Many people spend their daily lives at school or work, and after a long day outside, nothing beats a long hot shower to relax your tired mind and body. Aside from cleanliness, taking a shower offers many benefits, such as increasing your energy, lifting your mood, decreasing anxiety, and giving you a boost of confidence. 

The last thing that would probably come into mind when taking a shower is the condition of your piping system. Everyone knows the importance of well-maintained plumbing, as something as small as a water leak can ruin anyone’s day. While taking a shower is undeniably refreshing, there are some everyday habits you might be guilty of which can ultimately damage your plumbing system.

#1: TAKING EXCESSIVE LONG, HOT SHOWERS 

There’s nothing more relaxing than having a long, hot shower in the morning or at night as soon as you get home. They offer multiple health benefits, such as improved blood circulation, alleviating stress, and relieving headaches. Due to the spa-like experience, many people do this regularly, but it can directly cause damage to your plumbing.

Long showers create an ideal environment for mold. While mold is virtually everywhere, it’s not ideal to have a growing field of mold inside your plumbing pipes. Not only can it cause respiratory health issues, but it can also find its way into your drinking water which can cause:

• Nasal stuffiness
• Throat irritation
• Persistent coughing
• Persistent headaches
• Wheezing
• Skin irritation
• Eye irritation

Furthermore, frequent long, hot showers can also be bad for your skin. Generally, a five to a ten-minute bath is acceptable, but anything beyond that can give you an unpleasant skin condition. Here are some of the adverse effects of daily hot showers on your skin:

• Strip away skin and scalp’s natural barrier
• Infections and allergens
• Worsen psoriasis and eczema
• It can have a nauseating impact on people with heart and blood pressure issues
• Cause dry skin
• Aggravate acne

If you can’t help taking a hot bath, try reducing your daily routine to ten minutes and the temperature. Doing so can also help reduce your water and heating costs.

#2: LEAVING HAIR IN THE DRAIN

When plumbers clean water pipes, one of the most common blocking agents they find is chunks of hair. All water lines in your property are generally susceptible to blockages; however, your shower and toilet plumbing are considered to be the most vulnerable. A combination of soap scum and hair is highly effective in obstructing your pipes.

There are many ways to prevent hair blockage from occurring, with the most basic being to immediately remove hair away from the drain after taking a bath. You can also use a drain cover which you need to clean and reattach after a shower. 

#3: IGNORING HARD WATER BUILD-UP

Some people may not know hard water, but this common plumbing issue occurs when running water contains excessive calcium and minerals. You can usually find these residues in your shower nozzle, and it has a dry and flaky appearance. 

Aside from causing a blockage, hard water residue also irritates your hair and skin. Hence, you can easily remove the residue by wiping a water mixture and vinegar to restore water flow instead of ignoring the issue.

#4: DRYING LOOFAH IN THE SHOWER

Although it seems perfectly reasonable to leave your loofah in the shower, this seemingly innocent habit can encourage mold growth inside your bath sponge. Molds strive in a moist environment, so when you use it, you’re just essentially rubbing the mold onto your skin instead of cleaning yourself. 

The best practice to counteract this issue is to take your loofah after you shower and hang it in a dry place until subsequent use. It will effectively prevent the mold from growing inside the sponge. In addition, you can wash it with antibacterial soap to ensure that it’s free from mildew or bacteria.

#5: LEAVING A POOL OF WATER ON THE FLOOR

It’s only natural to have pools of water on the floor after taking a shower, but leaving water to dry on its own can encourage mold growth. Mold is generally a common issue in bathrooms since they love dark and damp spaces. Leaving water on the floor would allow fungal growth, which can cause extensive damage to the floor and your health.

Aside from mold, leaving the floor wet increases the risk of a slip and fall incident. This is especially risky when you live with other people since someone can walk in after and experience an injury. The best thing is always to sweep the water towards your drain after use.

#6: OVERUSING CHEMICAL DRAIN CLEANERS

While the most common initial reaction to blocked drainage is to pour chemicals down your drain, doing this often can eventually damage your water pipes. Chemical drain cleaners contain acidic properties, which can easily eat away your pipes, especially if it’s plastic. 

Since drain cleaners are designed to clean, you can still use them sparingly. Prevention is always better than repairing your plumbing system. Hence, always clean the drain after use and not wash down grease and food down your pipes. 

If the cleaning agent doesn’t resolve the clogging issue, it is best to call a plumber rather than use more chemicals to remove the obstruction. Make sure that you install a gypsum-glass fiber-reinforced panel so that the plumber can effortlessly gain access to the plumping components.

#7: FLUSHING OBJECTS DOWN YOUR TOILET

While this issue seems common to most people, plumbers surprisingly receive many work requests to deal with unusual clogs in toilet pipes. Plumbing pipes are not designed to pass paper towels, tissues, and wet wipes. Therefore, when you constantly flush other things aside from what it’s built to process, then it would eventually clog and require repair.

Many people see toilets as an alternative garbage disposal unit, which is wrong. Aside from plumbing issues, improperly handling your garbage can harm your water system and the environment. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Everyone has bad habits. Building a pattern is easy, but it’s a different case when removing it from your system and daily routine. These seemingly bad shower habits can have a hugely detrimental effect on your plumbing system and your budget.

Ignoring minor signs of mold and damage in your bathroom can eventually lead to something more severe and extensive. Since pipes are underneath a house or a building, identifying the source of the blockage or leaks can sometimes be very difficult and expensive. The best way to prevent this is by practicing good shower habits to maintain a healthy and functional plumbing system.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Regular maintenance for your plumbing is necessary even if there are no visible signs of leakage or blockage. Your commercial plumbing is working all year round to ensure the proper flow of water and disposal of wastewater. Even a minor drip can lead to extensive damage — if not identified prior by scheduling preventative maintenance. 

