DIY

 

You need to maintain your septic system to safeguard your property against disaster, like sewage leaks or the septic tank becoming blocked and creating a nasty odor. For those who aren’t sure what a septic system is, it is essentially your own sewage treatment facility for your property. They hold your wastewater long enough to separate waste products so they can be effectively drained away and are most common in rural areas where there are no centralized sewer systems. If you have recently had a septic tank installed and are wondering how to go about its maintenance, then read this article. It serves as a simple guide, breaking down the process in digestible pieces for you.

Monitor Water Consumption

One of the most common mistakes people make with their septic tanks is overloading them with too much water. A large amount of discharge could cause a backup which naturally has some undesirable consequences for your sewage system. To avoid doing this, we recommend monitoring your usage and conserving water wherever you can. For example, don’t take multiple baths in a row, or run your washing machine several times in one day.

Regularly Service

It’s important to service your septic system on a regular basis to make sure nothing has gone awry and could lead to bigger issues further down the line. There are plenty of contractors out there who can do this for you, such as Hall’s Septic Services who specialize in the cleaning, repairing and inspections of septic tanks. They also pump your system, which is essential for breaking down waste products and preventing them from clogging the drains. Also, regular servicing means your septic tank will last for longer.

Carefully Deposit Waste

Most people dump all sorts down the drain, which can lead to the system becoming clogged with waste products that don’t decompose. Eventually, this will cause major problems for your septic tank. As such, you should deposit most of your waste into the bins. It’s especially important to avoid putting things like coffee grounds, baby nappies, face wipes, sanitary products, solid foods and other non-decompostable materials into the drains. Where you can, buy biodegradable products. For instance, high-quality toilet paper breaks down a lot more easily than low-grade toilet paper, preventing septic systems from clogging.

Avoid Oil, Fat and Grease

Septic systems are much like our arteries in that they can become blocked from a build-up of fat over time. Therefore, you should never pour cooking oils, grease and fatty fluids down the drain when cleaning up after cooking. Eventually, these will create a horrible berg of fatty waste products which are a nightmare to clean away. To avoid this, we recommend wiping any oily pans and dishes with kitchen roll before washing them in the sink and depositing excess fat into the bins.

These are our top tips for maintaining your septic system. They’re simple and easy to do, protecting your tank from breaking down or blocking in the future.

 

 

When a person who has worked hard wants to show off the fruits of their labor, they often do it by buying and owning an amazing house. If you’re one of those people, then it’s a good feeling to get recognized through the compliments we receive from our visitors. This kind of appreciation heartens us to give our home a touch up—minimal or extensive.

Most of the time, we often dwell in the kitchen for every particular hour of the day. We drink our morning drink in the coffee table next to the dining table where we eat our meals. We would always dine together with our families near the kitchen. The point is, we often spend more time in the kitchen than one would think. Because of that fact, we all should need to improve how our kitchen looks.

Shop Online

Because of the pandemic that’s putting a halt on our routine activities such as shopping, going online and buying straight out of the internet is the best choice today. From extensive options for product specifications to a wide range of prices, online shopping is the ultimate way to look for stuff during the pandemic. If you have a particular set of wants and needs, then all you need is to narrow down your choices on getting what you really what.

With that said, you can shop for almost anything online. And with “anything,” that includes all the stuff you need for your kitchen’s looks. Here are a few more things to your kitchen that you can get through shopping online.

     1.     Kitchen Cabinets

If you fancy storing spices and utensils in the kitchen cabinet rather than in the countertop, then don’t skip this section. When it comes to kitchen cabinets, the gallery you find on online listings would seem endless, so you have to cut to the chase and rely on recommendations.

Although you won’t be able to physically see the kitchen cabinet you want to buy, pictures will be provided so you can view every detail about it. Shopping online will help you save up on delivery fees. You won’t have to pay labor to move it inside your house. With ready to assemble kitchen cabinets, you’ll also save more money and time in installing them.

     2.     Kitchen Countertops

Coffee lovers would absolutely prefer countertops for their coffee machines. Brewing coffee is more agreeable when you have a pleasant countertop where you would place your favorite cup while waiting for your coffeemaker to finish its job.

A kitchen without a countertop is like a garden without flowers. Sounds absurd, right? Aside from brewing your favorite cup of coffee, a countertop is where you would want to start preparing meals. From chopping the raw ingredients down to garnishing your dish, the countertop is one busy area that you absolutely need.

     3.     Kitchenware

If you already have a good looking countertop, your kitchen wares should also follow suit. A particular section of your kitchen cabinet should be available for kitchenware. Though having plenty of colors inside your kitchen may look good for some, it can get a bit disorienting for some. Having the proper color combinations with your kitchen wares can give your eyes that refreshing feeling.

Customized Purchases

If you are into hands-on kitchen designing, you should get your kitchen customized by a reliable professional. Though you could hire someone to plot your own kitchen, your participation in deciding on the smallest details could be more satisfactory than giving it all to the builder.

From kitchen sinks to wall tiles, it’s your job to have a say on your personal preferences as the owner of the house. If you’re a fan for everything custom-made, there are actual customization shops for kitchen wares that you can check out. Having a place that you help design and conceive is one of the best places to stay in.

Get a Kitchen Remodeling Professional

It is necessary to look into the reputation of the contractor. You need to at least check the kitchen remodeling specialist’s profile as a prerequisite for this undertaking. Remember that your kitchen is your pride booster. You wouldn’t want to trust anyone out of the line.

For homeowners who spend most of their time in the workplace away from home, getting the job done by an expert with an excellent reputation is worthwhile. Giving your kitchen an upgrade demands you to invest a lot of time and money. Making sure that you get the best person to do the job makes sure those investments don’t go to waste.

Takeaway

As a hardworking person, it would only make sense to have a home that’s uniquely you. One of the best ways to make a house look good is by upgrading the kitchen. The tips above will help you get a good looking kitchen that doesn’t sacrifice quality and functionality over looks.

 

 

Are you tired of attracting unwelcomed guests to your home in the form of pests? Pests are a nuisance; if your home attracts them, you need to figure out why and you can only do that through an inspection.

Most homeowners end up calling an exterminator the moment they notice pests. However, you can save some money and inspect your home yourself to determine the reason why pests are attracted to it. You can start with the following 10 parts of your property that are likely to attract pests.

The Garden

The garden is an ideal spot for pests to not just survive but thrive. The soil and plants give most pests plenty of food and space to hide. The plants in your garden are one of the biggest attractions for pests in your home especially if they are unhealthy and not either treated or removed. Homes with an unkempt garden will definitely end up being pest infected.

The most common pests found in gardens are aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. If these are not dealt with swiftly, chances are they will make their way into your home.

Houseplants

Similar to your garden, the plants you keep inside can attract small pests. Inside the home, plants usually lack sunlight which makes them vulnerable to aphids, which in turn produce honeydew. Ants are attracted to honeydew and are pretty common in homes with house plants. At the same time, the soil of the plant attracts springtails, especially when overwatered.

To determine whether your houseplants attract pests, make sure to examine them properly now and then to see if there is a trail of ants around them. Also, keep a regular watering schedule and don’t overwater your plants to avoid excessive moisture in their space.

The Trash Area

It is common knowledge that trash attracts pests such as cockroaches and rats. You need to dispose of trash properly and ensure that when you store it in your yard, you conceal it. Leaving trash out in the open until pickup day will attract pests.

You won’t just attract pests by leaving trash out in the open, if there are coyotes in your area, you are likely to attract them also. Make sure all your trash is properly concealed in the trash can until it is time for you to take it out for pickup.

The Closet

On a daily basis, you probably only spend a few minutes in your closet. The rest of the time, it is dark space with plenty of hiding spots for pests such as silverfish, cricket, and carpet beetles. These pests survive on fabrics so the closet is like a buffet reserved all for them.

The Sink and Drains

Sinks and drains around the house present pests such as rats, cockroaches, spiders, and silverfish a way in. It is common to find silverfish in bathroom sinks and shower drains because the pest enjoys products that contain cellulose such as shampoo and shaving foams. Rats have no trouble navigating water as they can swim and cockroaches also see drains as a safe passage into homes.

The Furniture

The furniture in your home is vulnerable to pests when ignored. One of the most common pests found in furniture is the bed bug and that is the one most homeowners look out for. Other pests such as the carpet beetles and silverfish can also be found in the furniture around your home. These pests survive on both animal fiber and synthetic fabrics. So, make sure to regularly maintain and clean all the furniture you have at home.

If you notice bed bugs and other smaller pests, chances are you won’t be able to get rid of them on your own. Call the most reputable bed bug exterminator and they can rid your house of any pest.

The Car

Have you noticed pests such as mice and rats coming from your garage? Inspecting the garage would probably be your first instinct but, don’t just stop there. You’ll need to inspect your car as well because the pests can easily get under the hood or into the trunk. This is especially important if you have a second car that sits in the garage.

Along with rats; spiders, cockroaches, and fleas are some pests that are commonly found nesting in cars.

The Crawl Space

Most homes have a crawl space, this is the area that lies between the bottom of your home and the ground. This space is typically not well maintained, damp, and dark, a perfect shelter for pests. It is common for homeowners to find spiders, termites, and rodents in the crawl space of their home and if they aren’t dealt with, they can and will make their way into your home.

Pets

Pets such as cats and dogs can bring pests such as ticks and fleas into your home. Their waste is also a huge attraction for other critters if not disposed of properly. How well you take care of your pets will determine whether they attract pests or not.

Properly grooming, disposing of their waste, and clean up after their feeding can greatly reduce the chances of attracting unwanted visitors.

Untended Gutter

Clogged gutters, one of the breeding grounds for pests. It’s easily filled with leaves and other debris that if left unchecked can create a perfect shelter for birds, wasps, rodents and ants.

For example, if left untended, wasp nests can become a big problem. Once the nest is big enough for a colony, they can start acting defensively and attack anyone nearby.

Make sure to inspect your gutters and have them cleaned out once every few months to avoid situations like these.

Conclusion

Inspecting your home for pests is just the first step. If you notice any signs that would indicate you can potentially attract pests, you need to address them immediately.

For those that are already dealing with pests, rather than trying to eliminate them on your own, you need to seek help from experts such as the reputable pest control company. Not only are they able to exterminate the pests but also identify the root cause of your pest problem and help you rectify it.

 

About the author:

With more than 20 years of experience as a pest control technician Luqman Butter has decided to start sharing his knowledge about solving pest and wildlife problems. Luqman currently works for https://www.pestend.ca and believes all pest related problems can be solved through eco-friendly and humane methods.

 

Home improvement is the best thing to do if you want to upgrade your home. DIY projects can provide more appeal and value to your real estate, including houses for sale in North Vancouver. Having some home projects and home decorating can also ease your mind to make sure that the value of your home will not deteriorate. Home improvement projects can also allow you to Feng shui your home to get more positive energy to come in. IF you want to have a DIY home, you can just choose some easy DIY project to make the DIY home improvement to be fun and rewarding.

1. Renew Your Landscape and Curb Appeal

If you want your real estate looking polish, you need to go ahead and do some DIY outdoor to add more curb appeal to your surroundings. You can redecorate your front porch as well as your front door. Try to use chalk paint and get some designer tips online to transform your real estate facade. That will add more appeal to your home, and you don’t even have to hire anyone to get things done. You can always find more exterior designs online and go for DIY home improvement.

