Signs That You May Need an Electrical Panel Upgrade

In the realm of home safety and efficiency, the electrical panel often plays a silent but pivotal role. It’s the nerve center of your home’s electrical system, responsible for distributing power to various circuits. Like any other component, electrical panels have a lifespan and may show signs of wear and tear over time. Here are some indicators that it might be time to consider an electrical panel upgrade.

  1. Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips: If your circuit breakers seem to trip more often than not, it’s a clear sign of an overloaded electrical panel. Modern homes use a significant amount of electricity for various appliances and devices. An upgrade allows for a higher amp capacity, preventing frequent interruptions to your power supply.
  2. Outdated Panel Design: Homes with older electrical panels may have outdated designs that can’t keep up with today’s power demands. If your panel still uses fuses rather than circuit breakers, it’s a strong indication that an upgrade is overdue. Modern circuit breakers are more reliable and easier to reset.
  3. Dimming or Flickering Lights: While flickering lights might create a spooky atmosphere for Halloween, they are less charming in your everyday living space. Dimming or flickering lights can signify an inadequate power supply, indicating that your electrical panel may need an upgrade to meet the increased demand.
  4. Buzzing or Crackling Sounds: Unusual sounds coming from your electrical panel are never a good sign. Buzzing or crackling noises could indicate loose wiring or other internal issues. Ignoring these sounds may lead to more serious problems, making an upgrade a prudent investment in your home’s safety.
  5. Warmth or Burning Smells: An electrical panel should never feel warm to the touch, and any burning smell is a red flag. These signs suggest potential overheating and pose a serious fire hazard. If you notice warmth or a burning odor near your electrical panel, it’s crucial to consult with a professional electrician promptly.
  6. Inconsistent Power Supply: If you’ve noticed inconsistent power supply in different areas of your home, it may be a sign that your electrical panel is struggling to evenly distribute power. An upgrade can ensure a more balanced and reliable power distribution throughout your home.

Addressing these signs promptly can prevent electrical hazards and enhance the overall safety and efficiency of your home. If you observe any of these indicators, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified electrician who can assess your current electrical panel and recommend the appropriate upgrades. Remember, electrical upgrades are not just about convenience; they are a critical investment in your home’s safety and functionality.

The Best Energy-Saving Choices for Heating and Cooling Systems

Woman adjusting thermostat on white wall. Heating system

It’s natural to want to feel comfortable in your own home. To make this possible, reliable heating and cooling systems will be necessary. Opt for energy-efficient choices to save a little money on your bills as well as reduce your carbon footprint. Whether you are updating an existing system or starting over from scratch, one of these options is sure to be perfect for your home.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

The earth’s surface is dotted with “geothermal hot spots”. Geothermal gas pumps use this naturally created heat to provide your home with effective heating. The demand for this renewable heat source has skyrocketed in recent years. While the demand for pumps goes up, their cost of them goes down. This makes it a practical value for homeowners. This style of heat is sustainable, diverting natural ground heat into your home.

Mini Split Heat Pumps

A mini-split heat pump system will use heat from the air to make your home an optimal temperature. While the split pump has been around for a while, the mini pump debuted recently. They are known for featuring interior and exterior units that are smaller and more powerful than they ever were. Outside air is cycled through the outdoor unit into a coil. From this coil, the heat is distributed throughout your house.

Residential Furnaces

After pumps, furnaces are the most efficient system that you can invest in. They are likely to be the most commonly used type of heating system. Studies suggest that up to 60 percent of American homes have a furnace. While older furnaces are not very efficient, the technology of this industry has introduced models that are perfect for today’s needs. A new furnace is designed to lower your utility bills while also lessening your impact on the environment.

Boilers

Though they are less common than they used to be, boilers are still very efficient ways to regulate the temperature in your home. As the name suggests, they heat up water which is then circulated around your house by a collection of tubes and radiators in various rooms. A boiler can work efficiently while making your home a comfortable place to be.

When you are looking into which is the best HVAC system for you, there are several things that you want to consider. First, you will want to get an accurate quote on how your utility bills will change. Next, you want to make sure that it is as efficient and environmentally friendly as you need it to be. With new heating and cooling systems, your home can be as comfortable as you desire.

Learn more at https://coolaidairconditioning.com/

Hire home services to make your spring cleaning easier!

 

Spring cleaning concept. Tulips in vase on window sill

 

Spring is the perfect time to give your home a deep clean. But with busy schedules and hectic lifestyles, it can be hard to find the time to do it yourself. That’s why hiring home services to help with your spring cleaning can be a great solution. Home services can help you deep clean carpets, tile, ducts, windows, and more. With the help of home services, you can have a sparkling clean home in no time.

 

Carpet Cleaning

Carpets can be a breeding ground for dust, dirt, and other allergens. Spring cleaning is the perfect time to give your carpets a deep clean. Professional carpet cleaners can use high-powered vacuuming to remove dirt and debris from the carpet fibers. They can also use steam cleaning or dry cleaning to remove tough stains. Professional carpet cleaning can help your carpets look and feel like new.

