PLUMBING DO’S AND DON’TS: THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE RENOVATING A BATHROOM

One of the easiest ways to increase the value of your home is considering bathroom renovaion. Most buyers tend to give higher prices for homes with advanced and appealing bathroom facilities. Poor and unhygienic bathrooms can leave negative impressions on potential buyers and decrease the overall value of your homes.

On the other hand, if you are looking to add luxury value to your existing home, remodeling your bathrooms can be the ultimate game-changer. However, everything might go to waste if your plumbing is not done appropriately, keeping several technical factors in mind. Frequent leakage, moisture spots, foul odor, and more are some common plumbing problems that occur due to bad plumbing activities.

In this article, we will walk you through some of the most common mistakes that you should avoid and factors you should consider during the bathroom renovation process. Whether this is your first time hiring services from a plumber in Midlothian, VA, or not, considering the below-mentioned factors will help you make sound decisions throughout the renovation process.

So, without further ado, let us begin this article by first understanding some important plumbing Do’s

 

Plumbing Do’s

1. Do make a list of fixtures to add to your bathroom

It is always a good decision to plan out your bathroom fixtures and fittings before confirming your services. Based on your family’s needs, requirements, and renovation budget, make a list of things you would like to add to the bathroom. Consider the size and height of your bathroom before finalizing the fixture.

 

2. Do choose the correct flooring

The flooring of your bathroom is the most crucial element of the entire remodeling process. Choose dark flooring titles because white can easily get dirty and needs regular maintenance. Opt for dark or dull color flooring that blends well with the theme and aesthetics of your bathroom.

 

3. Do consider your aesthetics

Decorating your bathroom with the correct accessories and aesthetics will upgrade the overall appearance of your bathroom. Use glass walls to add a divider between your toilet and shower spaces. Opt for opaque or frosted glass doors to limit vision and maintain high privacy. You can also add wood frames to increase the aesthetic appeal of your bathroom.

 

4. Do create digital designs

One of the best ways to plan out everything before confirming your services is by creating digital designs or layouts of your bathroom. Through digital designs, you get a better vision for your bathroom designs and an opportunity to create endless design possibilities on your handsets. This way, you don’t have to worry about physically keeping a book or records of your design ideas.

 

5. Do hire services from professionals

Last but most importantly, hire services from a professional plumbing company to safely and securely upgrade the functionality levels of your bathroom. A professional plumbing contractor will help you avoid technical issues and find the right fittings for your bathroom.

 

Plumbing Don’ts

1. Don’t overcapitalize 

It is easy to get carried away and install unwanted accessories and equipment in your bathroom. Excessive accessories can make your bathroom look congested and clumsy, especially if you have small bathrooms. Add only necessary and limited fittings to your bathrooms, avoid getting carried away with internet trends, and never compromise your comforts.

 

2. Don’t forget about the ventilation

Many homeowners believe that big size of ventilation windows or fittings can affect their bathroom aesthetics, and they often tend to install small ventilation systems in their bathrooms. This practice can give rise to several unwanted and life-threatening situations at your home. Hence, always remember to install a suitable ventilation system as per the aesthetics of your home.

 

3. Don’t forget storage

Bathroom storage is another vital part of your renovation process. Without appropriate storage, there will be clutter everywhere in your bathroom. Untidy and stinging bathrooms can leave a negative impression on your guests or potential buyers. The appropriate storage system can help you create space for all your belongings without compromising the aesthetics of your bathroom.

 

4. Don’t overlook the toilet

If you plan to create or renovate a combined bathroom, don’t forget about your toilet areas. Design your bathroom with enough space or gap between the toilet and shower spaces. This will eliminate the changes in risky situations and improve the security standards of your bathroom.

 

5. Don’t use an outdated heater

Avoid using outdated heaters and other plumbing fixtures as they might not hold up for a very long time. Outdated heaters tend to lose their essence after a certain point of time and result in damaging other plumbing fixtures in your bathroom.

Install waterproof electrical outlets inside or outside of your bathroom to avoid unwanted electrical surges that can endanger the lives of your loved ones.