While the traditional notion of general cleaning happens every spring, many people only focus on cleaning their attics, tending their gardens, rearranging furniture, and inspecting their roofs. These tasks are also critical in maintaining a functional property, but paying attention to your plumbing system for spring cleaning is highly advisable.

As the warmer weather approaches, a thorough cleaning is needed to check for any damage that might have occurred during the winter season. Spring is an ideal time to assess commercial pipes and ensure that you got all areas covered. Here is an expert spring maintenance checklist that you can easily follow.

1, CHECK FOR SIGNS OF LEAKAGE

An essential thing you can do during a plumbing inspection is check the water pipes for any signs of leakage. The process includes checking underneath your sinks, laundry and flushing the toilet to see any leaks around the pipe connection. 

Furthermore, the frigid weather during the past season might have frozen some parts of your plumbing system. When spring comes, your pipes are more susceptible to cracking due to the weather change.

You can quickly resolve some leakage issues by simply installing a new fixture, but you have to be entirely sure that using a new fixture can stop the leakage. If the pipes are visibly leaking, it is best to call a plumber and have the lines adequately checked. Never delay repairing leaking pipes and fixtures to reduce water costs and have more powerful water pressure.

2. DRAINAGE

Aside from water draining slowly, one way to identify a drainage issue is a foul odor coming from the drain. An easy way to remove the blockage is by pouring hot water or drain cleaner to dissolve the obstruction hopefully. However, you can avoid the inconvenience and the smell by placing a strain to prevent hair, debris, and excess soap. 

If the slow water drain issue is persistent, then it means that the obstruction lies deep within your plumbing system. Contact your local plumber right away instead of repeatedly pouring drain cleaners down the drain — which can cause further damage.

3. WATER HEATER

Water heaters are essential during the colder seasons. It was an effective source of comfort during winter, and maintaining your water heating unit during spring only makes perfect sense. Before inspecting the unit, determine its age since the newer models are built to be more energy-efficient. It would be best if it’s over a decade old, installing a new water heater.

However, if you don’t want to change your trusty heater, there is a way to ensure that it’s working at total capacity. First, make sure that the temperature is not set above 120 degrees to make it more efficient and prevent scalding. Second, it is best to remove any objects around the water heater for additional safety.

4. WATER APPLIANCES

Water is a necessity, and mechanical appliances have significantly maximized water usage. Water is primarily used indoors, where it has been reported by the Environmental Protective Agency (EPA) that the average American household consumes 300 gallons of water each day. 

Many appliances primarily use and distribute water, such as:

• Toilet
• Shower
• Faucet
• Washing Machine
• Leaks
• Bath
• Dishwasher
• Ice maker
• Bidet 

Due to the significance of water in our daily lives, it is necessary to preserve it as much as we can. Spring is an ideal season to inspect water appliances, and you can start by checking the water hoses for signs of leakage or bulging. 

Replace old hoses with stainless steel if possible and check your showerhead if it has any signs of dripping or hard water deposits. Public water tends to have high mineral and calcium content, and these flaky substances can cause a build-up in your showerhead or faucet, which could weaken the water pressure.

5. SUMP PUMP

As part of your spring plumbing maintenance, examine your sump pump to ensure it is working properly. To test its efficiency, pour a bucket of water into the sump pump pit and immediately activate the system to drain the water. If the sump pump fails to deactivate after draining, it is best to contact your local plumber to assess the unit thoroughly

6. OUTDOOR PLUMBING

In addition to the internal pipes and fixtures, you also need to examine your outdoor hoses, sprinklers, and irrigation system. Ensure that you have secure and convenient access to the valves outside your property by installing airtight and watertight exterior access doors. 

Clean the drains, gutters, and downspouts to remove any debris obstructing water flow. If you have a faucet outside, ensure that the water flows properly and check for leakage since extreme cold weather can damage the fixture. 

IMPORTANCE OF SPRING PLUMBING MAINTENANCE

Plumbing systems work non-stop, especially in commercial spaces. The best way to save money and prevent inconvenience is by paying close attention to your plumbing system. Identifying potential damages early on is better than paying for extensive damage repair. To summarize, here are some of the benefits you stand to gain when you include plumbing in your annual spring cleaning routine. 

• Address Water Leaks – Leaking pipes and fixtures may seem insignificant but waiting for it to turn into something more disastrous is inconvenient and expensive, especially for businesses. There is a high possibility that some parts of the pipes will crack once winter is over, so scheduling maintenance early in spring is highly recommended.
• Maintain Water Heater and Other Equipment – Regardless of the season, water heaters are commonly used all year round. Any functioning unit will lose efficiency and wear out faster if not properly maintained. Treating your water heater as an essential component of your commercial plumbing system is a good start in ensuring that your property will receive heated water throughout the year.
• Reduce Water Costs – Any form of water leakage within your commercial plumbing system directly contributes to the high water consumption. As such, identifying and addressing any damage within the system is one of the most effective solutions in reducing your monthly water expenses. 

TAKEAWAY

There are various ways to care for and maintain your plumbing system properly. At the same time, spring is an excellent time to assess pipes and valves after the harsh winter season. However, checking for any visible signs of leaks or damage can benefit the business regardless of the season. After following these plumbing expert tips in this checklist, you can ensure that your plumbing system is well-maintained and off to a good start.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Air ducts are generally the last item on a homeowner’s mind regarding HVAC system maintenance. Without air ducts, your HVAC equipment would be unable to transport air from room to room throughout your house.

