HOW TO FIND A FABULOUS OFFICE FURNITURE TABLE ON A LIMITED BUDGET

A gorgeous, classy office furniture table is a must for any work area. But buying one can be pretty expensive! What if you are on a limited budget? Is it not possible to buy one without breaking the bank?

Fortunately, you can find an office furniture table that will help you improve your work productivity and won’t cost you a lot. Here are some tips to help you buy one for your office space.

5 Tips to Find a Fabulous Office Furniture Table on a Limited Budget

Tip #1: Consider the type of desk needed

There are various types of desks available in the market today. If you plan to set up a home office, it’s best to consider one with drawers so essential documents and records can be stored properly. You’ll also need to choose whether or not it should come with filing cabinets attached or if you should purchase separate ones instead. It would be to purchase with the table. If you’re setting up an office area at home for work and personal use, then the best option would be to buy a computer desk with ample space underneath to store papers or other items. You can also have this in combination with storage cabinets, so not only are you maximizing your workspace but that of your office furniture table as well. You can also check out some great office cubicles for sale.

Tip #2: Look for used office furniture tables

A great way to find high-quality yet affordable pieces is by looking for second-hand furniture. Sites like Craigslist or even eBay have many options where individuals or companies sell pre-owned items at discounted prices. It’s best to look through multiple listings, so it’s easier to compare prices and brands. The advantage of buying used is that if you opt for a good manufacturer, they’ll most likely still be available even years after purchase through their authorized resellers. It means the brands will continue to service and sell spare parts such as replacement glass tops, drawers, or locks.

Tip #3: Look for open box items

Another way you can save money is by looking out for open box items. These products have been returned and opened before but are still in excellent condition and perfect for office furniture tables. The advantage of buying them is that their prices usually cost less than those new ones despite only being once before. But make sure to examine the product before actually buying it carefully. Check for any damages or problems that the seller may have missed and establish if there’s a warranty before you commit to the purchase.

Tip #4: Shop during sales

Sale time is one of the best times to find a fabulous office furniture table on a limited budget. During this period, shops usually give away significant discounts to clear up their inventory, especially end-of-season sales. A great strategy is to shop online from home during sale time then use coupons when making your order. Some stores offer free shipping deals whenever they hold such promotional events, which adds to savings for consumers like you.

Tip #5 Shop online

A good number of online stores will let you rent their tables at low prices. If you do not want to keep it for long, consider renting the table only until your project gets over. Or else, lease with an option to buy later or return. You could go in for co-sharing, too, where others who need tables could share the space and costs instead of having individual rentals. Now you have several options to choose from when looking to rent an office furniture table.

As a bonus, you will be able to choose from several types of tables such as glass, metal, or wooden, depending upon the aesthetic appeal and comfort level. For example, the glass table reflects the light beautifully and provides a bright feel while it is cold to touch during hot summer months. The wood color fits perfectly with your décor and brings in warmth and sophistication. The metallic type is solid and sturdy for use every day without any problems.

When you buy a good office furniture table, not only will it help improve your work productivity, it can also add to the overall look of your home. And since the prices are usually much lower than regular items, finding one won’t break the bank at all. However, when buying one for commercial purposes, make sure to identify potential risks involved before committing to its purchase. You should be aware of safety hazards such as sharp edges and other dangers that could harm customers or even employees when used carelessly. Other considerations include durability and maintenance costs which you should carefully consider before actually making any purchases.

Guest Contributor: Adeendren Iyan

EASY AND SIMPLE DIY TIPS TO UPGRADE YOUR BATHROOM

Your bathroom is probably the second most personal area in your house next to your own room. This is where most of your self-care routines take place, and it is also an area that is often considered when it comes to selling a house aside from the kitchen. That’s why it’s important to make it a space you actually like spending time in.

Upgrading your bathroom actually doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to have a major overhaul. You can also improve your bathroom yourself. All you need is to allot time to do it.

Do-it-yourself bathroom makeovers have an advantage because they cost less than typical remodeling, which normally involves tearing down and removing a lot of stuff. If you are interested in making this project happen, then this article can help you out. The following are easy and simple DIY tips to upgrade your bathroom.

UPDATE FIXTURES AND HARDWARE

In the grand scheme of things in your bathroom, something so disproportionately small as hardware and fixtures are so important for providing that chic finishing touch. And it will only cost you less for something that has a major impact.

You can start by replacing your bathroom faucet by installing something that’s sleeker and more functional and/or more contemporary. You may also swap shower fixtures if you’re planning to remodel your shower anyway. Another option is to install new wall hooks where you can keep your towel and clothes from falling to the bathroom floor.

There are plenty of options for these upgrades that can be found in a quality hardware store like Magnificent Marketing.

STYLISH BATHROOM LIGHTINGS

It may sound intimidating, but most people can switch out a light fixture safely and successfully by being careful and following instructions. Fresh lighting also makes a huge difference for your bathroom. This is another simple DIY bathroom upgrade that you can do in just under an hour or so.

For people who have large mirrors inside the bathroom, installing a light directly onto the bathroom mirror is a unique and useful idea. Since your mirror occupies space, most of the time you won’t be able to get lighting directed to your face. By installing a light directly onto your mirror, you will be able to see yourself clearly and do what you need to do in front of the mirror much quicker.

MAXIMIZE STORAGE SPACE

Maximizing storage space in your bathroom includes utilizing underutilized areas to store items. One area of your bathroom that you can use for storage is the wall. Take advantage of your wall space by mounting ledges, shelving, or racks to achieve this.

You can put your hygiene and vanity items such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, perfume bottles, and your comb on racks above your sink and below your mirror. Using the wall for storage space will help avoid clutter inside your bathroom.

MAXIMIZE THE MIRROR

Mirrors are beneficial particularly in upgrading small bathrooms. They reflect a lot of light and make the tiniest feel a bit more spacious than it actually is. Aside from ensuring that it is well-lit, your bathroom mirror should be large enough to see at least your entire head when you stand in front of it.

WRAP UP

These simple DIY tips are exactly what you need for your bathroom. Something simple, but will have a great overall effect on how it looks and how comfortable you feel when you use it.

Author’s Bio:

Rosette has a knack for anything DIY. She spent her younger years learning about the different hardware tools and equipment in the hopes of establishing a hardware business in the future. Her career options may have changed, but today, she continues to write so passionately about her first love.

TOP 8 SPECTACULAR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

TOP 8 SPECTACULAR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

When Summer rolls around, most of us like to spend it outside. You will want to have an outdoor area that is perfect for entertaining, or the perfect space for you to spend outdoors with your family. The last decade people have started to put a lot of effort in their backyards, or what we would rather call it, outdoor living space. When you live in or around Chicago, you’re use to having bipolar weather year round. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t spend your time and money on your outdoor living area. The perfect outdoor area would be usable Spring, Summer and Fall. Let me show you some great ideas, that will make you want to run out and start working on your perfect outdoor living space.

Outdoor fire pit with sitting area in between the pool

What did you learn? Your outdoor area should have good seating, fire pit, bar, kitchen, grill station, and cover. Start utilizing your backyard. Make it a living space. Not only will you enjoy it, it will bring up the value of your home.

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ASBESTOS AND ITS EXPOSURE RISKS

Things You Need To Know About Asbestos and Its Exposure Risks

Are you living in a house that was built in the 20th century, especially during the middle to late part of that period?

If the answer is yes, then there’s a huge possibility that your residence has asbestos in its walls, floors, and even textured ceilings. That means your house will have to undergo proper asbestos abatement and removal at some point.

Manufacturers have heavily favored the use of asbestos in the production of cement, floor tiles, and other construction products during that period. Even products like hair dryers and car brakes contained a certain amount of asbestos back then. Asbestos, after all, is incredibly resistant to fire and heat, electricity, and corrosion, which makes them an ideal material for construction products and the like.

If asbestos is that useful, then why is it that the mere mention of the word now brings forth images of suffering and death?

WHAT IS ASBESTOS?

Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral made up of needle-like fibers that are soft, thin, and flexible.

It also happens to be a human carcinogen and has been considered as such since the 1980s. Many countries have promptly banned the use and importation of asbestos. Some nations, however, have chosen not to impose any such bans, and are still using asbestos in various products, albeit at a much smaller scale than before.

EFFECTS OF ASBESTOS EXPOSURE

Fire, electricity, and corrosion can’t do much to asbestos. Handling by humans, however, can break asbestos quite easily.

Something as simple as drilling into walls or taking a sledgehammer to a floor can send tiny asbestos fibers flying in the air. Without adequate protection, the people performing the tasks mentioned above are likely to inhale those fibers. And if that level of exposure is a regular thing, it would only be a matter of time before they develop any of the following illnesses:

MESOTHELIOMA

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is most closely associated with asbestos exposure. Every year, approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the United States. From 1999 to 2015, eight per one million people in the U.S. have succumbed to the illness.

As with any type of cancer, there is no cure for mesothelioma, which affects the pleura and the peritoneum, which are the serous membranes that line the lungs and the abdominal cavity, respectively.

The symptoms of mesothelioma include:

chest or abdominal pain
shortness of breath
fever or night sweats
fatigue
muscle weakness
dry, wheezing cough

ASBESTOSIS

When a person inhales asbestos fibers over a long period, he or she will also likely develop asbestosis, a lung disease that causes severe respiratory problems and scars lung tissue. People with asbestosis will experience a variety of symptoms, the most common of which are:

swelling in the neck or face
swallowing difficulties
hypertension
breathing that crackles
blood in sputum
shortness of breath
weight loss
decreased appetite
finger deformity

Asbestosis may not be a cancer, but anyone suffering from this illness is at risk of developing mesothelioma.

LUNG CANCER

The leading cause of lung cancer may be smoking, but a small percentage of lung cancer cases have a direct link to asbestos exposure.

OVARIAN CANCER

In 2012, the International Agency for Research on Cancer had confirmed that there is a link between asbestos exposure and ovarian cancer.

OCCUPATIONS WITH HIGHEST ASBESTOS EXPOSURE RISK

Construction workers have a pretty high risk of asbestos exposure. The same goes for people who work in factories and shipyards.

At one point, men and women in uniform were very much at risk of asbestos exposure because the military used a lot of products containing the mineral. Navy ships, in particular, used a lot of asbestos for decades.

NO U.S. BAN

Many people don’t know that as deadly as asbestos has proven to be, the United States still didn’t see fit to ban asbestos. To this very day, fireproofing materials and gaskets manufactured in the U.S. contain asbestos.

Australia, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and other European Union countries have banned the importation and use of asbestos. There is no sign, however, that the United States, Russia, China, and several other countries are going to follow suit anytime soon.

Guest Contributor: Rachel Anderson

10 WAYS TO CREATE A STYLISH SMALL HOME OFFICE

10 Ways to Create a Stylish Small Home Office

The idea of a home office may seem like a luxury but creating your own small and stylish workspace is easier than you think. A full-size home office can be a costly commitment, but for something smaller you only need a little bit of effort and creativity. Here are ten ways to create a small home office.

1. Use a Spare Room

If you have a spare room, consider whether you could convert it into a home office. A guest bedroom can be easily transformed by swapping out the bed for a fold-out sofa bed. This way you still have a place for guests to stay. A garage, basement or even a garden shed can also be turned into a suitable office space with a little refurbishment.

2. Use Another Space

If you don’t have a spare room, you can still create an office in another space. Look around your house and see if there are any unused areas. This could be the corner of a bedroom, living room or dining room. Sometimes all you need to do is move a sofa or table over by a few feet to create that extra space.

3 Use a Room Divider

If you set up your office in a shared area, you may be concerned about privacy. It can be hard to focus on work if you have kids playing nearby or you’re sitting across from the TV. A simple and creative solution is to use a room divider. Room dividers are relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of styles and sizes. Not only is this a practical solution, it also adds character to the space.

4. Use A Closet

A creative way to maximise space is to convert an unused closet, large enough to fit a desk in. By placing a desk inside and adding a little decoration, you’ll have your own private workspace. A walk-in closet is ideal for this, but even smaller closets can still be used for office space. If you can’t fit a desk in there you could use it for storing your work materials.

5. Home Extension

If none of the above are possible, consider adding an extension to your house. One eco-friendly and affordable way to do this is to use a recycled shipping container. You’ll need to refurbish the container to provide proper insulation, electricity and lighting. But this can still be cheaper than a traditionally constructed extension. You can alter the container to blend in with the rest of your home, or leave its original appearance intact for a unique industrial look.

Screen Shot 2020-05-29 at 9.48.00 PM.png

6. Lighting

Good lighting is essential for any home office. While natural lighting is ideal, you’ll also want a source of light for working at night or if your office isn’t near a window. Don’t underestimate the effect a lamp can have on a space. Whether it’s a statement piece or something simple that complements the rest of the décor, a lamp is an effective way to add style.

7. Furniture

When choosing office furniture, it’s important to not only look for stylish pieces but ones with practical benefits too. You’ll want to find an ergonomic chair that supports your posture to avoid back pain from sitting too long. Or you could consider a standing desk. You could also try sitting on a Swiss exercise ball to engage your core muscles and help you keep fit while working.

8. Maximising Space

A clever way to get around limited space is with multi-purpose or convertible furniture. You could use a desk that folds up into the wall, or a coffee table that doubles as storage. Wall-mounted shelving is another effective way to add extra storage space. You could also refurbish an unused cupboard or cabinet.

9. Décor

Unlike a workplace office, a home office allows you to decorate however you want. You may want to decorate in a way that complements the rest of your house, or you could make it a unique space just for you. You can stick photos or paintings on the walls, place as many trinkets on your desk as you like. Pot plants and flowers can be used to liven up the space and add a pop of colour.

10. Wallpaper

Using wallpaper or paint helps add style to your home office regardless of where you choose to set it up. This is a great way to distinguish the space if it’s in a shared area. By choosing a unique colour or pattern for the walls of your office you’ll be making it your own and adding character to the space.

A home office isn’t just for large houses. With a little creativity you can create your own stylish and inspiring workspace at home. If you’re tired of trying to work on a cluttered kitchen counter or not having space to focus, try some of these ideas.

Author bio:

Spending long hours in front of the computer makes Harper hugely appreciative of any change in activity – from quick stretching exercises to yoga and meditation! Discover more about her work on her personal blog.

Guest Contributor: Harper Reid

PLUMBING MAINTENANCE – WHO IS RESPONSIBLE, LANDLORDS OR TENANTS?

Ah, the famous age-old question: who’s responsible for plumbing maintenance? Landlords or tenants? Many generations have given their contribution to resolving this problem in the past. To quote an Allen Ginsberg poem: I saw the best minds of my generation… We’ll stop right there. This isn’t a boring poetry reading, and the question raised at the beginning certainly isn’t something great thinkers have struggled with for centuries. Although, since you’re reading this text, you might wonder: really, who’s responsible for plumbing maintenance? You might’ve encountered some problems in your new apartment, or maybe you’re checking out your options before you move in. Whatever’s the case – we’re here to help you out. Stay tuned for some helpful info.

FIRST THOUGHT – BEST THOUGHT (OR IS IT?)

Your first thought might be: well, the landlord is responsible for its tenants’ quality of living; therefore, he’s accountable for anything that goes wrong with plumbing. That could be the truth. But, there’s a catch. In most states, the landlord is responsible for hiring someone to take care of plumbing emergencies. Is a leaky tap an emergency? Probably not. What classifies as an emergency is a question to ponder (consider checking your state law). For example, if you notice there’s no running water, that’s undoubtedly an emergency. The landlord is definitely responsible for that one. In most cases, you’ll find these problems classified as emergencies:

Serious leaks in your bathroom or kitchen;
Damaged, non-working water heater;
Burst water pipes;
Toilet with an active overflow.

Landlords are definitely responsible for resolving a plumbing emergency. A leaking tap probably doesn't fit into that category. Check your state law. — Landlords are definitely responsible for resolving a plumbing emergency. A leaking tap probably doesn’t fit into that category. Check your state law.

Can the landlord also be responsible for minor repairs?

There isn’t a straight answer to this one. You might want to check the lease agreement and see if you can find the solution there. If the problem you’ve encountered is somehow listed in the agreement, and if the landlord’s responsibility is evident, you have your answer. Otherwise, if the issue isn’t a subject of the lease agreement, you’ll need to check state real estate laws. Some of them have repair and deduct statutes. These rules make the landlord deduct the repair cost (paid by the tenant) from the monthly rent. A quick tip: there are some repairs (even though they look minor) you shouldn’t try to do by yourself. For example, low water pressure is an issue that pros should handle.

ADDITIONAL INFO THAT MIGHT COME IN HANDY

Let’s say you’ve made a deal with the landlord. He’ll deduct the repair costs from the rent for the next month. Now imagine this scenario: your landlord’s antique kitchen table gets damaged in the process. We guess you know who’s responsible for that. To ensure this doesn’t happen, consider hiring experts such as those at golansmoving.com and see if they can do something to help you store valuable items during the process.

It's very important to store valuable things somewhere they can't be damaged while the renovation process enfolds. The best way, of course, is to rent storage space. — It’s very important to store valuable things somewhere they can’t be damaged while the renovation process enfolds. The best way, of course, is to rent storage space.

DIPLOMACY IS KEY

It might be better if we mentioned this earlier, but before you quote the law and everything, see if talking to your landlord can seal the deal. Keeping a good relationship with your landlord is something that will guarantee you peace of mind when plumbing issues (or any other issues with the apartment you’re renting) occur. Also, it really isn’t pleasurable to stay in an apartment where the owner acts indifferent. There’s no need to be super-formal or something. Of course, if talking doesn’t get you what you think you legally deserve, then quoting the law is the way to go. But, as we’ve noted at the beginning, it shouldn’t be your first option.

AN EXAMPLE: WHAT’S IT LIKE IN CHICAGO?

In this paragraph, we’ll pinpoint some of the rights tenants have when renting in Chicago. For example, the landlord can’t evict you without a judge’s order and must take care of a pest infestation when it occurs. Also, you shouldn’t worry that he will come unannounced. What about plumbing maintenance? Suppose the tenants (or their guests) are not responsible for the damage done. In that case, landlords are obliged to take responsibility in accordance with the City of Chicago’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (commonly known as CRLTO). Make sure you check that out. In other words: be familiar with your rights. A well-informed tenant is a good tenant. As if you already didn’t know that, right?

Know your rights! Being well-informed is a must nowadays. If you're a Chicago resident, consult the CRLTO. — Know your rights! Being well-informed is a must nowadays. If you’re a Chicago resident, consult the CRLTO

SHOULD YOU SUE THE LANDLORD?

Hopefully, there won’t be a reason for that. Most landlords will quickly resolve the issue you’re dealing with. If, for some reason, the landlord ignores fixing the problem, you have all the rights in the world to mention a potential legal action (after you consult the lease agreement or the state law, of course). But, as we’ve already said, that scenario is really not so popular. You’ll rarely stumble upon a landlord who will make you want to take legal action.

FINAL WORDS

That’s all, folks! Hopefully, we’re closer than ever to find the answer to the question of who’s obliged to hire professionals for plumbing maintenance. The best way to sum up this article is: know your rights! Make sure to check the lease agreement, consult the state’s real estate law, and before you start thinking about taking legal action – talk to your landlord. As we’ve mentioned, there’s a slim chance you’ll need to go to court because your toilet is overflowing. Being diplomatic and, at the same time, well-informed is a recipe for success!

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

HOME IMPROVEMENTS AND REPAIRS YOU MUST DO BEFORE MOVING IN

Moving to a new home can be an exciting time. However, it can also be stressful and exhausting, not to mention expensive to the point of draining your wallet dry. Depending on your new home state, there are some home improvements and repairs you must do before moving in.

Are improvements and repairs expensive?

Specific improvements will increase your property’s value, which is always good when the time to sell it comes. Repairs can help reduce maintenance costs you will be facing in the future, and it’s always good to save money. If you are smart, some of the work you do on your home will end up giving you a net benefit. Some renovations will increase your home insurance rates, so be sure to calculate this into your overall budget. Other types of work on your home simply can’t be avoided, especially for glaring issues that need to be fixed.

Can I do some of the repairs later?

The short answer is: yes, of course. On the other hand, dragging the repairs will involve you living in total chaos for a long time. You might think it will just be for a week or two, but old houses can have problems you weren’t expecting. Since you don’t know how the house was constructed, there could be hidden issues that you didn’t initially notice. These could end up causing unexpected delays, and you don’t want to be trapped in a house remodel limbo. And people promise themselves they will take care of minor repairs later when the relocation is over. But then those minor issues sit unaddressed for years because you never got around to it.

Re-polish the wood in your home to let it sit before moving in.

Renovating before you move in

Everyone has ideas of what their dream home should look like. Relocating to a new home is the perfect time to let your imagination run wild. And spring is a great time to do renovations on your home. You might think that doing everything at once is expensive, but doing multiple home improvements and repairs at the same time will probably be cheaper. Some renovations will require some touch-ups after the main work is over. We’re talking about small finishing touches like patching up walls or floors and painting the house. The best solution is to do the cleanup just once when you have done all the work.

Realistically your best bet is to schedule all of the home improvements and repairs you must do before moving in and living on the property. Once everything is finished, you can just relocate to your new home without worrying about doing more work. So, plan for how long the work will take but have backup options. Rent storage for your possessions, so they don’t get in the way of the repairs. Ensure you get a clean and mold-free unit for your items so they are safe and dry during the spring rain season. Even if the repairs last longer than expected, your possessions won’t clutter the workspace, and you will know they are secure.

Here is a list of 8 home improvements and repairs you must do before moving in:

Check the roof – repair any cracks or leaks since water damage can wreak havoc on your home. Invest in roof repairs to avoid rotting wood and mold buildups.
Refloor – this is one of the repairs most people skip to save money. While fitting new floors can be expensive, it will be a lot cheaper and easier to do before moving in.
Improve the insulation – investing some money before moving in can save you a lot in the long run. Draft-proofing and insulating are great ways to save on heating and electricity bills.
Apply wood finish – it’s not just the floors that need to be re-done. It would be best to refinish all the wooden elements like panels, windows, or railings before you move in. This will give them a bit of time to sit and air out.
Popcorn ceilings and walls – they used to be standard in houses constructed before the ’90s. Besides being an eyesore, popcorn fixtures can contain asbestos or other toxic materials that can be harmful to your health.
Check the plumbing – leaks can cause some of the worst and most expensive damage to a home. Hire professional plumbers to take care of any problems before you move in. Mildew and mold will be much more costly to deal with later if water damage is left unchecked.
Replace locks – it shouldn’t take long and doesn’t cost much. With new locks, you can be sure that no one else has the keys to your home. Replace the exterior locks; it’s cheap and will give you peace of mind.
Exterior and interior painting – we recommend doing this last but before bringing in the furniture from storage. All of the other major work will already be done. Also, painting an empty home free from the clutter of furniture and boxes is a much simpler task.

Paint your home last after all of the other work is done.

One more thing we need to mention is that it is essential to pay attention to your health. People get so caught up in renovations, repairs, and moving that they can forget about their well-being. We all hope to see the end to the coronavirus pandemic, but the fight isn’t over yet. So, when the moving day finally arrives, you have to take all the necessary precautions in order to stay healthy during these hard times. Moving to a new home means that you will be interacting with many different people. Sometimes we all need reminders, even for the basics – so be smart and stay safe.

Taking care of home improvements and repairs you must do before moving in will end up saving you a lot of stress. Additionally, doing the repairs while you are not living on the property will mean they will be done faster – since nothing will be in the way of the work. And if the work is done faster, it usually means less added expenses. Taking care of everything while saving time and money – what’s not to love?

Meta description: Moving to a new home and need to renovate? Here is a list of 8 home improvements and repairs you must do before moving in.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

THE SMART HOME DEVICES THAT OFFER THE MOST VALUE

As the eco-conscious movement expands, society’s values change. A few decades ago, individuals purchasing homes looked for time-efficient, convenient appliances that catered to life on the go. Now, people want sustainable and energy-efficient products.

Energy-efficient home appliances reduce the price of a homeowner’s utility bills while shrinking their carbon footprint. They also increase the value of a home. There are various smart home devices you can install to increase efficiency.

Smart Plugs

Most individuals charge their phones, tablets and laptops overnight to ensure power efficiency the following day. These devices reach a full charge within a few hours and continue to pull power from the outlet throughout the night. Their power absorption accumulates over time, increasing utility costs and the size of your carbon footprint.

You can install smart plugs in your home to restrict power pulling from unused devices. They monitor your appliances’ energy use and limit their access to electricity during certain times of the day. They also track energy use so you can make adjustments to lower the price of your electricity bills.

Smart Garage Door Opener

Homeowners can improve the efficiency of their heating and air conditioning systems by preventing the release of in-home air, and your garage door is a significant escape point. Nearly 51% of a home’s energy use derives from temperature control. If you are forgetful when it comes to closing your garage door, you can benefit from installing a smart door opener.

You can preprogram these devices to close after you leave your house. This helps the homeowner conserve energy used through temperature control systems.

They also utilize LED lights to illuminate the inside of your garage. LEDs use 75% less energy than conventional bulbs. They also last 25 times longer than incandescents, reducing your utility bills and the size of your carbon footprint. Installing a smart garage door opener in your home can significantly increase its value.

Smart Thermostats

To further conserve the energy used by your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, you can install a smart thermostat. Homeowners may program these devices to keep their homes at energy-efficient temperatures. The thermostat also turns down at night, depending on the season, to maximize your HVAC’s electricity use.

Smart thermostats use motion-detecting sensors to adjust your home’s temperature depending upon its occupancy. When your house is vacant, the system turns on its vacation mode, which you can change from your smartphone. These green appliances significantly lower electricity bills.

Smart Lights

Our homes’ lights contribute to the size of our carbon footprints. Installing smart lights in your house can reduce energy waste and conserve the environment. The system connects to your smartphone through Bluetooth and turns off all lights when you leave the property for a programmed number of hours.

The device also uses a motion detection sensor to turn off the light in an unoccupied room. When paired with LED lightbulbs, this system can be significantly more energy-efficient than conventional lighting.

Smart Energy Monitors

A valuable device for the eco-conscious homeowner is a smart energy monitor. These systems evaluate the inner power working of your house. It connects to your electricity meter and calculates which appliances pull the most power.

Intelligent energy monitors connect to your smartphone through Bluetooth to relay its electricity findings. The device converts data into charts and graphs for straightforward viewer interpretation. Homeowners can then use this information to change their energy consumption patterns and shrink their carbon footprint.

Cater to the Market

Increase the value of your home by upgrading your appliances and devices. Maintaining an energy-efficient house is attractive to potential buyers looking to shrink their carbon footprint and pay low utility bills. Because millennials are eco-conscious and buying property now, it is essential to cater to their values.

Visit Brands Direct Online and find great deals on smart home devices that offer the most value.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

SLATE ROOFING MATERIAL BREAKDOWN

Buying a new roof? A slate roof is one of the materials you can consider as you explore your options. It is waterproof, resistant to mold, and can last more than 100 years. On the other hand, it is brittle and can easily break, and is also relatively expensive to purchase.

This extensive guide will help break down the important aspects of this material, its pros and cons, and its variants at your disposal. Follow through to make an informed roofing decision.

Types of Slate Roofs

1. Natural Slate

This is a natural quarried stone, and it’s the first thing that comes to most people’s minds when the term ‘slate’ is mentioned. It is resistant to ultraviolet rays and does not get destroyed by thermal expansion and contraction.

With proper care and adequate maintenance, this material can last over 100 years. It is among the most environment-friendly roofing materials because there is no manufacturing process involved in its production. Besides, it can be recycled and reused. You can find it in natural shades of blue, red, or gray depending on its source.

2. Synthetic Slate Roofing

Is used as an alternative to natural slate roofing. It is a reflection of the magnificence of its traditional counterpart devoid of the expense (synthetic roofing shingles are much cheaper) and the stressful installation process.

These roofs boast of being lighter than natural slate roofs, hence may not require additional support during installation. They would also present you with a wider range of colors compared to their natural counterparts.

The materials durability varies depending on their manufacturing process. Some are treated with ultraviolet inhibitors, reducing degradation from the sun. Others are not easily breakable. The durability of these roofs ranges from half the lifespan of natural slate- 50 years- to about 100 years.

Slate Roof Maintenance

If properly installed, it will require very little maintenance over its lifespan. This material is resistant to mold, fungus, and mildew, further minimizing the maintenance cost.

The greatest risk of installing slate roofs is their ease of cracking and breaking. However, this is easy to fix since you will just need to repair or replace the broken or missing shingles. Make sure this is done by a roofing professional such as Fortress Roofing.

Even though most of the maintenance and repair works are generally universal, there are some details you need to take into consideration with regard to the specific types of slate on your roof. For instance, replace broken shingles with those of the same pattern and color. Additionally, when you have to replace the entire roof, get to know the alternatives available in the market. They will still provide your home with the elegance of slate.

Photo by Axinte on Unsplash — *Photo by* *Axinte* on Unsplash

Notable Pros

1. Unique Roofing Styles

A slate roof can be designed to produce very beautiful roof designs. This is attributable to it being a natural product.

It is available in different shades depending on its chemical composition and its source. These natural colors give these roofs an allure that cannot be provided by any other material. Imagine you can still play around with colors to match your roof with the architecture of your home.

2. Recyclable

This natural roof will stay on your house for over a century if you want it to. It will lie dead, emitting no toxins at all. It is just stone after all!

If for some reason the roof has to be removed, the material can be reused on other roofs or for other purposes as may be deemed fit. If you are looking for an eco-friendly roofing material, we can proudly say that slate is the material for you!

3. Energy Efficiency

This material is dense and can help regulate the temperatures within your home. This can help you save money that would have otherwise been spent on footing energy bills.

Besides reducing energy bills, energy efficiency is enhanced by the reduced carbon footprint. The material occurs naturally, well apart from synthetic slate, and can be recycled, of course!

Cons of Slate Roofs

1. Fragility

This quality makes the roofing material easy to cut into different shapes and sizes, but it can be disadvantageous in some cases. If not handled with care or if a considerably large amount of pressure is exerted on it, it can easily be cracked or broken.

Inspecting the roofs can be challenging because if the roof inspector steps on the shingles, there is a possibility of them cracking. You need to be extra careful when handling these roofs.

2. Slate Is Heavy

Natural slate is very heavy. One tile of slate of about 100 sq. ft. can weigh between 800 pounds (ca. 363 kg) and 1,500 pounds (ca. 680 kg). Your roofing structure has to be reinforced to ensure it is able to carry this weight. This can be expensive.

If you’re installing a new roof, consider having your roofing structure assessed to see if it can bear the additional load.

Conclusion

Slate can tremendously improve your home’s curb appeal and, by extension, its value. It is a material that has a natural appearance and blends well with the environment. Despite being heavy and fragile, its durability is something to marvel at.

As you ponder over your choice of roofing material, have it in mind that you can never go wrong with slate roofing tiles if their cost is not a scare to you and your home’s structure can support the weight.

Guest Contributor: John Willmer

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT PLUMBING SERVICE

It is a very difficult task to control all the plumbing problems when you don’t have much knowledge about it. As a result, you have to pay a huge water consumption cost and your building can get affected by some water leakages. So it is better to take the assistance of professional water and gas plumbing service.

It ensures safety and prevents future extra costs. But for all this, you need to choose the best service. Thus we have discussed some factors that will help you choose the perfect plumbing company for your house.

Six things to look for in your plumbing service

Below is the list that you should look for in your plumbing service to make sure it is the right one and will help you resolve your problem:

Local

When choosing a plumber for your regular gas and water system’s services, you should always look for a local one. This is because they will be able to reach your place on time whenever you need their help. Apart from that, they do not charge anything extra for transportation and you can call them anytime for an emergency issue. Make sure, you must choose a plumbing service that offers 24×7 services.
Look for credential

Some house owner does not ask for certificates and accreditations while taking water and gas plumbing service from a company. The plumbing service you are planning to hire must have a proper state-specific license to run their business. There are also individual licenses and certificates that every worker holds. These certificates are proof that you are paying the taxes to the government and they are liable to offer the best quality work. If you find any issue in their services then you can lodge a complaint in your local authority against the company.
Surf through the customer reviews

Another important thing to look for when hiring a water and gas plumbing service is their customer review. Today you can be assured about the service you will receive only by reviewing the customer’s voice. You can expect a good service if you find good comments and reviews that reflect quality work.

You can find these reviews either on their website or any social media platform. However, you may find some bad reviews on social media because companies cannot satisfy their customers by fulfilling their unwanted claims. So you can check their reviews and choose a gas plumbing service that has some positive reviews.
Service rates

The most important thing to look for in your water and gas plumbing service is the rate at which they are offering the service. Top-notch plumbing service will be able to provide you an accurate and close amount that you may incur at the time of service. This is important to prevent any surprise charge.

However, there may be a condition in which complications arise at the time of work and requires extra cost. But, a good plumber will always be able to explain to you why you are incurring the extra cost.
Area of work

While choosing the best water and gas plumbing service for yourself, make sure you check the area in which they work. In other words, are they prepared for every kind of problem or not. They should have proper knowledge and experience to provide assistance.

Above are the vital points that you must follow when selecting the right plumbing service for your house. These will ensure you are getting the right service and at the right charge. However, don’t forget to ask someone who has taken the service from the respective plumbing company if they have specialized plumbers insurance. They will be able to guide you better.

Guest Contributor: Emma Smith