Design And Decor

 

Have you recently bought a house and you’re thinking about the millions of things you have to do? Your list is probably blowing up, and you don’t even know where to start. So, what are the first things that you need to do whenever you move into a new house?

Depending on what project it is, there might be more or fewer things to do. We’re not going to talk about repairing any damages to your house; it’s more like those things that everybody should do whenever they buy a new home. Packing and unpacking is not the only major thing to do, getting connected with your new home, learning how it works, and prioritizing what tasks need to be done first is another essential role of a homeowner.

You have a lot on happening already, so you’ll probably need help with organizing everything. To make things easier, here are a few ideas you might use when moving into a new home. Of course, moving requires a lot of effort to be done, but if you take your time and relax, soon enough, you’ll be sitting back and celebrate your new home.

1.      Do a Walk Around the House

What better time is it to do a walk-through of your new home than when it’s empty? So, make sure that you check if it needs any repairs, everything that you paid for does not miss, and that everything works right. Check the fixtures, the lights, the outlets, etc. Before unpacking everything and unloading the truck, set up a plan. Take a look into the living room, the kitchen area, and the bedrooms. Decide how you’ll want your furniture to be placed and make sure that you don’t overcrowd. An open space area gives your home a whole different aspect, and you’ll have more room for yourself.

Also, make sure that there aren’t any problems against the sale contract. If the previous owner decided to sell the house, including the kitchen furniture, and you were surprised not to find it there, call your real estate agent and see what could be done. Other issues that are not covered in the contract will be 100% your responsibility.

2.      Call for a Moving Company

When moving into a new home, the whole moving process might get stressful along the way. With all the furniture and personal things that need transport, you already feel overwhelmed. Have you considered yet scheduling the move? Calling for a moving company will handle every detail of your relocation, including packing, unpacking, planning, and storage.

Would you like to have someone to take care of the process from the beginning until the end? An experienced moving company will carefully plan and perform transports of any size. Be prepared to go when movers arrive, and don’t forget to place the small boxes in your car. You can carry in your vehicle things like kitchen furnishings, bedroom sheets, plants, etc. Planning your move by calling a moving company will help you set everything up according to the plan.

3.      Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

To most people, it is reasonable that it’s essential to paint your home after you bought it. Although painting can be so messy, and you often need a lot of space to do it, you have to determine what you’re painting. If it’s just the walls, the trims, or even the ceiling, it is so much easier to do it without furniture in. You don’t have to be as careful; you can be as messy as you want to. So, do it right away, pretty much as soon as you get the keys in your hand.

Painting can also be such a pain for most people. Some do enjoy it, but when it comes to painting the entire house, at some point, everyone is like “I am sick of it, I don’t want to deal with it anymore.” So, do it right away, you’ll be so much happier when everything is done and the big part of moving, such as painting, is out of the way.

And on top of that, fresh paint can transform the entire house. After finishing the painting, everything looks so fresh and clean. Of course, you get to choose the color that you most like, the goal is to add a fresh coat of paint. Also, if the house that you moved in has a little bit of an odd smell, or maybe the old owners were smokers, fresh paint also helps with that.

4.      Clean the House

Start cleaning the entire house, and that includes the floor, windows, kitchen, bathroom, the bedrooms, and so on. Depending on how big your home is, it won’t be done in two hours; it can take a couple of days to clean the entire place. If you’re “lucky,” and the old owners didn’t clean the house for whatever reason, it’s essential to do it. Think about that strangers were living in that house, is their dirt, you don’t want to live in it. Get a sponge and clean the entire house, especially if you suffer from allergies.

Even if the sellers cleaned the house before, you don’t know how well they cleaned it. Even if it looks clean, unfortunately, bacteria can’t be seen, so just be on the safe side and clean everything before you settle in. Also, even if the sellers cleaned the entire house, now it’s twice as clean, so you can sleep much better knowing that you live in a clean and healthy environment.

5.      Set Up Candles and Air Fresheners

Put up some air fresheners or scented candles. If you just moved into a new house that has been owned by other people and the house still smells weird, use candles with your favorite scent to make it feel like home. The house will take some time to start carrying your smell, but in the meantime, use scented candles and air fresheners to get to the point.

So, these are some of the essential things you need to do when moving into a new home. Hopefully, it will help in any way and don’t forget, the sooner you’ll take care of the important stuff, it will start to feel like home.

 

 

A roof protects your home. It is also built to protect you and your family from outside elements, such as wind, rain, and hail. However, some homeowners do not pay attention to their home’s roofs. Paying close attention to your roof will help you spot and prevent roof damage that might lead to expensive repairs in the future. Fortunately, it is easy to spot if roof damage needs attention.

Here is how to spot if roof damage needs attention:

Sagging and Water Stains

If your roof is leaking, some sections of your ceiling become discolored and start dipping. You will also see water stains on the walls. To prevent water damage, locate the source of the leak, and fix the leak. Additionally, signs of sagging mean the deck joist is losing its strength. If you notice sagging and water stains, your roof needs attention.

Granules in Eaves Trough

Some people ignore granules in eaves trough because it seems very normal and common. However, this is a serious concern, especially if you see granules of asphalt flow down with water. However, this only happens if you have asphalt shingles roof. As shingles age, they shed their granules, compromising the roof’s protection.

Missing or Damaged Shingles

Some people have installed asphalt shingled roofs. Many people install this type of roofing material because it is cheap, matches any home style, and comes in a variety of colors. Unfortunately, strong wind and hailstorms can blow off or damage asphalt shingles. If you notice missing or damaged shingles, you need urgent roof repair.

Algae Growth

Exposing moisture to the sun leads to algae growth. To stop algae growth, make sure your roof drains extra water off the roof. If your roof retains moisture, you will see a small pond on the roof. This can lead to water leaks. A leaking roof causes moisture to build up around the areas, where the water stands. This gives algae enough nutrients to grow.

Leaking Roof

Damage shingles, clogged eaves trough, and missing nails and fasteners are some of the things that can cause leaks on the roof. However, some people ignore small leaks in their roofs. Do not ignore them because they can lead to big problems. If your roof is leaking, it might mean you have waited for a long time to fix the problem.

Clogged Drains

Water should flow freely on the roof. However, dirt built up, tree pollen, and leaves can clog the drains. Clogged drains can cause major damages to the roof, especially during strong winds, heavy rain, and snow. Regular roof maintenance will help you remove the debris that clogs your drains, which helps prevent roof damage.

Mildew and Mildew

Mold and mildew are two big threats to any home. Mold is especially dangerous to the health of the people living in your home. As the mold spreads, it weakens the roof from the inside of your home. This slowly damages your roof because mold prospers in these conditions.

You now know how to spot if roof damage needs attention. Do not repair your roof if you do not have the necessary skills, experience, and tools. Hire a good roofing contractor to inspect your roof and do the necessary roof repairs.

 

 

 

Your backyard should be an oasis for you.  It’s your private green pasture that you can mold as you see fit, without changing the curb appeal of the front of your home.  Unfortunately, this freedom leaves people frozen in indecision with what to do with it.  This need is reasonable, all that most people need is a push in the right direction.

Here are some tips to give your yard the life and beauty you’ll want everyone to see.

First, Plantlife

The state of your greenery is paramount to your backyard.  You need to ensure that you’re building up from a good base so that you don’t have to try and put in flower beds around furniture.

Consider the flow of your yard

Mow all of your grass to start, make sure you weed and rake if there are stray leaves.  From there, decide what portions of your yard will go mostly unused.  The best places for flower beds are close to the home, no more than three feet out.  With a more substantial yard, you could get more creative, heavily consider what space you have to work.

Go for flowers that are local to your area, and avoid any plant life that might cause allergy issues for anyone in the home.

Shade

If you live in a warmer climate, you understand the need for shade.  In summer, standing in the shadow could mean it feels ten to fifteen degrees cooler.  This effect is due to a lack of solar radiation that you would usually feel in full sunlight.

Look at what kind of shaded structure would work best for you.  Smaller yards may need a sun umbrella or two, but with larger yards, you can put in a structure like a gazebo or build out a structure with a permanent roof.

Furniture

Again, this option has to do with how much space you have.  Define areas with lawn furniture.  You can even put in a patio for lounging, and layer it so that a lower section is for grilling and enjoying drinks.

Go for a furniture style that compliments the rest of your home, while also keeping budget in mind.  It’s easy to spend a lot when it comes to these, so keep an eye out for a Home Depot coupon code or other things that can help you save some cash.

Water Features

Putting in water features can be the most exciting part.  It can be anything, from a coy pond to a Jacuzzi: but keep a budget and a vision in mind.

Moving water is for the best if you’re in a humid area since it’ll stop mosquitoes from breeding, and consider what kind of enjoyment you’d like to get out of it.  If you want to swim, and you have space, plot out a pool!  If pool upkeep is a nightmare for you, consider putting in a waterfall fountain, or something else that fits your style.

 

The most important thing about a backyard is that it matches your style.  So take your time, think deeply about that, and you’ll have no trouble creating a backyard perfect for you!

 

 

Whether you’re planning to move to a new house in the near future, or it’s time for a long-needed makeover, the exterior of your property can say a lot on what is on the inside. To impress potential homebuyers, friends, and family, maintaining the outside of your home is important. If you aren’t sure where to begin, here are 5 simple tricks on how to boost your home’s curb appeal.

Take Care of Your Lawn

One of the biggest parts of maintaining your home’s curb appeal is by taking care of the lawn. Whether you do this by raking off leaves, mowing the grass, or pulling weeds, doing everything you can to keep your lawn looking pristine is key. To prevent brown spots, it’s important that you keep your lawn well-watered. No one wants to tackle a huge project, so as long as you keep a close eye on your lawn, you shouldn’t have too many problems.

Look After Your Driveway

When homebuyers and guests pull up to your property, having a well-cared for driveway can make all the difference. If you have a concrete driveway, there are lots of top tips that you can take on board to keep it looking as good as new. Regular cleaning, sealing the surface, avoiding chemicals, and repairing small cracks can help keep your concrete drive in pristine condition for a longer period of time. There is also the option to contact a professional like Richfield Blacktop who specializes in concrete driveways.

Lose the Junk

Whether it’s lawn furniture, unruly garden hoses, old vehicles, or dead bushes, getting rid of anything that is seen as an eyesore can help boost your home’s curb appeal. If it isn’t necessary or attractive to your lifestyle, it’s best to get rid of clutter immediately. To reduce your carbon footprint and do your bit for the environment, recycling any junk can give it a new purpose.

Focus on the Front Door

When visitors arrive at your property, they will immediately notice your front door. Making it look great and appealing should be your top priority, so whether it’s by washing it, refinishing or painting it, giving your front door a new lease of life can only be a good thing when it comes to boosting your property’s curb appeal. If it’s time for a change, replacing it with a brand new one may be the best option.

Add Interesting Details

There are lots of quirky items that you can add to the front of your property to make it stand out. Shiny new house numbers, a new doorknocker, or a stylish front porch light can set the scene for what is on the inside. If you have plenty of space, you may want to consider investing in a water feature or purchasing a garden sculpture for your front lawn.

A house that looks nurtured, well loved, and designed with integrity can help make your property stand out for all the right reasons. First impressions count, so taking all the advice above into account can help you on your way to boosting your home’s curb appeal.

 

Rain and wind are not the only environmental factors that affect ideal painting conditions. Homeowners, contractors and handymen must contend with different humidity and temperature levels, too, during exterior projects. Painting under the right conditions can make the difference between a job well done and a redo. Read on to learn about the ideal circumstances for painting to avoid any unwanted issues.

 How Temperature Affects Drying

Why does temperature matter? When it comes to painting a house, temperature is a huge factor in the way a fresh coat of paint will dry. Drying paint in temperatures that are too low or high could result in cracking and peeling. For example, extremely low temperatures can prevent fresh coats of paint from correctly drying because moisture within the formulation can actually freeze solid before it dries completely. On the other end of the spectrum, extremely hot temperatures can evaporate the moisture from within the paint faster than normal. This can cause the top layer to skin over before the layers underneath dry, which can produce cracking, blisters and other imperfections.

There are some rules of thumb to follow when it comes to different types of paint. Temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended when using solvent or oil-based paints. Latex and acrylic paints dry much better in temperatures that exceed 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures dip, dew can form on surfaces and cause the water in the paint to evaporate too slowly. Some paints are now formulated to dry at lower temperatures, such as 35 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s vital to follow the instructions on paint containers, since each paint formula is designed to be used within specific temperature and humidity parameters.

How Humidity Affects Drying

When high-humidity conditions are combined with low temperatures, the protective qualities of paint may be compromised. Condensation can occur on the paint’s surface, which creates issues with the paint’s drying and adhesion. In some cases, high humidity can cause unsightly streaks or surfactant leaching, which is a brown or white discoloration on the top layer of the paint. Additionally, excess moisture in the air can be absorbed into wood surfaces and affect paint adhesion. This can result in bubbling or peeling paint.

Avoiding Problems

 Be sure to check the weather forecast before starting any outdoor painting project. It’s also a good idea to monitor the temperature and humidity levels during painting projects. The best time to paint, depending on geography, would likely be early summer or fall. These seasons usually offer the best weather conditions, with minimal rain and fluctuations in temperature from day to night. This can ensure that the paint adheres smoothly and has a chance to dry and cure properly. Summer also tends to be the perfect time for painting since it is typically dry and warm. Aim to paint when you have a clear, low humidity day with the ideal temperatures falling around 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sticking to these guidelines can help you end up with a flawless finish. Before you get started on your next painting project, take a look at the accompanying infographic to review how temperature and humidity can affect a fresh coat of paint.

 

Most of us prefer to pick a rectangular or a square table for any space. We don’t choose these shapes because we like them but because we grew up seeing square tables around us. It was a fashion to have square tables in previous times, and this clouds your choice while choosing the tables. Although we would prefer having a traditional table in our house because of our attachment to it, many other new trends could be followed. There are several shapes of tables that our modern and stylish. For coffee tables, people now usually choose a round table. Round glass coffee tables were a part of the old days, too, but they weren’t preferred extensively.

Choosing round coffee tables is one of the best options for a user. You must be wondering why is it the best option? There are ample reasons to choose a glass round coffee table for any space. We will be highlighting some of the major ones below:

1. Round Glass Coffee Tables Are Corner Friendly

 

These tables are very space friendly. It doesn’t occupy a lot of space in any room. It can be kept in any corner of the room and it would look like it was made for that corner. If kept in the middle even, it doesn’t seem like a giant table that has taken over the room. The size of a round glass coffee table allows you plenty of room for other things that can be accommodated in it.

2. Amplifies the Beauty and Appearance of the Room

 

Modern glass for table top has a touch of elegance, uber-fashion, and sophistication to it. All these amplify its beauty and appearance. Having a glass coffee table in your required space is one of the most suitable options. It not only looks beautiful, but it also compliments the exquisiteness of the room.

3. Round Coffee Tables Are Safer

 

Round coffee tables are free from hard edges. This might not seem like a benefit to most of us. However, imagine having a clumsy adult or a kid around who cannot prevent themselves from getting hurt. For such people having a round table that does not have edges are equal to a blessing. Many people injure themselves through square and rectangular tables, but there is a chance that they will be safe around the mentioned tables.

4. Best Suited for Chit-Chat

 

The design of modern glass coffee tables can be compact enough to occupy a small space. The size of it plays a part in enabling people to have better bonding and connection with each other. The affection grows stronger when people can feel the energy, vibe, emotions, and togetherness between each other. Square tables have people sitting across from each other. The gap is wide, and there is a sense of formality lingering around. This is not the case with round coffee tables. The augmented closeness, visibility, and hearing experience allow you to have a better dining and conversational experience.

5. Perfect for One-Dish Parties

 

The shrinking distance between people sitting on modern glass coffee tables makes it easier for them to share dishes. Unlike other tables’ shapes, round coffee tables do not make you stretch your hands and push up half away from your seat to receive a bowl from someone. This is the utmost benefit for those who love sharing a single dish between two or more people. The closeness makes it comfortable and cozy for people to have an intimate dining experience.

6. Gives Way to a Calm and Comfortable Environment

 

Since there are usually no empty seats around a round glass coffee table, the atmosphere will always be cozy and calm. The empty seats at larger other shaped tables give you a feeling of emptiness and isolation. Moreover, the round coffee tables keep people close to each other and let the emotions build and bloom.

7. Most Suitable for Playing Cards and Board Games 

 

It is perfect for spending time with family. The shape of the round table makes everything accessible for everyone. It is especially most suitable for cards and board games. A round table can play a vital role in keeping your family close and together.

8. Versatility in Use and Diversity in Designs

 

Crafting a round coffee table with legs of different material and exquisite design makes it suitable for restaurants, coffee shops, homes, corporate offices, and state offices. You name the place, and these round tables can be placed there in all their grace. Round glass tables also make the perfect conference tables where everyone can easily communicate.

These glass round coffee tables accommodate the new style and choice of living for people. These tables always make space for themselves because of their accurate size and space-occupying capacity. They enable the area to look wider, bigger, and spacious. The size of the room does not matter because these tables will fit in anywhere without making the room look dull and congested. Therefore, the next time you are trying to choose a table, make sure you keep these benefits in mind before making the final decision.

 

 

Coziness is one of the main reasons why people love the winter season. Most places have that warm and fuzzy look with dimmed lights, where you can relax and spend time with your friends or family. Cozy places like this can make you unwind from work, inviting you in another world to feel warm and spoiled. Now, imagine that kind of feeling in your home! It’s like therapy! Your home should be the place where you feel the most relaxed and pampered.

The cold months of winter are here, and all you can think about while you’re at work is to come home to your cozy sanctuary. A long hot shower, a hot chocolate, and a good movie can make you release all that stress accumulated throughout the day. But, although nothing compares to the comfort of your own home, lately, you felt like there’s something about your it that needs improving. You either don’t like the elements of your home anymore, or you just feel the need to add something new, for your own pleasure. Cozy doesn’t have the same meaning for everyone, it depends on how you want to improve your home’s comfort. However, cozy induces feelings of warmth, relaxation, and comfort. Do you wonder what could bring more comfort to your home? Maybe reorganizing your space? Bringing some new decorations? There are tons of interesting ways you can make your home feel so cozy and welcoming. In this article, you’ll find 7 steps to make your home cozier.

Organize Your Home

Have you ever been invited to a place where you couldn’t feel relaxed and comfortable? Maybe it’s because it was filled with too much stuff. A home can’t be welcoming and comfortable if it’s filled with mess. When a place is visually full of clutter, it may disturb your focus. If you think about the hotel rooms, you’ll realize that there’s almost no decor. The purpose is to leave the space cleaner and choose just a few items and put aside the rest of it. Your home will look more open and comfortable. You can look through magazines and see the latest trends in home decoration.

Create a Space for Ultimate Coziness

Your entire home can be cozy, but not everyone can afford it. Some have kids or pets and it might be difficult to keep everything organized. So, design a corner in your home where you can display many candles, small fuzzy pillows, a blanket that can replace a rug, and many other seasonal decorations. Also, you can put a bench where you can relax or maybe you can use it as a table to place all your decorations. Ribbons are colorful, fun, and can be used for different things around your house. You can decorate your curtains by hanging a few ribbons on them, they’ll look more stylish and fun! There’s always a chance to find a discount ribbon in bulk if you do some research on the internet.

Throw Blankets All Over

Blankets are perfect for creating that cozy atmosphere, especially the soft ones made out of cashmere or cotton. Throw a few blankets around the house, so you can easily grab one if you ever feel cold. For maximum coziness, choose a chunky knit blanket and put it on your bed. Also, flannel sheets will give you that soft feeling to your skin and make your bed look much more comfortable. Now, imagine when you get into your bed, after a long working day. Mm, so cozy!

Bring the Elements of Nature in The Decor

For a minimalist look, get inspired by Japanese interiors. Many homes get that cozy look by bringing elements of nature in their décor. The mixture of plants, water, stone, creates a nice contrast and really makes the atmosphere look so calming and have that zen-vibe. If space allows you, get bigger plants, a fountain, and create a garden inside your home. It’ll look awesome and unique!

Introduce Art to Your Cozy Space

So many homes with no art hanging on their walls are simply missing the chance to bring some charisma into them. Art can bring so much coziness into a home but people rarely step out of their comfort zone. This is the element that’ll make your home feel welcoming and interesting. Art is a personal choice, so it should represent you and your lifestyle. Before you hang it on your wall, think about what inspires you the most, it’ll be easier and less scary to introduce it to your home.

The importance of Good Lightning

Do you know those cute cafés with dimmed lights and a warm, comfortable atmosphere? The right lighting can make you feel more relaxed and lift up your mood. It’s an essential ingredient to make your room cozier. If you tend to spend more on the furniture, consider that lightning can completely make the space look warmer. The goal is to create a comfortable, cozy place, and get rid of that boring feeling when entering the room. For extra ambiance, add a few scented candles. The delicious smell will freshen up the room in a moment. But don’t forget to turn them off while you are away.

Decorate with Books

Books can be a super cheap décor method for making your home cozier. You can purchase them from your local store, or just use the ones you already have at home. There are so many different ideas on how to decorate your home with old books that can add a vintage touch. Decorating with books can be fun but it also brings knowledge and life to your home. Transform your living room into a library by adding a wall of books.  Guests will be impressed with your idea! Place books in different areas of your home, on the coffee table, for example, on the kitchen counter, or even in the bathroom. You can decorate the entire home with books, just pick the right colors that complement the rest of the house. However, the point is to make sure that these decorations ideas stand out visually.

Hopefully, these wonderful, warm tips will help you transform your home into a cozy place where you and your family can spend quality time together.

 

 

As a homeowner, being proud of both the interior and exterior of your home is important. When guests pull up outside your property, the last thing you want is for them to get the wrong impression. If you have a concrete driveway, keeping it well maintained should be your top priority, so to make sure the surface looks its best and stands the test of time, here are five top tips you can use.

Regular Cleaning

 

To keep your concrete driveway gleaming, it’s important that you factor in time to clean it. If left untouched for a long time, concrete can begin to look really dirty, which can set a bad tone for those coming to visit your property. Giving your driveway the attention and care it needs is important, so using a pressure washer can be a great way to keep it clean.

Seal the Surface

 

No matter how great your driveway sealer is, it will ultimately wear out over time, regardless of how much money you shell out. The main purpose of a driveway sealer is to stop water from getting into the porous surface, as this can cause major damage. It can also help protect the driveway surface from UV light degradation and spillages, so make sure that you reseal the surface every 3-5 years.

Avoid Using Chemicals

 

When it comes to driveway maintenance, there are some harsh chemicals that are best to avoid, such as deicer. Deicers are known to eat into the surface which results in gradual deterioration. If your driveway becomes icy or slippery, it’s best to use sand which will provide traction. Sand can also be easily brushed to one side or swept away once the summer months draw in. If you have any grassy areas at the front of your property, chemical products will only cause damage in the long run.

Avoid Spillages

 

Another way to keep good care of your concrete driveway is by avoiding spills. Your car oil may be the root cause of a spillage or stain that can cause major damage to your driveway’s appearance. If you notice any spillage, make sure that it’s cleaned up quickly and appropriately by using a professional driveway cleaning solution.

Seek Professional Help

 

If you’ve lived in your property for many years and feel the damage done to your concrete driveway is irreversible, it may be time to hire a professional who can lay down a brand new one. Richfield Blacktop is a company you may want to consider using, as they specialize in concrete driveways, asphalt driveways, and commercial paving.

While concrete is known as the easiest surface to maintain when compared to other driveway types, that’s not to say there aren’t measures that can be taken to make sure it looks its best. If you have noticed any changes to your driveway, there are lots of tips that you can take on board, but you may also want to seek out a professional to help.

 

 

There are plenty of reasons that could make you want to renovate your bathroom. Maybe you are moving into a new house and the bathroom isn’t up to par. Maybe you just want a change of scenario for your bathroom and want it to look more modernistic. Usually, the first and foremost step to changing the look and feel of your bathroom involves looking up custom shower doors online. 

If you search for ‘custom shower doors near me’, you will find Fab Glass and Mirror as one of the top results which are also one of the best options. However, let’s focus on that later. Currently you must be wondering what exact kind of custom glass shower doors will be suitable for your bathroom. Should you look for custom frameless shower doors or semi-frameless one? You might also be wondering how much do custom glass shower doors cost. In general, shower doors do tend to cost a lot. However, it’s utility and long-time use easily makes up for the cost. Let’s focus on different types of custom made shower door ideas that will be perfectly suitable for your bathroom.

Frameless Shower Door

If you keep popularity in mind, frameless shower doors are in high demand among homeowners. To explain a frameless shower door, let’s just say it’s a kind of tempered glass door that’s on the sturdy side, with about ⅜ or ½ thickness properties. Unlike other shower doors, there is no need for a metal frame to surround the exterior of this one. As such, the bathroom enclosure looks clean and modern and the bathroom looks bigger. One of the reasons frameless shower doors have become popular is that they offer no obstruction to the beautiful stonework or other such artistic details that one’s bathroom has. However, you must keep in mind that the cost of a frameless shower door is usually double the cost of a framed door.

Semi-Frameless Shower Door

You can opt for a semi-frameless shower door if you want to maintain your budget. While it will have some of the characteristics of the frameless door, such as better visibility, the top edges of the door and some parts of the sides might be framed. Make sure the glass is ⅜ tempered and the hinges are permanently bonded. Do check that the handles are solid. Also, it is better if you choose the ones which are taller than the standard height, as it gives a sleek look.

Framed Shower Doors

Framed shower doors might be cheaper than their counterparts. However, if you are smart with your choices, they look and are just as good for your interior design. You can order custom made models that are sturdy yet have a chic feeling to it. This is mainly due to the aluminum framing, which if done right, makes the bathroom look classy. What’s more? This type of shower door looks just as good in a contemporary bathroom as it does in a traditional one.

Glass Tub Enclosures

Do shower curtains bore you now? Well, you can opt for a thicker ⅜ treated enclosure that makes the tub and the surrounding area of your bathroom look sleeker. It’s best to go frameless in this situation and you can even have a steel track bar at the top of the enclosure. The door glides back and forth over the stainless steel wheels, making it effortless for you to get inside and outside of the tub. Now that we have discussed different shower doors, did you know that you can choose different styles and mechanisms for opening your shower door?

 

Let’s take a look at some of them. 

 

Sliding Doors for Small Space

The kind of door style you should have depended mainly on your bathroom. For your tub enclosure, sliding shower enclosures are the best choice. They are also quite the perfect fit for bathrooms that are too small where the walls are a bit too close. A sliding door will be able to show off the bathroom without having you accidentally collide with the glass shower door.

Pivoting Door for Traditional Setting

Pivoting doors are also known as swinging or hinge doors. They are like the day to day doors we have in our home, pivoting inward or outward depending on the mechanism you choose. They look best at home in a traditional setting, giving the bathroom a more sophisticated look.

In case of pivoting doors, you will have to ask the company you are ordering the glass shower door from to take a measurement of the bathroom and the surrounding area of the door and its frame. You should also make sure that you have enough space so that the door doesn’t collide with the bathroom fixtures after you install it.

Bi-Fold Shower Doors

In case you don’t want a sliding door, and your bathroom does not have enough space to fit in a pivoting door, you can look for bi-fold shower doors. You can choose one with a frameless design and install it over a tub or shower stall. Bi fold doors are nothing but glass shower doors with two doors instead of one. They divide the space that the pivoting shower door will take, into two halves. As space is divided, the length of each door is smaller, which takes up much less room when opening the door.

Partial Tub Enclosure

A partial tub enclosure is quite new in the glass shower door scene. This European style glass silhouette covers only half of the space of the bathtub that is protecting the area where the water will hit while saving up on precious space at the same time. There is also no need of a door for a design like this. Another thing you might have wondered while looking for a glass shower door is the type of finish that you should buy. In total, it can be broadly categorized into two. Let’s check them out.

Simply Use Clear Glass

Clear glass door finishes are glass shower doors with crystal clear and transparent glass that has an overall modernistic feel to it. However, the chances of scratches are greater with this one. As they are transparent, the dust and dirt collected over time are visible easily. If you want clear glass finish, be prepared to wash or at least wipe it daily.

Textured Glass

Tempered glass is different from clear glass in the sense that it is not as transparent and has a foggier or frosted texture. You won’t be able to look through the glass and see what’s happening on the other side easily. As such, it offers you more privacy if you aren’t comfortable with the idea of a lack of barrier, even if you live alone. The textured finish also makes the scratches less visible to the naked eye, so you can be a little more careless with cleaning. Now you have all the information you could possibly need to order your own custom glass shower door. The only thing you might be a bit hazy about would be the price of the door, but that’s something you are better off discussing with the company you are ordering from.

At Fab Glass and Mirror, custom shower doors are a part of the company’s specialty. Especially, if you are looking for frameless shower door, you will find yourself surrounded with a variety of options ranging from Neo Angle shower to corner showers. If you want more information, you can consult a shower door expert on the site who is always available for a live chat. Don’t hesitate to order from this wonderful company that has all your glass related needs taken care of.

 

 

Ever seen a house without a roof? Probably not. A roof is an integral part of a house, and without it, your house will be incomplete. The roof protects you and your family against harsh weather conditions. Thus the need to invest in quality and durable roofing systems.

But sometimes we fail to take measures to maintain its good condition. This can cause your roof to deteriorate and not reach its maximum lifespan.

Several factors can affect the lifespan of your roof and lack of maintenance is among them. If you’ve not been maintaining your roof, chances are you’re already having a roof problem and you need a roofing contractor.

Whether you want to install a new roof or want to repair your current one, you must ensure you hire the best roofing contractor.

But finding the right roofing contractor can sometimes be challenging. With the many roofing contractors available, choosing the best contractor can be a daunting task.

You’ll need to have the right information to be able to identify the best roofing contractor. In this post, we’ll highlight the key factors to consider when hiring roofers.

1.       Pricing

Exceptional roofing services do not come cheap. If you’re looking to have your roof maintained, you need to prepare yourself financially. However, this does not mean that it will cost a fortune to repair your roof.

The truth is that there are a lot of roofing companies that charge competitively without compromising the quality. Besides, some roofing contractors offer free estimates which can help you in making the right decision. Thus it is advisable to look for roofing companies that are willing to provide free estimates.

The most important thing is to be fully aware of the hidden charges and unexplained fees.

2.       Local Physical Office

A reputable roofing contractor should have a physical office. If your prospective roofing company does not have an office, you should be concerned.

Be sure to find out the physical address of your roofing contractor and inquire about their staff members. Ensure you can easily access your roofing contractor in case you need any help.

3.       License and Insurance

A roofing contractor should have a license and insurance. With licensed roofing contractors, you’re assured of a perfect roofing job. Licensed roofing contractors have undergone formal training and multiple tests, and so they have in-depth knowledge about the roofing industry.

It is also important to hire contractors who have valid roofers insurance. It will not only protect roofers against workplace injuries but also protect you as a homeowner.If a person gets injured while repairing your roof, the roofing company will compensate them without you being financially or legally liable.

4.       Consider Previous Work Samples

An excellent way to know what to expect from a roofing contractor is to look at their previous work samples and references. To get samples of their work, ask your contractor to provide pictures of their previous work. Also, be sure to look at their portfolios on their website.

Also, let the contractor provide a list of references from their previous clients. Then you can reach out to some of them and ask about their experience dealing with that contractor.  Ask them whether they were satisfied with the contractor’s workmanship and how the roof is holding up now.

5.       Client Reviews

As a homeowner, you can take advantage of the internet to carry out a background check on prospective roofing professionals. You simply type the roofing company’s name and search for online reviews. You’ll access numerous client reviews on local listings.

Websites such as Google My Business, Yelp, and Yellow Pages are some of the websites where you can check local roofing contractors and read honest reviews. Don’t just focus on positive reviews; consider the negative reviews as well.

6.       Experience

You’d surely not want to hire an inexperienced roofing professional. Contractors take several years to gain experience in handling various roofing problems.

A roofing contractor that has worked in the industry for many years has undoubtedly performed maintenance on roofs they have previously installed. They are aware of the best practices and the tools to use.

An experienced roofing contractor can handle roofing problems caused by different weather conditions and do it without putting you or themselves at harm.

7.       Roofing Warranty

Another critical thing to check is whether your roofing contractor offers a roofing warranty. A roof installation needs to be accompanied by two separate warranties: Manufacturer’s warranty and workmanship warranty.

Manufacturer’s warranty covers defects that result from roofing material itself, for instance, a roofing shingle. Workmanship warranty, on the other hand, covers installation mistakes.

Reputable contractors should be responsible for their work. The last thing homeowners would like is to pay for a mistake that is not their doing.

 

 

A lot of the times, it is difficult to emulate the picture-perfect bedroom looks you see on the covers of famous interior design magazines. However, with a little redecorating and a strong vision, a plain room can become a luxurious centerpiece of your house. It doesn’t mean that the furniture or accessories cost a lot of money. If you’re on a shoestring budget, check out 5 tricks below, that will make your bedroom design look like it has been decorated with impeccable taste.

Get Rid of Clutter

The first step to making your bedroom look lavish, is de-cluttering. A clean and dust-free environment will not only provide more storage space, but also give your room a major transformation. Removing excessive bedroom items such as unread books, stuffed animals or even ottomans, immediately make the room more spacious and livelier. When you take out all the unnecessary accessories and organize your drawers, a feeling of cleanliness will radiate from the room. It is a process, not a one-off project. You have to constantly vacuum, remove folded clothes from your bed and change sheets in order for the room to shine and look its best.

Style Key Areas

Styling your bedroom isn’t only a matter of style and preferences, but it is a skill. How to make a small number of items look expensive and modern? Another way of achieving an expensive bedroom look with a little money is by styling your nightstand or shelf. There is a difference between a stack of unread books that only collects dust and organizing the bookcase in a stylish way. By putting some bold-colored clocks, colorful vases or metallic trays on your nightstand or a bookcase, you can elevate the space and cut down on visual clutter.

Bedding Richness

For a completely polished look, add texture to the room with a perfect bedding. People tend to neglect the importance of a high-quality bedding and mattress. Adding a pop of color and texture to you bed, really makes a difference, all without making you break the bank. Foam beds provide the utmost comfort and their classy white color goes well with every color and shade you can think of, which makes it a perfect choice for your new bedroom look. Fold the edges of your sheets at the end, layer the pillows and daydream on your perfectly made bed.

Curtains All the Way

When you think of curtains, it might seem that they are too old-fashioned to be incorporated into a modern-looking bedroom. However, if you’re having privacy concerns and want to upgrade your bedroom space, monochromatic sheer white curtains will fit any bedroom like a glove. Classic curtains match your bedding perfectly and add a touch of elegance and luxury to the room. You can match the color of the rods with the aesthetics of the room, but classic white ones are the safest choice to open up the space.

Color Play

Some new colors for 2020 interior design trends are emerald green, terracotta or mustard yellow. Apart from adding greenery to your bedroom, opt for these colors for your accessory statement pieces, such as pillows, paintings or lamp-shades. With a white bedding and white drapes, these are the strong colors that will seamlessly tie into the bedroom decor.

The key is in making the furniture arrangement look expensive, even though it is essentially the same room, only with more style. “Less is more” approach will never go out of style for a bedroom transformation, so these five tips are the perfect simple ways to make your bedroom more appealing. What strategies have you employed so far? Tell us all about it in the comment section below.

 

 

When people think about the basement, they immediately imagine a scary place. Decorating the basement can be weird, but that doesn’t have to stop you from turning it into a home living space. Whatever you want and need, there are lots of choices of how to reconsider your basement’s improvement. Give it a chance and make it as stylish as your main-floor living room. With fresh paint, ambient lightning and finishing touches, you will transform it into a cozy space you will actually want to spend time in.

Basement Colors

Start by installing lights that will make the room feel bigger and make up for the lack of windows. Also, table lamps will add style to the room. A TV attached to the wall will create that home-theater effect for movie lovers.

Since many basements don’t have windows, curtains can be used to create a room divider. This is also a great idea for unfinished walls or just an idea for decorating the space. Most basements are dark spaces, so if you want to brighten yours, paint the walls white or very light shades. This will make the room look fresh and airy. To add more light and add continuity choose a flooring material that is the same color as the walls.

Make Sure Your Walls Are Insulated

The basement is one of the most important areas of your home that needs insulation. Basement insulation controls the temperature and keeps the mold out. A bad smell can be a common problem for many people and this usually happens because basements have concrete walls, which absorb moisture and create that bad smell.

Insulation products are optional, but the investment is worth it. Make sure you invest in quality products for insulating the walls and ask for advice from a professional worker. Also, there is an important thing you should know about insulation: many people are using cheap products just because they think basements don’t need that much investment. Being located under the ground, they think they are more protected and sometimes, they start the insulation by themselves. In this case, consider that the insulation really needs to be done correctly, otherwise the space where the insulation touches the wall is empty, mold and moisture will install.

Consider the benefits of closed-cell foam to insulate concrete basement walls. It has excellent moisture resistance: it can fill in all the gaps and it gives you the best protection against mold. It is true that is a lot more expensive but you will save money on energy bills.

Create Storage Solutions

Even though your basement usually serves as a general storage area, you can give it a higher value by decorating it with shelves and furniture. This can help you hide all of your unwanted stuff.

If you use your basement properly, you can add that much-needed storage space to your home. If you have multiple storage boxes, label them so you can choose what you need easily. Walls with labeled baskets are great as well, especially for storing small items that you can’t place anywhere else.

Wine lovers can transform their basement space into a winery. Build a wine rack or buy one that comes in units, each storing more bottles. You can go up to the ceiling if needed.

Add Heating

Adding heat sources to your basement is necessary, but it may not be enough. If it is the only way of keeping your basement warm, unfortunately, this source of heating will be mostly wasted. The best way to add heat to your basement is to extend your heating system already supplying heat to the rest of your house. Click here for tips on how to improve your heating systems.

Insulating the basement walls and floor will help to hold in the heat, preventing its loss through the space that is not protected. Before installing any supplemental heat, make sure you seal all the gaps and insulated the walls that could cause heat loss. Also, you can install a floor heating system and add rugs for a warmer feeling.

You can locate cold spots with a thermal camera. It is highly recommendable to invest in this tool or just rent one from a tool rental center. With a thermal camera, you can view the areas where your energy losses are occurring. There is also a cheaper version available but requires more moving around the room to detect the spots where the energy is lost.

Don’t Forget About Art

The basement has limited natural light and it often needs more attention when it comes to decorating. For the way the basement will look is up to you, but it’s important for it to be consistent with the rest of the home décor and reflect your family vibe. Give the basement space a personal touch and attach family pictures on the wall or different art that you like.

Artwork is a perfect way to add personality to your basement and create that warm and cozy feeling. It is up to you how you want your personal magic space to look like. Choose abstract paintings and hang them on the walls for a realistic look. Take photographs of things that inspire you or bring your old magazines and photos and hang them above your desk. Hang things from the ceiling like sparkly Christmas ornaments, colored lights, your childhood’s favorite tiny stuffed animals or things that have a meaning to you.

Many artists find it hard to create their own little working corners. A negative and cramped space can affect your creativity and make you less productive. Having your own art studio can be inexpensive and easy to set up. Artificial light is important because it gives you control over your studio. It is best if the light comes from the ceiling because it will illuminate more of your work.

Exploring various basement decorating ideas isn’t that hard, so don’t let that space be occupied by loads of unnecessary stuff. You can spend quality time with friends and family in a space that you’d never thought you’d get to bring to life in such a stylish way. You really are a creative person, so be creative with your space too.