5 CONDITIONS WHICH A REAL ESTATE CONTRACT SHOULD CONTAIN

The best thing, you can do in any type of business is to ensure that all parties and their investments are protected. This is achieved by having a solid-proof contract. The real estate industry is susceptible to fraud in many ways so it is best to consult a lawyer when it comes to contracts and legal terms. Anyway, here are 5 conditions you should have in your contract to ensure your safety.

PROPERTY DETAILS

  A starting point in any real estate contract should be the address of a property that is going to be exchanged between the seller and the buyer. It should also contain a detailed description of the property and the following things that go with it. You need to check if they are included in the price. This is a small, but very important detail. For example, let’s say you are planning to buy an apartment that is furnished, you may be led to believe that everything that you see is included in the price, but the fact is that they are charging additionally for the furniture, etc.

  It is also good to check does the property have some limitations for its usage, it can be a really stupid thing like buildings that are pet unfriendly. You bought a condo, and the building is pet unfriendly, what are you going to do? Are you going to get rid of your dog, or hide it? Really stupid thing, but it can easily happen if you don’t pay attention to minor details. Also, if you are buying real estate as a sort of investment, you should be careful with the address, real states are the best way to hold value, but they have fluctuating prices, so, choose the address wisely.

BUYER AND SELLER INFORMATION

  Every real estate contract must contain the personal information of the buyer and seller of a property. The contract is formed of information such as name, personal address of the parties, contact phone numbers, and more. This information holds as a personal security form that ensures that the parties are known and it prevents any sort of fraud because you do have personal information, that can legally bind them if they try to fraud you in any particular way. The other way to prevent fraud from happening is to sign a pre-deal. Signatures will make the contract valid, just in case something is bound to happen.

Home Inspection

Home inspection contingency should be one of your priorities in your real estate contract. This is a very important factor to consider because it will allow you to walk away from the deal if something isn’t alright. A home inspector will look for structural problems, and if there are some, he will tell you the estimated cost of repairs. This clause will save you a lot of time and money, especially if you are looking to buy real estate in a foreign market. A home inspector will also check if the real estate has all the necessary permits. Imagine, for the sake of the story that you are buying real estate in Australia. Everything has gone well, you are the owner, but you just found out that there is a permit missing and that the building dispute lawyer in Sydney has filed an appeal against you. You are facing a potential demolition and a certain penalty. So, to avoid this, always have a home inspection clause in the contract.

 

The Purchasing  Price

The contract will contain the purchasing price of real estate, it will also display all the offers and counter offers That led to a final negotiated price. Besides this, the contract will also state the way of payment which can be in cash, mortgage loan, or some other way That suits the buyer. There can be a deposit clause added as a way of insurance in case of the deal falls apart. If the buyer for some reason pulls out of the deal, the dealer has a right to keep deposit money as compensation for wasted time and opportunities that could have occurred if real estate was still on the market. It is always good to have a deposit clause in the contract, after all, time is money.

 

Closing  Cost

The final thing to look at in the real estate contract is closing cost,  it can be a potential issue. The contract itself will have a defined sentence that shows the amount of the property taxes which will become the buyer’s responsibility. This is also a way to protect yourself against unplanned costs, the contract will assure fixed costs that you know in advance, before buying. Cost control is an important factor and it is important to keep good track of your money, this is a minor cost, but be careful, it can add up easily.

Guest Contributor: Mike Parsons

8 BENEFITS OF HIRING A CONSTRUCTION LAWYER

Understanding the fundamentals of construction legislation is crucial if you want to fully abide by all rules and procedures and finish your projects on schedule. But having deeper information might benefit you as well as your business. Australia’s main collection of professional design and construction regulations for buildings is the National Construction Code.

However, you don’t have to do it alone, even if it´s challenging to learn everything while running your firm. As an alternative, you might employ a specialist in construction law matters, who can give you all the data you need to make wise legal judgments. The following are some advantages of working with a construction lawyer.

A LAWYER MAKES CONTRACTS

By providing a record of the payments, deadlines, building supplies, and other specifics related to your specific project, a strong contract safeguards both you and your client. The contract serves as a precise record of each party’s obligations and rights in the event of a disagreement. As a result, the contract safeguards your interests.