Another great idea to improve your landscape is to have a herb garden. You can have a modern house number planter using some pieces of wood from your barn. While you’re at it, redesign your barn door as well and make it look prettier. You can paint it with tree stumps design so that it will blend in perfectly to your garden.

2) Replace Carpet with Laminate Floors

Another essential thing to do when it comes to doing some DIY home projects is to replace your carpet floors with the laminated floors. It will change the overall look of your house, and it will surely look brand new. You don’t have to worry about reinstalling laminated floors by yourself. There are many video tutorials from YouTube that you can watch so that you will learn how it’s done. It will save you a lot of money by doing that.

After changing your floors, it’s about time also to repair essential items in the house. You can check your air conditioner to see if it needed service and repairs. You can also try to check your electric wires that may need more attention and have some electrical repair already. The last but not the least is your plumbing that may also need some plumbing repair to ensure that everything is running well within your real estate.

3) Add an Outdoor Space

A DIY patio is a great addition to make your real estate more sophisticated and cozy. Just add a patio umbrella and outdoor table to have your very own outdoor space. It’s great for your mental health as well as you’re family members because it can be the place for you to hang out with each other or just relax by yourself. You can also add a porch swing if you have kids so that they can also have their playground without the need to leave the real estate.

Having an outdoor space will add more appeal to your home. You don’t always have to stay indoors since you can still sit back and relax in your DIY patio. It will also be picture-perfect in case you’re planning to sell your real estate soon. The buyers will be enticed to seal the deal right away because it’s an ideal home. But you can also just keep it for your enjoyment.

4) Make a Home office

A home office is a good idea, especially because of Covid 19, people need home offices. It’s a perfect DIY home project so that you can have your workspace from your real estate. It will ensure productivity since you will get the feel of working from your own office. There are many design ideas that you can check online or just go for your design and avoid hiring interior designers.

You will need to decide about the coat of paint that you want to use for your DIY home office. It can be a simple task that you can tackle this weekend. Make sure to add storage space for relevant documents that you need for your home office. Have your contact paper and picture frame as well so that you will be comfortable in your workspace once it’s done.

5) Renovate Your Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen cabinets are often neglected since it’s being used as food storage or just to keep some kitchen utensils for cooking. But it’s best if you will also spice up your kitchen by using some faux marble that will guarantee to spruce up your space in no time. Just decide what will be the new theme of your kitchen and align it with the cabinets to make your kitchen better looking.

Of course, saving money should also be prioritized when doing a DIY home project. That’s why you’re doing it yourself. You can check some IKEA hack, Lowes, or home depot so that you can compare the prices of the materials. Then you choose the most affordable yet with excellent quality materials so that you can make sure that your kitchen will look great for a long time.

Conclusion

These DIY projects will increase the value of your home without the need to spend too much. Since you can just buy the materials from a place that you can get it the cheapest, you no longer have to pay for the labor of doing the project. You’re real estate will surely increase the value since it will look as if it’s newly built as well as well maintained. It’s best to just research the materials that you will need and compare the prices from each store so that you will not end up paying more. Once you have everything that you need for your DIY project, you can go ahead and start working so that you can already see the results. It will give you a sense of accomplishment and feel proud about doing the DIY project that looks like a PRO made it.

 

 

Wood primer is a type of preparatory undercoat coating applied to wood, especially before applying paint to it. Wood primers are designed to increase the durability and longevity of a paint job and ensures improved adhesion of paints to a surface. It also protects the wood surfaces that you plan to paint over.

Primer is one of the important parts of the painting process. It also adds beauty and visual appeal to paint jobs by providing a polished, uniform, and smooth look to structures. Primer also ensures you use a lot less paint during the painting process.

When Should You Be Using Wood Primer?

This depends on the type of wood you plan to paint. If you are painting an unstained new wood, it is best to use a high-quality oil-based primer or a latex primer. If the wood is stained or painted, it is better to go for a stain-blocking primer. More weathered or old wood requires a high-quality oil-based or latex primer.

Why Does Wood Need A Primer?

Primers contain a blend of chemicals that dissolve onto the surface in order to hide any imperfections. Primers are also designed to ensure the wood receives the paint better in the way of improving and enhancing the existing surface. Primers have adhesive characteristics that ensure the paint absorbs and adheres well. A wood primer also assists with hiding small holes present in the wood and it helps to make knots and stains less visible. A primer will ensure that your paint looks better and lasts longer than it would without the primer.

Tips On How To Apply Primer To A Wood Surface

Before you get started, make sure to choose best wood primer which is well combined, and that you are using the correct technique to apply the primer. You can use either a spray, a roller, or a brush to apply a high-quality primer to your wooden surfaces. If you are looking for the easiest way to apply primer, choose one of the spray primers. With a spray primer, you will need to apply a number of coats to achieve good coverage. Brushing does take more effort and time, but the layers will be more even, consistent and thinner.

Every primer comes with its own set of instructions on how best to use and apply the product. However, here are the general steps on how to prepare and apply primer to a wooden surface:

– Clean the surface, ensuring there is no grease, dust, or grime on the wood.

– After thinning the primer properly, apply the product to the wood using a brush, roller, or spray.

– Allow the product to dry for at least 6 to 8 hours before you apply a polishing paste.

– Use a 180 sandpaper grit to sand over the putty. From here you can apply another primer coat.

Experts recommend using a fine-grit sandpaper to achieve an even surface between each coat.

From here your wood surface is now prepared and ready for a paint application.

 

 

There are certain vital principles that you must keep in mind when you are planning to landscape an area that has trees else. The desired results may not be achieved, and your landscaping can go wrong. Therefore, let us look at some of the issues that you must keep in mind when landscaping around the trees.

 

1. Simplicity is the key

If you are designing the landscape around a large, beautiful tree, keep the design simple. If you make the surrounding too complicated, the overall beauty of the tree can get lost. You can try planting simple ferns around the trees. Another good option can be creating a ground cover with periwinkle or the myrtle vine with tiny violet flowers. You can select other varieties that grow well in the shade and can complement the beauty of your tree.

 

2. Coordinate colors

When you landscape around flowering trees, you must keep the color scheme in mind when planting the foliage around the trees.  Remember to plan your garden’s colors in different seasons to keep the landscape look like a work of art, a professional from nampa lawn & landscape pros can help you even with changing seasons and the peak blooming period.

 

3. Keep in mind the lighting

Keeping in mind the light and shade zones around the trees is essential when you are creating the landscape as the level of light may not be uniform in all areas and all times during the day. Some trees like maple, magnolias may allow more light than evergreens. Place plants that grow well in shades closer to the tree, while those which need sunlight in the outer, sunnier areas will allow your plants to grow well around the trees.

 

4. Challenges with thriving

Large trees, apart from less sunlight, also pose the challenges for the roots of foliage around it. These trees have long roots that go deep into the earth, and hence the plants and around these trees will always face stiff competition for water and nutrients and, therefore, will struggle to survive. Thus you have to select tough foliage that can survive under these conditions. Adding mulch around the plants can also help the roots of these plants will keep these new plants well hydrated even in the presence of the deep-rooted trees.

 

5. Pay attention to the soil level

Many people create a raised soil level around the trees with a border to plant other things. However, the raised soil around the tree trunk often causes rotting in the bark of the tree and gives rise to infections and diseases that may attack the tree. It is better to create a border that leaves a gap from the tree trunk. If you wish to make a plant bed under the tree, it’s essential to remove the grass before adding fresh soil else. It will be difficult for the tree roots to get air and oxygen, and they may get clogged and will eventually start affecting the tree’s healthy growth.

 

6. Take care of Tree Roots

When you are planning a landscape around the trees, it is important not to damage the tree roots while planting other plants. This should be done more carefully, especially for trees with shallow roots or those that have roots spread even above the ground. If you cut damage these roots during landscaping, the tree’s health may get affected. So dig the soil around the trees with utmost care.

 

7. Use Stones & Rocks for Maintenance free landscaping

Though plans and lawn around a tree base may look beautiful, they will take regular maintenance. If you do not wish to spend a right amount of you time in maintaining your landscape, make use of bricks, stone and rocks around your trees, Keep the designing sustainable and do not layer the stones or rocks on a plastic sheet and this is will create a barrier for air and water and impact your trees and plants.

 

8. Make it a focal point

Using the large beautiful trees as a focal point in your garden and creating landscape around it will give a unique personality to your landscape. If you have a large tree, instead of trimming it down, create the additions like a patio or seating area around it. This will give you a different texture to your landscape while retaining the beautiful trees.

 

 

One of the worries every homeowner has to deal with is suffering from a natural disaster or home damage. Storms, floods, fires, or other events beyond your control can damage your house, leaving behind extensive and costly repairs. But instead of sitting around worrying and waiting for something that seem inevitable, there are things you can do to set yourself up to be prepared for these scenarios.

Here are five ways to prepare for any type of home damage or disaster.

 

1 – Get Home Insurance 

The purpose of homeowner’s insurance is to safeguard your home from the very disasters that could damage it. Every insurance company covers different items and has varying deductibles, but they should all cover hazards like:

• Fire damage
• Water damage
• Wind damage
• Vandalism

Some places require homeowner’s insurance, but even if they don’t, you can only benefit from having it. It’s an extra annual expense, but it’s worth easing your worries about potential damage.

 

2 – Have Contact Information for Repair/Restoration Services

Even when you prepare, things can still happen. Your goal should be to minimize the possibility of damage, but if anything occurs, you should know local companies to call.

Some states have more options for specific types of damage restoration than others. For example, fire damage repair Florida companies are less frequent than states like California, where forest fires are more frequent. Meanwhile, states in the Midwest might have more tornado-based repair services.

Do a little research and have some phone numbers, just in case! Read reviews on sites like Google and Yelp, and ask a neighbor if they’ve ever had to call a restoration service.

 

3 – Take Stock of What You Own

If anything should happen, you will want to know the value of what you own if you decide to file an insurance claim. If you lose items, having a “database” of sorts can help you out immensely and save you a lot of time and money in the future.

Take photographs of rooms and do your best to estimate the value of each item. Keep prized possessions in one safe container, in case you need to save these items from a disaster quickly.

It’s better to prepare for the worst than do nothing at all. Some insurance companies even have online tools to help you do this.

 

4 – Know Your Area

Every state is more likely to face certain events than others. Florida is hurricane-prone, California sees wildfires often, the Midwest has tornadoes, etc.

If you know what you’re most likely to face, then you will have a better idea of how best to prepare.

Whether that means boarding up your windows, trimming tree branches, or installing dual pane tempered glass, these are ways to better equip your home to handle inclement weather and disasters.

 

5 – Have Plans in Place

You can do many things to prepare your home for the worst, but you should also prioritize your personal safety. Have non-perishable food stocked up and a bag ready to go in case you need to leave. If you hear a storm is coming your way, consider making snack bags that you can take with you to a shelter if necessary.

 

Conclusion

Things happen, and your home could suffer hard from damage despite your best efforts. However, it’s always better to set yourself up for success as opposed to doing nothing at all:

• Research your area and find out what storms are most common
• Invest in homeowner’s insurance and, if necessary, pay for extra coverage for earthquakes, wind, flooding, etc.
• Have restoration companies saved in your contacts so you’re ready to call right away
• Take weather warnings seriously and stock up on supplies like snack bags and non-perishable foods
• Make sure you have an exit plan in place and your whole family is aware of what to do in the event of a storm

 

 

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.

 

 

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.