Remodeling

 

Your window is a powerful weapon in home décor. The windows can dictate how much natural light you get in your home. You can also dress up the windows, establishing some key colors and shapes duplicated elsewhere in the room.

Depending on the window decor you use, you can make a window appear large or small. The exact size of the window also guides you on how to approach décor. You must be mindful about picking décor that corresponds with the window’s shape and height. For instance, a basement window has a lot less real estate to work with than a floor-to-ceiling window.

We often overlook the importance of window décor. From pure decoration to more function-centric décor, there’s a wide range of coverings, curtain styles, and aesthetics to choose from. Here are some of the top window décors you can buy.

1. Window Garden

A collection of greenery by your window adds some life to the room. You may choose to decorate with a few flowers in a vase, a small succulent in a planter, or a whole window ledge garden. An indoor garden creates natural shadows and some color that translates to crafting the right vibe for space, whether that’s a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, dining room, or main living room.

2. Window Coverings

The most popular window décor is how you cover it. There are several options, from large drapes to luxurious curtains, modern shades, shutters, or even blackout curtains. These attach to specific décor aesthetics, from more high-end, formal to minimalist, to rustic and farmhouse vintage. In some cases, you may combine two coverings, such as shutters on the inside and curtains on the out.

3. Animal Figurines

High-quality animal figurines are a way to add personality-driven décor to your window, levelling things up with your unique preferences instead of simply following the latest window décor trends on minimalism and the like. Have a single figure, multiple figurines of the same animal, multiple figurines of various animals, or whatever arrangement you think is best for your vibe.

4. Embroidered Fabric

If standard window coverings are not your style, you can use anything to filter the light. Embroidered fabric or unconventional fabric materials, such as layered fabrics, are increasingly popular in artistic homes. For this, you don’t want to use too many colors or embroidered graphics to appear overwhelming. Simplicity is best.

5. Throws & Pillows

If your window is next to a nook or near a sitting area, you may decide to set up a throw or pillow as window décor. These can be neatly folded or stacked on the windowsill and easily retrieved whenever you want to sit down and enjoy a book, have breakfast, or simply relax with an outdoor view.

6. Hooks & Brackets

On top or around your window is a great location to set up hooks and brackets as window décor. Modern hardware like this can be used on its own or as a stable mount to hold various décor items, such as rope, string, small artworks, or even hanging plants. Adopt a minimalist approach with any sort of highly expressive hooks and brackets. Less is more when it comes to home décor.

7. Geometric Shapes

Square boxes. Triangular décor. Spherical sculptures. More abstract shapes. Suppose you have floor-to-ceiling windows or windows that do not have a windowsill on which to put plants, small wholesale home décor, use the floor and build up. Use geometric shapes to fill in a part of this space and add visual intrigue. Even a simple stack of four or five boxes, large on the bottom and small on top, provides a dramatic one-of-a-kind décor piece to enjoy.

8. Colored Glassware

Colored glassware filters light through it. You can grab attention with more abstract pieces or simplify things by displaying glass cups or bowls. Glassware helps to bounce colored lighting around the room, something that’s especially useful if you already have a color-based theme for a given space.

9. Window Light Fixtures

When we see a window, our eyes naturally go here looking for light. During dusk and into the evening, the light fades. Enter window light fixtures, LED string lights, and lamps. You have several options on how to style lighting around a window. Find an approach that suits you. Homeowners typically will have lighting to the sides, such as on parallel walls or tables, to not block daytime light and avoid any décor-related conflict.

10. Folding Screens

Folding screens can be homemade with something as simple as a few slats of wood and fabric material or purchased from a commercial source. They add architecture, color, and possible patterns. They are also very function at blocking out the light. The most popular folding screen type is large and near floor-to-ceiling in length. That said, you can make tabletop screens, two-foot-high screens, or even stack them so long as it’s safe to do so.

