. Do you need a full house remodeling or remaking one or two rooms would do the trick? Your analysis must encompass all possible parameters for effective plan execution.

• PLAN PROPERLY 

Planning is vital for any new step in your life, and remodeling should not be plan-free. Start planning from the area that needs the utmost attention. Shortlist the renowned names in the remodeling business and hire the best according to your requirements. Enlist everything that you wish to do and double-check before starting. Remember, your efficient planning can result in a fantastic experience. 

• BUDGET IS VITAL TO CONSIDER

Breaking the bank is not a wise choice for a remodeling session. You must be sure about the expenditure, and if the expenses are incredibly high, it is better to drop the idea for now. Small ups and downs in the budget are expected since the market is unpredictable, but you must keep a margin for that as well. 

• HOME DYNAMICS 

Have you thought about your family, dynamics, and needs during planning? If not, then prioritize this step at all costs. Planning the remodeling phase according to your home dynamics or family needs is essential. Otherwise, someone might lose their study space, or the bathroom may shrink in size. 

• SPACE-SAVING SOLUTIONS ARE IMPORTANT 

Insufficient space is common in every household these days. Since you are already planning on improving the look of your house, why not add some extra space to it? You can add more cabinets in the kitchen, and sconces can help you with the messy bedroom. You can also remodel the ceiling height for a spacious look. A few shelves may be enormous, so divide them into two and save loads of space. 

• CHANGES IN WALLS 

Dull paint of the walls can make you feel tired in no time. Never forget to change the color of the walls during the remodeling of the house. Switch to different shades of the same color or try a vibrant color for one of the rooms this time.  

• DIFFERENT LIGHTS IN YOUR HOUSE 

Lighting has evolved magnificently over time, and you cannot imagine the innovative types of lights that are now available in the market. From pendant lights to mounted and semi-mounted lights, you have millions of options. Find out the latest lighting trends and give your house some different lighting this time. 

• DIFFERENT UPHOLSTERY

Did you know that curtains and bedsheets are small items but have a massive influence on the appearance of your house? Not bringing significant changes to the entire house is acceptable, but you can always get some new upholstery, different curtains for the home and witness the transformation. You can also replace the decoration pieces for a different look. 

Conclusion

House remodeling is an exciting yet challenging idea which demands extra effort. You have to plan, execute, check, and redo whenever required. Consider thorough research, sound planning, budgeting, and the latest trends for the perfect remodeling experience. Meanwhile, you can stay comfortably in a temporary house. Remodeling does not mean you have to renew every corner of the house. Sometimes, minor changes can bring massive improvement in the overall appearance of the home. Be careful when you begin your remodeling journey.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Rene Asmussen

Homes play a significant role in our lives. Many people tend to be excited when they finally move out. When moving out, you should not be too carried away by the events, especially if you are planning to sell the house. Those that have tried selling their homes know that it is a struggle. Only a few lucky homeowners have sold their homes with no challenges. There are things you may require to do to increase your chance of making a sale at a good price. Below are some of the repairs you should consider when moving out.

Holes in the Walls

Making a sale when moving things out of the home is challenging because of various reasons. The true condition of the house may have been hidden by some of the items inside. When the house is nearly empty, buyers are most likely to see the damages on the walls. The first repair you should consider doing is to patch any holes in your walls. Make sure you patch the holes neatly to the point that a buyer may not notice. No one will be willing to spend a lot of cash on a house with holes in the wall.

Paint

It is essential to make the house you wish to sell be captivating. It needs to capture the attention of potential buyers. Many people are informed to paint their homes if they want to make a quick sale. Well, a little fresh paint will be significant in helping you sell your home. However, this does not mean that you have to repaint the whole house. Repainting a room or two may be all it takes. Make sure that you choose a neutral color when painting. You should consider getting more useful info from a professional on the type of color and paint to use.

Cleaning

Making your home look presentable is crucial when selling it. You should make sure that you take your time cleaning the house. Every room should be clean and tidy. This will make potential buyers view the home feel welcomed and at home. You can even hire a professional to help you clean up the place. Things like cleaning up the carpet or hardwood floors may require extra attention and skills.

Fix Minor Plumbing Issues

There are some repairs you can comfortably do yourself, and this includes repairing minor plumbing issues. Make a point of checking if there is any leakage in the kitchen sink, and if there are any, try to fix it. Another place that may need a minor plumbing fix is the bathroom. Many people tend to focus on the bathroom when buying a home. If there is a major plumbing problem, you should call a plumbing expert to be on the safe side.