Tile Cleaning

Tile floors can be difficult to clean on your own. Professional tile cleaners can use special products and equipment to restore your tile floor to its original beauty. Professional tile cleaners can remove dirt, grime, and even tough stains from tile. They can also help you get rid of any mold or mildew that has built up over time.

Duct Cleaning

Your home’s air ducts can collect dirt, dust, pet dander, and other allergens over time. Professional duct cleaners can help you get rid of all the buildup in your home’s ventilation system. They can use special tools and products to clean out your air ducts and help improve your indoor air quality.

Upholstery Cleaning

Upholstery cleaning is an important part of spring cleaning that can help extend the life of your furniture and keep it looking like new. Professional upholstery cleaners can use special products and techniques to remove dirt, dust, and even tough stains from your furniture. They can use steam cleaning, dry cleaning, and other methods to get your furniture looking like new.

Steam cleaning is a popular method of upholstery cleaning. Professional upholstery cleaners will use a special steam cleaner to apply hot water and detergent to the furniture. This can help break down dirt and grime and make it easier to remove. Steam cleaners also use powerful suction to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from the furniture.

Dry cleaning is another option for upholstery cleaning. This method uses a special dry-cleaning solution to break down dirt and grime. The solution is then vacuumed away, leaving your furniture looking like new. This method is great for removing tough stains from your furniture.

Upholstery cleaning can also help remove allergens from your furniture. Professional upholstery cleaners can use special products to remove dust, dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens from your furniture. This can help improve your indoor air quality and reduce allergies.

Hiring professional upholstery cleaners for your spring cleaning can be a great way to keep your furniture looking like new. Their powerful cleaning methods and special products can help remove dirt, dust, and tough stains from your furniture. With their help, you can have a sparkling clean home in no time.

Many cleaning companies offer multiple services. To save even more time hire a company that offers all of the services listed above. Check out http://allbritetx.com/.

5 Things You Can Do to Maintain Your Home’s Value

 Things You Can Do to Maintain Your Home’s Value

Maintaining your home’s value is an important aspect of owning a home, particularly if you have plans of selling it or improving it for your own use and enjoyment.  Maybe you’re unsure where to begin in maintaining the value of your home and what aspects are of greatest concern. Here are 5 things you can do to maintain your home’s value.

  1. Routine Maintenance

One thing you can do to extend the value of your home is to keep up with routine interior and exterior maintenance. If you have a faulty kitchen or bathroom plumbing, electrical problems, malfunctioning appliances, air conditioning or heating issues, window, and door weatherproofing deterioration, roof leaks, plugged gutters, broken shingles, peeling paint, and any related structural problems with your home, you will lose value in delaying these issues. If you stay on a maintenance schedule for any of these problems, your home should keep its value without having to get into budget-breaking expenses down the road.

  1. Regular Cleaning

Cleaning your home regularly can save you time and energy, plus help you maintain the value of your home. If you follow a daily or even weekly cleaning schedule, you can maintain and increase the value of your home. You want to avoid rushing around at the last minute with heavy cleaning, especially if you happen to be preparing your home for sale, a home inspection, or an open house event. Schedule appointments twice a year with a professional carpet cleaning service at http://trojancarpetcare.com/.

When you keep your home clean, not only will its interior surfaces remain in excellent condition over time,  but its value will remain steady. 

  1. Curb Appeal

First impressions are important, and the exterior appearance of your home can weigh heavily on its value. If the outside looks shabby, cluttered, and unkempt, your home’s value will likely diminish. Simple touches can improve your home’s curb appeal. Fresh paint, clean siding, modern lighting fixtures, a colorful front door, decorative and enlivening front porch accessories, a well-kept lawn, plants, trees, and hedges can all add to the appeal of a home and boost its value. 

  1. Specific Updates

If you have an older home, you may need to think about replacing your outdated appliances and other specific items like cabinets, window treatments, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, flooring, and other elements in your home that affect its value and worth.  You can do any of these updates incrementally to avoid budget conflicts. With appliance selection, you want to keep the style, color, and energy efficiency in mind not only for yourself but for future home buyers.

  1. Painting

One of the more simple and gratifying ways to increase your home’s value is by painting its interior and exterior. Even painting one wall or a ceiling area can improve its appearance. Paint can bring a fresh and clean look to your home without a huge dent in your budget, plus you don’t have to do it that frequently for your home to look good for a number of years. The climate in your area and whether you have pets or children will determine how often you have to paint the inside or outside of your home.

If you keep these five basic factors in mind, you can both maintain your home and increase its value. Instead of your home losing its value because of limited and delayed input, you can watch it grow in value now and avoid the pitfalls of expensive maintenance and repairs later.

 

How to Remove Moss and Algae From Your Roof

It happens. You come home, walk up the driveway, and suddenly a discolored green patch stands out to you from afar.

 

Before you break out the hose and power wash your rooftop, there are a few things you need to know about cleaning away moss and algae from your roof. Properly treating moss and algae so that you aren’t left with stains or chipped tiles doesn’t have to be a complicated process, and there are some easy solutions you can mix to combat nature’s paint job.

Here’s the information you need to clean up any affected areas.

Why Do Moss and Algae Grow on the Roof?