Although they are often overlooked (due to their generally concealed location), your air ducts need care, upkeep, repairs, and even replacement occasionally. However, how can you determine when it is time to replace them? After all, you hardly ever see the dreaded things. 

 

1. INADEQUATE DESIGN/INSTALLATION

Ductwork must be constructed and strategically installed to guarantee maximum cooling performance throughout your house and to sustain the life of your HVAC equipment longer. A new duct installation should be done if your home’s ducting was inadequately planned or constructed. Poor ductwork makes it impossible to obtain a practical design and a pleasant house. This is a significant source of energy loss in homes around the country.

 

2. INSUFFICIENT AIRFLOW

Airflow is critical to a thriving operating HVAC system, and believe it or not, and your ductwork plays a vital role in cooling your living areas effectively. When your ductwork is broken, outdated, dirty, or blocked in any manner, the result is likely to be excessive energy costs and discomfort in your house. If you find that the airflow through your HVAC system is dwindling or straining, it may be time for a replacement.

 

3. THE AGE OF DUCTWORK

As is the case with most household equipment, HVAC systems do have a useful life. By 15 years of service, serious difficulties are likely to manifest. Older air ducts may have serious challenges, such as gaps. In certain instances, whole parts may even collapse.

It’s prudent to consider replacing more than decade-old ducts. This way, you’ll avoid difficulties and may continue to enjoy the conveniences of home.

All of these indicators suggest that your ducting requires repair. Even if you are a do-it-yourselfer, you should avoid attempting to replace them. Contact a duct repair specialist to replace the system.

 

4. INFESTATION BY PESTS

Observing insects or rodents within your HVAC ducts indicates that your ductwork has holes or leaks. Bugs and rodents may enter the ducts via the perforations, establishing various colonies and causing further damage, such as obstructing the HVAC ducts.

Additionally, pest infestations may flood your ductwork with hazardous substances such as urine and excrement, resulting in a damaged duct system, inefficient air circulation, and decreased indoor air quality.

Nobody likes foul odors entering their house. If you detect an offensive odor but cannot locate the cause, you may want to update your air ducts.

Mold may grow in your home due to temperature differences between the inside and outside of your HVAC system’s broken ducts. This implies that mold has the potential to grow throughout your ductwork and your house. When mold grows in your ductwork, the odor of mold and mildew will permeate your whole home. As a result, you may detect an unpleasant odor.

 

5. HVAC OPERATION IS EXCESSIVELY NOISY

While your HVAC system is meant to generate noise while operating, the noise level should not be excessive. If you continually hear rattling noises or if your HVAC ductwork vibrates while heating or cooling your home, you should get the ducts inspected.

Remember that your home’s ductwork is linked through plastic or fiberglass couplings. When these joints get injured, rattling or whistling noises occur.

If the ductwork has holes, you will hear loud sounds when the air travels through the ducts. Avoid ignoring this noise since it will only become worse.

 

CONCLUSION

Homeowners want to provide their families with a healthy, safe living environment. In most houses, a duct system is sufficient to provide enough comfort. It provides your house with either warm or cold air as required. If feasible, you want it to blow just in inhabited rooms in your home to save energy.

While adequately maintained ducts serve your house successfully, they might succumb to wear and tear over time. You must get familiar with some telltale indicators of broken or worn ductwork. If homeowners do not know what to look for, they may not notice any physical faults. However, there are several indicators that you should inspect your ducts.

 

 Guest Contributor: Maggie Bloom           

Maintaining your furnace’s cleanliness during the warmer months is essential for keeping your house warm and comfortable. All of the dust and dirt that gathers on the components within your blower compartment affects the whole system and may cause unsafe conditions.

Generally speaking, a furnace should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected once a year, depending on the model. Non-stop cleaning will not only keep your HVAC system running efficiently and for a more extended time, but it will also prevent your ducts from becoming clogged and dispersing dust and debris throughout your house.

Before we provide you with an answer to your inquiry, let’s take you closer to some of the benefits of cleaning your furnace. 

 The Benefits of Furnace Cleaning 

1. It will perform well.

Better furnace performance is one of the most significant advantages of yearly furnace cleaning. Due to a clogged filter, a lower volume of air flows across the heat exchanger, causing your furnace to operate in longer cycles and causing it to use more energy. 

Dirt coating the heat exchanger, an essential and costly part of furnaces, acts as an insulator, preventing the air flowing over from absorbing enough heat, increasing the time the furnace is required to function. 

It is possible that when the furnace boiler and ducts are cleaned, the furnace will operate at a faster pace and will not have to run as long to generate heat for your house. 

2. It will operate quietly. 

An unmaintained furnace may shake more and become more rackety than you expected if not serviced regularly. Your furnace is typically one of the noisiest types of equipment in your house. The rumbling and heavy noises of the furnace heating up will be heard regularly. 

During the operation of your furnace, screws come loose, panels break easily, and noises intensify. Not only will the lessening of disturbance be significant to your ears, but you will also benefit from preventing critical issues that may arise when a furnace vibrates or rattles excessively.

 3. Early detection of issues.

Prevention is essential, and with regular repair and maintenance, you can expect your furnace to survive for many years.

Imagine you have a defect in your heat exchanger. Not only may this cause difficulties with carbon monoxide, but it may also need to replace the whole machine. This and other issues may be detected early on with our professional specialist’s help of furnace cleaning near you.

Performing a visual and physical check of your furnace is one of the most important steps you can take to remove any indicators of minor issues that most people will overlook. 

During an HVAC inspection, a technician may find that a fan is stuck or a furnace component fails. It is possible to avoid worse difficulties in the future if you keep hold of these minor issues.

