If you’ve spent any time at all looking at real estate listings, you’ll know the phrase ‘perfect for entertaining’ all too well. Everything from granite countertops to a slab of concrete in the backyard can be billed as making a home ‘perfect for entertaining.’ Let’s look at some home upgrades that really do have the potential to turn your home into an ‘entertainer’s dream.’

If you love inviting friends and family over, or you look forward to activities like pizza parties and movie nights with your kids, you’ll likely want a space in your home that’s ideal for entertaining. There are several ways you can update and remodel residential spaces to make areas in your home, especially inviting and unique. Here are a few creative ideas that can make your home one of the best places to gather for a special occasion.

Open Up the Floor Plan

When you invite loved ones over for a game night or holiday party, they likely all gravitate to the kitchen. The kitchen is the area where food and drinks are served, and you’re likely to start engaging in conversation around the kitchen table. Even if the design scheme for the rest of your home is visually appealing, people are naturally attracted to the kitchen.

Older homes often have small kitchens. If you like the architectural design of your older house and don't have the budget to knock down walls to make the kitchen bigger, you may want to consider a more open floor plan.

An open floor plan makes your dining room and living room especially welcoming so that guests will be drawn to these areas. Remove some of the larger furniture pieces and add a large throw pillow to the floor. Paint the wall in pastel or metallic shades, and add sheer curtains that let natural light. These steps help make a space look larger and keep your guests from crowding the kitchen.

Walls that “Open”

If you've already been in your home for years, it’s likely that your idea of entertaining loved ones isn't the same as it was a decade ago. Changing the furniture around in the common area of your home may not be enough to accomplish the design aesthetic you want anymore. Previously, the woman of the house cooked for a large family, but these days, more men are helping in the kitchen, which is why this area of the home is a popular gathering spot. Knocking a small wall out in your kitchen to make the space larger makes a huge difference and is more budget-friendly than renovating the entire kitchen. You can also install French doors where your kitchen and dining room meet. When you open the doors, the space automatically looks more welcoming, and you can close the doors if you prefer to keep friends and loved ones out of the kitchen while you're preparing the food.

Add an Outdoor Kitchen 

If you’re known (or would like to be known) for backyard barbecues and family picnics, consider installing an outdoor kitchen in your backyard. U-shaped outdoor kitchens are a popular entertainer's upgrade that can help with entertaining now and selling your home later. You'll have to work with a contractor to make the right plumbing connections when you want to add a sink or stove to the outdoor kitchen. It's also a good idea to install a small refrigerator, storage shelves, and bar seating.

Decks and Outdoor Areas 

If you find that you’re running out of space in your home for entertaining, consider making some updates to your deck and patio area. Adding a screen around the porch makes a comfortable sitting area that is cool and bug-free. Choose outdoor furniture that matches the design scheme of your home’s interior, and consider planting a small garden around the patio to add texture and color to the area.

When you put thought into the design you want for your entertaining space, your guests will feel especially welcome, even if you haven’t added square footage to your home. Small solutions, like creative storage and additional seating, can open up your home and create an entertainment area you can be proud of.

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Nancy Hugo

In the contemporary world, a vast majority lives in compact houses, as the cost of living has gone higher in the past few years. People used separate rooms for entertaining guests, dressing, dining, sleeping, or family gatherings in the old days. In modern homes, the living room generally serves all these purposes. The living room has become the dominant point of the house, as it is where most of the house’s activities take place. After spending an exhausting day outdoors, people wind up in the living rooms, entertain guests here, and carry out their day-to-day activities in the same room. Many have installed their television screens and placed dining tables in the living room, and thus, the room sees a lot of commotion. Contemporary architects design houses so that living rooms connect all other areas, and are generally in the middle of the house.

Since the living room is a happening place, the furniture items and other stuff wear out quickly as people use them excessively. People often consider remodeling the widely used space, but they hesitate because of the expense and hard work that are upgrading demands. The truth is if you plan intelligently, you can revamp the living room without making a hole in your pocket. Besides, the living room is the center point, and giving just one area makeover, gives the whole house an updated look. Many people neglect the functionality while renovating the living room, and later on, the fancy setting hinders their daily procedures. You can easily upgrade your space and give it a modern look while keeping it practical.