Conclusion

Though doing the repairs mentioned above will help you sell your home, you should also consider hiring an experienced real estate agent. You should also consider remodeling some of the rooms like the kitchen and master bedroom.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Guy Kilroy

In recent months, businesses in the home improvement industry have seen a spike in traffic due to consumers being home more than ever before. The Home Improvement Research Institute found with plans canceled many consumers have decided to focus on one area that is normally avoided, the needed repairs to their home. While summer slowly comes to a close, one of the projects on most people’s minds is their furnace and whether to repair or replace.  

For most consumers, the thought of replacing their entire HVAC system seems expensive, which makes it a project that is normally put off as long as possible. In most cases, a simple service inspection from an air conditioning company can fix any problems that you might be noticing. Some of the warning signs that repairs might be needed include the following.

1. A dramatic increase in your energy bill. In most homes the furnace makes up the majority of the energy bill and when not correctly maintained it can cause a massive increase in your bill. Sometimes this increase can be caused by something simple and other times it can lead to a whole system replacement. By having an annual service visit you can help prevent this increase. 
2. An abnormal amount of dust in your home. One component of your furnace is the filter. This helps to reduce the amount of dust that is present in the air within your home. By properly maintaining and replacing your filter you will be able to maintain clean air. 
3. Abnormal or strange noises coming from your furnace. Furnaces are generally fairly quiet pieces of equipment within the home and therefore you should not be hearing popping, banging, scraping or screeching noises. Typically, these noises indicate that a part within the furnace is no longer working correctly. By calling a technician the problem can be quickly assessed and resolved. 

While repairs are the first line of defense against having your furnace go out on the coldest night, they are not always guaranteed. Each furnace model is slightly different from the others, however, on average a furnace will last about 15 years before needing to be replaced. As you move towards the colder nights of fall and winter it is a good time to think about the age of your furnace to prevent being without heat. Some other signs that your furnace is about to go out include the following.

1. Carbon monoxide is being released into your home. Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer within the homes which means that your furnace needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Carbon monoxide is released from the furnace when the combustion chamber within the unit cracks. This is not something that can be fixed and results in a whole unit replacement. 
2. The cost of repairs is more than half the cost of replacing the unit. It is a rule of thumb for most technicians that if the costs of repairs excessed more than 50% of the cost of replacement and the unit is at least halfway through its life expectancy then you should place it. Normally by this point, the furnace is experiencing other problems and by replacing it you can possibly see a lower energy bill. 
3. Numerous repairs in a short time span. Typically, if a unit requires numerous repairs within a two-year time span then it is time to consider replacing it. This is either a sign that more repairs are coming or that the unit is about to fail.

When it comes down to it deciding to repair or replace your furnace is a decision that only you can make. The main thing to remember is to listen to your furnace and know when something sounds off. By maintaining an annual maintenance schedule with your HVAC provider, you will be better informed to make the best decision possible.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by pdz_house

A leaking furnace is never something that you want to deal with, especially on the coldest winter night. There are numerous different reasons as to why you might be seeing water under your furnace, but the most common is a condensation leak. One important aspect of furnace leaks to remember is that they are a fairly common issue, but they need to be handled quickly to reduce the amount of damage that might be done to your home.

When you see water under your furnace the best thing to do is call your local HVAC contractor for an accurate diagnosis. However, it is important to stay educated about the different components that make up your furnace and where the issue might be.

Condensation Leaks

Condensation leaks normally occur in high-efficiency furnaces, which have an AFUE rating of 90 or above. These types of furnaces have two heat exchangers which help to produce more heat.

With the production of more heat, there is more condensation which needs to be carried out of the home via a network of pipes. When this network becomes clogged or breaks the condensation gathers around the base of the furnace, leading to a collection and possible water damage.

Humidifier Leaks

The humidifier is another important part of your furnace. This device connects your plumbing system to the furnace which adds moisture to the air circulating throughout your home. When the connection is clogged, damaged or broken water will start to collect at the base of your furnace.

Filters

The furnace filter is used to filter out the dirt that is in the air and therefore needs to be replaced roughly every 90 days. When not replaced frequently enough it can cause the filter to get dirty and clogged which restricts the airflow into your furnace coils. This can cause the coils to freeze and forcing water to leak into the furnace causing more damage. 

