28 March 2018

Finding the Funds For Property Renovation

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Only 35% of Americans are satisfied with their finances today, so it’s no wonder that many households find it difficult to acquire the extra money to fund a home renovation. However, renovation can significantly improve the value of your property. It might just be the case that coughing up the cash could pay dividends in the long run. Nevertheless, this is an important decision, and not one to be taken lightly by any household. Do examine your options fully before making a potentially costly decision. Let’s take a look at them now.

Come up with a plan

Have in mind what kind of budget you’ll want before you even start to look at financial products. Different types of renovations will need different budgets, so think carefully about the exact improvements you want to make. Will you be knocking down walls? Adding plumbing? Applying for permits? All of these are likely to add significant costs.

One thing to help with your budget is comparing the cost of tradespeople. It could avoid you needing to take out multiple loans, meaning a much lower interest rate overall, and of course, it will give you a lot more piece of mind too! Make sure to compare multiple tradespeople, and also ask for quotes rather than estimates. A quote is a more accurate reflection of the true cost of a service, and unlike estimates, they’re legally binding.

Don’t peso much for a loan!

Another thing to look at carefully is the options you might have to finance the renovation. Someone new to renovation might easily overlook what might have been the best option for them. One option is always to pay out of your own pocket. Unlike any other options, this one comes with a zero percent interest rate - which might be very appealing to some! You might think that you don’t have quite the level of savings for this, but do look carefully at your monthly outgoings to see whether it’s possible to cut back on spending in the short-run to reap those gains in the long run.

If an upfront payment is not an option for you, then when you’re comparing financial products, look for both a low interest rate, no nonsense in the terms and conditions and clear evidence that the entity you’re looking at is legitimate. Alongside personal loans and mortgages, do look at some of the less conventional options too. Consider using a P2P (person to person) lending platform, or calculating a reverse mortgage, as these methods could be end up being the best choice to make.

Safe as houses?

So, there are two big things to think about when renovating your house. Make a detailed plan and then follow through on it: calculate exactly how much the work will cost, and how you’re going to pay for it. Remember, there are plenty of frauds out there looking to make easy money by ripping people off: don’t let yourself be one of them!

23 March 2018

Seven Rules to Follow When Renovating Your Apartment


Whether you live in a studio apartment or something more spacious like The Madrid, renovating is the perfect way to make it your own. If you’re in the market to spruce your place up, then follow these seven essential rules.

1. Always Check With the Landlord

Apartment living comes with its own set of rules, and the person in charge of those is your landlord. Unauthorized changes to your dwelling can lead to fines or eviction, so play it smart. Start by checking your lease to see what upgrades can be made, then ask the landlord directly to get the okay on your project.

2. Hit the Kitchen

Apartments typically come with outdated kitchens since they save landlords money. That’s not always the case, and http://www.carmelapartments.com/the-village/ is living proof, but it might be the first area you want to spruce up.

Simple changes like replacing knobs or repainting cupboards can breathe new life into this space, as can printed contact paper inside the cupboards. To save on space, add adhesive hooks to the insides of your cabinets and some easy to install removable shelving.

3. Bathroom Etiquette

Dealing with a small bathroom? If your porcelain throne room could use an update, start with the showerhead and knobs on the sink then add a shelving unit to help stores things like towels or toilet paper. If you want to go the extra mile, ask about painting the walls a different color or updating the flooring.

4. Floors Galore

Updating the floors is a major change, but most landlords won’t argue if it can help increase the value of the space. They might even reimburse you for part of the cost if you sell the idea to them this way!


Keep your cost down with carpet, laminate, or linoleum. If you can install it yourself, all the better. Whatever you choose, this can make any room feel like it's brand new.

5. Livable Living Space

Apartments can often feel smaller than they are due to cramped furniture arrangements. Thankfully, moving your furnishings around is free and takes a mere few hours to complete. If you’ve already got the ultimate feng shui down pat, then consider swapping out certain pieces with space saving alternatives.

6. Make Use of Space

Have an extra room that you don’t use very often? Why not repurpose it into something more useful? Any room, open or not, can quickly be made into an office or extra space to entertain guests.

If you really want to go the extra mile here, use the smaller space for your bedroom. It might not seem practical, but consider how many more guests you could entertain with the opened up space in the larger room. Besides, how much room do you need just to sleep?

7. Brighten Things Up


A dimly lit apartment will always look smaller than it really is. While ample amounts of natural lighting are nice, it isn’t always an option. Consider adding a few lamps, and keep your eyes peeled for any overhead lighting you can install.

Provided you have permission, you could try out Lantern & Scroll custom lanterns for a truly unique feel, or pick up a few standing lamps to place in the corners of your room. To give different rooms their own vibe, try our different lighting in each.

Renovate Away

These rules are the recipe to making any apartment space feel more spacious, inviting, and aligning them more with your unique personality. By the time you finished #7, you’ll swear you just moved into a new place!

16 March 2018

What Type of Flooring is Best for Your Home?

Many homeowners are looking into purchasing new flooring for their home. But, which type of flooring is right for you? You may be surprised to learn how many types of flooring are available in today’s market. The following are some of the more popular flooring options available today. Since your home has unique needs when it comes to flooring, make sure to choose carefully before purchasing your new floors.  If you're looking to get it installed professionally then you'll have to explore your options depending on the city you live in. Those looking to install flooring in Toronto can consider hiring Zelta Floor & Design to complete the job.

Cork

In cooler climates, cork flooring can be a popular choice. This is because cork flooring insulates homes very well, keeping feet warm in the winter months. Because cork can yellow over time, it’s best to use it in rooms which may not be exposed to as much sunlight, such rooms with windows that don’t get direct sunlight. Cork is a great insulator, meaning it won’t make much noise when you are walking. Cork flooring can also be damaged by standing water.

Hardwood 

Hardwood flooring is an old standby in the flooring world. Hardwood floors retain their value well, and are easily refurbished with some new varnish and a little bit of sanding. This flooring choice is very durable, generally just needing a little vacuuming or sweeping now and then. But, hardwood floors can be costly. Additionally, hardwood can warp if exposed to standing water. Hardwood floors may also be loud when walked upon.

Hardwood flooring can be stained, creating unique shades to compliment your home’s style.
Image Source: Grandiva Online

Laminate

Many homeowners are choosing laminate flooring which mimics the look of hardwood. Laminate flooring is tough to scratch, and it’s easy to clean just as hardwood is. It is also incredibly affordable when compared to other flooring materials. But, standing water can cause major damage to laminate flooring.

Laminate flooring can be made from many materials, including bamboo.
Image Source: Bath Safe Remodeling

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is a popular choice, due in part to its ability to absorb warmth and sound. It is ideal for louder rooms, such as living rooms or dens. But, due to its inexpensive costs, vinyl may not stack up as well against other flooring types when it comes to durability. Vinyl can tear, and its gaps make cleaning a challenge.

Hard Tile


Tile flooring comes in many materials, including stone and ceramic. The pricing of this flooring can vary greatly depending on the type of tile you choose. Typically, tile is not damaged by standing water or high foot traffic. But, tile does not insulate as well as other surfaces. Additionally, the grout between tiles can be difficult to clean.

When it comes to flooring, tile is a popular choice. Due to its strength against
standing water, tile is popular for bathrooms.
Image Source: Hotel Residencia

Carpet

Carpet always brings a luxurious feeling to your floors. It is easy to install, and it provides wonderful heat and sound insulation. But, carpet can be difficult to maintain. The surface can stain easily. Carpet also requires routine steam cleaning to keep the surface looking clean.

With a wide variety of textures, colors and styles, carpet is ideal for any room in your home.
Image Source: PXHere

Factors To Consider When Choosing Home Flooring

Below are the essential considerations when choosing the best flooring for your home:

  • Durability  

Flooring is a home investment. So, invest in high-quality flooring that can provide lasting shelf life, such as tile, vinyl, and laminate. These flooring options are aesthetically pleasing and durable, which your home needs if you have children or pets. Moreover, your kitchen and bathroom flooring should be water-resistant to handle moisture and spills.  

  • Climate   

Moisture and condensation pose damage to hardwood flooring. People in extreme climates shouldn’t get away with hardwood floors. Hardwood flooring cracks when it’s too dry. It also swells and breaks if it’s too humid. The best flooring for hot and humid climates includes vinyl, porcelain, concrete, and rubber.   

  • Underfloor Heating System 

It’s crucial to consider your home’s underfloor heating systems when choosing the best flooring for your home. Tile and stone are the most suitable flooring types for underfloor heating. They possess high thermal conductivity. The heat from the underfloor heating wire or pipe instantly transfers to the floor surface, making your underfloor heating system more energy-efficient.  

Easy-to-install underfloor heating systems are popular, allowing the flooring to generate and retain heat underneath the floor surface. Visit this website to learn more about underfloor heating systems.

There are many different options available when it comes to choosing flooring for your home. Different rooms may call for different flooring materials. Of course, your personal flooring tastes will help determine the type of floor you choose. You should consider cost, flooring comfort, and ease of cleaning when choosing your new floors.


14 March 2018

Meet the Mean Green team

The good folks at CR Brands have made me a Mean Green brand ambassador for 2018 and as such, I get to display the nifty Mean Green banner you can see in my right column and they sent me a collection of Mean Green products to take for a test drive.


I spend a lot of time at home and I spend an undue amount of that time cleaning it seems. I consider myself to be a particular and selective house cleaner and I don't shed my brand loyalties lightly.  With that said, the Mean Green products that showed up here over the past month or so have impressed me mightily and I'll explain why in a moment.

Before I get to that, let me show you the Mean Green products I'll be working with for the next few months.

Mean Green Super Strength

Mean Green Auto & Garage

Mean Green Mildew Destroyer

Mean Green Orange Champ

The product line is rounded out with Mean Green Anti-Bacterial, Mean Green Boat and Vehicle, Mean Green Car Wash (with hose-end applicator), Mean Green Concrete and Driveway Degreaser, Mean Green Heavy Duty Wipes, Mean Green House, Deck and Fence, Mean Green Multi-Purpose and Mean Green Pine Power.

I tend not to use specialty cleaning products in my day to day. Ammonia and hot water is more or less my default cleaning product and I suppose that makes me not only selective, it also makes me cheap.

But my initial trials of these Mean Green products have me second guessing myself. One of the reasons I reach for ammonia so often is that it not only cleans well, it doesn't leave a residue. Well, the mean Green products I've been using work better than my beloved ammonia and they don't leave behind a smear I then have to clean up after I've cleaned.

The Mean Green Mildew Destroyer cleaned the grout lines in my bathrooms and kitchen and honestly, I'd completely given up hope of ever getting my kitchen grout lines clean. I didn't even have to scrub, I just sprayed Mildew Destroyer, let it sit for a few moments and then mopped everything up. Honestly that floor looks brand new.

I bake all the time. I teach baking classes after all so it makes sense that I would bake at home a lot too. I keep my ovens clean but nothing I've ever found can get my oven racks clean. All that changed when I used Mean Green Super Strength on them. I took the racks out of the oven one at a time and set them in the sink. I sprayed them with Super Strength, let them sit for a bit and then rinsed them off. Unbelievable. It worked!

Mean Green Auto and Garage makes short work of engine grease as well as brake dust on wheel covers. Once the weather warms up I'll have it outside and will be able to truly put it through its paces when I wash my car on the driveway.

And finally, Mean Green Orange Champ cleans up my gar cook top better and faster than the plain soap and water I usually use. As a bonus, it makes my kitchen smell like a citrus stand.

Mean Green's website is filled with tips and tricks and there's even a coupon so you can give these products a try,

The whole line of Mean Green products can be found at Lowe's and Walmart; and their website has a store locator to help you find other retailers.

Introducing Roto-Rooter home products

For more than 80 years, the name Roto-Rooter has been synonymous with unclogged drains. Hands down, theirs is the most trusted name in the business and they got that way by doing great work.

Roto-Rooter now makes a line of products that'll keep your drains and septic systems flowing and trouble-free. After all, a drain system you don't have to think about is a good drain system.


The Roto-Rooter home product line consists of

  • Gel Clog Remover
  • Hair Clog Remover
  • Septic Treatment
  • Build Up Remover

The Gel Clog Remover is a product I use regularly. My partner and I live in an older home and we have an iron sewer main. Mercifully, no one uses iron waste pipes in older homes but for those of us in homes built before the arrival of PVC pipes, iron is a fact of life.

Iron degrades over time and that degradation results in a waste pipe with a rough surface on the inside. This rough surface acts as a magnet for anything that passes over it that's not strictly water. Hair, soap scum, grease and garbage disposal waste end up catching on the rough surface and before too long the amount of waste that can flow through the pipe starts getting reduced. We notice it when our second floor drains start to slow down.

Ordinarily, we use another brand of drain cleaner I won't mention but last week I treated the drains with Roto-Rooter Gel Clog remover. I followed the instructions to a T and within 15 minutes everything was flowing smoothly again. Amazing.

Roto-Rooter Gel Clog Remover has 25% more active ingredients than the product I had been using and equally importantly, it has the proper thickness and stickiness (a.k.a. viscosity) to attack the clog by penetrating it. Other products' formulations are too thin and they flow right through a clog or they're too thick and they rest on the surface. Roto-Rooter's increased amount of active ingredients combined with that winning viscosity mean that it works faster as well as working better.

Roto-Rooter products are safe to use on all pipes and septic systems and that's another important consideration I have to bear in mind whenever I have to deal with my old iron pipes. Iron waste lines need to be exposed to as little acid as possible to keep their integrity. Roto-Rooter's formula is sufficiently alkaline to do its job and to keep from damaging my pipes.

It's considered to be some kind of virtue to run vinegar down your sink drains these days but please stop doing that. Vinegar is an acid for starters, so pouring white vinegar down your drain is harming your metal pipes and fittings. But not only that, it doesn't actually do anything to keep your drains free-flowing. Vinegar is a diluted solution of water and acetic acid. By virtue of its chemistry, it can't cut grease or dissolve hair. You need to use something that actually works and I recommend Roto-Rooter Gel Clog Remover.

You can buy Roto-Rooter products at Lowe's, Walmart and many other places and right now, there's even a dollar off coupon on their website.

Get serious about keep your drains clear and your septic system healthy and stick with Roto-Rooter.