11. Fishing Line Décor

The fishing line is almost invisible at only a few feet away. Draped side to side or hung down, it’s a decorator’s dream window décor. You can affix a range of things to the line and make it all appear as if the décor is floating in thin air. From dried flowers to butterflies, paint chips, beads, seashells, and more, you have various possibilities with fishing line décor. For someone who enjoys arts and crafts, this is the ultimate creative window décor idea.

 

 

Choosing a pattern for your wood floor is a crucial decision in a construction or renovation project. The wood flooring pattern shapes the floor’s appearance and impacts the flow of the room. Furniture placement also largely depends on the flooring pattern. Although the material used is similar, the right installation pattern will have a huge impact on the overall look.

With the variety of choices available in the market today, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. A good idea is to seek professional help from the professional wood flooring experts. When you do, let them know your needs and wants, or any ideas you might have to give them an idea of where to start.

Picking the right flooring patterns will transform your space and express your unique style. Check out these seven best ideas for wood flooring patterns:

1. Straight Pattern

The straight pattern is the most common wood flooring pattern. It has been around for decades. This simple yet clean and modern look flows beautifully through any home, and it will never go out of style. It’s executed by installing the floorboards parallel to each other along the width or length of a room.

This creates an illusion that a room is wider or longer than it is. A straight pattern enhances the look of wood and can be used to create contemporary, yet simple, designs. It is also the most cost-effective and easy to install. 

2. Diagonal Pattern

This type of wood flooring patterns is similar to the straight one with one notable difference: it runs from one corner to another instead of wall to wall. Executing this design requires a high level of experience and skill. The pattern adds a formal touch and luxury to a space while maintaining the traditional straight installation of hardwood floors.

The floorboards are installed parallel to each other and laid at an angle of 45° to the walls. A diagonal pattern maximizes the length of a room and makes space appear larger. It’s ideal for tiny spaces such as those in apartments and condos. If a room has a rather unusual shape, this pattern is the ideal option as it ensures the floor doesn’t look off in comparison to the structure of the walls. 

3. Random Pattern

A random pattern is quite similar to a straight pattern, the obvious difference is in the width of the boards in each row, which vary in size. One could be 5 inches, the other 7, and the next 4, but the pattern itself remains consistent. The design introduces movement and dimension to the eye and space in a room.

In older homes, the planks were cut to achieve different widths and utilize as much wood as possible. A random pattern gives you more customizing options and adds a rustic, energetic feel to a space. 

4. Basket-weave Pattern

One of the main benefits of using this pattern is that it fits in almost any space regardless of the room’s size. It is mainly made from maple and oak and laid diagonal or parallel to the walls of a room. Generally, lighter colours are preferred, but you can spice things up by using darker species, such as walnut, which acts as an accent to the pattern.

A basket-weave pattern can add dimension to any space with the woven appearance of planks fitting over and under other planks. This flooring pattern is intricate, but it adds depths of visual interest and texture. 

5. Brick Pattern

A brick pattern is supposed to resemble traditional brickwork. It is a simple design that can be used on the whole floor, or just a small area, which can then be surrounded by borders. The “bricks” are alternated vertically and horizontally to add interest and visual appeal. You can use this pattern to complement other complicated designs and add a rustic feel to the space. 

6. Herringbone Pattern

The herringbone flooring pattern is one of the latest trends in home design. It can be described as a diagonal, zigzag pattern that is found in many homes today. This pattern is used for hardwood floors, backsplash and tile. In a word, it is the new parquet and resembles a twilled fabric laid out in square sections or the traditional manner.

Herringbone wood pattern floors are common in distinguished European Chauteaus. It is commonly mistaken for chevron and French herringbone. The wood pieces are specifically cut at an angle of 90° on both ends. This angle-cut has a huge impact on the style when the floor is laid down.

The herringbone pattern also offers a variety of customizing options as you can choose the type of wood you want and whether to place the boards vertically or horizontally, or decide to have a border or not. 