Why should you get it cleaned regularly?

A new furnace is more expensive than keeping it up to date. Based on the furnace type you choose, any necessary maintenance work, your geographic location, and the installation cost, the cost might be much higher. Due to the increasing price of conducting business and the knowledge required to install HVAC equipment, furnace installation fees may be much more than the expense of the furnace. So, you should get it cleaned since the cost of HVAC cleaning isn’t too heavy for your budget. 

So, what’s the verdict? Will getting furnace cleaning make it new again? 

The answer is a resounding ‘maybe.’ Furnace cleaning will definitely improve your system’s efficiency and eliminate any built-up dirt or grime. Still, it won’t necessarily restore your furnace to its former glory.  

But, the failure to clean your furnace regularly may result in various problems. These issues can sometimes negatively impact your indoor environmental quality, risk your family’s health, and even cause your unit to break down and look old if left unattended for an extended period. By regularly inspecting your furnace and air filters, you may catch most of these issues before they become severe.

Have your cleaning schedule with us! 

Contact Abbotsford Duct Cleaning today if you need furnace duct cleaning or just want to be preventative and maintain the air quality in your house as quickly as possible. 

The services we provide are meant to clean your furnace ducts and vents and enhance the overall air quality of your home as a part of the cleaning process. In addition, we are constantly striving to keep our pricing fair so that you may get the most for your money possible. 

To know more about what services we can offer for you, feel free to contact us today — we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Guest Contributor: Michael Mabansag

If you’re like most AC users, you probably don’t give your central air conditioner much thought until it’s too late to save it. And by then, it’s likely too warm and humid to accomplish much inside your house or business. 

Ignoring the defects with your air conditioning unit, on the other hand, might lead to even more severe problems down the line, including a total system failure.

When was the last time your central air conditioner was serviced? You should consider having your unit maintained if it has been a long time since it was last done or if you are unsure when it was last serviced. 

Central air conditioners are an everyday need in both homes and workplaces. Breaking down can be a huge inconvenience when they do so. You should be aware of the following four signs if you’re uncertain if your central air conditioner needs repair or replacement:

 

1. When your air conditioner is operating, it makes strange noises.

When your air conditioner generates unusual sounds is one of the most common signs that you may want AC repair. There’s an issue with it if it’s causing noise other than a whizzing noise, which indicates that it has encountered a difficulty of some sort.

If you’re hearing rattling sounds, they may be coming from a loose part of your machine. But, there is a possibility that something has been trapped in your condenser unit. On the other hand, shrieking or screeching sounds usually result from a damaged or loosened belt.

The inability to resolve these issues as soon as they arise might damage the air conditioner unit in the near run. As soon as you detect a strange sound coming from your system, contact our AC company for an air conditioning repair near you. 

We’d fix it immediately to prevent a total shutdown of your air conditioning system, as well as the inconvenience and expenses associated with being without air conditioning. 

 

2. You’ve noticed signs of leaks coming from your unit.

One more indicator that you need air conditioner repair is if you see fluid leaking from your condenser unit. This fluid is referred to as refrigerant, and it’s essential for the proper operation of the air conditioner. If it starts to leak, the air conditioner will soon stop producing cold air totally.

Mold may grow in your furniture, walls, and carpets due to leaking water, risking the individuals’ health who live in the property. After the central air conditioner has been fixed or replaced, mold and moisture may develop up around it, resulting in significant repair expenses for the property.

 

3. YOUR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM IS BLOWING WARM AIR 

The purpose of purchasing an air conditioning unit is not only to allow it to sit about and look elegant. Sustaining your family’s comfort throughout the hot and humid summer season must be a specific duty of an air conditioner. 

The presence of warm air coming from your air conditioner is the most obvious indicator that it needs to be repaired immediately.

A room cannot be made chilly by an air conditioner unless it’s blowing cooled air into the room. Curious about the source of this issue? The condenser is the most common cause of problems. It’s possible that your air conditioner isn’t generating cold air due to a refrigerant shortage or a defective evaporator coil, which is the problem.

 

4. It has increased your energy bill.

Unexpectedly high energy bills without any additional consumption are another sign that your air conditioning system needs to be replaced or repaired. Many factors might contribute to this issue, such as a faulty thermostat switch, leaks in your HVAC system’s ductwork, or the fact that your air conditioning unit is coming to the end of its effective life span.

If your electricity costs continue to rise, but the rates charged by your electric provider remain the same, it may be time to repair rather than replace your air conditioner. 

Purchasing a new energy-efficient air conditioning unit to replace an older, inefficient system may be more expensive upfront. But if you anticipate remaining in your house for at least another seven to ten years, the benefits from your new unit would more than accounting for the high operating costs.

 

We’d like to keep it cool! 

As required, you should replace your air conditioner unit if it has been in use for more than ten years. No matter how good it is, any air conditioning unit that is more than 15 years old must be replaced. If you’re uncertain whether or not your AC needs repair, there are four key signs to look out for: high energy bills, frequent repairs, strange noises, and hot spots in your home. 

Don’t hesitate to call Abbotsford Refrigeration & Air Conditioning if you see any of these signs and would like to schedule an initial assessment. Depending on your needs, we can assist you in determining whether repair or replacement is the best decision for your residential or commercial AC. We have professional HVAC contractors who would be glad to offer a hand to AC units installation and an air conditioning repair.

Guest Contributor: Michael Mabansag

Nearly 40% of energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is due to the construction of buildings throughout the world. CO2 emissions also have an impact on natural habits globally. Each of us can reduce our carbon footprint. We can significantly reduce our carbon footprints when building new homes, keep reading to find out how! 

 

Use Sustainable Materials to Build Your New Home

As you build your home, choosing materials that are sustainable will help you to achieve the green home you are aiming for and can be the foundation of your new build. Even the home’s plumbing can be done in an eco-friendly way. Typically, a simple new build of a two-bed cottage style home would generate approximately 80 tons of CO2 emissions. Renewable materials such as straw bale, hemp, or timber helps to remove carbon from the atmosphere; they “sequester” CO2 throughout their lifetime and can store carbon. 

“Carbon sequestration” refers to the process of long-term storing and removing carbon from the atmosphere. The goal is to reduce climate change globally. Sustainable forestry practices increase the ability of the forests to sequester carbon on their own. This improves soil and water quality. As you are building your home it is good to know the following: 

·      6 tons of CO2 are sequestered by straw

·      5.5 tons are sequestered by hemp 

·      30 tons are sequestered by solid timber 

We could, easily, reduce 31 tons of global carbon emissions by constructing homes with wood versus concrete and steel. 

Build Your Green Home with Glazing Windows

The windows in your home impact how much heat enters and exits your home. During the summer months, approximately 87% of heat is absorbed into your home. 49% of your home’s heat escapes during the winter months; the, overall, energy efficiency of your windows is extremely important. Double-glazed window systems are your best bet, and they are viewed as the benchmark when it comes to energy efficiency. It is important to select double-glazed glass windows that are outfitted with timer or “UPVC” frames. “UPVC” stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. 

There are several benefits of having UPVC frames, and they are: 

·      Due to being less porous, maintenance is reduced 

·      They have an increased lifespan 

·      They are resistant to high impact 

·      They often last decades 

·      No discoloration when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight 

·      Can be recycled 

Choosing a double-glazed window will help you save money on your energy bills, but it will also improve the comfort of your home. 

Purchase Energy Efficient Electrical Appliances for Your New Green Home

When you are building your home, there will be many choices that you will have to make throughout the process. One of those choices are which appliances you would like in your home. If you want to practice green living at home, it is best to select appliances that are energy-efficient. As the name suggests, energy-efficient appliances use the least amount of energy as possible. 

Energy-efficient appliances come in 2 different varieties: 

1.    6-star energy rating 

2.    10-star energy rating 

Energy consumption and the size of the appliance generate that appliance’s star rating. Appliances are tested and measured for their energy consumption and to determine the minimum energy performance criteria for that particular model. Once the appliance is tested they can be granted an Energy Rating Label. The more stars granted, the higher the energy efficiency. 

Here is a list of some appliances that would receive an Energy Rating Label: 

·      Air Conditioners

·      Clothes Dryers

·      Computer Monitors

·      Dishwashers

·      Fridges and Freezers

·      Washing Machines

·      TVs 

·      HVAC Systems 

As you are choosing your appliances select a model with a higher rating to ensure that you achieve the green home you are hoping to build. 

 

Use Solar Panels in the Construction of Your New Green Home

Sunlight is a renewable resource. A renewable resource is a substance that holds economic value which can be replaced and replenished in less time than it takes to use the supply. It is abundant and is freely available. It can be used as energy. In fact, the energy that sunlight generates in a single hour is enough to satisfy the needs of the world for one year. 

The benefits of using solar panels are: 

·      Reduces your energy bills 

·      Emits zero greenhouse gases, and helps the environment 

·      Improves the value of your home 

·      Versatility with installation 

·      Can be used anywhere 

Select Finishes and Decorations that are Eco-Friendly and Sustainable for your New Green Home

As you begin the make the final selections in your home, you should continue to be thoughtful and intentional in what you choose. Green interior finishes and home furnishings are just as important as the aforementioned aspects of your new green home’s design. Arguably, these items are more impactful as they are the items that will be in your direct living environment. They will touch your skin and will add to the air you breath every day. Here are some sustainable materials to be select for the inside your home: 

·      Repurposed materials – Breathing new life into an item is a great way of keeping your home sustainable and eco-friendly. Adding a new coat of paints, or reupholstering, a piece extends the lifetime of that item and keeps it out of a landfill. 

·      Bamboo – It is beautiful, versatile, and sustainable. A variety of home furnishings and decorations are made from this material. 

·      Reclaimed wood – Many people choose to use reclaimed wood throughout their home interior. It is often used for flooring. 

The construction of homes generates a significant amount of CO2 emissions across the globe. Luckily, we can help to cut CO2 emissions by making intentional, sustainable, choices. Building a green home helps the environment and can be cost effective as well. You can save a considerable amount of money, long-term, by using sustainable materials, selecting energy-efficient windows and appliances, utilizing solar panels, and by carefully selection sustainable interior flooring and decorations. Each choice we make goes a long way in helping to heal our Earth. 

Guest Contributor: Jade Piper

You might automatically associate luxury with extravagance or luxury with things that are beyond your means. However, luxury doesn’t have to mean extravagance-it can be as simple as enjoying a luxury food experience. With this in mind, the design of your kitchen should reflect this luxury, by incorporating something as simple as marble countertops and a beverage station for a more luxurious feel. Explore the ways you can achieve a luxury home interior design for your kitchen to ensure your guests have a wonderful luxury food experience!

MARBLE COUNTERTOPS: THE ULTIMATE LUXURY HOST EXPERIENCE!

A typical question on home renovation forums is what should I be looking out for when redesigning my kitchen? What extra touches might help me tap into my inner luxury chef? And the most popular answer is, without a doubt, an aesthetically pleasing marble countertop.

Marble has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its lustrous beauty and durability. It’s made from limestone that’s taken from mother earth, then dissolved into lime or calcium oxide, then heated up to high temperatures to reach its final form as stone. You can find marble available in many colors and textures thanks to this versatility. Marble is also very popular because of its wear and tear abilities. It always looks modern and fresh and your guests will love the luxury vibe your kitchen provides along with the incredible food and drinks.

THE BENEFITS OF BUILDING A BEVERAGE STATION:

A beverage station can be an excellent addition to any kitchen. It provides a place for guests to congregate and enjoy delicious drinks, as well as a sense of luxury that is often lacking in home-cooked meals. Hosts who set up a beverage station will find it easier to keep track of their guests’ glasses, and will also make it easier for the hosts themselves to enjoy the party!

HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN BEER/WINE/WATER STATION WITH UNIQUE DETAILS THAT WILL DELIGHT GUESTS

When creating your own beverage station, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a space in your kitchen that is easily accessible for guests. Next, select drinks that will appeal to a wide range of palates. Finally, add unique details to the station that will make it feel special. Some ideas include decorative glasses, fun straws or stirrers, and beautiful flowers or fruit arrangements. With a little bit of creativity, you can create a beverage station that will delight your guests and make your next dinner party even more special!

HERE ARE SOME LUXURY FOODS IDEAS TO SERVE YOUR GUESTS ON YOUR NEWLY RENOVATED COUNTERTOPS:

APPETIZERS

Lemon slices, fresh figs, prosciutto-wrapped melon skewers, or shrimp in honey, garlic, and chili sauce are ideal appetizers for your dinner party.

SOUP/SALAD

Thinly sliced potatoes topped with crème fraîche and sour cream, or sliced tomatoes and cucumbers in a balsamic vinegar dressing would make an excellent soup course. Or serve up classic caesar salad, spinach salad with beets, or chilled seafood salad for your salad course.

MAIN COURSE

Serve cedar-plank salmon, beef tenderloin wrapped in bacon, or chicken breasts stuffed with goat cheese, caramelized onions, and basil.

DESERT

Skip the traditional chocolate mousse in favor of tiramisu or lemon chiffon cake.

HERE ARE SOME LUXURY DRINK IDEAS TO SERVE YOUR GUESTS WITH YOUR NEWLY RENOVATED BEVERAGE STATION:

WINE & BEER

Look for wines and beers that complement your menu. If you’re going with a seafood entree like salmon, try pairing a nice Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Zinfandel. If you opt for a craft beer try an Amber Ale or IPA.

WATER

When preparing water for your guest, try cutting some fruit to infuse your water with. You can add oranges and mint into one, and cucumber and blueberries into another.

ESPRESSO

If you want to go all out for your luxury dinner party, a classic and favorite is offering espresso with dessert. It’s an easy add-on and one that helps cleanse the palette as well.

SETTING YOUR KITCHEN APART FROM THE REST AND CREATING AN AMBIANCE FOR YOUR GUEST

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. It’s where you cook, eat and spend a lot of time with family and friends. So it pays to make this room as special as possible.

When it comes to renovating your kitchen, don’t forget about the little things that can make a big difference. Adding a beverage station or luxury food items can elevate your party from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a few changes, you can create an inviting and luxurious space where your guests will love to gather and enjoy amazing food and drinks.

Guest Contributor: Andrew Adams

Whether you have moved into a new home or house or are remodeling and redecorating your current one, you will need new furniture. You will maybe choose where to buy your furniture based on your financial strength. However, you could marry your need for more excellent furniture with a desire also to obtain the best discounts available.

Then, go shopping online. Interiorbeat.com will get you unique and inexpensive furniture and the best possible deals, and you can save quite a bundle. This option will enable you to furnish your house with the best furniture on the planet. In addition, it will keep your stress levels in check while you are furniture hunting.

Here is how to pick your furniture from your online furniture store.

Research on the Company

The internet is like this big global market without restrictions on who comes on board. Therefore, not every online shop is reliable or reputable. So, research and read about the company you choose. Also, take a close look at the shipping costs and the return policy.

Skim through the Furniture Photos

Although it can be exciting to shop online for furniture, it can also be nerve-wracking. To cut down on the stress, look carefully at the photos. Are you looking for living room furniture? Then select images of the living room furniture store. If you want to furnish your bedroom, check out pictures from a bedroom furniture store.

Maybe you intend to furnish an outdoor setting. An outdoor furniture store will come in handy. Search for photos in home furniture stores, and then take your pick. 

You will find variety by searching the relevant furniture store. Even the Office furniture store will be available on your search. Some stores like https://interiorbeat.com/ have furniture from over fifty different retailers on their site.

Read the Descriptions

Furniture companies choose their wording carefully, so read the descriptions. You will gauge poor-quality furniture from good-quality ones using these descriptions. You will also note that composite and synthetic wood are of lower quality than solid wood.

Click on any links on tabs availed by the shop. These will lead you to specifications, durability, and cleaning instructions.

Check the Measurements

The furniture pieces will not just fit where you want them. You must check the measurements carefully before buying. Double-check your room’s sizes too. 

If the measurements are not provided, call the websites and ask for them. Remember, furniture for upstairs rooms must fit the stairway, or you will have to pull it up using ropes.

Be Careful with the Colors

The colors provided by your online furniture store, and especially the living room furniture store, could be exaggerated or distorted. Darker colors like the modern-favored expresso tend to look lighter online. Look at the colors from different computers to be sure.

Be Wary of The Pricing

Shopping online will save you money, but you must be willing to get down to comparing and contrasting prices. Compare prices from three or four online furniture stores before making a decision.

Remember also to account for shipping and any tax charges. Consider the cost of returning should you need to return it.

Look for Sales and Coupons

Retailers on the internet offer sales and coupons to get people to visit their site. Take advantage of these deals and the considerable discounts. Interiorbeat.com will offer you excellent deals for the furniture you need when you need it. 

Parting Shot

Finding furniture online is stressful and time-consuming. However, it is still the best way to acquire amazing furniture at the best prices for your house. You can also get the best deals and capitalize on the sales discounts.

Finally, you can acquire coupons and use them for your online furniture store shopping. Interiorbeat.com will offer you the best deal.

Guest Contributor: Jordan Evan

The gutter section of your house tends to get dirty, now and then. A dirty gutter can cause damage to your home. So keeping those dirty gutters clean is crucial. But sometimes reaching your home’s gutter can be a struggle. In such cases, a right-sized ladder can help you with that. 

You might want to know how exactly you find out what is the right sized ladder for your gutter?

Well, first you have to measure the height of your gutter, then decide the ladder size. Also, you should consider the type of ladder you are going to use for gutter cleaning.

However, here, we’ll discuss every aspect of gutter cleaning with a ladder in detail and show you exactly how you can do it.

WHAT IS GUTTER CLEANING, AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

Gutter Cleaning refers to the process of clearing out tree leaves, dirt, and other debris from your home’s gutter place. It helps to prevent any clog on the gutter. So that the rainwater can flow smoothly without getting stuck in the gutter and causing water damage to your home.

It’s pretty essential to keep your gutter clean and clean. As you know the gutter system is there to create a panel from your roof to the ground. A dirty gutter panel can disturb the water flow and prevent the gutter system from working efficiently.

Now let’s talk about a few benefits of gutter cleaning, this will help you to have a better understanding of its importance.

●     A clean gutter helps to redirect the rainwater away from your house.

●     Keep your windows and window sills dry by minimizing the moisture.

●     Protect your home’s interior and exterior ceilings from getting damaged.

●     Helps to keep your home’s roof construction intact for a long time.

●     It also prevents cracks, uneven flooring on your home’s foundation. 

SELECTING THE RIGHT SIZED LADDER FOR GUTTER CLEANING

You know it by now, a right-sized ladder plays a crucial role in cleaning your home’s gutter. Few things you need to consider while getting a ladder that suited perfectly to your needs. Such as what kind of building you’re staying in, the distance of the gutter from the ground, etc. 

For example, the step ladder is great if you’re working on a single-storied building. The good thing about a step ladder is you can add an extension as per your requirement to reach the gutter. 

Remember, you can’t just use any ladder, the ladder must help you reach the gutter. A ladder that’s too big or too small can’t help you do that. That’s why you have to choose a  ladder for gutter cleaning that will fulfill your needs.  

In the following segment, we’ll talk about what exactly you need to find a suitable ladder for your gutter cleaning work.

GUTTER DISTANCE MEASUREMENT

Before you can select a ladder for your gutter for cleaning work, first you need to measure the distance from the gutter to the ground. A general one-storied build’s gutter has a length of 10.8 feet long from the ground. And the two-storied building’s distance is about 18.7 feet long.

We recommend you should buy a ladder that has extension capability, like a double extended ladder. So that you can add extensions as per your needs. But for instance, a ladder that covers about 26.2 feet long should cover about two-storied buildings. 

Don’t worry if the ladder is too long; this extended ladder comes with folding capability. So that you can unfold as much as you require and keep it in a locked place, you can also take the proper measurement of your building to be sure of what length of ladder you require.

LADDER STANDOFF IF NEEDED 

If your building’s gutter is too close to the roof, it may cause some trouble while cleaning with a regular ladder. Generally, the gutters are made out of plastic and can’t handle the full pressure of the ladder with you on it. So it’s a good idea to use a standoff with the ladder while cleaning up your gutter. 

A standoff is basically a horizontal stand that helps to clean the gutter without putting any pressure on your building gutter. It really comes in handy while cleaning the drain because you can’t always worry about breaking the gutter while cleaning it. 

LADDER STABILIZER

A ladder stabilizer is a support system that keeps the ladder in one place. It also helps you become independent while cleaning the gutter. Because you can’t always find someone to hold the ladder steady while you’re cleaning the gutter. Sometimes the extension ladder doesn’t have the stabilizer on board.

For such cases, you can buy a combined ladder that comes with a stabilizing bar; you add a stabilizer to the extension ladder in the get-go. A ladder stabilizer helps you put your ladder on any surface, whether it’s stone, wood, or mud. This action makes the gutter cleaning process much more manageable.

USING A LADDER TO CLEAN THE GUTTER SAFELY

You need to be careful while cleaning up your home’s gutter place. Keeping your safety in mind, we’d suggest you use a ladder to do the cleaning. A ladder helps you stay in a balanced state while cleaning the waste from the gutter.  

Now let’s talk about some safety measures that you can take before you start cleaning your home’s gutter.

BEFORE YOU START

A simple reminder before you start because you just can’t forget about your health. Who knows what kind of rubles are hidden in the gutter. So before you start the cleaning process, you can follow the following safety tips to avoid any harm to yourself.

SURROUNDING AWARENESS

First and foremost, you need to be aware of what surrounds the gutter place. For example, there could be power cables lying around the gutter, and the drain tends to get wet from time to time. So, it’s not a good idea to stick your hand on something without checking your surroundings. Check if there is an active power cable nearby, if so you need to shut down the power line and start your cleaning process.    

USAGE PROTECTIVE GEARS

You can use a few protective gears to shield yourself from the harmful debris that lies in the gutter. Such as:

●     Hand Globes
You need a pair of good-quality hand globes. It will protect your hand from any kind of bacteria that lies in the gutter because of bugs, bird or animal litter, and stuff.

●      Eye Gear
While you’re cleaning out the rubles from your home’s gutter place, the debris tends to get into your eye. So, to protect your eyesight and avoid any damage, eye gear is really crucial.

●     Rubber Shoes

A pair of rubber shoes can help you keep a stable balance on it while climbing up the ladder to clean the gutter. It helps to improve your foot’s grip on the ladder, preventing any falling accident.

Keeping all that aside, let’s talk about how to choose the right sized ladder for cleaning up the litter from your home’s gutter.

HOW TO USE A LADDER (TIPS & TRICKS)

Using a ladder to clean up the gutter from your home seems easy enough, right? We have gathered some tips and tricks that’ll make your cleaning process much more manageable. The tricks and tricks are as follows;

●     When you keep the ladder by the gutter, make sure you put it at the right angle. Otherwise, you might lose your balance and fall thus, causing severe injuries to yourself.

●     Before using the ladder, you should check the ladder’s condition first. Like every object, a ladder can develop problems over-times. 

●     While climbing up the ladder, be careful and don’t step further than one step. This action can cause you to slip and fall to your doom.

LAST WORDS

Your safety should be your main concern while cleaning your household gutter. Selecting a top-quality ladder can provide you with proper safety. If you consider the mentioned safety procedures while using the ladder for cleaning your gutter, there is less chance of endangering yourself while cleaning.

Lastly, you must always consider using a ladder that matches the length of your gutter. I meant using a ladder that helps you reach your home’s gutter with ease. Then again, don’t forget that you should add a standoff and stabilizing extension with your ladder to get the best result to get the best possible result. In doing so, you can ensure the maximum amount of safety for yourself.

Guest Contributor: Bernita Fregoso

Preparing to sell your house is a significant undertaking. It often indicates a significant life transition, and for the majority of individuals, it is something they do just a few times in their lives. Although significant life transitions might be intimidating, selling your property does not have to be. The secret to a stress-free selling experience is to be organized and prepared before listing your home. 

1. LOCATE AN EXCELLENT REAL ESTATE AGENT

If you are considering selling your property on your own and pocketing the money you would have paid a real estate agent. Avoid the temptation. A for sale by owner process is virtually always a fiasco, requiring financial and time sacrifices. That is why one of the most critical tasks before selling your home is locating an excellent real estate agent. 

Hire a highly rated real estate agent that you can trust or the one recommended by your uncle’s friend’s co-worker’s cousin. Conduct some research to choose a real estate agent knowledgeable about your particular market, and then interview to ensure the agent is a good match. 

Your real estate agent should be someone with whom you feel at ease and whom you trust to sell your home for the highest possible price. You will want someone who is knowledgeable and can give you the most returns on your investment and taxes. If you want to learn more information about property taxes, consider doing a quick google search on “1031 exchange explained” to help you better understand and make an informed decision that benefits you. 

2. ADJUST THE PRICING APPROPRIATELY

It is crucial to price your house accurately. If you overprice your house, it will either not sell or will take far longer to sell than necessary. Buyers are savvy and readily recognize when a home is overvalued.

3. DEEP CLEAN YOUR HOME

First impressions are critical. Therefore, avoid making a negative impression on a possible buyer with unpleasant odors, unclean flooring, or dusty surfaces. Before marketing your property, please give it a thorough cleaning. It includes toilet cleaning, wiping down surfaces, mopping floors, vacuuming carpets, and scouring bathrooms. Consider hiring pros to keep your space in tip-top shape.

4. WELCOME TO PURCHASERS

Bring consumers’ attention to your front entrance by making it prominent and approachable. Exterior flaws might give purchasers a negative first impression.

Before you strain yourself attempting to remove fingerprints from the walls, gather all the necessary documents to persuade prospective purchasers. It’s critical to have the operating manuals for your appliances and HVAC system on hand, as well as notes regarding the paint colors you used on the walls and any related warranties. They’ll demonstrate to the listing agent that you’re in charge, even if you’re not.

Pull out your previous utility bills while you’re at it. You’re probably still in denial about having to pay for the water that comes out of the faucet – and goes down the drain – but persevere. Seasonal totals may help your property seem more enticing than the residence across the county.

5. CONSULT AN EXPERT BEFORE RENOVATING

It is prudent to treat all proposals with seriousness. By the time purchasers make an offer, they have likely conducted extensive research, and each offer is worth examining. 

Consult the agent before renovating or upsizing. Renovations may take longer and cost more than you anticipate, and in some cases, it is just best to negotiate the selling price with the buyer and then leave any renovations or upsizing to them.

6. DECIDE HOW YOU WANT YOUR PROPERTY TO BE LISTED

Generally, there are two methods to sell. You may sell your house either via an agent or with the assistance of a home selling service. While most individuals understand how to deal with an agent, many are unaware that there are economical and straightforward for sale by owner alternatives accessible to homeowners that may save them thousands of dollars. The notion of selling your property is gaining popularity and is expected for many years to come. See this article on three of the most popular for sale by owner services for further information. Once you’ve considered all of your alternatives, you may select the one that’s best for you.

7. MAKE DEFICIENCIES KNOWN

Ascertain that you reveal any latent and patent faults in your house to the realtor and prospective purchasers.

8. DO NOT OVERLOOK THE REAR

Maintain an open and practical appearance in your garden. Plant or pot vibrant blooms and maintain a friendly and tidy landscape. Consistently clean up after your dogs to ensure that purchasers feel at ease when exploring the yard.

Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson