Category: Design And Decor

Trendy and Budget-Friendly Home Renovation Ideas That Will Make Your Home Look Fresh

Does your house need to be renovated? If that is the case, then make sure that the home renovations that you decide to go for will give it a fresh and trendy vibe. While it might sound like a huge investment, it does not have to be that way. There are many budget-friendly ways to make your home look as if it were brand new.

To make it much easier for you, we prepared a list of trendy and budget-friendly ideas that should make your house look fresh and well-taken-care-of in no time. Check it out!

Replace Your Garage Door Springs

If you own a garage, you should take a look at your garage door torsion springs. Due to the fact that you probably use your garage on a daily basis, the springs will get worn out and stop doing their job at some point.

If you can see a gap under your garage door and have trouble with opening it or closing it, it means that that day has come and that you should replace your garage door springs as soon as possible. Luckily, they are not that expensive and should be really easy to get.

Add Some Color to Your Bathroom

Painting the walls of your bathroom is one of the best ways to make your house look much better without spending a fortune on expensive upgrades. Ideally, you should use subtle colors, such as light green or pastel pink. If you are not a fan of these colors, traditional white will probably do just fine.

Clean Your Kitchen Appliances

If your kitchen appliances are dirty, there is no way you will ever feel like you have a clean kitchen. Considering this, clean them up as soon as possible and make sure that they stay that way for as long as possible.

To do that, you should clean your appliances every time you use them or once every week. You can use hot water and dish soap to do it quickly and effectively.

Change Your Curtains

Curtains are not very expensive, and yet they can change the vibe of a room in the blink of an eye. If you think that the rooms in your house need that kind of change, try purchasing new curtains. However, make sure that they match the color scheme you used in the room in which they will be located. That way, they will not look out of place.

Replace Your Light Bulbs

Did you know that lighting can have a huge impact on the way a room makes you feel? For instance, warm lighting is said to promote relaxation, which makes it your go-to type of lighting when it comes to your bedroom.

On the other hand, if you go for cold lighting, it is supposed to make you feel more focused and energized. Considering this, if you feel like the lighting in your house needs an upgrade, buy a few new light bulbs and experiment with different types of lighting to see if that is true!

Buy a Few Plants

Plants can do wonders when it comes to your home decor. Not only do they look beautiful and fresh, but they also clean the air and fill it with fresh oxygen. If you worry that you will not be able to take care of a few plants, go for the ones that are both pretty and low-maintenance, such as succulents.

Freshen Up Your Sofa

Sofas are one of the pieces of furniture that you are guaranteed to use on a regular basis. As a result, they tend to get dirty and worn really fast. If that is the case when it comes to your sofa, try to freshen up its looks a bit.

You can do it in many different ways. For instance, you can clean the cushions or change them completely if you have the means to do that. Additionally, you might want to purchase a few new pillows or a brand new blanket if you feel like it.

Clean Your Mirrors

Mirrors are great if you are interested in making a room look bigger, but they can quickly get really dirty. To prevent that from happening, keep your mirrors clean. Whenever you need to wipe a mirror clean, getting your hands on rubbing alcohol and clean cloth should be more than enough to get the job done.

Change Your Air Freshener

Like every other thing in your home, air fresheners can become old and less effective over time. If you want to make your home appear fresher, just buy a brand new air freshener. Try to find one that you like and which will keep on working for a long while.

Change Your Flooring

Like any other part of the house, your floors need to be upgraded from time to time. To do that, you can add a few area rugs or install new flooring in the kitchen. By doing that, you can instantly freshen up the look of any room.

Clean the Outside of Your House

What your house looks like from the outside is really important. If you were to invite anyone to come over, that is going to be their first impression of your house. Consequently, you should remove any dead leaves and branches from the lawn, trim the bushes, and keep the garage door nice and clean.

Making Your House Look Fresh Does Not Have To Be Expensive!

As you can see, making your house look good can be really budget-friendly. There are many things that you can do, ranging from cleaning your kitchen appliances to replacing your light bulbs and freshening up your furniture.

If you do not know where to start, make a to-do list of things that you would like to do and set priorities. For instance, if the floor in your living room looks extremely worn and old, consider making installing new flooring your top priority.

Once you make the effort to plan everything out, you should be able to make your house look trendy and fresh in no time!

Tags: contemporary, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, home improvement, landscaping, repair

Spotless Spring Cleaning: Useful Ways to Remove Junk and Tidy Up Your Home

We all know how stressful spring cleaning can be. Cluttered up items get left to sit around and gather up space during freezing winters, while dust and dirt accumulate throughout our homes. Then, when we’re finally ready to enjoy that warmer weather, we’re left with the problem of having to move a heap of items out just to enjoy our own living space.

However, it doesn’t have to be as challenging as previously believed. Lugging around multiple furniture pieces with no strategy can undoubtedly take up hours of your time. You don’t have to be a junk removal Philadelphia expert to know a few simple tricks that aid in your spring cleaning endeavors. Read on to learn more modern tactics that can save you time and energy in making your home more hygienic.

Categorize that Clutter

Think back to those days in the classroom, when you were able to score highly on your most difficult tests. Did you study with your notes easily arranged for you to access them? Or did you spend an excessive amount of time trying to find your class notes, wasting precious hours, and not knowing what to do?

We’ll guess that it was closer to the first scenario. Organization is everything, especially when it comes to spring cleaning. Removing junk from your home is done more effectively when you can arrange your rooms from most to least messy. Each home is different depending on the architecture and the number of people living there. Still, you can typically recognize the most disorderly rooms if they have an excess amount of junk on–or in–these pieces of furniture:

Tables
Drawers
Closets
Cabinets
Dressers

Make sure to mark rooms that have extreme clutter in these areas at the top of your list. It’ll help you when dividing up which rooms are worth more of your time when you start your spring cleaning project.

Getting through the Garage

We mentioned separating your more essential rooms, so don’t forget about the all-important garage. It may have been used as a “winter storage” area, which means that it’s now the perfect time (and weather) to clear out that mess. For starters, moving the least needed items out of that smaller area, and onto a larger outdoor section like the driveway, will let you maneuver around in a more effortless way.

This step will give you enough space to separate items that you wish to keep, donate, or throw away. Moving that junk out of the garage will also make those hard-to-reach areas easier to sweep so that you can clean that built-up dust and make for a more hygienic place.

What About Windows?

Do you remember the last time you cleaned your windows? If you can’t, then spring cleaning might be a perfect time. Windows are also an important part of every home, and cleaning them is a multi-purpose job.

For starters, make sure that you’ve appropriately separated your window by taking off its screen (if it has one) and washing it with soap and water. You’ll be able to wash your window itself with glass cleaner, and either a microfiber cloth or a soft rag. If you’re able to, vacuum up the dust in your window track–the tiny space behind your window sill that holds it in place and prevents any windy breeze from coming in. Lastly, make sure to give your window sills and frames a proper cleaning. You can use disposable wipes for easy, affordable sanitizing.

Sweep and Save

Going for the latest cleaning product sold online, which promises a state-of-the-art and carefree experience, can sound enticing. However, these items with enhanced digital features can often come at a high cost and don’t perform much better than what you can find at your everyday store.

When it comes to making your home more sanitary in time for spring, you don’t need a smart cleaning gadget that costs hundreds of dollars. All-purpose cleaning products such as spray mops (usually $50) or disposable dusters (typically $20 or under) are your best bet when looking for items that can wipe down surfaces cleanly and effectively. Floors, counters, and shelves can be kept in well-ordered shape for an affordable price.

Spring cleaning can seem frustrating, but it’s also a rejuvenating time for the home. With these suggestions, you’ll be ready to start having your home look more dazzling than ever. And this newfound ease and efficiency will be just in time to enjoy that beautifully warm weather.

Tags: cleaning, contemporary, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, home improvement, windows

Hiring Commercial Door & Installation Services

The perfect door can change your home’s entire style and look, not only to the interior but also to the exterior. Doors are extremely underrated when it comes to home design and many of us overlook the functionality of it as well as the visual aesthetic that it can add to a room.

There are loads of new styles, colors, and types available that home owners can invest in. Replacing old wooden doors with new models is not only beneficial to your home’s security but also to the overall property value.

Because it can be quite a complex installation process, one that requires handyman skills and techniques, you might want to consider hiring a professional to do the job for you. Especially if you are planning on renovating, replace a smaller door with a bigger one, or make space in a wall for a newer model.

Hiring the wrong company can result in a wonky installation where the unit isn’t evenly distributed, doesn’t provide optimum insulation, or is wrongly placed along the wall. Once it has been installed, there’s no going back. To help you find the perfect company for the job, here are a few things that you should consider before signing a contract.

MODEL OPTIONS AVAILABLE

Before you start shopping for doors, it’s best to consult a professional installation company to help you track down the perfect type and style for your home. You might only be looking at what the door looks like, but the fact of the matter is that a door needs to fulfill many other needs as well. If you aren’t aware of all these functions it needs to have, then it’s best to consult someone who knows.

Companies that only have one or two types of models available will always try to sell those to you for installation. Before booking an installation, request that they come to your home for a full-assessment. An expert company will have many different model options available for you to choose from.

Voice your home needs and assess whether they have something in their product range for you or whether they can order something. Perhaps you are looking for a specific wood, glass, or design. Maybe you want your door to add extra strength and security or allow natural lighting into the room. Regardless of your personal preferences, the more options the company has available the better.

QUALITY

If you are looking for quality Charlotte commercial doors then it’s important that you find a company that has quality options available. Quality usually comes down to what kind of materials are used in the creation and manufacturing of the model.

Evaluate every single part of the model by looking at the door handles, knobs, hinges, glass, iron, and other materials. You wouldn’t want to install an entire model only for it to deteriorate after the first rainstorm has hit. A door is our protection from the outside world, and just like windows and walls they should be durable and strong.

Consider how maintainable the unit also is by asking what maintenance measures you will have to take and how often. Some doors require an extra coating of certain protective layers in order for them to remain water and weather proof.

EXTRA SERVICES

It’s a great idea to find a company that is willing to provide extra maintenance and care services throughout the year. Especially if you are a very busy person who doesn’t have time to do maintenance around the home, it will be great to find a company that can provide after-installation services.

When you do experience some problems with the door a few weeks after installation, make sure that the company can provide one or two free check-ups and that they won’t charge a service fee for fixing a minor issue afterwards. Before you hire, read the company’s terms of service to avoid any disputes in the future.

REVIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

One of the best ways to find the perfect installation company is to check past reviews. When the majority of past reviews are positive, then you might have found a winner. With the internet becoming everyone’s number one source of information, many people aren’t scared to share their honest opinions about the services they’ve experienced. A quick google search will give you review results to research.

It’s important that the company’s client service is just as organized and friendly. In case there are any problems with the work delivered, you should feel comfortable enough to raise your concerns. You’ll be able to see online whether the company is able to resolve any bad reviews and complaints. This is also a great indication of the company’s professionalism and experience.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

If you’ve ever attempted to install a door yourself, you’ll know that it requires a lot of skill, power tool handling, and an eye for detail. Many things can play a role in how to install the unit. Things like the wall’s material, the thickness of the wall, the door size, and the placement, all have an effect on how it should be installed.

It’s therefore important to hire a company that is experienced in installing doors in many different commercial properties in Charlotte. There’s a big difference between installing a double-sided front door and a smaller cabinet door.

COST AND PRICING

When your home’s safety is at stake, you shouldn’t compromise quality over price. But you shouldn’t pay for a service that is clearly overpriced. Request a clear quotation from the company that lists all installation services, labor costs, and the cost of the door itself.

Make sure that there aren’t any hidden costs or extra charges that might pop up once the installation process is under way. If you have a specific budget, ask that the company try to stick within that.

Hiring a Charlotte commercial door installation company will save you a lot of time and will ensure quality work.

Tags: contemporary, doors, garage, home improvement, wood

Paving Your Driveway for a Long-Lasting Effect

While your driveway may look like an unexciting part of your building, it is actually among the important elements of the landscape. You may be wondering, why? That is because it is being used on a daily basis and it is fundamental in the creation of curb appeal for your home.

The resale value of your property will increase if your driveway is attractive. Well, that is if you intend on selling. But before then, it is the first thing you will see each time you get back home. Paving the driveway of any building makes the exterior appear safe and neat. However, the landscaping needs to be carefully planned to bring about a long-lasting effect.

As a homeowner, you need to know what is involved in paving your driveway. This will enable you to make the right decision and protect you from contractors who just want to earn quick cash. If you also need to repave the driveway, it will be easier to know what to expect from a driveway repair service if you have a basic understanding of what it entails.

When Can a Driveway Be Paved?

A driveway can be paved two years after the property has been built. This period of waiting will allow the ground to settle properly, thereby, providing a strong base which is essential when paving the driveway. On the contrary, if the property is not a new one or older than two years, all you need to do is choose a suitable season for the paving.

The ideal paving condition is when the weather is relatively warm and dry. If the weather is too wet, the base gravel will wash out quickly. And that base is needed for the asphalt to set in if you are using asphalt paving. Different materials are used to pave driveways. Keep reading so you can know which one suits you.

Types of Paving Materials

The most common materials people use when paving driveways are asphalt, poured concrete, gravel, and pavers. Before settling for a type of paving material, you need to know that every driveway will degenerate with time, but some will require face lifting faster than others. However, this depends on the weather conditions in your area, how often the driveway is being used, and if the paving was properly done.

We will be discussing each type of paving material; including its pros and cons.

Asphalt

Asphalt paving combines stone, sand, and gravel with asphalt cement (a liquid petroleum product). This mixture is unbelievably stinky and very hot. Asphalt is commonly used in areas that require snow removal during snowy periods. It is also a suitable option if you are on a strict budget.

Pros

It is economical
It is not likely to crack due to frost heaves
Asphalt makes it easy to remove snow
Re-layering is possible when it gets worn or damaged

Cons

It is prone to cracking when sealed improperly
It requires routine sealing, every 3 – 5 years

Poured Concrete

Concrete is gotten from a mixture of rocks, sand, and stone with cement and water. Concrete paving can be customized to suit different architectural styles.

Pros

It is long-lasting and can be maintained with ease
Various decorations can be made on it, including stamping and staining
It can be used to form various geometric shapes, giving your house a custom look

Cons

The site and frames need to be prepared properly before pouring the concrete
Roots of nearby trees can crack the concrete over time

Gravel

There are 2 types: crushed granite and traditional gravel. Crushed granite has a finer texture and it is very stable. Traditional gravel is usually used in rural areas.

Pros

It has a variety of colors
Minimal maintenance is required besides weeding and regrading
It allows water to seep back to the ground which makes it eco-friendly
It resists cracking

Cons

Some gravel may be lost when using a machine to remove snow
When it gets loose, it will look messy

Pavers

They come in different styles: concrete, cobblestone, and brick. The concrete version is stronger than the poured concrete we mentioned earlier.

Pros

If a piece goes bad, you can fix it without having to replace the entire driveway
The concrete option is basically interlocking, and this makes for quick installation

Cons

They are expensive
Some designs and patterns can look outdated over time
Roots of trees can damage pavers

Conclusion

The appearance of your driveway is very important. If it is stained and cracked, people will have a low impression of your home, whether your lawns are well trimmed or not. Hence, you need to choose the right paving material that will last for a long time.

Tags: concrete tiles, contemporary, eco-friendly, garage, home improvement, landscaping, patio

5 Ways to Enjoy Your Backyard in Winter

Many of us regard winter as the most wonderful time of the year. With Thanksgiving and Christmas to look forward to, spending time with our loved ones is key for keeping spirits up, especially in 2020. However, far too many homeowners neglect their backyard in the winter months, claiming that it is too dark or too cold to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you want to spend more time outdoors, or you’re thinking of selling your property, here are five ways to get your backyard ready for winter.

Add Lighting

As the winter months roll in, it starts to get darker earlier. If you enjoy being outdoors but don’t want to go inside when the sun goes down, adding lighting in your backyard is the way to go. Whether you opt for LED lights or solar, scattering them around will illuminate your outdoor space. Regardless of where you live in the country, it’s a good idea to purchase waterproof and rechargeable lights that will work in all weather conditions.

Add Color

When temperatures begin to fall and the colder weather sets in, many people notice a decline in their mental health as a result. Adding color to your backyard can make all the difference and help you enjoy your outdoor space. There are lots of winter plantings you can put in your backyard that will not only add a pop of color but help you think more positively. Although winter is notoriously known for its dull and drab weather, you will be surprised at the health benefits you can gain from adding a splash of color to your backyard.

Install Heating

If you’re hosting Christmas this year and having your family over to celebrate the festive season, spending time outdoors under the moon and stars with your loved ones can serve as the perfect backdrop for making everlasting memories. To keep warm and cozy once the sun goes down, having a patio heater near your seating area will help warm up cold guests. If you have enough space, adding a fire can be the perfect spot to gather around, drink hot beverages, and roast marshmallows.

Purchase Weatherproof Furniture

The last thing you want is to head out into your backyard to find your furniture ruined by the colder weather. With many parts of the US prone to severe storms, floods, and hurricanes, you need to invest in weatherproof furniture that will stand the test of time. Make sure you buy outdoor furniture that’s made from materials such as teak, steel, or polyresin wicker.

Add a Hot Tub

What better way to enjoy the festive season than by relaxing in your hot tub with your loved ones? It’s easy to see why hot tubs are so popular. Not only do they help you feel warmer and more relaxed throughout the winter, but there are numerous health benefits you can receive too, including relief from lower back pain and symptoms of arthritis.

If you have plenty of outdoor space, there are lots of ways you can transform your backyard, giving you more room to spend time with your loved ones. Executing any of the ideas listed above will help you make the most of your outdoor living space, regardless of the season.

Tags: backyard, contemporary, home improvement, landscaping, lighting, patio

How to Choose the Best Eco-Friendly Lighting Options on the Market

Choosing eco-friendly options is becoming increasingly important. As people are beginning to recognize and understand global warming, more and more people are doing what they can to save the environment before it’s too late. With that being said, simple switches and changes to the status quo have the ability to positively impact the environment. From conserving water, recycling, composting, etc., small changes can make a great impact, especially if more people make it a point to make these small changes in their everyday lives.

One of the easiest ways to make an eco-friendly change in everyday life is to switch to eco-friendly lighting. Most lighting systems use ample amounts of energy in order to illuminate a space. However, with modern technology, this doesn’t always have to be the case. In 2020, there are copious eco-friendly lighting options that will allow you to take part in saving the environment. This post will detail how to choose one of those eco-friendly lighting options.

Choosing the Eco-Friendly Lighting That is Right For You

Are you looking for ways to help save the planet, but don’t know where to start? Changing the lighting around your home or office may be the right place to start. Here are some tips and pointers to help you choose the best eco-friendly lighting that is right for you and your space.

Get to Know What Eco-Friendly Lighting Is

It’s important that you know exactly what eco-friendly lightning is so that you can make the most practical choice for your space. Eco-friendly laughing is any kind of lighting that is energy efficient or made from green materials. Some examples of eco-friendly lighting include:

LED bulbs
Lamps and lighting fixtures made from recycled or natural materials
Light that comes from the utilization of solar panels
The incorporation of natural lighting

The kind of eco-friendly lighting you choose will be based on where you are looking to install lighting/ alter your current lighting.

Think About Where You Are Installing These Lights

Where you are installing lighting fixtures is important when deciding which eco-friendly lighting option is right for your space. Are you installing eco-friendly lighting in your home? If so, where at? Are you installing it in every room, or simply in the living room or bedrooms? Or, are you looking to install eco-friendly lighting in your office? If you are looking for a more commercial location to install eco-friendly lighting you will need to determine if you are installing it both indoor and outdoor, and in which rooms specifically.

After you have thought about the general location of where you are installing eco-friendly lighting, you will need to think about what kind of lighting fixtures you are planning to install eco-friendly lighting into. Some options include ceiling lights, lamps, retrofit kits, and lights on a fan.

Do Your Research

Before you switch to any new form of eco-friendly lighting or make any purchases, make it a point to spend some time doing research. Once you have an idea of what you want, spend time researching the kind of lighting you like, some ways to do this include:

Read facts online about the kind of lighting you are thinking about
Read reviews online
Talk to friends and family about what kind of eco-friendly lighting they use in their space
Call an electrician or lighting manufacturer; perhaps an electrician in Marlton

Switch to Eco-Friendly Lighting Today

Lighting uses a lot of energy, and in addition to damaging the environment, lighting also hikes up your electric bill. However, what if there was a way to prevent both of these things? Eco-friendly lighting may be the solution you have been looking for. Keep these tips and pointers in mind as you plan ways to save the environment. As you explore eco-friendly lighting more in-depth, be sure to learn your options and think about what is practical for your unique situation.

Tags: average cost, contemporary, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, home improvement, lighting

How to Hook Your Buyer with the Right Photography

“A picture is worth a thousand words.” We have all heard this sentence at least once in our life, and yet it doesn’t ring more true than when it comes to Real Estate Photography. This article will tell you the best ways to hook a buyer with the perfect real estate photographer.

Today nothing is more popular than the internet, especially when it comes to buying certain things. Whether it be a new pair of shoes, a car, or even a home; it all starts online. Many sellers only post one or two photos of their home, which results in a lack of interest from potential buyers. Therefore, the property might sit on the market for months. Professional photographers take multiple high-quality photographs that lead to more showings of the property and faster pending sales. First impressions can be the difference between an interested buyer or a perfectly adequate home being passed over, which explains why having the right photographer is vital.

Now I bet you are wondering, “what exactly is real estate photography?” Individual companies hire expert photographers to capture the perfect essence in a home. They use certain angles and lighting to get the perfect shot every time. That way, when customers are browsing online and see a house that catches their eye, it is mostly because of real estate photography. First impressions stick with people forever, so having a striking photograph for the home at first glance is a must.

“How to tell if a photographer is an amateur or a professional?” If you have ever browsed online where lots of homeowners have tried to take photos to sell their home, the lighting is dark, angles are odd, and the photograph itself looks grainy, most likely taken with a smartphone camera. When you get a professional photographer, it changes everything. The angles they use to make the rooms look more substantial, the lighting is flawless and bright, and because they use professional equipment, it always optimizes the very best features of your home. For example, the company Home Shots has very professional photographers who have been providing fantastic real estate photography in San Francisco services for the last 5 years.

The last question I bet you have is, “how much does a professional photographer cost?” Depending on the company, it can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars up to a few thousand. The price depends on the location, size of the home, and how experienced the photographer. It will attract more potential buyers and add income to your pocket. With excellent photography, you can get multiple bidders on the house and make the price go up due to a bidding war. So, in the end, it is worth it to hire a professional photographer to make the property look as good as it can be. That way, you will have multiple interested parties and are more likely to sell the home quickly.

Even though hiring a professional real estate photographer will cost some investment, the return will outweigh the cost in the long run. You will have flawless photographs that show areas of the home that are well lit and look large (even if the space is tight and cramped), you will attract buyers more efficiently, and the best part is that you could sell the home reasonably fast. You get back what you put in when it comes to selling a home. If you take the time to make the house look appealing, hire the correct people to photograph it, and then list it on the appropriate markets, you will get a higher return on your investment. Like the famous quote states, “With high risk comes high reward.”

Tags: contemporary, home improvement, photography, real estate, selling your home

Quick Home Repair Tasks for the Weekend

Home repairs don’t need to all be extensive. Some aren’t that costly or time-consuming. These tasks are good to save up, add to a list, and then knock out one at a time over a quiet weekend. If you have a family, then pick a quiet time. Let the family know that you’ll be busy and not to disturb you unless it’s urgent. If you live alone, then it’s just a matter of planning the DIY work around other weekend activities.

So, what home repair or maintenance tasks should you get done? Here’s a short list to get you started.

Ordering and Replacing Filters

Filters are easy to forget all about. When this happens, they become clogged up and this can cause issues later.

In the case of your refrigerator, a blocked filter can cause it to become overworked and overheat. Eventually, this could cause a mechanical failure. Find reputable refrigerator water filters & replacements to ensure the filter is swapped out for a good one. It doesn’t take long to do either. Order a few days ahead to get the delivery so you’re ready when the next weekend rolls around again.

Also, don’t forget other filters used in your home. Water filtration systems need replacements too. AC units need them too, and it will get them ready for next spring.

Fixing Squeaky Doors

What you might think of as a squeaky door is really a squeaky door hinge. It usually won’t go away on its own, so it’s best to handle it yourself.

Get some WD-40 and apply it liberally on the hinges. The spray works best when moving the door to let the hinge take in the lubrication fully. If the DIY store is out of WD-40, then look for petroleum jelly instead. It’s a little messier though.

Use an old sheet below the door to catch any jelly or WD-40 that escapes the door hinge on the way to the floor.

Handle the Odorous Dishwasher

If the dishwasher isn’t cleaning as well as it used to, and it’s emitting an unpleasant odor too, it’s time to put a little time into it.

Old collected food remnants that have fallen to the bottom are what’s likely causing the bad smell. Remove them and clean any obvious areas where gunk has accumulated.

Then purchase a dishwasher cleaner and run this through a cycle or two on an otherwise empty machine. At the end of this, the machine should be playing nicely again. And while the cleaning cycle is running, there’s time to attend to something else.

Replacing Broken Roof Vents

Roof vents made from metal or plastic can become broken due to storm damage. The vents are usually nailed in place and once these are removed, they come free. The nails are situated below the shingles to avoid them rusting.

While a broken vent can be temporarily resolved using caulking, that will only last so long. There’s usually no effective way to fix a vent that’s seen its best days. Removing and fitting a replacement is the right move.

Get some help with someone holding the ladder to avoid having an accident. Many Americans every year hurt themselves using ladders at home; don’t be one of those. If in doubt, hire a handyperson to fix the roof vent for you.

Batch up tasks over a weekend to knock them out quickly. This will help you avoid getting bogged down with home maintenance and never getting caught up.

Tags: contemporary, eco-friendly, energy efficiency, home improvement

DIY Carpet Cleaning – 3 Precautions If You’re a Pet Owner

Having a pet at home brings so much joy that you simply can’t compare it to anything else in the world. But with all the joy, also come so many responsibilities. If you are a pet owner, you probably already know how hard it is to keep up with all the extra work around the house. Creating a safe environment for your furry friend while having a clean house, especially carpets, won’t be as hard as it sounds, as long as you are cautious. Knowing what to use and what precautions to take is crucial because pets (especially dogs and cats) spend such a long time on the carpet. These three are the basics that all pet owners need to check out:

Stay Safe With Carpet Cleaning Products

Knowing the good and bad ingredients in pet carpet cleaners is so important. Check out the labels each time you’re buying cleaning products. The safest place to shop is a pet store, after getting advice from your vet. There is a wide range of pet-safe cleaners to shop from, always opt for the most natural, bio-friendly option. Cleaning with pet-safe products is one of those DIY projects that you don’t need a pro for and do so much good for the entire family including the pets. Some of the ingredients you have to stay away from are ammonia, formaldehyde, pesticides, chlorine, sodium hydroxide and more.

If you are not really sure how to do all of this safely yourself, then you might want to consider a professional carpet cleaning service. Make sure to do your research to find the right fit for your needs. It’s best to opt for a service that uses pet-friendly products and has experience with cleaning carpets from homes of pet owners.

Say No To Regular Carpet Shampoos, Powders, And Dry Shampoos

Carpet shampoos, powders and dry shampoos can cause a range of problems for your pet. If you’re planning on cleaning your carpets, make sure to avoid these types of products. Let’s start with the powders and dry shampoos. One of the biggest ‘no’s’, aside from the possible harmful ingredients, is that they leave a residue in the carpet, which is very hard to completely remove. In other words, your pets will inhale all those bad ingredients and strong scents as well. Powders and dry shampoos have a smell that can easily cause irritation and do more harm than good. This is how skin, eye, and respiratory conditions occur.

Regular carpet shampoos can be so tricky because they are often based on chemicals that are harmful to you and the pets. They tend to leave a sticky residue after cleaning, which only makes things worse. No matter how hard you clean, there will still be shampoo left on the fibres. Dirt, dust, urine, will adhere and cause a buildup. Your carpets will not only remain dirty, but your pets will be inhaling all of the dust and dirt while laying on them. This can, unfortunately, cause a range of problems, especially issues with the respiratory system, skin irritation, allergies and more.

Water Is Safe

Water is the safest ingredient when it comes to carpet cleaning in a house with pets. Now, the main question is how to get a clean carpet using only water. This is one of those precautions that might cost you, but it will be a great investment for everyone in your home. If you want to be very safe with the choices you make and want to avoid using any chemicals on the carpet, try a wet/dry vacuum.

Buying a wet/dry vacuum can be costly, thankfully there are many different options on the market to consider these days. If you first want to try it out, you can rent one, then decide whether it’s the right fit for you. This device uses only water to clean the carpet, which makes it perfectly safe for your pets. Let’s not forget that it’s safe for the flooring as well. Eventually, if all of this sounds like it’s too much or you simply want to be 100% safe you can always turn to a professional cleaning service.

Conclusion

Keeping a pet happy and safe, while also having a clean home can be a bit challenging. But with the right information and precautions, your carpets will be clean and your furry friends will feel great. Using the right products and tools is important to prevent any health problems of your pet, including respiratory and digestive issues, eye irritation, allergies, skin irritation and more. You know what they say- ‘better safe, than sorry’.

These three precautions will help you understand how important it is to opt for natural alternatives and to stay away from chemicals. Make sure to keep your pet outside, in a different room or different house while you’re cleaning and 24 hours after you’re done, even when using safe products.

Tony is the CEO of Love Your Rug – Canada’s largest rug cleaning & restoration facility. Apart from successfully leading his team, Tony loves to share professional advice on how to give a fresh look to carpets, rugs and peoples homes. He is an industry leader and authority in area rug restoration.

Tags: carpet, cleaning, contemporary, eco-friendly, flooring, home improvement

Renovating Your Home on a Reasonable Budget

Many people dread the idea of home renovation, mainly due to the perceived high costs attached. But in many cases, the reality is not as grim as it seems. If you are dedicated enough, you can often find various financial shortcuts that can bring the project cost down to a very reasonable level. At the very least, starting your planning early on can allow you to take advantage of market fluctuations and grab some great deals. But more on that below.

Reusing and Recycling

One of the first things you’ll want to consider is whether you have an opportunity to reuse your currently available supplies and materials. This is not always as obvious as it seems, and it’s a good idea to have a professional at your side to guide you through the process. If you play your cards right, you can often save a lot of money on this. And that even factors in the price you’ll pay for the consulting services in the first place! Of course, not every professional on the market is the same. You’ll want to do some searching before committing to anyone – so let’s take a look at that aspect of your renovation.

Work with a Professional with a Modern Approach

Even though it may seem like an extra expense, working with a professional company for your renovation job can actually save you a lot of money. This is especially true if you’re planning a major remodeling of everything, with new furniture and the works. There are many ways an experienced, established professional can save you both time and money in the renovation process on top of what we described earlier. For example, staging is a major area that’s going through some significant changes in the last years, mostly due to the advance of digital staging as an established practice. The difference between physical and digital staging is beyond the scope of this article, so see the full article here for more details. And that’s just one example of what a properly equipped renovation specialist can do for you.

Scout for Sales

Some of the things you may want to use in your renovation job can often be purchased ahead of time, and don’t need to be bought right at the time of the renovation itself. This is admittedly something where availability of physical storage will be a major limiting factor for you, but if you can afford to invest in the right supplies and materials ahead of time and keep them stored for a while, this can work out great. Make sure that you coordinate this with your renovation partner, though, because you don’t want to find yourself with a bulk of materials that you have no use for.

As long as you keep these factors in mind, renovating your home can be a very pleasant and straightforward procedure. Remember the final result, too – that’s why you’re doing all of this in the first place. And when you feel like you’ve hit a hitch, don’t be afraid to bring it up with the renovation specialist that you’re using for the job.

Tags: contemporary, home improvement, recycling, remodeling

Category: Design And Decor

Replace Your Garage Door Springs

Add Some Color to Your Bathroom

Clean Your Kitchen Appliances

Change Your Curtains

Replace Your Light Bulbs

Buy a Few Plants

Freshen Up Your Sofa

Clean Your Mirrors

Change Your Air Freshener

Change Your Flooring

Clean the Outside of Your House

Making Your House Look Fresh Does Not Have To Be Expensive!

Categorize that Clutter

Getting through the Garage

What About Windows?

Sweep and Save

MODEL OPTIONS AVAILABLE

QUALITY

EXTRA SERVICES

REVIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

COST AND PRICING

When Can a Driveway Be Paved?

Types of Paving Materials

Asphalt

Pros

Cons

Poured Concrete

Pros

Cons

Gravel

Pros

Cons

Pavers

Pros

Cons

Conclusion

Add Lighting

Add Color

Install Heating

Purchase Weatherproof Furniture

Add a Hot Tub

Choosing the Eco-Friendly Lighting That is Right For You

Get to Know What Eco-Friendly Lighting Is

Think About Where You Are Installing These Lights

Do Your Research

Switch to Eco-Friendly Lighting Today

Ordering and Replacing Filters

Fixing Squeaky Doors

Handle the Odorous Dishwasher

Replacing Broken Roof Vents

Stay Safe With Carpet Cleaning Products

Say No To Regular Carpet Shampoos, Powders, And Dry Shampoos

Water Is Safe

Conclusion

Reusing and Recycling

Work with a Professional with a Modern Approach

Scout for Sales

CATEGORIES

Regions

Recently Published Articles

Real Projects from Real People

A Look Inside Projects from Various Regions

Blog Categories

Categories

Recent Posts

Recent Posts

Directory