The following are some tips that will need your utmost consideration while your deicide to remodel your living room:

1. Upgrade Walls

The very old practice of revamping a room is to change the walls’ color to give it a fresh look. Although it is still applicable, markets have several other options. You can display your favorite paintings, pictures, quotes, or calligraphy on the walls, and the room will exhibit your vibe. Hanging map art is the unique way of blending your personality into the décor and simultaneously adding an oomph factor. Moreover, when a statement piece is on the wall, you do not need anything else in the room to stand out by itself.

2. Indoor Plants

Bringing nature to your enclosed space is an inexpensive way of adding luxury to your home. Besides, plants have a pleasing effect on the overall environment and help in lifting residents’ moods. They keep the air pure, impacting the physical, mental and emotional health of inhabitants positively; you can put a huge pot at the corner or have small planters on the shelves. Hanging plants give the space a green yet a calming look. 

3. Change Lighting

Lighting is an essential factor of the room as it creates the whole mood of the space. To remodel your room, you can add different sources of adjustable lighting, highlighting the room’s outstanding parts. Statement lamps also give the place a classic touch, or you can install a chandelier in the middle of the ceiling, and it will illuminate the whole living room. Markets have plenty of lighting options, and you can choose as per your room, budget, and décor. To add to the space's look, you must carefully see the lighting placement as loud lights kill the room’s feel.

4. Create Illusion of Space

The modern houses typically do not have spacious living rooms, but you can creatively decorate your compact areas and establish an illusion of space. Mirrors not only add to the beauty of the room but also make it appear bigger. Standee mirrors are trendy and will help in giving the idea of more space. Pastel-colored walls look classy and, on the other hand, provide the false idea of a larger area.

5. Accessorize the Room

Adorning the living room with elegant accessories is another way of upgrading your space. The decorative rug gives the floor a rich look, a posh nightstand with few decoration pieces provides the room with a classy touch, or sculptures on the corners will provide the place with an artistic feel. Throwing cushions will not only create another seating arrangement, but they can serve as embellishment for the room as well. Moreover, you can have decoration pieces on the shelves, corners, or tables. If you have a particular theme, you can select items accordingly or go for a mix and match to remodel your arena.

6. Entryway

The living room is the opening of your house, which is why the entryway is the first impression you make, and if you manage to do that right, the rest will fall in place. A huge flower vase or a statement art sculpture can be a great addition to your décor at the gate. You can have a sleek shoe organizer, which will help you keep your footwear organized and gives your entryway a luxurious touch. Welcoming quotes, wind chimes, or a classy cage of birds or other décor can also give guests a warm welcome.

7. Furniture

Many people make the mistake of splurging money on furniture items when they can refurbish their old ones. It is unnecessary to purchase new things to remodel the room when you can make the existing ones appear fresh. You can buy one piece to keep as a focal point of the room, and it alone will bring luxury to the room. Resetting the furniture items is another excellent and economical way of updating the space. Furthermore, the room sees a lot of activity, and you must know that you place durable furniture pieces to avoid your visits to the dealer.

conclusion

The living room is undoubtedly the house’s versatile space, and you must be vigilant while planning to upgrade it. Please consider your family needs and your lifestyle while revamping the room. You are changing flooring or window treatments aid in boosting the whole look of the room. Large windows help to let natural light in, which gives the room an awe factor. Remodeling a space is a game of the mind, and when it comes to decoration, the options are innumerable.

partnered post • cc-licensed image from Pixabay

Plastering problems can occur at any time and season of the year and can be caused by a list of different reasons. Like every other part of your home that requires regular maintenance, so does your ceilings and walls. The ceilings and walls in your home need more attention than you might think and can damage as a result of negligence or damage caused by water, unexpected damages, weather conditions, climate changes, leakages, temperature changes and many more.

In order to identify these problems in your home, you would need to be informed about the different types of damages and their causes. In understanding what causes various damages to your walls and ceilings in your home, you will then be able to determine whether you can fix it yourself or whether you’ll need professional help from plasterers in your area. You don’t need a broad set of skills or expertise to fix these problems yourself. If you love doing maintenance around your home and have the proper tools and materials to do so, then these fixing these problems will become few of your newest DIY projects. However, if you don’t have the necessary skill set or knowledge on how to fix these problems, or if they are more significant than your expertise, then you can seek plasterer Hobart help. To find out more about the common plastering problems and their causes, continue reading this article.

Cracked Plaster

This is the most common plastering problem you might find in your home. Cracked plaster is a sign of natural aging in your walls and ceilings, or could be caused by more significant issues. More delicate cracks known as hairline cracks can occur on the surface of your walls and ceilings. These cracks are usually small and can be repaired with little expertise and experience. More significant cracks known as delaminating cracks are often visible on the surface of the ceilings and walls and can result in significant problems if not treated immediately and professionally. This starts happening when the plaster moves away from the lath, which causes cracks in the walls and ceilings.

The dangers of delaminating cracks being left unattended include the possibility of cracked surfaces to fall off and harm anyone in its way or damage any furniture or valuable household items underneath it.

Settlement cracks are caused by a particular part of your home that begins to cave in. This can be identified by experienced tradies who understands these types of cracks and can correct the foundation in your home to prevent this from reoccurring. Homes that will be more prone to these types of cracks are those who experience hurricanes and floods.

If these cracks are left unattended at any point, they can result in even more significant problems that might not be able to be fixed by you, but only by the expertise of a professional plasterer.

Discoloured Plaster

These cracks can be identified as brown stains that appear on the surface of your ceilings, and are often caused by water damage. If left untreated, it can leave your ceilings and walls looking completely unattractive, and your home looking like less of a home. When you detect this type of plastering problem in your home, be prepared for leakages to follow as this is an early warning sign of future leakages. 

An affordable way of fixing this type of problem yourself is by using primer paint. This primer paint will provide your ceilings and walls with protection against stains; however, this is only a temporary solution to your plastering problems as it requires constant retouching. If you would like a more permanent solution, it’s advisable to seek professional help to avoid the process of having to retouch your paint for protection and will save you money in the long term.

Bubbling Plaster

Once leakages start showing itself on your ceiling and wall surfaces, they are sure to begin affecting your plastering. Once plastering is involved, it will show in signs of stains in affected areas on surfaces. If these stains are left untreated, it will cause the plastering to start bubbling in affected areas. Bubbling plaster is usually a more profound problem of what’s visible on the surface. These problems can be professionally assessed by expertise in the field to identify the root cause of the problem. When choosing professional plasterers, it’s essential to consider their knowledge and experience, as this will aid in good recovery of your plastering problems.

Bulging Plaster

This problem is quite similar to that of delaminating plaster cracks. The only noticeable difference is that there are no visible cracks on the surface, and these damages can show up at any given time without warning. This type of damage can be caused by water or moist due to climate conditions that can further affect the plaster on your walls and ceilings in your home. The ageing process of plaster can also cause them over time. This happens when the plaster starts separating from the lath and starts showing on the surfaces of walls. 

When this type of problem is identified, it’s imperative to seek urgent help from professionals as it can have further implications for your home.

When it comes to your home, maintenance should be your top priority. In order to keep your home well-maintained all year round, it’s crucial to be knowledgeable about the common types of plastering problems and what their causes are. By knowing these problems, you’ll easily be able to identify any plastering problems in your home. Depending on your level of skill regarding home maintenance and the severity of the problem, you could quickly get away with fixing the issues yourself. However, if the problem is more significant than your skillset and expertise, then it’s advisable to seek professional help from plasterers in your area. They are professionally trained and licensed to deal with serious plastering problems and will assist you in getting to the root cause of your plastering problems. 

partnered post • cc-licensed photo of Jamie Fineran by WorldSkills UK

guide created by Eye Trax

Who doesn’t love receiving packages in the mail? However, you might not be the only one keeping an eye out for the delivery truck. According to one study, about 24% of adults found themselves victims of package theft. Of those victims, 64% have since attempted to take extra preparations when ordering online.

Package thieves (i.e., porch pirates) often access your front porch or doorstep when you’re not home. Without a secure or private area for deliveries, you might be more vulnerable to pilfering. While it may be an inconvenience to send your package to another address, safety precautions could help you with more than theft. For example, not only can a video security system offer proof if you ever need to file a police report, it will allow you to know when exactly your packages have arrived.

Porch pirates tend to seek neighborhoods that have high activity in order to avoid being caught. In fact, many packages go unreported or uninvestigated when stolen, primarily because many deliveries contain commodities that can be replaced. If you are a victim of porch piracy, it’s encouraged to contact the seller of the item, file a report and implement new measures to ensure your packages arrive safely.

With the rise in e-commerce, many criminals have discovered an easy way to steal items. For more information on porch piracy and tips to prevent it, check out the accompanying resource.

Author bio: Jerry McSorley is the owner of Eye Trax, the leading provider of solar-powered wireless outdoor security cameras. After working many years within the construction industry, McSorley needed a way to monitor and secure his multiple construction sites. Combining his mechanical engineering degree from Rochester Institute of Technology and extensive business owner experience, he invented an innovative surveillance camera system.

Sources:

• https://www.slideshare.net/JoeHarks/preventing-porch-pirates?qid=2419bbc2-b2be-4a92-b2a0-9bf38d70cff1&v=&b=&from_search=1
• https://www.marketwatch.com/story/package-theft-is-way-more-common-than-you-think-heres-how-to-prevent-porch-pirates-this-holiday-season-2019-11-29
• https://www.cnbc.com/2019/12/03/police-tips-to-prevent-package-theft-during-the-holidays.html
• https://www.inputmag.com/features/how-can-we-stop-porch-pirates-ring-study-says-attention-matters-hide-your-stuff
• https://swapanly.com/ring-video-doorbell-wireless-camera/

Removing tiles can be quite a time-taking and hectic process, especially if you’re doing it on your own. The reason for removing them can vary on your requirements. It can be due to a crack in your tiles, the fact that your kitchen or washroom tiles are too slippery, or just because you need some change in the old-school design of tiles already installed in your home. Either way, the need for changing your kitchen, room, or washroom tiles can occur more than once. And due to this, it’s common for anyone to consider doing the work themselves.

Considering this, it can be a huge struggle – unless you’re a professional or have done tiles removal work before. The reason for this struggle can be either that you’re entirely unfamiliar with the tools and the right way of using them, or because of how hectic and time-taking the task can be. It can take around a whole day for you to remove your home’s tiles – on your own! And in case you’re a total novice at this, then you can simply increase the time-frame according to your knowledge level.

But hey? This doesn’t mean that you’re stuck with the same old broken and dull tiles. Simply because you always have the option of searching for the right tools and trying it – the right way! Now to help you out, let’s discover the tools needed to remove tiles.

Necessary Tools:

Now when it comes to discovering the tools for removing tiles, there are plenty out there that might come in handy. But in the list of all those numerous amounts of tools, you might simply end up getting confused about what to invest in and what are the essential tools needed. You need to understand that the process of removing tiles can consist of different types of small jobs. Therefore, each of these jobs will require various tools, whether it’s in terms of the hand tools or the power tools.

However, we’ve got you covered with a list of tools that are indeed needed. They include:

• Chisel or air hammer with a chisel set
• Scraper
• Painters’ tape
• Hammer
• Pry bar
• Long-handled floor scraper
• Shop-Vac
• Shovel and buckets
• Screwdriver
• Tarps and plastic wrap

Once you’ve gathered all these tools, you can be sure to effectively manage the process of removing tiles on your own – thanks to the right tools.

The Easy Way Out!

Now even if you’ve planned to start removing your room tiles on your own, the time and physical effort it will consume is hard to keep up with. Therefore, you might end up losing the dedication to continue removing all the tiles yourself.

To handle this situation, there’s always an easy way out to remove all the tiles quickly. This simply refers to hiring professionals to remove the remaining or all of the tiles for you. Now the cost of hiring these services ultimately depends upon the removal area and the type of service you’re looking for. Either way, the right professionals can help you remove all the tiles easily, in less time, and in a professional manner (without damaging anything on the surrounding).

This way, you can save your efforts and make that energy-draining task a lot more relaxing and comfortable to fulfill. So there’s no need to worry about not having the tiles removed rightly – even if you give up in the middle!

Winter can be an exciting season. The reason behind this is that it gives you a much-needed break from professional life, and you get to spend quality time with the family. However, sometimes winter could be a pain in the neck if you are not on top of the home-repair activities. That is why we recommend sparing some time to winterize your home beforehand. That way, you will not only be able to enjoy the Christmas holidays uninterrupted but might also save money by doing timely repairs.  

Without any further ado, let’s unveil five critical home maintenance tasks that top the do list for September:   

1. Inspect Roof   

Most homeowners would budge away from inspecting the roof in summer because the inspection might not prove to be a pleasant experience under the scorching sun. That is why September is regarded as hands down the ideal time for this purpose. Since September is the beginning of fall, one does not have to keep up hot or cold weather. It is a perfect month for undertaking any short-term or long-term project related to your roof. 

Being outsiders, a fair proportion of the general public does not know how to go about the roof inspection. If you happen to be among one of them, we recommend you to subscribe to the following instructions:  

• Look into the shape of shingles: The extreme weather condition could twist or buckle the shingles. If shingles are out of the form, they will not deter water from breaking into the house. A single buckled shingle could wreak havoc to the entire roof or property for that matter. So you have to be very watchful. In case you can't reach a clear judgment, invite roof experts for thorough scrutiny.
• Have a look at flashing: From all the different roof parts, flashing is arguably the most vulnerable to water. It must be kept in a pristine condition to avoid any mishap down the road. Bring your ladder as close as possible to flashing for a proper drill down. Occasionally, an overwhelming number of trees around the house could hinder the appropriate examination of flashing. There are several tree services, but you can go for tree service in Austin, TX, to deal with the trouble if you live near Texas.
• Check crawl spaces: As soon as you finish assessing the roof from outside, turn your attention to crawl spaces. It is pertinent to arm yourself with a quality torch so that nothing skips your attention.

2. Fix Leaky Faucets

A vast majority of America gets exposed to an enormously cold climate in winter. Some of the areas even observe below-freezing temperatures for 36 nights per year on average. A dripping faucet is likely to pave the way for severe plumbing issues in such weather. 

It does not take much to identify whether a faucet is leaking or not. Just turn it on and off multiple times, and you will get a clear indication of what is wrong. Remember, all the faucets’ repairs are not the same. From springs to knobs, from valve seats to worn cam washers, anything could require fixation. No matter what the defect may be, repairing a leaky faucet usually costs up to 100 dollars. 

If the amount somehow falls outside your budget, you may consider wearing a DIY hat. An online step-by-step guide can assist you in resolving this issue.  

3. Replace Siding    

Siding goes through a lot of wear and tear across the year. Resultantly, it becomes susceptible to cracking, and at times you are left with no other options but to install a new one. Construction experts cite various reasons to replace siding in September. 

For example, the perfect installation of siding is not possible in hot weather. It is particularly true for vinyl siding, made of plastic, which could be defenseless in the face of rising temperatures. Similarly, winter chill might end up shrinking the siding panels, significantly if the temperature drops to under 50 degrees. The cold weather is also prone to make the siding a touch too fragile. 

As far as September is concerned, it is the beginning of the fall. Hence, the said temperature problems barely cause any inconvenience throughout the installation process.  

4. Organize Garage 

The garage is one of the messiest portions of the house. Nearly 33% of Americans admit their garage is so out of order that they keep its door closed to avoid embarrassment. But things change in winter. It gets incredibly problematic for people to park cars outside when the snow, rain, and ice are all over the place. Their combination could be very lethal to promote rust. 

That is where a clean garage can make a difference. Thus, make it a point to organize your garage in September and keep your car at a safe distance from the damage.     

The Takeaway Message 

Indeed, September marks the end of hot and humid summer days. But before losing yourself in the chilly evenings of September, make sure you pay attention to the home mentioned above, repair chores. If not, you are all set to face the music in winter.  

partnered post • cc-licensed image by Jarmoluk

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.

Wall cracks are something many homeowners have to deal with. It is difficult to tell if a wall crack needs repair or not, but a foundation repair professional can provide you a complete solution. These wall cracks could be the initial stages of potential foundation failure. It is important to inspect your home and walls to find any cracks or other signs of foundation failure early on.

• 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