A knowledgeable construction law expert can also assist you in creating a standard contract that you can use for every job and can analyze contracts that clients give you before you sign them. In rare circumstances, a lawyer might be able to assist you in negotiating better conditions.

 

EMPLOYMENT LAW ISSUES

Construction companies, like all businesses, are subject to specific employment regulations that forbid, among other things, racism, unjust treatment towards the employee, and unethical compensation practices. To keep your workplace safe and fair, it is crucial to uphold the numerous rights and obligations that both you and your personnel have to one another.

A construction lawyer can assist you in resolving your legal issues if you discover yourself involved in litigation involving employment law. To keep you compliant with workforce and construction regulations and prevent future litigation, an attorney can examine your rules as well.

 

LEGAL ISSUES DUE TO INJURIES 

Despite your greatest efforts and safety precautions, accidents still happen. Sometimes a worker or bystander hurt during your building project will decide to file a lawsuit over the harm. You can learn to navigate the court or all the settlement procedures with the assistance of a construction lawyer, ending the litigation without hurting your business’s finances.

Make sure to hire professional construction lawyers in Sydney to be fully prepared for any legal mishap that could happen.

 

CONSTRUCTION LAWYERS FIND THE BEST SOLUTIONS

Attorneys who practice construction law typically have familiarity with a variety of conflict resolution and litigation strategies. They can provide you assistance with preparing a case for trial, defend you in a settlement, or arrange a solution to your legal troubles.

If applicable, your lawyer will help you determine the best action to take for resolving the issue and will collaborate with you during the procedure to gather data and create a legal plan that strives to safeguard your company’s interests.

 Even if some people decide to defend themselves during the trial, hiring an expert lawyer increases your odds of getting a good result because the lawyer will have very specific knowledge that will help your case.

 

A LAWYER ARRANGES THE BEST INSURANCE POLICIES

Insurance that covers both the project they have accomplished and their health and safety is required for building companies and their personnel. A lawyer may be able to assist you in choosing the best insurance coverage for your business and handling any legal issues that may develop concerning your policy, such as unpaid demands or claims made by employees that are not valid.

 

A LAWYER WATCHES OVER YOUR FINANCE

If your construction firm is considering bankruptcy for any reason, a construction law attorney can help you navigate the procedure as favorably as possible. They may be able to assist you more successfully than an attorney who manages insolvency for other firms more regularly due to their knowledge of the construction industry.

 

HANDLING CONSTRUCTION LIENS

To prevent employees from being low-paid for jobs that were correctly completed, construction liens were developed. Construction lien laws vary from state to state, so having a lawyer who is knowledgeable about the rules in your area can help you retrieve the money you are owed if a customer denies paying your charges for whatever reason. The conditions of the liens may also be drafted by a construction attorney, who will also see to it that they are correctly filed and immediately released.

 

DISPUTED LABOR ISSUES

Labor disputes can happen when an employer disobeys union regulations, when an employee feels exploited, or whenever an employer fails to settle a dispute with a worker.

Dealing with an attorney who has expertise in construction contracts and the peculiar conditions surrounding this business can help you shorten the time that these conflicts may take. To address these issues, construction attorneys provide a range of services, such as disputes and agreements with union representatives.

Make sure to speak with an Australian construction attorney who can guide you through the procedure and defend your interests if you’re considering signing a construction contract there. Even the most seasoned builder or owner can make a mistake with a construction contract due to their complexity and numerous traps. You can feel more at ease and contribute to the smooth operation of the construction process by having a construction attorney on your side.

Guest Contributor: Mike Parsons

THE UNEXPECTED BENEFITS OF ARTIFICIAL GRASS

Artificial grass is a great alternative to the real thing. It is also low-maintenance and an attractive option for a yard. Besides this, there are many other unexpected benefits of artificial grass that make it a great choice for a home.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS IS ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY

When artificial grass is installed by a landscaper, it can easily protect the underlying soil and prevent contaminants from entering the ground. It can also conserve water and eliminate runoff and erosion. This can be significantly important for areas where there is a lot of heat. So using artificial grass allows the area to remain vibrant.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS CAN RESIST UV RAYS

The sun’s UV rays can be very damaging to real grass and can ultimately kill it. But the good thing about artificial grass in Prosper is that the artificial grass is designed to resist UV rays naturally. This resistance helps decrease the degradation that the radiation can cause. This also allows the artificial grass to look healthy even in direct sunlight.

NO NEED FOR CHEMICAL TREATMENT

When you have artificial grass installed, there is no need for chemicals to be sprayed on it. Since artificial grass replaces the real thing, there will be no pests or any type of invader that would warrant the use of chemicals. In fact, if you have a professional landscaper install the grass, they may explain how it is able to resist pests.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS WILL NOT SET OFF ALLERGIES

If you are worried about allergies, then you will love that having artificial grass will not set them off. Having natural grass can easily bring about pollen and other types of allergens, but artificial grass has no way for allergens or pollen to come into contact with you. There is also no exposure to mold or dust, so no allergies will be set off.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS IS DESIGNED FOR EACH SEASON

Because of the normal four seasons, there can be a lot of challenges to having natural grass, such as fading during the summer months. Or, when the winter hits, the grass will die because of the cold temperature. Having artificial grass installed allows the lawn to remain green no matter what the season is or how harsh the weather becomes.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS ELIMINATES ODORS FROM PET WASTE

Installing artificial grass that contains layers of deodorizing and drainage capabilities is able to eliminate the bad odors and smells usually left behind by pets. Having artificial turf, especially for the purpose of pets will help you to achieve a yard that will always smell good. Of course, the mess will need to be cleaned still, but it can be completely cleaned without any remaining smells.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS CAN RESIST FIRE

Having natural grass means that it will quickly dry and burn once it comes into contact with fire or flame. But artificial grass does not have any capabilities to burn due to its material being non-organic in nature. Being non-organic means the grass provides more protection in the event of a fire.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS IS GREAT FOR KIDS

When you want your kids to play outdoors more often, then having them play on artificial grass is a great option. Not only is the grass safe, but the kids will not need to worry about getting injured due to its softness. Knowing that your kids are playing safely in the yard also means you don’t have to worry about the turf getting dug up.

THE ARTIFICIAL GRASS IS MAINTAINABLE

Having artificial grass is very maintainable and does not require mowing, watering, or any other type of maintenance. Plus, depending on the type of artificial grass you install, it can efficiently drain any water without causing puddles of water or mud. The artificial grass will also withstand heavy traffic and weathering effects. In the long run, artificial grass can easily last for more than 15 years.

CONCLUSION

With the many benefits of artificial grass, it makes sense to have it installed in your yard. Not only will it keep your yard looking good, but your entire family will enjoy it safely throughout the year. So when you are ready to install some high-quality artificial grass, get a hold of a professional landscaper today.

Guest Contributor: Elizabeth Howard

8 EASY WAYS TO ADD COMFORT AND STYLE TO YOUR LIVING ROOM

Modern living room with pool terrace background 3d render,The Rooms white floors ,decorated with brown furniture,There are large open sliding door Overlooking swimming pool and nature view.

It’s every homeowner’s dream to have a living room that feels comfortable, warm, and welcoming. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize this dream. If this has been your dream and you don’t know where to start, this article provides sure ways to add comfort and style to your living room.

1. Incorporate A Comfy Area Rug

Adding a high-quality area rug is one way to welcome comfort and style into your home. There are different area rugs on the market to suit different home themes. These rugs come in different textures, dimensions, and colours. They’re also easy to clean; hence they don’t require much maintenance. However, if it’s your first time investing in an area rug, consider reading this guide to learn how to take care of and maintain it for a more extended service period.

Consider your home’s colour theme when choosing an area rug to avoid colour conflict. It’d be best to consider the texture and material to select the most durable rug.

2. Embrace Two-Tone Walls

Do you know you can add style to your home by embracing two-tone walls? Typical homes use one colour theme on the walls. However, painting a set of walls with calm and warm colours can elevate your space’s style in a way you might have never thought of.

As for the other set, you can use a different complementary colour to have two different themes in a single room. Another way to take advantage of two colours in a room is to create an accent wall by painting one with darker paint. However, you should avoid painting the entire room dark to avoid making your space appear dull.

3. Incorporate Some Shine

Copper and brass work better with dark walls. When using these colours to add style to your space, consider adding a bit of sparkle on throw pillows and picture frames. If you’re more into adding shine to your home, settle for wallpaper or curtains with a metallic element.

4. Add Some Fragrance

Adding fragrance to your space can also make it feel comfortable. Fortunately, you can easily access the fragrance of your choice and make your home a small haven. Suppose you want your home to smell natural. In that case, you can create your ideal fragrance at home. How? You wonder. It’s simple. Herbs perform an excellent job of creating exceptional aromas. For example, you can mix traditional herbs, essential oils, and lemon peels to develop a unique fragrance.  

5. Introduce Smooth Shapes And Rounded Ends

Unlike sharp, straight edges, having smooth rounded shapes result in an inviting, comfy feel. As far as introducing rounded edges to your room is concerned, you can begin by investing in round coffee, dining, and side tables. Having such furniture can help make the space feel welcoming.

6. Invest In Comfortable Oversized Ottomans

Incorporating oversized ottomans into your living room welcomes comfort and style. These goodies are ideal for elevating your legs after a long working day. Some homeowners use ottomans as an alternative for coffee tables.

If you have room for an extra table, consider bringing in an ottoman. They’re ideal for placing TV remotes and magazines and are also excellent side tables.

7. Let There Be Light

Regardless of how far you go with your living room decoration, the space will remain dull without adequate lighting. Some living rooms look better with more lighting and less decoration. Suppose you have a large room. You can go a step further to add a new window or two to brighten your space as much as possible.

The first rule of introducing light into your space is ensuring the room receives as much natural light as possible. Next, incorporate artificial lighting. Currently, you can find all sorts of lighting fixtures to fit your space and elevate its style. Don’t allow your living room to appear dull when all you need is lighting up the space.

8. Don’t Ignore Throws

Throws are great for making a room feel comfy and warm. From throw pillows to blankets, elevate your living room style with colourful items. They create a welcoming feeling, and their presence reveals that anyone can lift their feet on the couch and relax.

Conclusion

There are many ways to make a living room comfortable and warm. The list is endless, from investing in high-quality area rugs and rounded-edged furniture to incorporating some shine. You just have to match your style or home’s theme to the comfort that you want to achieve. 

If you’re looking forward to elevating your home’s comfort and style, consider the above-discussed tips to help and guide you.

GUTTER MAINTENANCE TIPS THAT EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW

Gutters are an essential structural feature of almost every home and are designed to protect the walls, roof, and foundation from water damage. Keeping your gutters clean and in good working order is vital for protecting your home from costly damage due to clogged or overflowing gutters. Here are some gutter maintenance tips that every homeowner should know.

1. CALL PROFESSIONALS FOR HELP IF NEEDED 

Gutters are not always easy to maintain and sometimes it is best to call a professional. A professional will have the right tools, and know-how, and can get the job done quickly. Additionally, with gutter repairs, it is important to make sure the job is done correctly. If there is a problem, a professional will be able to fix it without further damage. It’s a good idea to have a professional inspect your gutters at least once a year. Also, if there are any signs of damage, don’t hesitate to call a professional. While it’s possible to repair minor damage yourself, it’s best to have a professional handle more serious repairs.

2. CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS REGULARLY

It’s essential to clean your gutters regularly in order to keep them functioning properly and prevent issues such as overflows, blockages, and water damage. Start by removing any debris that has built up in your gutters such as leaves and twigs. This is normally done with a garden trowel or gloved hands. Make sure to wear protective gloves since some of the debris may be sharp and dangerous. Next, use a garden hose or pressure washer on low-pressure settings to rinse away the dirt and debris. You can also use a ladder to reach higher gutters, but make sure you take all necessary safety precautions. Finally, inspect your gutters for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or holes, and repair them with a sealant if needed.

3. INVEST IN GUTTER GUARDS

Gutter guards, such as mesh screens or inserts, help keep leaves, twigs, and other debris out of your gutters. They are relatively easy to install and can be found in most hardware stores. Installing gutter guards will reduce the amount of maintenance that needs to be done on your gutters. Additionally, they can help prevent clogs, slowing the buildup of water and ice in your gutters. It’s important to note, however, that gutter guards can’t stop all debris from entering your gutters.  

4. CHECK FOR OVERFLOWING GUTTERS

Gutters should be able to handle the amount of water they are designed for. If your gutters are overflowing, it could be due to clogs or an improperly sloped gutter. Clear the clog and make sure the slope allows the water to drain properly. Also, check any downspouts and elbows to make sure they aren’t blocked. When water backs up, it can cause serious damage to your home’s structure.

Maintaining your gutters is essential for protecting your home from water damage due to overflowing or clogged gutters. By following the above gutter maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your gutters are working properly and keep costly repairs at bay. Don’t forget to call a professional if needed for any repairs or maintenance tasks. With regular checks and maintenance, your gutters will be able to do their job effectively for years to come.

6 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR KITCHEN LOOK MORE EXPENSIVE

When walking into their kitchen, many people feel like they entered a time capsule. Namely, many older Australian homes have pretty dated and cheap-looking kitchens. Aesthetics is not the only problem when it comes to older homes. They are often also less functional. Many old kitchen design choices are unsuitable for a modern household. For instance, less counter space was characteristic of many old Australian kitchen designs. Moreover, times have also changed; therefore, you need to have modern technology on your side. 

The modern kitchen version must provide sufficient countertops and enough storage space to fit all the necessary appliances that make preparing meals easier. But aside from functionality, you also want your kitchen to look more expensive.

Therefore, we’ve created a list of six easy ways that can help you make your kitchen look modern as well as more expensive.

REPLACE YOUR FLOORING

Flooring is often a neglected part of your kitchen although it has a large role when it comes to the modern and expensive look of the heart of your home. They often keep you in the past and look inexpensive. Therefore, start remodelling your kitchen by replacing your traditional linoleum or rolled vinyl flooring with timeless materials like ceramic tile, wood, or stone. They will last longer, boost the value of your home and make your kitchen look more expensive.

PAINT YOUR KITCHEN WALLS IN A NEW COLOUR

You don’t need to wait until your next home renovation to paint your kitchen walls in a new colour. That will give the space a hint of glamour and elegance, and breathe new life into it. For instance, you can choose a complementary colour to make your kitchen fit well with other adjacent rooms. A good idea is to paint the tiles or brick on your walls. That will make your kitchen look stylish and unique.

SWAP METALS

If you want a modern and luxurious kitchen, it’s time to replace all metal materials that were popular a few decades ago. They surely won’t contribute to your kitchen looking glamorous. Since manufacturers release new and innovative materials, it’s time to rethink, for instance, your lighting fixtures or drawer handles. Opt for some modern metals such as copper, stainless steel, matte aluminium, or brushed gold. If you upgrade your kitchen cabinetry, range hood, or lighting with these materials, your kitchen will look glamorous and very expensive.

OPT FOR NEW COUNTERTOPS

Your countertops are also a large and important part of your kitchen. Thus, they have to be made of quality materials and long-lasting. Old Australian kitchens have an outdated, inconvenient, or cheap vinyl workspace, and now it’s time to change if you want your kitchen to look expensive. Nowadays, the variety of countertop surfaces is endless: from granite, wood, quartz, tile, brick, and soapstone to marble, so check out marble suppliers in Sydney. They offer an elegant and luxurious material that has been used in high-end projects for centuries. Today, their products are prized for their beauty, exclusivity and durability. It is often used for countertops, but also for flooring and other applications where its unique look can add value and style.

PAINT YOUR OLD-FASHIONED CABINETRY

If new kitchen cabinets are not an option for you, paint your existing ones in new appealing colours. Besides, this is a great option for those with a limited budget who want to make something new and glamorous with their kitchen. You will be surprised how your old kitchen elements look in some other colours such as coral, cream, white, marine blue, forest green or even grey and black.

INSTALL NEW LIGHTING

Although sometimes it can be an afterthought, the lighting is crucial for the ambience, versatility, and safety of your kitchen. It also contributes an expensive and glamorous look. Therefore, consider installing a dimmer switch, pendant lighting or elegant chandeliers above a kitchen island. Those are all excellent options to upgrade your old-fashioned cheap look kitchen into a modern and glamorous one.

As you can see, from bringing in new colours to updating finishes, there are plenty of options that can improve your outdated, cheap-looking kitchen. Choose the right option and give the heart of your home that expensive and glamorous look it deserves.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

WHAT TO DO WITH YOUR BELONGINGS DURING A HOME RENOVATION

If you are going through a renovation of your home, you already know it will be a huge change from what you have been living with. You might be wondering how exactly to go about storing your belongings and how you should pack and protect them. This is the main concern for many homeowners. Your belongings are your most valuable investment, and you want to ensure they are stored safely. Here are a few tips for deciding what to do with your belongings.

1. Use Rolling Racks For Clothing Storage
When you have to move your belongings out of their closets, removing all the clothing from their shelves is essential. You will want to remove and place them in a storage container to store your other clothes or put them in a rolling rack where you can stack them up. This will allow you to keep all your clothing in one area. You can use a rolling rack with wide open spaces to store more oversized items while using one with small compartments will keep your belongings in place.

2. Use Stackable Bins
You can place your belongings in stackable storage boxes to keep them organized and contained. You can use these boxes to store anything from clothing, accessories, linens, toys, and more. They come in different sizes, and many have lids you can use to cover them up. These bins are made with top-quality metal that keeps them sturdier than other containers.


3. Use Cardboard Boxes to Store Items
If you have more oversized items, such as a refrigerator, washing machine, or other furniture, you can use cardboard boxes to store them. You can dismantle the furniture to fit it into the boxes and protect it from damage. Cardboard storage boxes also come with covers you can use to cover your belongings. You must consider how much space your belongings need and choose appropriately sized bins and containers to ensure everything fits.
Your belongings are important and should be stored with the utmost care. You want to be sure that your things are always safe and protected. You need to pay attention to how you will keep them, so they do not get damaged during the renovation.


4. Donate Your Belongings
You will make room for new furniture and decor through your renovation. If you have some items that are no longer needed or are worn out, you can always donate them. You can donate them to a shelter or organization that can provide the items to people who need them. You can offer your clothes to friends or family members. You can even sell some of the things and use the money to purchase new ones. 

Bonus Tips:

Hire a Moving Company
If you need more storage space to accommodate everything, it might be best to hire a moving company. They can pack everything and move it all in one trip. You also can use a moving company if your home is more than one story high or if you are planning on redecorating the entire house. The company will also be able to take care of everything and protect your belongings from damage during the move.

Hire a Professional Packing Service
If you are unsure how much furniture and other belongings you have, or if you are worried about the quality of protection, you can hire professionals to pack you. Some companies specialize in packing items for home renovations and will ensure that everything is secured and out of the way during construction. They can package almost anything to be ready to move when it comes time.

 

Written by Colin Crown, Digital PR Specialist for Ameritex Movers.

HOW TO BRING NEW SHINE TO A DEVASTATED GARDEN

Gardening is a great way to bring nature into your home and add beauty, color, and life to your outdoor space. But if you’ve had the same garden for years, it might be time to consider upgrading it! Upgrading doesn’t have to mean tearing up everything in sight. With some thoughtful planning and creativity, you can transform your tired old garden into something new and exciting that will bring joy for many years to come. Here are some tips on how to upgrade your garden with minimal effort or expense.

SOD INSTALLATION

If you’re looking to completely overhaul your garden, consider installing Sod. It’s a great way to give your outdoor space an instant makeover without the hassle of planting seeds or laying down turf. You can choose from a wide variety of grasses and other plants to create the perfect look for your yard. Many homeowners choose to install Sod because it’s easy to install and requires minimal maintenance. You can simply roll it out in place, cut and fit it to the desired shape and secure it with staples or pins. It’s best to install Sod in the early spring so that it can start to take root and establish itself before summer.