Moss and algae grow on the roof in shaded areas where the sun is absent. Additionally, if the shaded area is cooler and frequently exposed to damp weather conditions, the likelihood of moss and algae thriving is much higher.

If you want to prevent future growth, the best thing to do is remove any shaded areas from your roof (if at all possible). You can primarily do this by trimming the trees around your house. You can also clear away debris from your gutters or shingles. This will greatly reduce the amount of water trapped near your roof and will reduce the possibility of unwarranted growth.

What to Clean With

You might need a little more than water to wash away the green patches. Here’s a small list of supplies and some DIY solutions you can create before tackling the issue.

  • Dawn Ultra: 8 oz. for every 2 gallons of water
  • (Dawn Alternative) White Distilled Vinegar: 1 cup for 1 gallon of water
  • (Dawn Alternative) Chlorine bleach: 1 cup for 1 gallon of water
  • Ladder: so you can either get up to the roof or see the roof better as you wash it
  • Hose: for rinsing down any cleanser solutions you’ve implemented
  • Spray bottle: for applying cleanser solutions
  • Brush: for scrubbing away. You can choose any brush that won’t damage your shingles

How to Clean Your Roof

Power washing your house immediately with the hose can damage your roof unless you take the precautions to do it properly. If you aren’t sure, consult with a pressure washing service. 

Here are the steps you need to take to clean away the moss and algae:

1. GENTLY Spray the Roof with Water

A light coating of water over all the affected areas will help the moss and algae absorb anything you plan to apply to your roof.

2. Apply your Choice of Cleanser

You can use the spray bottle and generously coat your DIY solution on the moss and algae. After you finish applying your cleanser, leave it alone for about thirty to forty-five minutes to allow it to sink in.

3. Scrub the Roof

Take the brush and start cleaning away!

4. Lightly Spray Again

For the final step, you’ll want to spray down your rooftop again. This can help you check for any remaining moss or algae. If any affected areas remain, repeat the process from step 2.

Summary

The best way to prevent moss or algae is to make sure the sun can shine on all areas of your roof. If they do grow, moss and algae can easily be cleaned from your roof using a few simple steps and a DIY cleanser made from ingredients around the house.

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Make the Most of Your Home’s Square Footage by Remodeling Your Basement

When you think about the size of or the rooms in your house, your mind might not automatically go to the basement. In fact, you may barely even consider this space. However, remodeling your basement can help you to stop using this area merely for storage and actually enjoy this extra square footage. You might not know where to start, so reviewing some creative ideas can get you moving in the right direction.

Home Bar

If you love to entertain guests, you can turn part of your basement into a home bar. A large bar with space for all of your favorite brands and enough room for several stools is certainly appealing. You can showcase your gadgets and beverage machines on the bar too. Even when you don’t have enough space or the funds for such a large renovation, you could start with a smaller bar cart and build up from there.

Office Space

With many people working from home these days, office space is a useful addition to the house. Before setting up an office in the basement, however, do make sure that the connection to the web is strong down there. You’ll likely find that working in an office helps you to stay more focused than simply sitting down at the kitchen table to complete tasks.

Guest Room

When you’re tired of having to ask your relatives and friends to pay to stay in a hotel room, a guest room might be the right answer. You can make this guest room really cozy so that space can double as a place for you to take an afternoon nap. While you’re working on the guest room, add some special touches to the basement bathroom to make that area more inviting as well. Carpeting will make a basement guest room warm and cozy, just be sure to keep it clean and allergen-free by employing green carpet cleaning methods. 

Reading Room

If you love to read, the thought of a room filled with books is likely an enthralling vision. You can set up your own little library in your home with shelves of your favorite classics. Make sure that this room has a cozy chair for you to snuggle up on and some warm blankets for those cold winter days. To ensure that this room remains a space for reading, consider leaving television and other such forms of technology out of the setup. Another idea is to create a combination of a reading room and a guest room. In other words, you can use the space as a reading room except when you have guests visit.

A basement remodel is certainly a smart way to get more out of your home. Think about which ideas excite you the most. Then, you can get started on contacting the necessary professionals or purchasing the required furniture and decor to spruce up space. 

 

 

Why is roof cleaning important?

Your roof is one of the most important features of your home, and you must do all that you can to make sure that you keep it in good shape. Failing to do so could have your roof failing prematurely. To avoid this, you should have regular roof maintenance, including roof cleaning. You might not think that having your roof cleaned is of importance, but having your roof cleaned can help to protect your roof.

Why Roof Cleaning?

There are several different reasons why you should have your roof cleaned, and these include:

  • Removing fungi, lichen, moss, and algae. Algae, moss, lichen, and fungi love to grow on roofs. If they are allowed to grow unchecked, they can cause severe damage to your roof. These things lock in water and can cause your roof to rot very quickly. They are especially damaging to roof joints and roof timbers. In addition to the damage to your roof, these items can lead to insect activity and increased bird activity, all of which can cause damage to your roof. When you have a roof cleaning, all of this will be removed to help decrease the chances of anything damaging your roof.
  • Debris build-up. Over time, debris can build up on your roof. Debris can include branches, leaves, seedpods, and animal droppings. While these might not seem like a huge issue, over time, they can cause moisture to be trapped on the roof, causing significant damage. When leaves build up on the roof, they can clog the gutter. Clogged gutters are one of the leading causes of roof damage. Bird droppings contain uric acid, which can quickly eat away at shingles. By having your roof cleaned regularly, you can help to ensure that it stays in good shape.
  • Appearance. When you have a dirty and dingy roof, it can make your entire house look bad. If you want to increase the value of your home and keep your home looking great, you should make sure that you have your roof cleaned at least once a year.
  • Longevity. To increase the life of your roof, you will want to make sure that you keep it cleaned. By regular cleaning, you get rid of moisture, fungi, and other things that can shorten the lifespan of your roof.

If you want to clean your own roof, you can do so by using a pressure washer. During this time, you will also want to go ahead and clean your gutters to ensure that they are flowing freely. If you feel uncomfortable doing your own roof, you can have a professional power washing service come out to clean the roof for you. 

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5 Important Tips For Hiring a Professional Carpet Cleaning Service

  1. Define what you need to be cleaned. What kind of stains do you want to be removed, and does the company guarantee that they can remove them? The last thing you want is for the company to come, clean the carpet, and when they leave you still see the stain on the carpet. Different companies offer different kinds of stain removal treatments, sometimes for an extra cost.
  2. Make sure the cleaning service is available to clean your carpet when you need them. Before you proceed too far in your discussion with the carpet cleaning company, make sure that the company you desire is able to fit you in during the timeframe that you need the carpet cleaned. If they can’t clean your carpet when you need it done, it may be time to move to the next company on your list.
  3. Choose a cleaning service that uses solutions or treatments that work best for you. Make sure to ask what kind of cleaning solutions are utilized. The great news is that you have your pick! If you organic cleaning materials-there are a number of great companies out there that have non-toxic cleaning solutions that guarantee to be allergen-free for children and pets alike. You can also choose to have your carpet treated by hot water extraction cleaning and free of chemicals. You can also get your carpet dry washed if you need to keep your carpet dry. This is a great choice for cleaning right before you have special visitors coming in for the holidays or special occasions.
  4. Verify the quality of the cleaning service. Make sure the professional who will come out to your house has been professionally vetted and background-checked. There are companies like Angie’s List that will give you ratings on the company. Also, the Better Business Bureau is a good place to check out whether a company has a great history with clients, or a less than stellar one.
  5. Define the services and contract. Make sure that you have asked about the fees, both for the square footage, type of stain and carpet to be cleaned, and the cost for any furniture moving or special carpet treatments. This will help to ensure that the amount you are quoted won’t change after the company arrives at your home. Make sure that this is in writing before the cleaning service arrives at your home.

Woman dressed in uniform cleans and vacuums, washes the floor in the home and cleans. Professional cleaning service with equipment and staff

Once you’ve chosen the right carpet cleaning professionals for your needs, save their name and contact information. It’s always good to have them come out a couple of times a year to keep your carpets beautiful! Click here to learn more.

 

Tips for Making Your Home More Beautiful

You don’t have to do major renovations to make your home more beautiful in your eyes. Instead, you can make small changes that create an overall different look that you love. Even if you don’t have a big budget, most of these changes are easy and affordable to make. If you’re ready to get started with making your house your dream home, then check out the easy tips below.

   1. Paint

From the outside to the inside, a fresh coat of paint can make a world of difference in the way your home looks. While it can be tempting to stick with plain white, you may want to consider trying blues, grays, or even greens. New colors will add a fresh look to your house and create depth with accent walls. To avoid making mistakes, always swatch the walls with paint first to see what the colors look like once in your house.

   2. Bring in Plants

Plants are affordable and can add a beautiful touch of nature to your house in minutes. Place these in your favorite style of pots and standing plant holders for an added touch of personality in your home. You can even put smaller plants on shelves while those that are larger can go on the floor or on small plant tables.

     3. Brighten Things Up

If you don’t have a lot of natural light in your space, bring in floor lamps to add brightness. You may also want to consider replacing hanging lights on the ceiling with recessed lighting for a seamless look. By bringing in more light, your space will look fresh, beautiful, and happy.

    4. Add Small Touches

Throw pillows, soft blankets, and storage baskets are small touches that can make a big difference in the way your home looks inside. Those baskets will be especially useful for organizing your space and keeping clutter off of the floor. You can also add in candles, shelves, and vases for a new look that doesn’t cost a lot of money.

        5. Clean the Inside

A messy or dirty home is uninviting and uncomfortable. Establish a cleaning routine to keep things clean, tidy, and, dust-free. Keeping clean carpets and floors is especially important as this is the first thing that people notice when they walk into a room. 

        6. Clean the Outside

Your home will look more welcoming when the outside is clean and tidy. Fortunately, it’s easy to do this by sweeping up dirt, power washing exterior walls, and pulling weeds. You may also want to add a rocking chair and a few throw pillows if you have the space available. If not, a welcome sign or an outside plant will suffice in creating an inviting entrance to your space.

A Beautiful Home Made Easy

The tips above will make it easy to spruce up your home to make it the space you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you get started with painting or simply plan to add some plants, each touch will make a difference.

Tips for Making Your Carpets Last Longer

New carpet is an investment that can last for many years. However, you will have to do your part to take care of it. You should take the following steps to ensure that your carpet lasts a long time.

 

Vacuum Frequently

It is a good idea to vacuum the carpet at least once a week. This can be a chore, but it is one of the easiest things that you can do in order to ensure that your carpet lasts for a long time. Vacuuming will prevent dust and dirt from building up inside of your carpet.

If you want to get more out of vacuuming, then you should use one that has a HEPA filter. This will not only keep your carpet clean, but it can also improve the indoor air quality.

Keep the Dirt Out of Your Home

There is a reason that many cultures require that people take off their shoes before they enter the home. This helps keep the dirt out. You can also reduce the amount of dirt that is tracked in your home by putting a mat near the door.

Dirt ruins the fibers of your carpet. It can also cause your carpet to develop a dull color. Keeping the dirt out not only helps your carpet last longer, but it will also help your carpet stay looking great.

Clean the Air Ducts

You may be wondering how your air ducts are connected to your carpet. When dust, allergens, and bacteria are in your air ducts, they can eventually end up in your carpet. That is why it is a good idea for you to clean the air ducts on a regular basis. You need to have a professional HVAC company clean your air ducts.

Clean Up Spills Immediately

It can be frustrating to have something spill on your carpet. However, you can minimize the amount of damage that is done by cleaning up spills immediately. For carpet spot removal you can blot the stain with white vinegar and dish soap. 

Get It Cleaned by a Professional

The number of times per year that you need to have your carpet cleaned can vary. This will depend on your lifestyle and whether you have pets or children. Regular carpet cleanings will help your carpet last a lot longer. The hot water extraction method, which is the preferred carpet cleaning method, removes dirt without damaging the fibers. It is also quick-drying.

Things to Keep in Mind When Hiring Home Repair and Cleaning Services

Ignoring issues that you notice in your home might seem like the simplest thing to do, but it is not the smartest thing to do. When you ignore problems, those problems are only going to grow. Instead, you should find a good home repair or cleaning service to take on the problems that you have noticed.

woman shaking hands with a worker in her home

Home Repair Services Should Come Through Those Who Value Your Home:

You love your home a lot and you don’t want to see anything go wrong with it. In order to make sure that those who come in to repair the home will treat the place right, you need to make sure that they value the home, too. Those who choose to have repair or clean your home should treat your home as they would want someone to treat their home. They should see how much you care about your home and try to impress you with their services.

Cleaning Services Should be Provided by Those Who Focus on the Whole Home:

You don’t want just a small portion of your home to be professionally cleaned while the rest is left covered in dust. You want someone to come into your home and fully take over the job of cleaning it. When hiring help with cleaning, find those who are willing to go into each room in your home and tackle everything from the dusting of ceiling fans to the cleaning of your baseboards.

You Need to Know How Much Work You Can Do on Your Own:

When you notice something in your home that needs to be repaired, consider things right away and decide if you will be able to repair that on your own or not. When you start to clean your home, make a list of parts you want someone else to clean. Know what you can and cannot handle before you try to find home repair and cleaning services.

Pay Attention to Your Budget When Hiring Home Repair and Cleaning Services:

While caring for your home is important to you, you do not want to overspend when hiring someone to clean your carpets or fix a leaky faucet. Know what you have available in your budget and look for those who are going to keep things affordable as they work.

You Can Find Great Services for Your Home:

You don’t have to spend a fortune to find good repair services. You don’t have to wait months for a good cleaning service to show up at your home. You can find a team that is prepared to get things done and that will not overcharge you.

Environmentally Friendly Choices for Home Building Materials

Currently, green building is a global trend as people worldwide consider energy conservation a top priority. In the United States, the use of eco-friendly building materials has been driven by consumer demands due to environmental regulations. This trend is set to continue in the next years, with the market expected to grow globally.

verdant background with tiny house in the foreground

Eco-friendly building materials do not harm the environment in production, disposal, and are easily recycled. Moreover, using eco-friendly materials reduces carbon emissions and saves energy, significantly reducing energy costs. The following are environmentally friendly choices for home building materials.

1. Bamboo

Due to its sustainability, bamboo is a perfect substitute for wood. It regenerates faster than trees since it’s a member of the grass family. In fact, bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on earth, depending on the type and location.

The widespread use of bamboos has helped trees to regenerate. Despite their eco-friendly advantages, bamboo can be used in several applications such as flooring, decking, lumber, countertops, and tiles.

2. Recycled Steel

Steel is the most recycled material on the planet. In fact, the quantity of steel recycled each year is larger than aluminum, paper, plastic, and glass combined. Despite the number of recycles made, steel does not lose its properties. Producing steel uses a lot of energy, releasing emissions to the sky. Recycled steel can be used in many applications, saving 75% of energy costs.

3. Rammed Earth

Currently, rammed earth is mostly used in luxury houses, creating durable walls resembling sedimentary rocks. It is also one of the oldest building materials and was used during the construction of the Great Wall of China.

Rammed earth walls and floors are eco-friendly and can be used as thermal storage since they capture the sun’s warmth during the day and releasing it slowly during the night.

4. Straw Bale

Strawbale was used in ancient times but has captured the attention of 21st-century homebuilders. This material is made from agricultural waste. These materials are usually used in walls, attics, and ceilings to regulate thermal temperatures. Additionally, straw bales have high insulating properties and are resistant to fires.

Straw bales are eco-friendly since they can be harvested and re-planted with minimal impact on the environment.

5. Reclaimed or Recycled Sustainable Wood

Wood is the most type of building material used due to its appealing nature. Reclaimed wood has a lower environmental impact than harvested timber. When proper reclaiming has been done, recycled timber can be applied in different areas like floors, ceilings, interior fittings, and walls.

6. Cork

Cork is one of the highly renewable and environmentally friendly building resources. The material is mainly used in building cork ceilings, flooring, and acoustic walls. Cork is a highly resilient material, resilient to moisture and liquid. Additionally, the increased application of this material can help in fighting global warming.

Before replacing environmentally non-friendly materials in your home, consider the impact their disposal might have. Instead of putting the old carpet or laminate flooring in a landfill, you can give it a facelift with a good cleaning! Click here to get more information.

Do’s And Don’ts of Building Exterior Maintenance

It is important to maintain your building. Exterior maintenance is one of the key things that you must do in order to keep it in the best shape possible. There are things that you should and shouldn’t do when maintaining your building.

exterior messy vs tidy

 

Do’s

 

Inspect the Building on a Regular Basis

This may seem like a common sense thing to do. However, it is common for property owners to skip the building inspections. You may not realize that your building has a problem until you inspect it. If you inspect the building on a regular basis, then you will be able to save time and money.

Resolve Issues As Soon As They Are Reported

It is never a good idea for you to defer maintenance. Problems have a tendency to get worse over time. Here is an example of how a small problem can quickly turn into a big one. The roof has a small leak. The leak continues to get worse. Significant damage is done to the building. You may also end up needing to get the entire roof replaced. You will also need to get your building repaired.

Choose the Right Professionals

You need to have the right people working on your building. You don’t want to choose someone just because they offer to do work for a cheap price. It is a good idea to vet at least three people before you choose one. You will need to make sure that they have the experience, insurance, and licenses.

Avoid choosing someone who makes you pay for everything before any work is done. Most reputable companies will do the work and then bill you later for it.

 

Don’ts

 

Cut Corners

There are a lot of temporary fixes that can be used to solve problems. However, it is never a good idea for you to cut corners. You will actually end up spending more time making repairs in the long run.

Allow Unqualified People to Perform Maintenance

It is never a good idea to let someone who does not possess the necessary credentials to perform maintenance. You may end up spending a lot more money in the long run. This can also be dangerous.

Over-improve the Building

It is important for you to improve your building. However, you don’t want to overdo a good thing. If you want to make any improvements to your building, then you will need to talk to an agent. They will be able to inspect the building and determine if any upgrades need to be made.

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Top 5 Cleaning Tips For Fall

When the weather changes to fall it is the perfect time to clean your home both inside and out. There are several easy tasks you can see that will set your home up for the colder weather that is to come, help prevent damage that wet and cold weather brings with them, and spruce up your property.

 

These are the top five cleaning tips for the fall that every homeowner should add to their checklist.

 

Wash Your Windows

Washing all the windows in your home is an easy task to do and will make such a difference in the fall. During the summer months, windows get plastered with dirt and debris, pollen from plants and trees, and insects that become trapped around the frames. Clean windows quickly spruce up the appearance of your home from the outside, and the level of light that is able to enter from the inside is improved.

 

Clean Your Carpets

During the fall and winter, we tend to spend more time indoors so you want to do everything possible to improve the quality of air inside your home. Carpets tend to get overlooked when we work through our fall to-do lists, but this is a great time of year to have them professionally cleaned. Dirt, pollen, and other allergens tend to cling to carpet and with more foot traffic during the summer months, combined with less fresh air, air quality can decrease if you skip carpet cleaning.

 

Clear Yard Waste and Debris

Yard waste and debris add up around the yard during the summer months and are best removed at the end of the season. This includes clearing out gutters that have become filled with debris. Rake up dead leaves, flowers, and any tree limbs that have weakened or fallen over the summer. The cleanup will add to the curb appeal of your home and prevent damage or bug and rodent infestations.

 

Prep Your Yard for Winter

The crisp fall weather is the best time to do a lot of landscaping chores and prep your lawn and garden for winter. Prune and trim trees, and plant any new trees or bulbs for spring. Fertilize your yard and any plants that will stay in the ground over winter. Winterize lawn ornaments and garden plants that need protection from the cold.

 

Make Notes of Necessary Repairs and Damage

As you go through your fall cleaning around your home and yard take notes on any damage or necessary repairs you see. These can be things that can be taken care of immediately, or repairs that will need some time and preparation to handle in the future.

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Top Choices for Home Siding

Introduction

 

Every homeowner wants their house to be as beautiful as possible. However, there are a number of different options to choose from. Let us take a very close look at four of the top choices for home siding.

1. Brick

 

To start things off, brick is a tried and true siding option. Brick gives off a very nice finish that goes well with any style of home. Brick is very popular because it cools down the home more than other sidings, making it perfect for hot summer days. Old homes can take advantage of this classic look, and newer homes can also join in on this look for a throwback. Brick can be difficult to keep clean, so regular pressure washing is recommended. 

 

 

2. Wood

 

Wood is another siding that you really can’t go wrong with. The only downside to wood is that it is vulnerable to deterioration in heavy rain. However, if you have some sort of awning or roof on top, this won’t be an issue at all. Moreover, wood allows for ventilation throughout your home. Nobody likes a home full of stale air, and wood allows your home to naturally breathe along with every gust of wind.

 

3. Vinyl

 

Vinyl siding has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a synthetic material that gives off a polished look from every angle. If your home has multiple floors, vinyl is one of the most attractive options. From the street, it shines from top to bottom and is surprisingly durable in itself. Within the category of vinyl, there are variations for homes in both rural and urban locations.

 

4. Aluminum

 

Last but not least, aluminum is a particularly sturdy siding. It won’t bend or break under any circumstances, yet it is soft enough to cool off the home in extreme temperatures. If you live in an unpredictable climate, aluminum is a terrific option. It holds up well in all seasons and is very easy to repair as needed. In addition, your contractor will be delighted to install aluminum siding as it is an easier job on his or her end.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, these are a couple of the top choices for home siding. Consider where you live, the look you are after, and the history of your home when making a decision. You’ll end up with a better home than ever before.

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 A Guide to Keeping Your Home Germ And Allergy Free

Keeping your home germ and allergy-free is more important now than ever. Millions of people search for ways to maintain healthy living spaces. Can you guarantee a complete germ and allergy-free home? No. However, you can ensure you reduce the level of threats in this setting. Taking key housekeeping steps enables savvy homeowners to protect themselves and their loved ones more effectively against a wide array of harmful pathogens in the environment.

About Airborne Bio-hazards

Today, homeowners remain acutely aware of the dangerous viruses. The germs which spread illness in people actually consist of tiny microorganisms. These bacteria, molds, and viruses prove so small people cannot even visualize them. Unfortunately, what you cannot see can hurt you!

 

Disinfecting Living Spaces

Most of us prefer to think of our homes as safe, healthy locations. Yet it remains important to appreciate microbes interacting with us on a constant basis. Even though we cannot see them, colonies of bacteria populate most of the surfaces in our daily environment. Fortunately, the vast majority of these organisms don’t produce diseases. Human beings have developed some key strategies to control the spread of harmful bacteria, viruses, and allergens:

  • Hand washing
  • Sanitizing living areas
  • Maintaining high-quality indoor air

Hand washing

Hand washing (and bathing in general) remain important in ensuring good health. One of the most effective barriers preventing pathogens from harming people seems deceptively simple: the skin. It safeguards every individual against unseen germs. By washing, people use jets of water to physically remove microbes from the skin. Just like a tsunami on a larger scale, streaming water actually carries away bacterial and viral colonies. The CDC recommends frequent hand washing to help prevent the transmission of viruses. Wash your hands frequently under running water for at least 20 seconds. If possible, use soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, too.

Sanitizing Living Areas

People sometimes contact colonies of harmful microbes with their hands. If they touch objects in the home, colonies of germs may begin growing in these locations. Consider wiping down hard surfaces in living areas. A solution of bleach and water will kill most types of harmful germs. Use it to help sanitize kitchen and bathroom countertops, faucets, doorknobs, and other hard surfaces frequently touched by people in the home.

Maintain High-Quality Indoor Air

People and pets also carry allergens into homes inadvertently. For example, tiny pollen spores may cling to fabrics, shoes, or pet fur. Regular carpet cleaning helps control this problem. Check out a Fresno carpet cleaner to find out more about this.  Maintain good indoor air circulation, also! Check and replace your furnace and air conditioner filters frequently.

 

Why Hire a Professional Electrician vs. DIY?


In a world that is enthused with DIY projects, electrical work seems like another choice for cost-cutting measures. However, it may be rather tempting to put up a light, replace an outlet, or run wires to a new room, but it’s often better left to the experts. When dealing with an electrical problem, whether great or small, it’s best to hire a professional. What looks like a great way to save money can end up costing you more in the long run.

Cost

The most common belief is that hiring a licensed electrician is expensive. However, just because you attempt such a task doesn’t mean that you will be successful. You must consider your time, the cost of parts, and any other expenses that go into such repairs. If you mess something up, you may end up having to call in a professional anyway. It could potentially cost you a great deal more than you originally thought.

Safety Concerns

You must remember that working with electricity is extremely dangerous, even for the trained hand. There is so much knowledge that goes into wiring circuits and breaker boxes. If you don’t have the right safety gear or equipment, then you can start a fire or give yourself quite an electrical shock. People have perished attempting to fix problems that they could not handle. Watching a video on the internet could never prepare you for all the possibilities that you may encounter.

Peace of Mind

Dealing with electrical issues is not only scary and dangerous, but it can be deadly. Did you know that there are more than 51,000 household fires caused by electric wiring each year? Even more shocking is that because of those fires, more than 500 people will perish. Americans paid out over $1.3 billion in property damage due to electrical fires. The 1,400 people that were injured were lucky because so many don’t make it out alive.

Do you really want to lay your head on your pillow every night and wonder if you wired that circuit in right? One small error could have devastating consequences. It’s always best to an error on the side of caution.

Protecting Your Investment

It’s best to hire a professional who is licensed, bonded, and insured. Emergency services can be there 24/7 to help you if the situation warrants it. Don’t take your home and your family’s life into your hands when you can have someone who is well-trained handle the issues. Electrical issues are not for the average handyman. When it comes to circuits, wires, breakers, and conjunctions, you need to call in the experts for help.

What are the best flooring options for your house?

Selecting the Finest Flooring for Your Residential Property

It can often be extremely hard and taxing to make major decisions that relate to your home. It can often be especially tough to select home flooring materials. If you install brand-new flooring, you can expect it to be in your life for quite a long while. That’s precisely why committing to any material can be quite stressful. It isn’t exactly easy, fast, or inexpensive to change your mind about home flooring, after all. That’s exactly why you should try your best to make an informed and well-rounded decision from the start.

Kinds of Residential Flooring Materials

If you want to pick home flooring that can satisfy all of your needs and more, then you should first learn about all of the categories that are on hand to you. Hardwood flooring is a biggie in homes practically everywhere. It’s visually appealing, resilient, and a piece of cake to maintain. If you have any concerns about scrapes or imperfections on top floors, hardwood can help you relax. That’s because refinishing has the ability to extract these kinds of flaws.

Bamboo is a flooring material that’s getting a lot of traction in recent times. If you want flooring that’s visually reminiscent of hardwood but that’s kinder to the planet and environment, then bamboo may be ideal for you. Bamboo is another material that’s nowhere near weak or prone to destruction. It can be ideal for residential bedrooms, hallways, and family spaces galore.

Engineered wood is a flooring material that’s a favorite among many home interior design aficionados. It looks a lot like wood that’s solid. It’s also markedly more economical. If you’re searching high and low for a residential flooring material that’s visually enticing but that won’t hurt your financial status at all, then engineered wood may be the way to go for you.

Many people are big on ceramic tile floors these days. Ceramic tile consists of a shale and clay blend. It’s delightful due to the fact that it’s on hand in a vast array of contemporary designs and colors. If you want to turn your residential property into something lovely and distinctive, then getting ceramic tile flooring may prove to be a wise decision for you. It’s a good idea to have your tile professionally cleaned in order to keep it looking great!

Laminate floors often are redolent of stone and wood ones. Although they can look a lot like them, they’re significantly more economical. If you’re searching for home flooring that can decrease your expenses, laminate may be your best friend. It’s not prone to scratching at all. Authentic wood is a lot more vulnerable. It’s critical to meticulously assess any and all home flooring materials that are out there.

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Things to Consider When Hiring a Plumber

 

If you’ve ever had a leaky faucet, clogged toilet, or jammed garbage disposal then you know how valuable a plumber can be. However, if you want to ensure that the job is done properly, then you have to work with qualified professionals. Here are a few things that you should consider when hiring a plumber.

 

  1. Reviews

One of the best things about the internet is that it gives you access to company feedback. If you want to know if a plumber will do a quality job, then check out their online reviews. Sure, their website may have glowing testimonials, but it’s a good idea to log in to sites like Yelp to find out if they provided good service. Ideally, the plumber should have more positive than negative comments.

 

  1. Accreditation

Just because a company has a website doesn’t mean that they have all of the necessary accreditation. When a plumber is accredited it proves that he has the education and experience to carry out work on your system. So before hiring a plumber, make sure that they’ve been licensed and registered.

 

  1. Insurance

Even if you’re working with someone who has years of experience and training, there’s always a chance that something could go wrong such as flooding or other damage. In this case, it’s important that your plumber is insured. If they don’t have insurance you may be tasked with paying for the damages. So before the plumber starts the project, verify their coverage.

 

  1. Warranty

Before signing your contract, you need to know what will happen if something breaks after the plumber has fixed it. In other words, you need to know what kind of warranty or guarantee comes with the individual’s work. Different plumbers offer different conditions. Just keep in mind that best are willing to stand by their work and will offer long warranties.

 

  1. Price

Before you authorize the work, you need to know about the pricing. Not only do you need to know how much they charge but how you’ll be charged. Does the plumber charge by the hour or is it a flat rate fee? And does this estimate include the cost of the materials?

 

  1. Communication

There are a lot of plumbers who are skilled at what they do. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re good at communicating with their customers. If you want to ensure that you’re always aware of what work is being done and what you should expect, ask questions. Is this person making everything clear to you?

 

Conclusion

Plumbing problems can be extremely frustrating. And this is especially the case if you’re working with someone who doesn’t deliver quality service. The good news is, if you do the proper research and choose wisely you can ensure that your job is done well.

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