7. Chevron Pattern

A chevron pattern shares many similarities with the herringbone pattern, but it has some notable differences. Both chevron and herringbone use equal-sized woodblocks arranged in a zigzag pattern. The difference is that in a chevron pattern, the woodblocks are cut at an angle to create a straight line where the end of each piece meets the other. This pattern was used to decorate Versailles and was preferred over the “traditional parquet de Versailles.”

 

 

For most, the term “home” invokes feelings of warmth, safety, and security. Most people find it exhaustive to conduct a risk assessment for potential hazards or accidents just after buying or renting a home. Awareness of potential threats is the first step to preventing them, especially for older adults. Awareness is not enough, but it will help you get started.

A statistic shows that millions of adults over the age of 65 are treated in hospital emergency rooms for accidents in their own homes. Independent senior living experts understand the potential risks seniors face at home and the necessary precautions to reduce the risks. This guide will help you identify and mitigate potential dangers in their homes.

1.  Falls

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that falls are the leading cause of injury amongst adults over 65 years of age. Many of these falls take place at home. Another report by the National Safety Council reports that nearly a third of seniors experience fall-related accidents each year, with 70% happening from home.

Seniors need to take extra safety precautions to take care of physical changes of aging such as balance issues, a decline in vision and hearing, etc.

Precautions Against Falls

• Wear non-slip footwear
• Ensure the floor and staircases are well-lit and clear off the clutter
• Use non-slip rubber mats in your bathroom to prevent slips after a shower
• Regular exercise to maintain balance, coordination, and fitness
• Keep the kitchen and bathroom floors dry at all times to avoid slips
• Install staircase and bathroom grab bars
• Clear your outdoor space as soon as you can after it snows

2.  Fires and Burns

The top cause for home fires and burns is cooking fires. Heating equipment is also the leading cause of home fire deaths. Seniors are more vulnerable to house fires than young people. They have difficulty detecting it when it happens due to continuous sensory impairments as they age. Various medications can also affect their ability to detect fires and mobility issues which can be dangerous if a fire ever occurs.

Precautions Against Fires and Burns

• Put up smoke detectors in your home and ensure the batteries still work at least once a month
• Have fire extinguishers near most sources of heat like the kitchen and fireplace
• Don’t leave candles unattended or use flameless candles
• Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking
• Look out for frayed cords and appliances

3.  Choking and Suffocation

Choking involves obstruction of the upper airway and back throat by food or other objects, which prevents a person from breathing effectively. Partial blocking causes one to cough while making noises, but in the case of a total blockage, the casualty cannot make any sound.

Choking is common amongst seniors with advanced conditions. As people age, it gets more difficult for them to chew and swallow food. Most seniors have fewer teeth to chew, and they have a terrible denture, thus causing these difficulties.

Precautions Against Choking and Suffocation

• Learn to eat slowly
• Avoid dry foods
• Don’t eat while lying down
• Don’t drink fluids while eating
• Don’t talk while eating

4.  Poisoning

Poisoning affects people of all ages. More so, food safety isn’t standard in most homes, and food-borne illnesses are real. Poisoning is the second leading cause of fatalities in the US, with 5,000 reported deaths each year. Do your due diligence to prevent accidental poisoning in your home.

Precautions Against Poisoning

• Don’t store household cleaners in unlabeled drinking bottles or food bottles, as this can be confusing
• Don’t heat your home with a stove or oven
• Avoid mixing up cleaning products like ammonia which can produce poisonous fumes
• Keep medicines organized and well labeled in their original packs
• Avoid contaminating food by keeping raw meat or fish away from veggies
• Ensure food is well cooked and kept at safe temperatures
• Install a working carbon monoxide detector, especially near the bedroom, to alert you when its levels are dangerously high
• Turn off gas stoves before leaving the kitchen

5.  Security Threats

Alarm systems are perhaps the most useful tool one can use when there are potential security threats. These could range from:

• Sudden health problems like seizures or chest pains
• Potential Intruders
• Loss of power
• Fires or floods

In these situations, an alarm system would come in handy for a senior to get help when they need it. Alarms save lives and help seniors live independently and keep their minds at peace, together with their loved ones.

Other Security Plans

• Have an emergency escape route
• Have an emergency contact number
• Never let strangers into your home, especially when by yourself
• Discuss common fraud tactics that mostly happen over the phone that target the elderly
• Share house codes and keys with people whom you trust
• Consider having motion detector lights and cameras and porch cameras

There are important things to take care of when it comes to home safety, and this guide helps address the common hazards. Therefore, it is essential to prepare your home to meet the needs of aging residents to reduce the risks and keep them safe, relaxed, and happy. That means less worry for both of you in the long term.

 

 

Have you bought your new home, or you need to renovate your home, but you have other projects that require a lot of money? Home renovations can be expensive, but there are simple DIY tips you can do that are cheap. If you’re not sure about how to do something, you can find detailed online step-by-step instructions on how it’s done.

If you’re ready to take up some simple DIY home improvements, read these tips to get you started.

1.  Repainting

Are you thinking of upgrading your cabinets or walls? Repainting is easy only if you know what you’re doing. Identifying colors that blend well with your existing room furnishing can be challenging. You can take photos of your rooms and consult a paint dealer to help you match colors. It’s also essential to have a good brush to get the work done.

 

2.  Change the Kitchen and Bathroom Hardware

Purchasing new cabinets can be expensive. However, having new hardware can freshen the look of your kitchen or bathroom. Before you start, measure the length between the drill holes of the current hardware to get the right size. Also, choose a style that complements the existing look while also giving them a new look. You can also carry the old knob to the home improvement store for comparison and surety. Repeat the process for your bedroom dressers.

3.  Change the Lighting Fixtures

You don’t have to spend a lot of money on lighting. However, it’s easier to change one chandelier of the same size to another. Also, you can easily replace switch covers with clean new ones and LED new bulbs, which will last long. To change the ambiance of your room, replace the harsh white bulbs with mild yellow bulbs.

4.  Remove Excess Furniture

More often than not, we think of projects to add storage space to our homes. There are many simple ways to do this. An expert specializing in junk removal in Freehold recommends that you look at your home and stuff and see if you really need what is there. You can give your home that clean, new look at no cost at all by removing half of the furniture from the room and clearing off surfaces.

5.  Enhance Your Front Door

A cheery front door can leave a lasting impression on your guests. You can paint your door and add some potted plants near the entrance. Also, some outdoor lighting effortlessly illuminates the walkway. Lastly, replace your old doormat with a bold and fresh new doormat to create a welcoming persona for your home.

6.  Make Space for Your Pets

You can create a special place for your pet by giving them a mini home. Find a space that makes it comfortable for your pet as it enhances the entire room’s look. Having some fancy water fountains or pet teepees brings more life to your home for you and your pet.

7.  Hanging Mirrors

Mirrors enhance the room lighting, and they also make the room appear larger. Get some mirrors that you like and hang them in the areas you think can reflect light and add brightness. Also, you can get some new mirrors to replace the old boring mirrors in your bathroom or bedroom.

8.  Make Use of Unutilized Corner Spaces

This may require a little woodwork, but it’s worth it to make a statement. Install simple floating shelves that will add more storage space while enhancing the look of your home.

9.  Transform Your Floor

Replace your concrete or wooden floor with peel and stick vinyl tiles. Manufacturers make vinyl flooring that resembles stone, metal, or even wood. You’ll be astonished at how easy it is to put it down and the change it brings into your home.

10. Have New Plumbing Fixtures

New faucets will significantly inject a modern look into your kitchen and bathroom. Just make sure that the configurations match the existing ones. If you opt to buy a new sink, install the faucet before putting the sink in place.

11. Add Storage to Your Entry

If the built-in shelves or closets are not an option for you, refashioned furniture can achieve the stylish look that you need for your home. A small table is perfect to be kept beside the front door. A small table creates an ideal drop zone for items. Hang a wall-mount shelf that is within reach, just above the table to keep your keys, sunglasses or hats.

Use one or more of these DIY home renovation projects and discover just how minor changes can make the most significant impact. You can easily upgrade your Space without having to use a lot of money on complicated projects.

 

 

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

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

Replace Your Garage Door Springs

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

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

Add Some Color to Your Bathroom

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

Clean Your Kitchen Appliances

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

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

Change Your Curtains

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

Replace Your Light Bulbs

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

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

Buy a Few Plants

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

Freshen Up Your Sofa

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

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

Clean Your Mirrors

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

Change Your Air Freshener

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

Change Your Flooring

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

Clean the Outside of Your House

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

MODEL OPTIONS AVAILABLE

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

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

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

QUALITY

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

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

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

EXTRA SERVICES

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

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

REVIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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

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

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

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

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

COST AND PRICING

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

When Can a Driveway Be Paved?

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

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

Types of Paving Materials

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

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

Asphalt

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Poured Concrete

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Gravel

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Pavers

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

Pros

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

Cons

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

Conclusion

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

 

 

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

Add Lighting

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

Add Color

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

Install Heating

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

Purchase Weatherproof Furniture

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

Add a Hot Tub

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

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

 

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

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

Choosing the Eco-Friendly Lighting That is Right For You

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

Get to Know What Eco-Friendly Lighting Is

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

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

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

Think About Where You Are Installing These Lights

 

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

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

Do Your Research

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

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

Switch to Eco-Friendly Lighting Today

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

 

 

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

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

Ordering and Replacing Filters

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

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

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

Fixing Squeaky Doors

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

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

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

Handle the Odorous Dishwasher

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

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

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

Replacing Broken Roof Vents

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

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

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

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

 

 

While they are words that most people don’t want to hear, the fact of the matter is, winter is coming. In just a matter of months much of the country will be into the winter season and with it comes the strong and rather harsh winter storms. Everyone is well aware of how much damage a strong summer storm can do, but the reality is that winter storms can be just as fierce, bringing with them high winds, ice, snow, hail, and plummeting temperatures that can do a real number on the exterior of your home. This is exactly why it’s important to prepare in advance.

So, let’s dive right in and look at the steps you can take now in order to prepare your home for winter storm season.

Repair Any Existing Damage

A great place to start is by repairing any existing damage. Perhaps the exterior suffered damage during the summer storm season, such as roof damage, issues with the gutters, a cracked window, siding damage and so forth. As Advantage Construction points out, these damaged areas no longer have the same strength and integrity, which means they are going to have a real hard time standing up to the winter.

Fixing these sorts of problems will help prevent water leaks in the home, heat loss, and prevent a small issue from getting bigger and therefore more expensive to repair.

Secure Loose Items Outdoors

You’ll also want to do a walk around the perimeter of the house and the yard looking for any loose items that could potentially be tossed around in the wind. This can include things like outdoor furniture, toys, planters, and so forth. These items should either be secured, tied down or stored indoors until spring.

Trim Branches that Overhang the House

Again, it’s all about looking for potential issues and any large branches that are overhanging the house, or even close to the house can pose a potential problem. It’s best to trim them back now and eliminate the risk completely. At the same time, any dead branches should also be trimmed so that they don’t fall off and cause damage.

Clean Out the Gutters

Making sure water is able to flow and drain away from the home and the foundation will be another important step in prepping your home. This is the time to inspect the gutters, clean out any debris or build-up, and make sure the water can flow freely.

Make Sure Windows and Doors Are Weather-Sealed

Your windows and doors can act as a huge heat loss in the winter, allowing for drafts and the warm interior air to escape. The good news is that there’s an easy solution, and that’s to caulk and weather-strip the windows and doors. This will provide a tight seal and thereby eliminate that energy loss.

Your Home is Ready for Winter Storm Season

Using these tips will help you to prepare your home for winter storm season no matter how cold and fierce it gets.

 

 

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

Reusing and Recycling

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

Work with a Professional with a Modern Approach

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

Scout for Sales

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

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