Plumbing

Each furnace has a network of plumbing throughout the unit, along with the systems centering and exiting the unit. When these systems get clogged it can cause a backup in the whole system leading to pipes breaking and leaking.

To conclude, there are many different reasons as to why your furnace is leaking water; some major, others minor. Calling your local technician is the first line of defensive against causing more damage to your home. By conducting annual service to your unit, you will be able to catch any problems before they become major. Finally, knowing the signs of needed repairs and listening to your furnace will make a major difference in the long run.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Marc Helesha

The universe has been clenched in the fists of modernization. Scientific advancement has enhanced the living standards of human beings. As technology is intervening in every facet of living, the ways of life are changing. The perfect combination of nature and the human mind has brought colors to the world. The mashup of these two brilliant units has transmuted the functioning world. The world is moving at a hypersonic pace leading to mesmerizing wonders.

Construction sites are the first step towards the beginning of new lives. The skyscrapers piercing through the clouds represent what we have achieved. With the introduction of new technologies every day, the construction industry is attaining new heights. The astonishing ideas spewing out from the fantastic brains of human beings are worth praising. These wonders require a lot of skills and expertise to stand out firmly. Behind a single building, many people are working, both physically and mentally. 

Construction sites are not less than a ring of life. It is quite a dangerous place to dwell. The hefty pieces are hovering over the heads, heavy machinery moving around, delicate rotating equipment functioning to their fullest, in short accidents are waiting to hit. Everyone is prone to mistakes. There are lots of glitches and errors done at construction sites. But, a little failure can cause a lot of trouble for everyone. It can be deadly as the lives of people who live or be in there are at stake. Here are some of the common glitches with solutions that may incur at a construction site.

Power Issues

 To run the construction site effectively, you should have power resources. Connection to the primary grid can help you out, but what if you are working at a remote location? What if there come glitches in the mainline? You can't afford to delay the work at the construction site. Nowadays, always every tool requires power to operate. There are lifts, cutters, drillers, shakers, mixers, and a lot more waiting to get an electrical connection to do their job. Therefore, it is necessary to have generators at the site to cope with power issues. Sometimes, generators also collapse, so there should be reliable generators. If you want to avoid any generators glitches and want to have the best ones, go to the site and pick any that caters to your needs.

Blueprint Confusions

If you're planning to build anything, you need a design. Structural designs have blueprints that are a plan of what shape the building will get. The intricate designs can cause a lot of trouble. The designers may provide it to them to field workers, but there is a chance of misreading the prints. It could be very threatening because a tad error can cause the building to collapse. The designers and workers should frequently communicate to make sure things are proceeding in the right direction. Some amendments in the plan may also occur, so the blueprints of the latest dates should be available for the workers. 

Communication Gaps

Construction site mingles different teams for different purposes. There are a lot of aspects related to the construction that different groups have. Occasionally, when one group leaves, they don't convey the essentials of the day to other teams that may lead to severe issues. Sometimes, the workers have a hard time understanding the tasks. There shouldn't be any miscommunication at the construction site to avoid any mishaps.

Safety Hazards

The safety of the workers at a construction site is of prime importance. There should not be any leaks in the safety of the workers. Everyone should work according to safety protocols. First aid kits should always be available to tackle any injury. Immediate actions and treatments can save lives. If accidents are happening around, it won't only delay the work, but the firm's reputation will also decline.

Design Flaws

Nobody is perfect. Flaws can occur at any time. In the construction industry, the designs are on paper or a computer screen that looks perfectly fine. But when it comes to practical, the flaws may come out to give surprise everyone. To encounter it, designers must use advanced software to prepare models before the construction begins. On the spot, amendments can also increase your cost a lot. If you are sure that the flaw won't disturb the quality and standard, you may go with it.   

Work Delays

The construction companies go with the forecasting of a few months and plan accordingly. The plans should be on short-terms. Break the prediction in weeks or even days to combat delays. What if bad weather approaches and nobody can do the work? What if other glitches diminish the pace of the work. Go with day to day tasks to achieve the targets. 

Conclusion

The construction site is a mess. There are lots of operations going on at different spots. When a lot of work is under process, glitches are unavoidable. With proper organization and planning, we can reduce the risk of glitches occurring. Above are some of the glitches that usually happen at a construction site. These glitches can cause a lot of hassle and produce hindrances in accomplishing the goals. The companies should take every measure to tackle these glitches.  

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Quang Nguyen Vinh

Transporting your stuff for moving or something else should be easy and stress-free — if you use the following tips. 

We’ll tell you how to pack your car for moving and how to make sure your belongings are safe while on the road. 

Read on!

Declutter: Purge, Sell or Donate 

Go through your stuff at least two weeks before you transport them. Then, sort them into three groups like below: 

• Purge – and by “purge” we mean trash. Don’t be afraid to throw items -- even the huge ones -- if they’re no longer useful or if they’re broken and can’t be fixed.

• Sell – after throwing out the junk, see if you can sell some things. They can be items that are old but still in great working condition. List them in online shops or set up a garage sale. 

• Donate – there are some things you’d feel better just donating instead of throwing away or selling. These items can be furniture, clothes, shoes, or anything that another person can use

Pick the Right Vehicle 

You must have the right kind of vehicle for the task. If you think your car won’t cut, find a Bristol van hire shop that can offer the right type of vehicle. 

If you’re planning to rent a van, remember to consider what kind and size you need. Bigger vans can haul more and larger items, reducing the number of trips you have to make to transport all your stuff.

Essential Items First 

Now, check the items you’ve retained and pack the most essential items first. Packing essential items help maximize the limited storage space you have.

Try an Overhead Carrier 

And because you have limited space, you might want to try equipment that helps you carry more. An overhead carrier is an impeccable solution. 

Attach the overhead carrier on the vehicle’s roof and be strategic when putting items on the carrier. 

One caveat: high-quality carriers can be quite pricey. So think about it first. 

And while you’re at it, make sure you have some other useful car tools and accessories you can use when transporting stuff.

Don’t Use Cardboard Boxes 

Cardboard boxes are pretty useful, but they’re not always enough.

For one, cardboard boxes are meant for huge storage spaces, which you probably won’t have if you’re transporting a lot of stuff. They’re also not very flexible. 

An alternative would be plastic bags. Or you can get creative: cover glasses and other such items in clean clothes to protect them and save bubble wrap. 

Cover containers of liquids (perfume, alcohol, etc) with saran wrap to avoid spills.

Put Heavy Stuff at the Bottom 

You don’t want to crush smaller, more fragile items while you’re driving. Place the larger, heavier, and stronger items at the bottom. 

Examples of items you should put at the bottom are books and heavy furniture. Appliances, electronic gadgets, and items made of glasses should be on top.

Plan the Route 

If you think you’ll spend some time on the road, or if you’re sure you’ll make multiple trips, survey the road and routes you’ll take. 

This will help you avoid problems with roads and streets such as roadblocks, roads under construction, and such inconveniences. 

Plan the timing, too. Think of rush hours and times when the road is usually congested.

Ready to Transport Your Stuff? 

These tips are meant to help you transport your stuff with ease and less stress. However, expect that you’ll still encounter problems when you hit the road. 

The difference is that they’ll probably be minor problems, and you’ll be able to anticipate them. You’ll be able to solve them faster when they come up. 

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Forrest Wheatey

Hiring a contractor for any type of construction or building repair work can be a stressful time — especially for someone who has had little contact or experience of the industry. However, it really doesn’t need to be so.

By following the informative, accurate guide laid out for you here, you can hire a great roofing company with an excellent degree of confidence that you’ll get the best available and, just as importantly, you’ll get the all-important job done — all within budget, with guarantees, and with as little stress as possible — all because you got the best roofing company for the task at hand.

A new roof or roof repair is an important consideration, as a failure to act on your part can lead to a whole host of problems you certainly do not want — interior damage, structural issues, and the biggest consideration — more costs. Who honestly needs that in this coronavirus-riddled, economy-knocked out of the park era we live in? Yes, same here.

For example, if your area experiences a severe storm with damage potential, and your roof is in need of repairs, you really need to act as quickly as possible - to mitigate any further damage. Doing this with confidence can only happen if you ensure you follow this guide: Your 5 Tips To Help You Hire The Best Roofing Company.

1. Due Diligence

Time may be of the essence, especially if your roof is now letting in rainwater, but you still need to do your due diligence when you begin your search for the best roofing company for your needs. Make sure you:

• Ask For Referrals: Ask friends, family, and neighbors for their references to local roofers or contractors. By selecting a local roofing company from a trusted referral, you will drastically improve your chances of finding a reputable one - and less chance of coming across a clever scam. Choosing a roofing contractor from your local community with a sound reputation is a great way to ensure a job well done. Additionally, they are more aware of local rules and code regulations and should have a good relationship with local building material suppliers. 
• Research: If you do get a good referral, your due diligence doesn’t stop there - research only the highest-quality companies using the Better Business Bureau (BBB). If they are not on the BBB, they shouldn’t be on your roof!
• Manufacturer Designation: High-quality companies always have a manufacturer designation, too. To become factory-certified, the contractor must pass minimum requirements in your region or state. These designations are considered “a badge of honor” among their own peers, because the contractor must pass certain minimum requirements to become factory-certified. Note: This is an important consideration - manufacturers won’t honor their warranties when a roof is installed by a non-authorized installer.

2. Safety

Regardless of where you are in the country, strict adherence to safety standards is essential. Therefore, you should only hire a roofer that has safety training. Ask the contractor if their roofing company has a training program, or requires that its employees take relevant safety classes.

3. Comprehensive & Extensive Warranty

When it comes to the warranty for your new roofing, ensure the cover provided includes workmanship, as well as the obligatory faulty parts/materials. You can make comparisons with other contractors’ warranties that are also available — specifically, length of the cover and the workmanship involved.

This is important because not all contractors can offer the manufacturer’s warranty that includes the roofing contractor’s workmanship. If a contractor installs the roof incorrectly or not to specification, it will often take months (or even years) for the damage to begin to show, and your insurance will not pay for it. If the contractor refuses to fix it (or worse, their business has bitten the dust in this COVID-19-ridden economy), your only option left is to actually put your hand in your own pocket, and pay for their mistake yourself. 

4. Professional & Comprehensive Insurance and Licensing

Every single employee of the roofing contractor you hire should be licensed roofers — covered 100% by the company’s insurance policy. This should include any or all subcontractors too. Inadequate insurance, sadly, can cause untold problems — usually major ones, and many do result in potential lawsuits.

Furthermore having professional and comprehensive insurance and licensing is a standard state regulation for any construction contractors. However, to keep costs down, some unscrupulous roofers do not have the proper insurance. You must ensure you get a copy of their insurance from your roofer before they start the job, and then you need to cross-reference it online. For example, they should have a current policy that includes $1,000,000 in liability coverage — as a minimum.

Nearly every state requires licensing for contractors; however, like the insurance policy, it still does not stop unlicensed contractors from doing roofing work if the homeowner isn’t careful. Reputable roofing contractors should hold:

• Appropriate levels of Workers Compensation
• At least $1 million worth of General Liability coverage, and
• Hold current and proper state licensing where they’re working

5. The Legal Side

Lastly, you need to ensure you are covered legally for any future problems, so the best advice is to get everything in writing — with no omissions. Every single aspect of your roofing work should be agreed upon and signed off to your satisfaction. Essential aspects to cover include:

• Materials: Your chosen roofing contractor should give you a number of different options for materials, eg. shingles, based on quality and affordability to fit your situation. 
• Deductibles: An important one this, so beware. Any roofing contractor who claims they can handle the repair without having the homeowner pay their insurance deductible is committing fraud — insurance fraud, to be precise. The insurance deductible is strictly the responsibility of the insured, and that should be reflected in any quote that you’re provided with.
• Insurance Claims: Any roofing contractor who describes themselves as “a claim specialist” or is able to “handle your insurance claim” may very well be breaking the law, depending on the state you live in. In the vast majority of states, it is illegal for any contractor to “act on behalf of the homeowner” when resolving any claim under your insurance policy. 

Cover Yourself Properly... 

By following these 5 Tips To Help You Hire The Best Roofing Company, you can hire a company that’s 100% legal, reputable, and able to get the work done time-efficiently and within budget. A quick reminder of how to ensure your peace of mind:

• Due Diligence
• Safety
• Comprehensive & Extensive Warranty
• Professional & Comprehensive Insurance and Licensing
• The Legal Side

If you have any tips of your own that you’d like to share with other readers, drop a comment below. Thanks.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by damongman

Buying new furniture can be pricey, and sometimes parting with an old couch that still retains its comfort can prove challenging. Your older furniture has already been broken in, carries a lot of memories and naps, and stood the test of time. Unfortunately, it may look outdated, and the wear and tear are showing. 

Creating your DIY fabric slipcovers is a great way to freshen up the look of an old piece of furniture. Using quality fabric for reupholstery is the perfect way to freshen up an old couch without spending too much money. The material listed below will give you a fantastic jumping off point in picking a quality fabric.

Fabrics for Reupholstering Furniture

Solids – Solid colors are a fundamental cornerstone of every design. They add weight and stability to the room and offer a base for added designs like patterns, shapes, and come in a wide array of colors. You can use this opportunity to add contrast to your room by picking a color that doesn’t exactly match or pick one for a perfect blend of color that’ll refresh your room. 

• Solid Knit Pleated Bodre Fabric – This can come in different colors than the one shown, but will add a new level of sophistication to your old furniture and a small touch of elegance to your home.

Paisley – This style of fabric is iconic, all on its own. With its teardrop motif and a curved top, it was a popular style that has stood the test of time and interior decorating trends. Its Persian-style looks have made it a staple for furniture from the late 18th century and into modern times. There’s something to be said about timelessness.

• Paisley Knit Velvet Fabric Burgundy – With the classic paisley design and the luxurious feel of velvet, your old couch will quickly become the center of attraction for your family and guests. If the burgundy doesn’t suit you in color, try the navy-rust, and black-rust.

Charmeuse – For an ultimate style that gives off an illustrious and elegant sheen, then Charmeuse may be the perfect fabric for you. It is delicate to the touch yet durable enough for any of your home décor projects, like creating slipcovers. It is a satin-like polyester that holds a tastefully matte finish on one side and a shiny yet silky side on the other. Oh, and its machine washable!

• Animal Woven Charmus Fabric Taupe Light – This isn’t going to be your standard go-to fabric for reupholstering your furniture, but sometimes, you got to let that inner animal out. Made of 97% polyester and 3% spandex, this fabric is a perfect throwback print to add a little pizazz and sass to your home. If you have a small chair that needs some work, this will fabric will help bring attention to an old piece without overpowering your home’s design.

Creating slipcovers for your old furniture can be a fun and inexpensive way to freshening up your home while still getting to keep a comfortable piece of furniture. Fabrics from Fabric by the Yard offers many different styles and prints for you to choose from and make ordering easy, fun, and keeps your project within your budget.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Design Folly

Homes across America suffer from a similar problem: a severe lack of organization. Missing items amongst clutter seems to be a natural byproduct of a busy life. Unfortunately, it’s this same clutter that causes disorganization and leads us to feel stressed out and anxious. Taking steps to practice the chores we commonly avoid is the best way to help overcome this stress and add more efficiency to our lives. A great place to start re-organizing your home is your kitchen or bathroom. Starting with a spice rack, kitchen cabinet or under your bathroom sink can be a good small project to practice the basics of clearing out clutter and resorting that soap or spice you never remembered to open. For the purposes of this post we’re going to focus on practicing under-sink organization. Sorting through the area underneath your sink can help you leverage space and spur convenience in your home fast!

For most people, one of the messiest and most disorganized places in the house is the cabinet under their sink, both in the kitchen and in the bathroom. And while it is easier to leave your under-sink cabinet left to disarray, it will make most of your day-to-day tasks much more stressful. From staring down a sea of colored bottles, cans and scrubs, to blindly reaching into the back of your sink cabinet, spilling canister after canister in the process, only to grab the wrong bottle again and again. Getting your cabinets under control and properly organized is something we can all benefit from.

The first thing you’ll notice when you approach organizing your under sink cabinet is that space is limited in under-sink cabinets, which means it’s easy to tackle, and there are so many cool products and smart DIY projects that help you organize your under-sink cabinet and actually make it fun.

To start de stressing and start organizing, try the seven tips below.

Seven Under Sink Organization Tips

1. Storage Containers: Storage containers do a lot of the hard work when it comes to under kitchen sink organization. But, the key is making sure that each container has a designated use. Otherwise, you’ll end up with messy containers! It’s also fun to think outside of the (storage) box. What other items can you use to keep your under-sink clutter contained? Things like recycled aluminum cans, coffee mugs, and baskets can keep your organized under sink area from feeling boring and dull. And, as another bonus, you have a lot of great storage containers you can use all around your home already — you just have to get creative!
2. Rethink Curtain Hardware: Installing a curtain rod under your sink might seem like a strange idea, but it’s actually one of the smartest under bathroom sink organization ideas you’ll find. A simple tension rod is easy to install, and it allows you to organize all sorts of clutter — from towels to bottles of cleaning products. You can also use the hardware from curtain kits to create handy trash bag holders. All you need is a small wooden dowel and the hardware!
3. Label Storage Bins: By labeling storage bins you can prepare your cabinets and space for your space for when you need products most. You can make labeling fun too! There are lots of creative ways to make labels, including magnets, using a chalkboard paint and garden signs.
4. Add a Spice Rack: Spice racks are another fun and cleave under sink organization idea because they are super versatile. Installing a spice rack on the inside of your cabinet door can help you organize your space, keeping a lot of the small items that can easily get lost right within reach.
5. Add a Lazy Susan: Adding a lazy susan organizer in your cabinet is one of our favorites under sink organization ideas. Because they’re so convenient, you can quickly find and put back any of the items you use — and without any searching or digging.
6. Be Practical: Know your space limit and try to only carry the essential products you need under your sink to limit risk and exposure. Many cleaners contain chemicals that damage and erode the wood base under your sink, so try to only carry what you need. Less is more, be practical about your cleaning products.

While you’re organizing your under your sink cabinet you should also consider investing in a high quality under sink cabinet mat from Xtreme Mats. An under sink mat is like an insurance policy against leaks for a low one-time payment. Under sink mats offer the best overall protection soap, old, dust and water leaks while also helping stack, set and arrange your under sink products. And, thanks to their lifetime warranty, you can be sure that the investment lasts. So get to re-organizing today and while you’re at it, check out an under sink mat too.

partnered post • client images

This under sink mat from Xtreme Mats comes in various sizes to best fit your specific cabinet size. As the first line of defense against water damage underneath your sink, we’ve designed and manufactured Xtreme Mats to be unparalleled. Our under sink mats are guaranteed to hold between 1.3 to 3.3 gallons of liquid in case of an accidental spill or a common under sink leak. Prolonged leaks often cause mold and mildew buildup, wreaking havoc on your cabinets and creating a host of ongoing problems you may need to hire professional help handling. That’s why our under sink mats are a perfect solution to catching leaks early and helping prevent the overflow and immediate impact. This doesn’t give mold or mildew doesn’t the chance to grow and it keeps you step ahead of expensive repairs.

Our Xtreme under sink mats are super easy to install and can be removed for a quick cleanup. Mildew and soap scum can be sprayed or scrubbed off and for dry particles, a quick whip of your vacuum will do the trick. These mats aren’t just great at protecting against dangerous liquid hazards, but dust and grime too!

Aside from occasionally wiping down your mat and letting it dry, there is no other maintenance. If your kitchen or bathroom suffers from a cluttered, dirty, or a lack of organization under your cabinets, the under sink mat from Xtreme Mats is the perfect solution. The Xtreme mat lays flat and it will not buckle or curl, making it the perfect organization tray or cover for spotty cabinet bottoms. Available in multiple sizes, with more to be released soon, you can easily find one that fits your needs, though you may need to trim ½ to ¼ of an inch for that perfect fit should you have any piping that comes from the base of the cabinet. 

Xtreme Mats Under Sink Mat Features

• Our under sink mat holds 1.3 to 3.3 gallons of liquid in case there is a leak or product spill.
• These under sink liners from Xtreme Mats feature a modern design and style with no off-gassing and no VOC.
• Angled sides and a rear wall that will ensure a snug fit.
• It is made from an eco-friendly and low-density polyethylene construction. This offers flexibility and durability.
• The mat offers textured surfaces, so items are protected in case there is a leak.
• It is a combination of a drip tray, a cabinet mat, and a shelf-liner.
• Ideal for both kitchen and bathroom under sink mats and will also work for laundry room cabinet mats.
• Designed with a fitted water sensor location on all mat designs. (We recommend installing a water sensor to any mat to monitor small leaks before they grow and stay aware of major leaks exceeding 3.3 gallons).

Protect against unexpected leaks and spills with an under sink mat from Xtreme Mats so you can have the peace of mind that your bathroom and kitchen cabinets are protected from the dangers of moisture based damage. These mats come with the added bonus of a lifetime warranty and look beautiful in all homes. 

Get the protection of the strongest under sink mat on the market with the added benefits of organization and style today when you order from Xtreme Mats. 

partnered post • client images