RAISED BEDS AND PLANTERS

Raised beds and planters are a great way to add dimension and interest to your garden without taking up too much space. These structures create separate areas for different kinds of plants, which can help you organize your garden more effectively and even add a bit of drama to the overall design. Plus, since they’re elevated off the ground, they provide better drainage and less maintenance compared to in-ground beds.

Raised beds and planters come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs and your budget. For example, if you’re short on space, consider a wall-mounted planter or an elevated bed that fits snugly against the side of your house.

VERTICAL GARDENS

Vertical gardens are a great way to maximize small spaces and bring color and life to even the tiniest of yards. They consist of planters hung on a wall or fence, either directly or with supporting structures such as trellises. Vertical gardens are great for gardens with limited space because they don’t take up any ground area and can be easily adjusted to fit your needs. It’s also a great way to add texture and interest to your yard.

LANDSCAPING

Landscaping is one of the most popular ways to upgrade your garden. You can add trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants to create a lush and vibrant outdoor space. Be sure to choose plants that work well with the local climate and soil conditions for the best results. If you’re not sure where to start, consider consulting a professional landscaper or checking out online resources for ideas and inspiration.

LIGHTING

Adding lighting to your garden can add drama and ambiance while also making it easier to enjoy your outdoor space after dark. There are many different types of lighting available, so you should be able to find something that fits your needs and budget. Consider installing solar-powered lights for a more eco-friendly option. String lights, spotlights, and garden torches are all great options that can help you transform your garden into an inviting place after dark.

A NEW FENCE

Installing a new fence is the perfect way to both upgrade your garden and increase its privacy. You can choose from a variety of fencing materials such as wood, vinyl, or metal. For maximum privacy, consider installing a taller fence with trellises or lattices. This will give you some extra height while also adding an aesthetic touch. When choosing a fence, be sure to consider the size and shape of your garden as well as any local building codes. It’s a good idea to consult a professional before starting your project. A new fence can add both privacy and beauty to your garden, so it’s a worthwhile investment. 

These are just a few ideas for upgrading your garden. With careful planning and some creativity, you can transform your outdoor space into an oasis that you can enjoy year-round. Have fun experimenting with different designs and materials until you find the perfect look and feel for your garden. With a little bit of effort, you can create an outdoor space that not only looks great but is also functional and comfortable. Try to start planning and shopping for materials as soon as possible, as some projects can take longer than expected. If you need help, don’t hesitate to hire a professional who can help you create the garden of your dreams. Good luck and happy gardening!

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SUMP PUMP AND AN EJECTOR PUMP?

If you’re a home owner, odds are you have a sump pump and an ejector pump, and if you don’t, you absolutely should. However, it can get confusing know which one is a sump pump, and which is the ejector, and what each of them do. We’re going to discuss the differences, as well as the importance of having one. This is one of those jobs that you should leave to the professionals because of how important they both are, as well as sometimes It can be difficult to install.

SUMP PUMP

Sump pumps are typically located in spaces of the house that are uncommon to be, such as a basement or crawlspace. They are placed on the bottom level of a house to prevent water building up in the space from rain or snow. This is the main pump that is used to prevent flooding. It pushes water away to prevent the water from having an opportunity to build up.

EJECTOR PUMP

The ejector pump deals solely on waste water and it is way more intricate than a sump pump. Ejector pumps deal with sewage from bathrooms or kitchen sinks. Ejector pumps are linked directly to the sewer lines and another type of exit to push sewer fumes to outside the home.

WHY ARE THESE NECESSARY?

These pumps are necessary to keep your home in good working order. If there are ejector pump issues, dealing with sewer waste is super dangerous and should only be dealt with by professionals. If your sump pump isn’t working, water can pool in your basement and ruin your floorboards, as well as develop mold and mildew, which is another dangerous thing to deal with.

Call us today at 708-845-7922 to schedule an appointment today to install or repair your sump pump and/or ejector pump!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell