HOW DO YOU FIX THE ISSUES WITH YOUR WATER HEATER’S PILOT LIGHT?

The pilot light is one of the most crucial components of your gas water heater. After all, the appliance can’t provide you with hot water if this component faces an issue. However, apart from being the most crucial component, it’s also probably the most troublesome one. Gas water heater users might come across problems, primarily associated with the pilot lighter, quite often.

Now, you’d want to fix the issue as soon as possible. And, for that, you might usually want to hire a plumber. However, there are specific ways through which you can fix the issues all by yourself. Here, we have discussed some common pilot light issues and simple ways to fix them. Also, you do not need to have any technical skills to apply these solutions.

How does the Pilot Light Work?

The pilot light provides the igniting flame for the gas that the appliance releases through the burner. Only after that, the heater starts heating the water. Also, the pilot light should always stay lit when you ignite it. Otherwise, it will fail to ignite the gas coming out of the burner in turn. As a result, you won’t get any hot water while using the heater.

Now, most of the issues you face with the pilot light are related to keeping it lit. Other than that, it might sometimes fail to provide a properly sized flame to the gas. If there is an issue with its placement, then fix that first. You can simply reach out to Handyman Dubai for a quick and reliable solution.

What to do when the Pilot Light’s Flame is too Small?

A small flame indicates that the pilot light isn’t receiving enough gas pressure. In that case, it would affect the functioning of your water heater. So, you must not ignore this issue and apply a solution for it.

Now, this issue is mainly caused due to a clogged pilot light orifice. In that case, you can fix the issue by cleaning it. However, it’s more sensible to contact a certified professional if there are any other causes.

Cleaning the pilot light orifice

The pilot orifice regulates the amount of gas released through the valve. So, you must clean it to improve the gas pressure. And, for that, you must stop the gas supply using the shut-off valve.

Remove the orifice

You can’t clean the orifice as long as it’s attached to the appliance. So, you must detach it before proceeding with this task. And, for that, you must remove all the nuts that hold the orifice to the water heater. Based on the model you’re using, this might take a while. Moreover, you’d also have to detach the pilot tube and the thermocouple attached to the orifice. Once you’re done, you can simply proceed with the cleaning.

How to clean the pilot orifice?

A can of compressed air would be one of the best tools for clearing out any dirt and debris. Apart from that, you should use sandpaper to clean its tip. You can also find a water heart cleaning brush available in the market for this task. Make sure to clean the orifice properly so that you don’t face this issue again anytime soon. Once you’re done, you must re-attach the components to the heater with the utmost care.

Pilot Flame won’t Light or Keeps Going Out: Causes and Fixes

Many other users often report a failure to light the pilot flame. Apart from that, you might sometimes fail to light the pilot flame in the first place. Now, you must consider the following common causes behind both these issues:

Dirty air vents

As you know, you need oxygen to light up the pilot flame or keep it lit. So, you must make sure that your appliance receives that in a proper quantity. Now, the air vents are the only means by which your water heater intakes oxygen. It might often get clogged by dirt and debris.

In that case, the appliance may fail to light up the pilot flame. The air vents are located at the exterior of the appliance. So, you can clean them up quite easily. Also, make sure to do that regularly to avoid this issue further.

Kinked flex tube

The kink tube is yet another exterior component you must examine for pilot light problems. As it happens, this tube might often get kinked to cause interruptions in the gas flow. In such cases, the pilot flame might keep going out or simply fail to light.

So, you must straighten this crucial tube to fix the issue. It should work in case there aren’t any other problems with your water heater.

Clogged pilot tube

In case, the previously mentioned fixes didn’t work, you must turn your attention to the pilot tube. This component supplies gas to the pilot light through the orifice. Sometimes, especially in old water heaters, this tube might get clogged. In that case, you simply need to clear it to fix the gas supply to the pilot light.

So, detach the pilot tube from the heater and examine it for any blockages. You can simply use a thin wire or a needle to clear it effectively. Then, you must re-attach it to the appliance and try lighting the pilot flame.

The sensor has bent away from the pilot flame

Apart from other parts, you must also take a look at the sensor. Do you find it bent away from the pilot light? If yes, then you’ve found the cause behind the problem. The sensor’s end should always touch the pilot flame. So, you can easily fix the issue by bending it to that position all by yourself. But, make sure to shut down the appliance before you do that.

Dirty thermocouple

The thermocouple plays an important role in regulating the gas supply. It signals the appliance about whether the pilot flame is burning or is out. Depending on that, the heater supplies gas to the pilot light. Now, like other components, the thermocouple can often get dirt and debris on it as well. In such cases, it can mistake a lit pilot light as unlit and vice versa.

As a result, it sends the wrong signal to the appliance. Now, if you’re wondering what should be your next step, then you simply need to clean the thermocouple to resolve this issue.

Damaged thermocouple

Does the pilot light face issues even after you try the above-mentioned fixes? In that case, your water heater probably has a damaged thermocouple. So, you must make sure whether that’s the case. Test it with a multimeter and check whether it generates at least 20 MV voltage.

What if it doesn’t supply the specified amount of voltage? In that case, you must replace the thermocouple. You can simply use a wrench to detach it from the water heater. Then, carefully attach the new thermocouple in its place. Also, make sure to turn the gas supply off before you proceed.

What if these Solutions don’t Work?

In some cases, the problem might also lie with the flex tube. So, you must examine this component as well. Moreover, pilot light issues are also sometimes caused due to a broken main control valve. In that case, many service providers might offer you repairs for it. But, it’s better to get a new water heater in such situations.

Guest Contributor: Biler Charlie

4 TOP TIPS IN REDESIGNING YOUR LIVING ROOM AS YOUR WORKSPACE EXTENSION

You’re working diligently to finish your project by the deadline while your kids take a Zoom class in the other corner of the room—your partner walks in to bring them snacks while your dog follows the scent of food. You look around flustered, knowing that sharing the existing home office with your entire family just isn’t sustainable.

It’s okay—imagine this: the ample space in your living room gets redesigned for either you or the kids to work or study in peace. You can shift your furniture creatively, which allows for the inclusion of a workspace extension. Not only is it functional, but it also fits your overall aesthetic. Below, we share the top four tips for redesigning your living room as your workspace extension.

1. MAKE USE OF A CORNER

When the rest of your living room is already packed with furniture or you’re working with limited square footage in an apartment, make one corner your workspace extension—preferably by a window to invite natural light in while you work. By using a corner, you create an obvious separation between your living area and your working area.

When choosing the desk for this space, ensure it matches the rest of your living room décor to create a seamless design. To top it off, create a gallery wall just above your desk, using elements from the rest of your living room—for example, if you’ve opted for a chic appearance throughout, use black and white prints in gold or silver frames. If you’ve opted for a more bohemian and artsy vibe, create a gallery of your favorite art prints in funky frames.

2. USE AN OPEN WALL

If you can rearrange your couches or if you have the budget to replace them altogether, you can create a workspace along an open wall. Before you jump the gun and buy a new desk or couch, take out your measuring tape. The best couches are the ones that fit perfectly into your available space. When you’ve mapped out where your furniture is going to be placed, you can begin working with the open wall.

Using this redesign is ideal if you have multiple kiddos who need workspaces, as you can line the wall with a long desk and set up multiple workstations. Add floating shelves above each individual workspace to create a streamlined, balanced look and you’ll have a clearly divided, yet congruent appearance in your living room space. While you’re at it, make sure you’re incorporating mindful and comfortable touches that help to improve mood and keep energy levels up.

3. CREATE YOUR OWN CUBICLE

To create the feel of a separate office space in your living room, you can use makeshift walls that double as décor and storage space with the use of a tall cubby bookshelf. Open cubbies mean you can place books or other decorations facing either direction, which unites the two spaces, rather than appearing awkward and blocking off the natural flow of your living room.

With this approach, you can create an entirely new office, rather than just an extension, and can use an L-shaped desk to create an open square within which you work. Incorporate additional design elements to complement the living area, like house plants of varying shapes and sizes. You’ll add life to the room neutrally, and it’ll feel inviting, both for work and for lounge time with friends and family.

4. USE THE SPACE BEHIND YOUR COUCH

If you’re dreading the thought of giving up a precious part of your living room for a practical addition that seems to cut into the space you share with guests, don’t worry. Try a modular sofa in an outdoor-friendly fabric to accommodate all of your guests. Simply use the space behind your couch to set up your workstation. By layering your furniture like this, you create a simple workspace that doesn’t interrupt the rest of your hosting area. You can still enjoy football watch parties without feeling cramped.

Use a slender desk that tucks behind the back of the couch nicely, add an area rug to outline the workstation, and include a desk lamp for adequate lighting. Leave an open space for your laptop and layer additional décor on the other side of the desk, like a couple of books alongside an elegant orchid.

With the tips outlined above, you can have the best of both worlds—a workstation that gets you in the zone for ultimate productivity and a spacious living area that doesn’t feel crowded by the addition of a workspace extension. All it takes is a little imagination and creativity to envision a new design for your living room and once you’ve landed on just the right touches, you’ll be amazed by how great it all comes together. Tell us about your new vision for your living room! What tips do you plan to incorporate?

Guest Contributor: Kiley Morrow

7 SIGNS THAT YOU NEED TO RENOVATE YOUR HOUSE

Everything deteriorates over time and your lovely home is no exception. The deterioration of your home is unavoidable, no matter how well you maintain it. Renovations, on the other hand, can address a number of concerns that arise as a result of aging. We modify our homes to improve their appearance or make place for additional residents in some circumstances. Despite the fact that the process takes a lot of money, effort and planning, it also has a lot of advantages. The security, attractiveness, and comfort of your home can all be improved by renovating it. This is especially true in the case of old houses. Are you unsure whether or not your home needs renovation? I have written in this article a few signs that you can consider before you decide to renovate your home.

THE ROOF HAS A LEAK

When water starts flowing on the ceiling or walls, you know you have a leaking roof. Your roofing system may begin to leak for one of two reasons. It could happen if the roofing installer and service you hired did a sloppy job, or if your house’s roofing system is already old and decaying. Whatever the case may be, your roof needs immediate repair and improvement. Roof leaks should be addressed as soon as possible, regardless of how minor they are, as they may escalate to a larger problem. Roof leaks can cause a variety of problems. Corrosion, mold growth, and frame and ceiling damage are just a few of them.

THE PAINT HAS BECOME DULL AND IS BEGINNING TO CHIP

When the inside or exterior paint starts flaking off, it’s one of the most obvious signs that your home needs to be renovated. It also means that outside influences like dirt and pollutants are already having a negative impact on your property. This incident also indicates that you should think about upgrading and cleaning your property. For people working at home, a dull and messy paint is awful to the eyes and can lessen productivity. Organize your home office whether you’re working from your dining room table or a dedicated office space because it is critical for both productivity and sanity. Refresh the paint in your home’s most vulnerable areas, such as the bathrooms, kitchen, and baseboards. Newly painted walls can give your home a fresh look and make it appear new. A bright white layer will do wonders for updating the look of your home if the whitewash is starting to yellow.

IT’S EITHER TOO CROWDED OR TOO EMPTY IN YOUR HOME

Have you ever felt strange and uneasy as soon as you walked into your home? This is common if your home is overcrowded or has a lot of open space. The longer you stay in a house, the more filthy it becomes. Remodeling your home is a quick fix for this. All you have to do is reorganize your belongings within your house to enhance your home. By doing so, you are altering the appearance and feel of your home, giving you a sense of freshness.

THE WALLS BEGIN TO SHOW SIGNS OF DETERIORATION

The first clue that your home needs remodeling is the appearance of cracks in the walls. Cracks might form on the walls or in the foundation. It could be the result of a little imperfection and not cause for alarm. Horizontal fractures, separation cracks, and gaping cracks, on the other hand, warrant special care. As a result, have it properly examined by a specialist. Severe foundation cracks have been discovered. To address the underlying issues and assure safety, the house must be renovated. Examine the areas near the breaks to determine the severity of the cracks.

WHEN TERMITES BEGIN TO WREAK HAVOC ON YOUR HOME

The presence of bugs and insects within your home indicates that you have used low-cost materials. When termites infest your home, you must immediately rebuild the interiors to eliminate the pests and prevent them from spreading.

IT’S TIME TO REPLACE YOUR FLOOR

Whether your floors are tiled, wooden, or carpeted, giving them some time and attention can dramatically boost the value of your property. Individual tiles in the bathroom and kitchen may begin to detach, so keep an eye out for lifting symptoms. Detached tiles and boards are not only ugly, but they can also be a trip hazard. Carpeted flooring has a 10-year life expectancy, although this will be reduced if you have indoor pets. Wooden floors are a long-lasting and sturdy flooring option, but they are also the most expensive and are prone to deteriorate over time. The good news is that rotting wood planks may be repaired without entirely replacing the flooring, as long as you act quickly before the rot spreads.

YOUR BATHROOM AND KITCHEN APPEAR TO BE OUTDATED

You’ve probably heard that if you want to add value to your home, the kitchen and bathroom should be the major focus and even in these functional areas, the aesthetics take precedence. Adding new quartz worktops, gleaming fixtures by a great plumbing service and having a set of new sinks could make these rooms look more modern, but if you’re looking for a complete makeover, starting from the ground up is a fantastic strategy.

A remodeling and even unexpected home renovations is a major project but if you have a solid purpose for doing it, you’ll probably find it rewarding in the end. Small changes can make a significant difference, so whether you’re renovating for lower energy bills or more room, make sure the end result is healthier for you and your family.

Guest Contributor: Kat Sarmiento

10 TIPS ON HOW TO STAY WARM THIS WINTER WITHOUT SPENDING A FORTUNE

Cooler temperatures are rapidly approaching and if you, like me, have huddled down next to the heater in the evenings, simultaneously bemoaning and dreading the impending heat bills, you’re not alone. Here are 10 simple tips on how you can stay warm this winter, without spending a fortune.

Insulate your house. Perhaps your house is older and in the middle of the winter, you notice lots of icicles hanging off your gutters. Your house is leaking heat and therefore, you’re wasting money. Spend the time before the winter really starts by properly insulating your house and especially around your windows. This may be as simple as caulking around the windows, but it can make a lot of difference, and save you money in the long run.
Buy a heat pump. Not only will it work during the summer to keep you cool, but it will reverse during the winter to help you stay warm. They’re efficient and economizing, and use less energy than regular heaters.
Reverse fan direction. During the summer you want your fan to be pushing air down so the circulation is increased. But in the winter, you want the cold air pulled up and the warmer air pushed down. Consult your owners manual to make sure you have the fan settings right.
Hot water bottle. This is a favorite trick of mine. Hot water bottles are cheap, long lasting, and retain heat for hours. You could cozy up with one on the couch while another one is heating the foot of your bed. Buy good quality bottles and accessorize them with padded exteriors that help retain the warmth and prevent you from burning yourself if the water is extra hot.
Embrace the sunshine. Don’t keep your blinds pulled during the winter. Let the sun shine in and use the natural warmth to help heat your house. It can make such a difference and that combined with better insulation allows your house to warm up and stay warm through the day.
Drink hot beverages. During the warm summer months, you probably swap your coffee for an iced one, but as the temperatures cool, you probably will want to swap back to a hot cup. Coffee, tea, and cocoa all are warming drinks that aren’t very expensive, especially if you make them yourself, and can help you stay warm during the cool winter months.
Bundle up. Break out those woolen sweaters and socks because bundling up is one of the best ways to stay warm during the winter months. If you’re looking to invest in a warmer wardrobe, buy natural fabrics, such as wool or cotton, that last longer than man-made ones and will naturally biodegrade once they’re no longer wearable. Wool especially is fantastic in the winter because it helps regulate the body temperature. Furthermore, wool fibers last longer than cotton and can be bent hundreds of times more before they wear out. There is a reason our ancestors wore wool, and we should too.
Invest in a wood stove. Using a woodstove can be an investment, or it can be a much cheaper and more efficient way to heat your house, depending on your circumstances. If you live in an area where wood is cheap and you don’t mind the extra work, using a wood stove as supplemental heating can be a great way to save money on conventional modes of heating.
Open your oven. Are you a baker or do you use your oven often? If so, once you’re done cooking, crack it open so the excess heat leaks out and helps warm up your house. It will help keep your kitchen toasty warm and comfortable and help save money. With this in mind, bake away!
Turn up your heat in the morning. Keeping your house between 60*-67 at night is recommended anyhow for optimal sleep. If you keep your house cool but not chilly, you’ll be cool in the morning, so turn the heat on then and warm up your house during the day. At night, the temperature will cool down again but since your house will be set at a cooler temperature, it will cost you less overall. Essentially, you’re only using your heaters when you’re up and around there house needing it.

In conclusion, there are lots of ways you can save money this winter by preparing ahead of time to save money on your heating. Of course, this list does not take into account a heater that is maybe broken or not working properly. If that describes your heater, definitely have it fixed before the chill of winter sets in so you stay warm and comfortable all winter long.

Guest Contributor: Allie Shivers

HOW TO PREPARE A ROOM FOR PAINTING

Most people have been spending more time at home lately – you might be sick of those bright blue walls that were so trendy five years ago. Does a room in your home need a refreshment? A good place to start is with a fresh layer of paint. If you plan to sell your home, painting is a great remodeling strategy that provides a handsome ROI. But before you break out a bucket and roller, you’ll need to take some steps to get everything in order. Properly preparing a room before painting it will ensure the best results:

Move or cover all the furniture. Ideally, you should move all your furniture out of your room, but that’s not always possible if you’re short on space. In that case, use drop cloths to cover all your furniture from accidental paint splatters. Protect your floors by covering them with drop cloths, as well.

Clean the walls. Dust will interfere with a smooth paint application. Use a vacuum on baseboards and crown molding to clean those hard-to-reach places. Then, wash your walls with a cloth and warm soapy water. This will remove any stains and dirt. If you’re painting a room that’s been exposed to oil (like a kitchen), you may need to use a grease-removing product. Humid areas like the bathroom may have mildew growing in the corners, in which case you’ll need an abrasive sponge and a solution with bleach. Allow the walls to dry completely before applying any paint.

Assemble your tools. Unfortunately, paint doesn’t apply itself. You’ll need to arm yourself with the right supplies to do a good job. Make a list of the items that you have and what you’ll need to pick up from the hardware store. To name a few here, you’ll need paint, brushes, a roller, a tray, painter’s tape, cleaning rags, drop cloths, and clothes that you won’t mind getting covered in paint.

Wear protective equipment. Before you open up a paint bucket, wear a respirator mask! It’s important to wear one that can filter out harsh chemicals. Beware of harmful chemicals that can irritate your lungs and cause headaches. If you can’t wear a mask, be sure to open all doors and windows to allow a cross breeze through the room.

Repair any holes or damages in the walls. For this step, you’ll need putty, a knife, and sandpaper. Fill in any holes or imperfections on your wall using the putty and smooth the raised edges with the knife. Once it’s dry, file it down with sandpaper so that it’s level with the rest of the wall. If the existing paint is flaking in any areas, smooth it away using sandpaper to ensure a smooth application of paint.

Protect electrical elements and light switches. Remove the covers from electrical outlets and switches, and cover them with painter’s tape. You don’t want the paint to get inside of your electrical outlets, so don’t neglect this step.

Use painter’s tape around baseboards and windows. You are painting your room, but you don’t want to paint everything in it. Seal the edges surrounding your doors, windows, baseboards, and crown molding. If you have painted before, then you’ll know the satisfaction of removing the painter’s tape once you’ve finished the job. Something to keep in mind is that you should never remove the tape before the paint has dried completely, or else you’ll wind up with jagged edges. Rather than ripping it off all at once, try to do it slowly.

Choose your wall color. The final step is choosing which color will work best for your space. If your room is small, select paint colors to make a room look bigger. But if size isn’t a concern, then you have free reign. Those who want to sell their homes in the future should keep in mind that most buyers like neutral colors. There’s also the option of going bright and bold – it is your home, after all. Once you’ve chosen your color, determine how many gallons of paint you’ll need by measuring the square feet. When covering a darker color with a lighter one (like black to white), you will need a few extra coats. Factor in that you might want a little extra to use for touch-ups in the future.

Apply a primer. A base coat will help your paint job last for years to come. It can also help you transition from a darker color to a lighter one. The primer you need will depend on the type of paint you’re using. Oil and water don’t mix, so if you’re using an oil-based paint, you’ll need an oil-based primer (and vice versa for latex-based paint).

The painting process will go much more smoothly if you take the above steps first. After all this preparation, rolling layers of paint on your walls will seem like a breeze. It’s amazing what a coat of paint can do to transform a familiar space and make it feel brand new.

Guest Contributor: Christie Simon

4 BEDROOM COLOR SCHEMES TO INSPIRE YOUR SPACE

You probably know that colors affect a person’s mood. That’s why it’s very important to choose the colors right, especially when it comes to your bedroom.

Needless to say, you want to achieve a comfortable, calming, and relaxing space that will help you achieve a good night’s sleep.

Whether you’re renovating your bedroom or building a new one, below are some of the best color schemes for your inspiration:

Black + White + Brass

There’s nothing as timeless as black and white.

While some people will think this color scheme is quite too heavy especially if the dominant hue is black, these colors are actually remarkably serene when used together.

You can create an entirely different mood depending on how you style your room.

If you want to further elevate the look of your room, consider incorporating brass. It makes the space inviting, elegant, and dazzling.

Bright Blue + Gray

Blue promotes calmness and relaxation, which makes it perfect for a bedroom. Meanwhile, gray is a neutral color so it goes nicely with other hues and accents.

Blue + gray is a great option since you don’t want your room to be overly colorful or vibrant.

Natural wood details make a wonderful accent for this color scheme.

Charcoal + Gold

If you love gold and would want to incorporate it in your room, go ahead. Just make sure to pair it with warm, deep-tone neutrals, such as charcoal gray.

This color combination helps you achieve an elegant and relaxing ambiance. When working on this palette, enough lighting is important so your bedroom won’t look too dark.

This color scheme works well with well-lit rooms or those with larger windows that allow natural light in.

Aside from charcoal gray, gold also works with chocolate brown, rich olive green, and beige.

Navy + White + Yellow

Navy and white go beautifully together and a punch of yellow makes this color scheme much more exciting.

You can set the tone with a deep hue accent wall or some navy blue furniture, decor, or cabinetry and a backdrop of crisp, white walls.

You can use yellow for the curtains or your mattress.

For an even more dynamic color scheme, you can pair navy blue with mustard yellow or soft butter yellow. Such color offers warmth and brilliance that stands out against the coolness of the navy color.

Emerald + Mint + White

Emerald adds cheerful energy and freshness to any room. It’s a little too bright for a bedroom but it makes a beautiful option when paired with a complementary shade of mint. To tone down the vibrance of emerald, make sure to incorporate white in your color palette.

For example, you can paint the walls white and add touches of emerald wall decals or cabinetry. Then, you can choose mint green for the curtains and accessories.

Emerald also works amazing with neutral shades, particularly earth tones like gray, charcoal gray, and beige.

Factors To Consider When Choosing the Bedroom Colors

The above color schemes are just ideas. There are so many color combinations that are perfect for bedrooms. It can be a challenge deciding what colors to use for your room. To make the process easier, here are the most important factors to consider:

Start With a Mood Board

Every interior design starts with a mood board.

A mood board lets you visualize your ideal bedroom and helps you organize your ideas for the style, mood, and colors of your dream room.

Your mood board should incorporate different elements, from the overall feel of your bedroom to the accessories, window treatments, and furniture pieces.

Don’t Forget About the Floor Color

Floor color is an important element to consider because it helps create a cohesive layout with your chosen color palette.

When choosing the color of your flooring, consider the mood you want to create, how much natural light you get, your room size, and your furniture’s color and finish.

Gray is the most popular flooring color because it’s the ultimate neutral, but you can always choose something else as long as it matches your interior design.

Pay attention to what carpets and rugs to use. Carpets should always be clean and fresh. If you can’t manage to wash your carpets deeply, there are lots of budget-friendly yet professional carpet cleaning services that will have you covered! Remember, carpet color should match your whole bedroom style.

Consider the Orientation of Your Bedroom

Another important factor to consider when choosing paint colors is room orientation.

For example, a north-facing bedroom will have cooler light so it works well with warmer shades like pinks and yellows.

Meanwhile, a south-facing room is naturally bright so it can take cooler tones like blue or grey.

Make it Personal

Bedrooms are deeply personal spaces. Thus, you want to make sure it fits your lifestyle. If you’re a morning person, choose clean, light, and energizing paint colors.

If you’re an evening person, opt for dark, womb-like shades.

Conclusion

Creating a relaxing bedroom starts with choosing the right colors. Keep in mind that a color scheme doesn’t just involve the walls, but also the floors, accessories, and furnishings of your bedroom.

More importantly, it should reflect your personality and lifestyle.

Guest Contributor: Leila Amber

TOP KITCHEN REMODELLING TRENDS: MATERIALS AND FEATURES TO USE IN 2021

New year, new you, new kitchen. Now that 2021 is well under way and that you’re hard at work fulfilling your new year’s resolutions, the time has come to rejuvenate the most important room in your home and create the kitchen of your dreams. This is your opportunity to utilize your flair for remodelling and create something truly special, inspirational, and beautiful.

That said, remodelling a kitchen is not an easy task, and you need to know how to approach this project from an aesthetic and functional standpoint. So today, let’s bring form and function together and share with you the top materials and features you should have in your kitchen in 2021.

Use wood for a biophilic design

Wood is one of those materials that can never go out of style, and it can perfectly go in any kitchen design. Whether you’re going for a rustic look and feel or an up-scale vibe, you can work various colours and textures of wood into the cabinetry, the furniture and supporting elements like shelves, and more.

That said, wood works best when introduced as a part of a biophilic design. This approach to interior design has become very popular nowadays, because it aims to create a relationship with nature in your home and create a more peaceful space. If you think that you need more nature in your life, then make sure to use wooden elements throughout the room.

Emphasize the benchtop with Corian

The look and feel of your kitchen can oftentimes come down to your choice of benchtops and their style, so it’s important to focus on this crucial part of the remodel. For one, you need to choose the perfect benchtop materials that emphasize aesthetics while providing durability and functionality. One of the best choices out there right now is, of course, Corian.

This is a popular material that boasts high durability and typically comes with a ten-year warranty, which is why homeowners and interior designers love it. That said, it’s also important to note that Corian is both beautiful and functional because it’s non-porous, it doesn’t harbor bacteria, and it’s durable, but also comes in a variety of colours and boasts a sophisticated matte finish.

Make the appliances complement the style

When you’re remodelling your kitchen, you need to consider how the appliances will work with the overarching design while complementing the functionality of the space. This can be a tricky challenge, as you need to find the most efficient appliances that also come in a variety of design choices to suit your needs.

For one, it’s important to complement or contrast the finish on the benchtop and the cabinetry. You also want to choose the appliances you’ll actually use, and that fit into the overall design. Functionality is also important, and making sure you can cook a variety of dishes can be difficult if you’re strapped for space. A simple gas stove and a wok burner don’t take up much of your kitchen real estate but are compatible with a variety of styles – from something minimalist and sleek to rustic and exotic.

In general, choose high-gloss appliances if you want to make certain areas pop, or go for a matte finish if you want that simple yet elegant look. Make sure to consider other colours than your typical white and black options, because nowadays appliances come in a variety of hues to complement the look of your kitchen.

Infuse various metals into the space

In order to give your kitchen a rich and luxurious look and feel, you might consider adding metals to your design. Metalling surfaces and features can make any kitchen beautiful and functional, so even if you’re going for eclectic or rustic, metallics can still make a big difference.

Consider brass tiles for the splashback that will act as a reflective surface and give the space a unique hue. You can also go with bronze faucets and exposed brass pipes to create a minimalist yet retro look, but remember to refrain from metallics on your appliances if you choose this approach, because the two tend to clash.

Finish the project with stone elements

Lastly, consider adding stone to your kitchen remodel. You can introduce stone for your countertops or your flooring, and both work great as durable and aesthetic materials. That said, keep in mind that granite countertops come with a hefty price tag because of the inherent durability and functionality of the material. Nevertheless, investing in stone is a good long-term decision, and the material comes in numerous styles and finishes to complement your new kitchen.

Wrapping up

In 2021, you want to make your kitchen more functional and beautiful than ever before. Use these tips to make the best decision and build the kitchen on your dreams.

About the author: Mike Johnston is an avid blogging enthusiast and experienced freelance writer. He’s a regular contributor to the “Smooth Decorator” blog and numerous other online publications where he writes about real estate, construction, home improvement, and interior design.

WHICH KITCHEN CABINETS MATCH YOUR TILES?

One of the hurdles when it comes to decorating a kitchen is achieving a cohesive look. The kitchen just has so many elements — cabinets and cupboards everywhere, the floor, and an island table in the center — so if you choose a lot of colors and styles for them, the whole room will simply look chaotic.

And who wants to be in a kitchen that isn’t aesthetically pleasing? No one, that’s who.

Fortunately, there’s a way to pull off a clean and cohesive design of your kitchen. And that is to match the kitchen cabinets with the floor tiles.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO MATCH KITCHEN CABINETS WITH FLOOR TILES?

Before you get the wrong idea, you should know first that when we say, “Match the kitchen cabinets with the floor tiles,” we don’t necessarily mean that both of them share the same style or color.

Rather, what we mean is that the styles of the kitchen cabinets and the floor styles should contrast and complement each other very well.

Sure, it’s totally okay to choose only one color or style for all of your kitchen elements. But the overall look might end up being dull and flat, and you don’t want that. You want the kitchen elements to pop every time you look over the room, and you also want them to look harmonious with each other so that your kitchen will look clean and elegant.

The best way to achieve that goal is to maintain a contrast between the floor tiles and the cabinets in the kitchen. This contrast should highlight their differences — but also complement each other well.

THE PERFECT COMBINATIONS OF KITCHEN CABINETS AND FLOOR STYLES

OAK CABINETS AND HARDWOOD FLOORS

Wood is a design element that’s just perfect for the kitchen. After all, a lot of tools in the kitchen are made

up of wood, and the impact of a wood-inspired design is rustic and homey. Because of this, wood is one of the most popular design choices for kitchen floor and kitchen cabinets.

Pulling off an all-wood look for your kitchen can be tricky, simply because it might look too boring. The perfect solution to this is to use two different kinds of wood designs for the kitchen and cabinets.

Oak cabinets and hardwood floors seem like a good combination, especially if the floor has a light color. This is because a wooden floor with a light color adds warm tones to the room and reflects the light.

LIGHT CABINETS AND DARK FLOORS

Another way of matching cabinets and floors is to coordinate their colors. Usually, it’s the floor tiles that need to balance the colors of all the elements in the kitchen, so if you have cabinets with a light color, choose a dark color for the floor tiles — and vice versa.

Additionally, if you want your kitchen to have multiple shades of one color, you should select the darkest shade for the cabinets.

TRADITIONAL CABINETS AND PATTERNED FLOORS

A patterned design makes for a more attractive kitchen element, but unfortunately, if not used properly, it can ruin your whole kitchen look.

Basically, patterned cabinets and patterned floor tiles don’t mix well together. They will just make the kitchen look busy and hectic, instead of refined and elegant. As a result, you need to have a non-patterned element if you want to add a patterned one.

For example, contemporary cabinets clash with patterned floors, but traditional cabinets don’t. So, if your floor tiles have accents and patterns on them, pairing them with traditional cabinets will make for a more harmonious kitchen look.

CONCLUSION

Decorating your kitchen may seem like a fun idea at first, but trying to match the floor with the cabinets is a lot more challenging than you think.

Luckily, you can mix various design styles for the cabinets and floor tiles that will result in a harmonious and elegant look. Even better, you can find the perfect kitchen cabinets for your floor tiles everywhere, for instance in Cabinet City – check out Cabinet City here.

So, choose the cabinet-and-floor combination from the ones mentioned above and transform your kitchen to your heart’s desire.

Guest Contributor: Ashley Lipma

SUMP PUMP ADVISOR – A ONE-STOP SOLUTION

Looking for ways to defend your basement against flooding?

If you live in a climate that suffers from heavy rainfall or snow or you’ve had water problems before, you need all the help you can get to prevent your basement from flooding and causing myriad issues for your home.

That’s where the sump pump comes into play. It’s a submersible device that’s installed in the lowest point of your home, such as your basement, and keeps the groundwater level from rising all the way up to your basement floor.

When it rains, the soil around your house gets oversaturated and the sump pit fills up with water. This activates the sump pump float switch that triggers the sump pump to drain the excess water into a dry well or a storm drain away from your house.

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WHY YOU NEED TO INVEST IN A SUMP PUMP

Considering investing in a sump pump?

There’s no time to wait as the weather can be fairly unpredictable. It’s a small investment that will yield great benefits for your house in the years to come.

Here are some advantages that are worth mentioning:

Moisture leads to the growth of mold and mildew. Since sump pumps keep the groundwater and moisture levels in check, it significantly reduces the risk of fungus growth in your basement.
Moisture makes your house a termite magnet. A sump pump is just what you need to make sure your house stays protected against all kinds of pest infestations.
Standing water in your basement can create humidity and cause difficulty in breathing, especially for asthma patients. Installing a sump pump will allow you to keep the humidity levels under control and improve the indoor air quality of your home.
Electrical fires can occur due to flooding. Excessive water can cause the appliances in your basement to short-circuit. With a sump pump, you can prevent the water from ruining your appliances and reduce the risk of a household fire.

INSTALLING YOUR SUMP PUMP THE RIGHT WAY

There’s so much you need to know when it comes to installing a sump pump in your house, whether you’re doing it yourself or getting a professional to do it for you.

You may not know this but neither a homeowner’s policy nor your flood insurance will provide coverage for your sump pump failure. You’ll have to purchase targeted pump failure insurance coverage to minimize your losses.

Looking for ways to get the most out of your sump pump?

Sump Pump Advisor is here to save the day. It’s a one-stop solution where you can find answers to all the questions you may have about sump pump maintenance and picking out the right model for your home.

With a host of informational guides to choose from and comparison tables that narrow down your options for you, Sump Pump Advisor has everything you’re looking for and more.

So what are you waiting for?

Head over to our website and learn everything you need to know about sump pumps in just a few clicks!

Guest Contributor: John Fred

WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM WATER DAMAGE

Ways to Protect Your Home from Water Damage

We know about the kind of physical destruction that water damage can inflict on our homes. Our appliances and furniture will be ruined, our carpets will be soaked and rendered useless, and our home itself will be at risk of sustaining structural damage. All this can happen even when the water that intrudes into our homes is only an inch or so deep.

However, the one thing that we all should be concerned so much about is the danger it poses to our health and well-being, especially if we don’t contact a water damage restoration company immediately.

All that moisture collecting inside your home will likely trigger the formation of mold. If the water that inundated your home is from sewage or worse, all the contaminants in it are going to make you and your family sick.

Water damage is bad, but it’s a good thing that we can actually do something to protect our homes—and our families—from all the dangers it brings. Here are some ways to protect your home from water damage.

SHUT OFF THE MAIN WATER VALVE WHEN OUT OF TOWN

Are you going out of town for a few weeks or even months? If so, you have probably made arrangements for a friend or a relative to house sit the entire time you’re away.

If you haven’t, or if you couldn’t find anyone you can trust to watch your home for you, then you should shut the main water valve off before you leave. Doing so will minimize the risk of a water pipe leaking or bursting. It will ensure that you won’t be coming home to a flooded home in a few weeks.

CHECK YOUR PLUMBING

As mentioned above, pipes could leak or explode and cause flooding. Drains and sewers could also clog up and cause water to back up and mess up your home.

You will need to check your plumbing from time to time and make sure there are no leaks, loose water pipes, or blockages to worry about. If you’re not that confident about your plumbing skills, call a professional plumber for the job.

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KEEP YOUR RAIN GUTTERS CLEAN

Your rain gutters should always be clear of leaves, branches, and all kinds of debris, so check them periodically.

You wouldn’t want blocked rain gutters, because that means they won’t be able to reroute rainwater properly. Instead of bringing them away from your house, the rainwater will simply spill over the gutters and cascade down the siding of your home and eventually damage the walls and foundation.

CHECK YOUR WATER HEATER.

You should inspect your water heater every year to make sure the tank isn’t leaking due to rust or corrosion. Watch out for signs of a leak like badly corroded parts of the tank and small puddles of water on the floor. If you notice signs of a leak, call water heater professionals to address the problem immediately.

SEAL YOUR WINDOWS

Sometimes, it rains so hard, but the water just goes straight down. There are times, however, when the downpour comes with strong winds, causing rain to go sideways and enter your home through the windows. However, if you caulk and seal your windows from time to time, sideways sheets of rain shouldn’t be a problem.

GET RID OF SNOW AND ICE

Snow and ice are going to accumulate on your property if you live in a region where winters are incredibly cold. They will melt away eventually when spring comes, but it’s better to remove all that snow and ice right away, especially from elevated areas. You don’t want all the water the spring melt will produce to cascade down your house and cause some trouble.

PLANT TREES TO FEND OFF FLOODING.

We’ve all learned in school that trees help prevent flooding, so let’s put that into practice and plant trees around and within our property.

However, you need to be careful about the types of trees you plant and avoid those with aggressive root systems that could damage foundations. You should also plant trees at least 10 feet from your house for good measure.

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PUT UP WATER DETECTORS

Water detectors are designed to pick up elevated levels of moisture and even slow leaks and sound off an alarm. You would do well to install some in your home, especially near washing machines, sump pumps, and toilets.

There are many other ways of protecting your home from water damage, but the tips above are a good place to start.

Guest Contributor: Rachel Anderson