Stated by roofing companies in Dallas, your roof is critical to protecting your home from the elements, and if it’s damaged, water leaks are likely, which can lead to mold and other issues.

In this article, we look at the common roofing problems you’re likely to encounter, and how to keep your roof in tip-top shape.

Leaks
Leaks are the most common problem affecting roofs, age and improper sealing are the prime culprits. You can detect leaks by doing a visual inspection inside and looking for signs of water. Fixing a leak as quickly as possible is essential to keeping your family safe from mold that can lead to respiratory issues and allergies, and the integrity of your home’s inner structure.

Poorly Installed Flashing
When the roof is penetrated by a vent, chimney or cooling system, contractors use flashing to seal the gap to prohibit the ingress of water. If the flashing isn’t installed correctly or if it becomes damaged because of weather or age, it can lead to leaks or loose shingles.

In most cases, small holes in the flashing are easy to patch with roofing cement, and you can do that yourself. However, large holes often require the help from a contractor to ensure the job is done right and that the seal is tight.

Soffit Damage
The soffit is material connecting the roof’s overhang with the side of your house. The soffit is an aesthetic and a vital component to roof function. As with many roofing issues, soffit can become damaged because of water from poorly installed or damaged gutters. When gutters aren’t cleaned or installed correctly, water sits on the edge of the shingles and drips down rotting the soffit.

If you have a damaged soffit, the best course is to call in a professional roofing company who can replace the rotted area and match the style to the rest of the house, so the repair is seamless.

Animal Infestation
Yes, animals can damage your roof and can sometimes be worse than what Mother Nature throws at it. Animals that are nuisance include squirrels, bats, birds, mice, and raccoons. These animals usually are looking for warmth and shelter and once in, they can damage wiring or chew up your wood.

Keep animals out by making it tough for them to get in, and that means cutting any branches that overhang the roof. Also, keep your gutters clean to discourage birds from making their nests in them.

Damaged Shingles
Damaged shingles are another major cause of roof problems, and they become damaged because of age or weather. To ensure the health of your roof, make sure you perform routine inspections and repair damaged shingles.

Poor Maintenance
Not maintaining your roof and fixing small problems before they become big ones is another substantial reason roofs leak and fail. It’s vital to the health and longevity of your roof you get up at least once a year and inspect it from the outside and the inside.

Moving to your New Home: Making the Process Easier and Smoother

Having trouble saying goodbye to your family home? That’s normal. Grieve, if you want. And do these things too to cope and make it a little less painful.

Writer: Kit Banares

No matter how many times you move, the entire process can still catch you off guard. Sometimes, you’d wished you’ve done it differently. Following the guidelines below will help you keep track of the tasks you need to accomplish on time.

Preparing and Planning your Move

Before doing anything or packing your things, you should start to create a plan. List down everything you need to do—from packing your valuables, setting your budget, looking for reputable moving companies in cross countries, clean up schedules, and other important tasks you need to accomplish.

To hire Movers or Not? 

There are no right or wrong answers here, but there are things to consider before making a decision. For example, if you’re just moving a few blocks away and you think you have all the time to spare, there’s no need to hire professional movers. On the other hand, hiring a professional mover can simplify the entire process for you. This is necessary especially if you have a lot of stuff you need to move, or the destination is too far.

Some moving companies also offer services that can make it more convenient for their clients. They can help pack and unload your belongings properly, clean up the areas, and make sure everything goes smoothly and on time. Most companies also have insurance bond included on their service package.

When hiring a mover, make sure to check their credentials. Ask for recommendations from your neighbors. If you’re searching online, do a profile check before making transactions. Read reviews about their services. Get feedback from their previous clients. As much as possible, choose agencies nearby your location or your new destination.

During your initial consultation, they should present legal documents such as business permits and license. Read the contract, as well to avoid disappearances in the future. Compare the prices they offer. Inquire about promos and other service packages.

Usually, the moving company may send some of their staff to evaluate and inspect your items. This is to help them recommend the ideal vehicle type you should get. Once you have agreed to their recommendation, you can now discuss the schedule. Before packing the items, it is advisable to take photographs or videos of your valuables. This will help to claim the insurance in case there are damaged items.

Save Money and Make Money for the Move 

After sorting out all your valuables, it’s time to get rid of the items you don’t need. The best thing about it is you can make money from it. Instead of throwing or leaving them behind, put them on a yard sale or sell the items online. For sure, some people may need them, especially those pieces of furniture in good condition. Doing this can also save up some space on the moving vehicle you’re renting.

Finally, make sure to coordinate with your real estate agent or talk to the previous owner of your new home. Inform them about the final moving date. This is to make sure everything is ready upon your arrival. Consider hiring a professional to inspect the property and ensure safety.

Get Exceptional Results When Installing a Fence

With a little effort, you can install a fence on your property and get great results. You only need to avoid some common pitfalls.

When you’re looking to keep your property safe from burglars, trespassers, and even animals, you can’t go wrong with black metal fencing. On top of enhancing security and keeping you safe, the right kind of a fence will complement your property and increase its aesthetic appeal.
Installing a durable fence is the simplest way to increase the value of your property without incurring a small fortune in bills. Some barriers call for the services of an expert, while others are easy to install. If you choose to go down the DIY route, be sure to avoid some common pitfalls.

Observe the boundary lines

The last thing you want when fencing your property is to incur the wrath of your neighbors. That can happen if you mistakenly infringe on their property and could lead to a bitter and expensive legal battle. If you happen to be found guilty of such an offense, you can face a steep fine and penalty.
You’ll also have to pull down your magnificent fence, which will further compound your losses. Instead of taking chances with your hard-earned money, be sure to get it right from the get-go. A quick trip to the local land office can set you on the right path.

If the boundary lines are unclear, retain the services of a reputable surveyor and deal with the problems conclusively. With proper installation, a metallic fence can last you for many years. Getting the boundaries right lets you reap the benefits for many years.

Get the necessary permits

In as much as you are fencing your property to bolster privacy and security, you need to keep within the law, particularly within a residential area. Building codes dictate the necessary permits you need to install a fence around your property. Such laws exist to ensure safety and safeguard the rights of other people in the neighborhood.

The failure to procure the necessary permits could cause you to run afoul of the law. That could have you facing steep fines and penalties after being found guilty of breaking the rules. Such unnecessary costs can inflate the prices, burying you under a pile of debt.
For good measure, it’s crucial that you check with your Homeowners Association. Some HOAs have guidelines on the fences that are allowed in the neighborhood. Such a move keeps you from incurring hefty fines or penalties.

Adhere to the manufacturer’s specifications

You need to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter if you’re to install a fence successfully. Failing to do so can lead to dismal results in addition to ruining the aesthetic appeal of your property. It will also mean having to hire an expert to re-do the work and correct your mistakes. For instance, you need to get the spacing between the posts right to ensure that you have structurally sound fences. Otherwise, you might end up with a weak and unstable wall that is likely to fall apart rather quickly.

With the right approach, you can achieve exceptional results when installing a metallic fence on your property. You get to improve the value and look of your home while keeping it safe or secure. You only need to avoid some common costly mistakes.

Best-Kept Appliance Secrets to Help You Save Money on Electricity

Here are a few tips to help you save money on electric bills without giving up your simple luxuries.

With the rising cost of energy bills these days, keeping them under control is starting to become everyone's goals. However, reducing your energy bills shouldn't require you to sacrifice any of life's simple pleasures. You only need to make a few minor adjustments with the way you use your devices to drive the costs down. So, it's time to bid those substantial electric bills goodbye. The following tips will surely help increase your home's efficiency all year round.

Clean your air conditioner regularly

The best way to make sure your air conditioner is always running at its best is through regular maintenance. Experts suggest cleaning the fins and changing the filter so you can remove all the dust and dirt stuck in it. Also, see if the AC filter needs replacement and lubricate the motor to make sure it'll function properly no matter how many hours you use it.

Buy appliances with the Energy Star logo

Having an Energy Star seal tells you that the item meets strenuous standards for energy efficiency. So, when you're looking for appliances, look for products that have the Energy Star label on it. Experts say that a dishwasher that has an Energy Star label on it requires less water per cycle compared to the gallons that a few older models use. Using an appliance that has an Energy Star logo can be beneficial, especially if you're still paying up for your solar financing for your Utah home.

Use smarter switches

Using motion sensor switches is a great way to manage any left-on lights. These efficient devices turn off automatically to help you save money. Motion sensor devices automatically switch your lights on whenever someone passes by. That's why it's perfect for hallways and bedrooms because you don't have to switch it on whenever you're moving in and out of your room. You can also use it to control your bath fans, so it'll run for a specific period and then automatically turn it off.

Use a power strip

At least 75 percent of general electrical use happens when you're not using your appliances. So, if you want to save money, then it's best to unplug all the electronics that you're not using. Another way to manage your electric bills is by plugging your devices into a power strip. Doing so will make it much easier for you to turn the circuits off entirely once you turn off the strip.

Change furnace filter

Keeping your furnace well-maintained ensures you that it'll run efficiently, helping you save money in the long run. Changing it every month, especially during the summer, will keep it protected from getting clogged. Bear in mind that a clogged filter makes the motor work harder, which requires more energy to use.

Clean your refrigerator

Another appliance that consumes a lot of electricity is your refrigerator. You can efficiently save money by keeping the coils clean. Doing so improves its efficiency by more than 30 percent, which also helps you save money every month.

These are just a few of the things you should consider to conserve energy. Following these steps will certainly help you save money in the long run.

Things You Should Know Before Building a Log Home

Owning a log home is something many people dream about. Some want them for retirement, while others just want a vacation home they can escape to with their families. Whatever the reason, there are some important things to consider before you ever get started.

Maintenance

One of the biggest reasons many people steer clear of log homes is because of the maintenance they require. But the fact is that they probably require less than you realize. In fact, if they’re built well and taken care of, they don’t require a lot more maintenance than any other type of home. For one thing, logs do tend to expand and shift some over time. This can cause leaking and cracks. But if you buy the proper materials and construct them correctly, this won’t be a major issue.

When you do find minor cracks, you can usually fill them in with caulking to prevent further damage. If you’re buying one that’s already constructed, it’s important you hire log home inspection Florida experts or experts from the state you purchased your log home. A professional can let you know if poor construction or prior damage will become an issue for you.

Cost

Building a log home can cost a little more than, say, a stucco house. It takes a special type of skill that not every construction company has. Therefore, your builders may be a bit more in demand. However, when it’s done correctly, it will be a home your family can enjoy for many generations. But aside from the construction costs, you’ll need to consider the mortgage and taxes.

If your log cabin will be a vacation home, the mortgage and tax situation will be a bit different than for a primary dwelling. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s all bad. Admittedly, second mortgages can be more difficult to get approved for, but your rate shouldn’t be any higher. And your tax breaks can actually make up for the extra effort. Starting in 2017, homeowners are able to deduct mortgage interest on up to $750,000 of their loans. You get the most tax breaks on primary dwellings, but even second homes are eligible for some perks.

Insects

Because the homes are completely constructed of wood, insects can pose a big problem. However, you can prevent most of this problem by choosing the right wood during construction. Cedar, hemlock, and cypress are all examples of wood that repels insects. The problem is that these trees are slower-growing than others, so they’re a lot more expensive to purchase.

This is why most log homes are constructed out of faster-growing trees, like pines or firs. Since they grow faster, they are easier to find. But they are also easier and faster to grow for future use. In other words, keeping them in stock is a lot easier. This doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t use them, though. Builders have been using them for centuries and have found solutions that make them a good alternative. Most of this wood is pressure-treated with non-toxic chemicals, such as borate.

Be careful with log home kits

Log home kits can be a less expensive and faster alternative to hiring a crew to fully construct your home. But they can also come with their own sets of problems. For example, many of them don’t contain everything you need. They may come with only the logs. Or they might be so simply designed, that there is no room for creativity or expansion. It’s important that if you decide to go this route, that you research the company well and know exactly what you’ll be getting.

Top 6 Indicators You Need an Expert Plumber ASAP

There is nothing as boring as drainage sluggish in your sink when washing your utensils. Every avid dishwasher will attest to that truth, especially when they are in a hurry of doing something else. Of course, this is a common phenomenon in many homes in Hamilton. But do you have to wait for the drains to be sluggish to call a plumber?

Well, that’s completely unnecessary if you are constantly using your kitchen as we all do. Just as you mow your lawn regularly so should you carry out drainage examination now and then. If you have stayed long enough without checking up the drainage system, there are some things that can signal that you need a plumber immediately.

Hamilton is not deficient of plumbers, but there is that specific one that you need to solve all your drainage systems. You definitely need an expert who is licensed and experienced. The following indicators should put you on toes of looking for the best plumber in Hamilton.

1. Unpleasant smell
Immediately you notice that you are having a bad odor that you cannot trace its source, especially in your washroom and sink, it's time to call a plumber. If the awful aroma is from the kitchen sink only, you need to check for the food particles blocking the pipe. However, at https://www.plumbwize.ca/plumber-hamilton/ you can have an experienced plumber that will diagnose your drainage and unblock them.

2. Water leaks
Well, this can easily damage your walls and give you some extra task to look at. You should be able to fix a simple leak by simply tightening the pipes. Nevertheless, you need to contact a plumber if the problem persist. By fixing those leaky pipes you significantly reduce your bills and damages.

3. Drop in the water pressure
A normal pipe should allow water to flow efficiently to the tap without any resistance. If you notice a sudden drop in the pressure of the flowing water, you need to visit https://www.plumbwize.ca/plumber-hamilton/ for a plumber because it is a sure sign there is a blockage or an underground leak which can be very frustrating for you to find.

4. Brown-colored water
This is a sure indication that there is some rusting on one of your pipes especially in the heater. To avoid rusting many plumbing contractors in Hamilton are using PVC pipes. But in case, your drainage system is made up of metallic pipes, rusty water is an indication for the need for repair.

5. Sluggish drains
As previously indicated, this is a sign that your drainage is blocked. Although you may try to unblock the pipes, only a qualified plumber has the knowledge of identifying where the problem is.

6. Screeching faucets
Ever heard of such noises when you open your faucet? Well, your pipes are not haunted as you may think, it’s a sign that some air is penetrating your pipe at a certain point and you need a repair immediately.

Conclusion
Identifying drainage blocks can be quite a task, especially when the damage is internal and not visible. If you notice your lawn getting greener at some area where the drainage has passed or some damaged or stained walls in your house, it's time to call a professional plumber.

Smart Home Technology That Can Save You Money

When it comes to cost saving tips for the home, it’s safe to say that smart home technology is definitely at the top of the list. Smart home technology can not only help you save money, but it can help you streamline your daily household tasks, keep your home and family safe, serve as a reminder for things you have to get done.

“Today’s homes are highly connected,” says Peter Goldberg, the CEO of home retailer Bouclair. “Homeowners aren’t just searching for the best furniture and decor to keep up interior appearances; they’re also looking for functional ways to curate a home to their lifestyles and needs.”

Smart home technology is also designed to be sleek, minimal, and modern, allowing it to blend in seamlessly with your home’s design aesthetic. Even if you don’t have a modern home design, you’ll find that many smart systems are small and inconspicuous: no matter how your home is decorated, they never take up too much space or detract eyes from where you want people to focus. With that in mind, here’s smart home technology that could save you a few bucks and make your home life easier and safer:

Smart Smoke & Fire Detectors
You don’t think of smoke and fire detectors as an issue that could pose a risk. As a passive device, these systems don’t get the maintenance and care that they deserve. According to a National Fire Protection Association report, 21% of deaths that have occurred as a result of a fire could have been prevented with an updated smoke and fire alarm system.

With such grim statistics, it’s a great time to ensure your family is properly protected with a smart fire detector. Antiquated fire prevention technology simply doesn’t provide the level of security that many homes could benefit from. Smart detectors have long battery lives, a much higher level of effective detection (which can catch the scent of a fire long before it happens), automatic alerts, and much more.

Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are small, simple devices that pack a powerful punch. When smart plugs are installed, they become an intermediary between the outlet and the devices that you plug into that outlet. If you’ve ever left the house thinking you forgot to turn something off, you’ll have a much better peace of mind knowing that you can power any item on and off remotely through your mobile application.

It also allows you to run a much more efficient household. For example, if you prepped a slow cooker before you headed out to work, you could power it on from your work desk and have it ready by the time you got home. Smart plugs also provide valuable data usage statistics that show you which appliances take up the most energy, and this could allow you to identify ways you can save on your bill.

Smart Thermostat 
A smart thermostat allows you to control your home’s temperature from anywhere remotely, any day of the year. This is ideal for people who find themselves adjusting the temperature often, especially throughout the day in areas with hot days and cool nights. A user would simply pull out their phone and adjust the thermometer with a few clicks.

There are several other reasons a smart thermostat is a worthwhile investment. For starters, with a much greater sense of temperature regulation, you could save plenty of money. One smart thermostat, called the Nest Learning Thermostat, claims to save their users around $145 annually on their bill.

Customers are able to save costs because the application provides important usage information that allows you to identify when your household temperatures and costing the most, allowing you to make data-driven decisions about how you’re maintaining your home. You’d also be able to turn your heating or cooling system off while you’re away—especially when you’re gone for a long period of time, such as a vacation. Then, before you arrive, turn it back on so it’s ready for you.

Smart Mold Sensors
If left untreated, mold can quickly become a serious and costly household issue. Traditional mold kits that you can buy from the store aren’t always effective, and sometimes by the time you purchase a mold kit, it’s far too late and the mold issue has grown. The cost of removing mold from a home can be upwards in the several-thousands range if you aren’t careful. Smart sensors and vents like Ecovent can effectively gauge the air to determine when mold presents a threat.

How to be lean with your water usage at home

If you haven't read the news, water is getting expensive. Sure, this is impacting some cities more than others, but most people around the country are suffering and it's yet another monthly bill to grow concerned about.

Fortunately, a lot of us are missing far too many tricks when it comes to water consumption. There are plenty of things that you can do in the home to lower your water bills and through today's post we will take a look at some of the ways to help you do this.

Tackle that leaking faucet early

If you have a leaky faucet or two, you're not the only ones, trust us. At the same time, this doesn't mean to say that you shouldn't be looking to get the problem resolved.

Let's take a look at the numbers. If you had just one faucet, dripping once every minute, you would immediately lose 34 gallons of water per year. Let's not forget that most leaky faucets are much bigger offenders, so you will probably be losing much more!

As such, find a faucet repair service in Atlanta or your city of residence and get the problem fixed.

The same rule applies to toilets

Sure, if your toilet is leaking we're hopeful that many of you would take more immediately action! Just to put some more numbers out there though, in some cases a leaking toilet can cost you 200 gallons per day. Again, call the plumber in as a matter of urgency.

Be shrewd with your dishwasher

If you pre-wash your dishes before they hit the dishwasher you are making a principal mistake. This has come directly from the manufacturers of some dishwasher tablets, who say that their products work more efficiently if there is residue for the enzymes to attach to.

Ultimately, if you are pre-washing before each load, you are wasting a lot of water. Want hard and fast numbers? The experts believe that this could be as high as 10 gallons of water per load. Not only that, but umpteen studies have confirmed that dishwashers are more effective than washing the dishes by hand.

Your garden is a project in itself

In truth, we could have penned a whole dissertation on the wonders of saving water in your garden. There are a whole host of possibilities, but let's start with irrigation.

In short, if you are using one of the older systems here, you are wasting water and money. Nowadays, these systems are completely efficient and will even tie themselves into real weather conditions to ensure your garden is receiving the perfect amount of water. In other words, they are not left on all of the time.

Then, there is the topic of rainwater capture. This doesn't have to ruin your landscaping; even a 50-gallon drum can be hidden away and collect water from your gutters and downspouts. You can then tap into this supply to water your garden in future, and save gallons in the process.

Creating a Comfortable Home Office

Working from home has its perks. You’ll never have to worry about office politics, a dress code, or someone heating fish in the office microwave. But you’ll have challenges, too. It can be tough to be productive when we work from home, and it can be difficult to cultivate the right kind of work-from-home environment. To really be effective at working from home, you’ll need a great home office that will encourage you to work hard and be productive.

That’s easier said than done, but we have some tips that could help you out. Here are a few things that could help you create the ultimate home office.

Carve out a separate space

Our minds are fickle things, and they can often work against us. One of the tough things about working from home is that it can confuse your body and mind, making it tough for you to designate work time from playtime. If you’re staring at your work desk as you fall asleep, you may find it hard to get restful sleep. If you’re seeing your PlayStation 4 out of the corner of your eye as you work on a project, you may get distracted.

One of the best things that you can do for yourself as a work-from-home professional is to carve out a designated space for your work. A separate room is ideal, but that’s not your only option — you could create a zone within a room for work. The important thing is to set your work area apart in your space so that you can set it apart in your mind, too.

Make sure friends and family know you’re “at the office”

When you’re home all day, it’s easy for others to forget that you’re at work. If you have family around, they may try to strike up a conversation. Friends may want to stop by. And others that you live with may ask you to run errands.

Be sure to let people know that you are “at work,” even if you’re right there in the next room. Set boundaries with friends and family, and don’t let them disrupt your busy work schedule.

Get your morning routine right

As a work-from-home professional, you’ll no longer have to commute. That’s great! But you will need some kind of morning routine that tells your body and your mind that it’s time to work.

Make sure that you get up and run through a full morning routine each morning. Take a shower and get dressed. You may even want to talk a walk around the block to get some air — a virtual “commute.” Wear clothes that make you feel like you’re “at work,” because you are!

Then grab a coffee and get down to work. You can save a lot of money on your “office” coffee, by the way, by joining a subscription coffee club that will send fresh coffee to your doorstep on a regular basis. You may also want to program your coffee maker to start brewing a fresh batch every morning as you get up.

Keep your property comfortable and functional

When commercial office spaces are run down and working poorly, they affect the productivity of the professionals who occupy them. The same is true of your working space, which is also your home.

Stay on top of things like plumbing, electrical repairs and maintenance. The right temperature can be key to productivity, say the experts at ac repair Cape Coral. And being proactive about maintenance and repairs to vital systems like your home’s HVAC or plumbing system will save you money in the long run, because preventative maintenance is virtually always cheaper than sudden emergency repairs to broken things. By keeping your home comfortable and functional, you’ll ensure that your home office is in tip-top shape for your workday.

Interior Design Do’s and Don’ts for Every Beginner

It goes without saying that a home’s interior design is what really makes it come alive. A good interior design can make or break a home; it can make a home feel inviting or stale, lived-in or sterile.

However, before you take the plunge to completely redo your home, you should educate yourself on some proper do’s and don’ts that come with interior design. After all, these small little hacks can help transform your space.

Don’t: rush out and completely redecorate an entire room all at once

Decorating takes time. You don’t have to settle when it comes to decorating, and if you don’t find anything you like right now, consider taking a break to figure out what you really need in the room.

Questions to consider: How do you live in the space? What do you need to make it functional? Is what you have right now sufficient? You may not actually need much more than what you currently have.

Do: pick what you like, and only what you like

You don’t have to go out and paint a room in a trendy print or color if you aren’t a big fan. This is your home, after all, and it should have everything you want in it, and nothing else.

Don’t: choose your paint first

Your paint should always be chosen last, as it is the backdrop to your room and is meant to enhance everything else that is in it.

Do: choose your fabrics first

The fabrics in the room (such as the curtain, rug, and furniture) should all be chosen first as they are the room’s focal points. They will be the items that set the mood you’ll get from the room. Don’t know where to start? Try choosing the rug first, because it’s essentially the foundation of the room.

Don’t: go overboard with framed pictures

While yes, framed pictures are great for adding personality to your room, they can look cluttered if you have too many in one area.

Do: choose canvas prints instead

Canvas prints are great for adding unique memories all around your home. You can pick any picture you’d like and it will be blown up and printed on a canvas board in any size of your choosing. Not only are canvas prints interesting to look at, they easily add texture to your walls as well.

Don’t: skimp on your curtains

It may be hard to believe, but wider and longer curtains can easily make any small room look large and breezy. A good size curtain will pool on the floor, so as a rule of thumb: the longer the drapes, the better.

Do: stay away from white

The color white can look incredibly stark, and it’s the easiest way to make any home look unlived in and sterile. Create a comfier space while adding light into the room by choosing a muted ivory or cream.

Don’t: match furniture and the carpets exactly

There should only be one statement piece in each room. To bypass this, avoid matching furniture and your carpets exactly. So this means if you are going for a patterned rug, everything else in the room should be a solid color, in a color that is seen on the rug.

Same goes if you are choosing a fancy chair or couch — you don’t want things to clash and seem to gaudy. Just stick with the tones of the large pattern for the rest of the room and you won’t have to worry about your room looking “too busy”.

With these tricks in mind, you’ll be well on your way to decorating up a storm in your home.

5 Common Plumbing Repairs Every Homeowner Should Be Prepared For

Nothing lasts forever. That’s something most homeowners understand only too well. Whether it’s an appliance that suddenly decides to quit on you, or a pipe under your kitchen that bursts needing immediate attention, it is important to stay on top of those repairs. This is especially important when it comes to the kitchen or bathroom because those are the two areas every home must have in good working order.

If a ceiling fan should suddenly stop working in a bedroom, it’s no big deal. You can usually survive without that extra bit of circulation, but if the oven should suddenly quit a few days before Thanksgiving, or the element in the hot water heater burns out, those are things that need immediate attention. As a homeowner, it pays to be prepared for the most common plumbing repairs you may need to make. These are the repairs which usually can’t wait.

1. Water Heaters

When it comes to water heaters, the most common problems are elements that burn out. However, sometimes you need a whole new unit. This is something you may not be able to diagnose and/or repair yourself so it would necessitate a licensed plumber to make a house call. This could be problematic in huge metropolitan areas of the country such as heavily populated Southern California.

You may need to find a plumber with a service area that extends from Los Angeles to Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, especially if you need emergency repairs on weekends. Water heater installation and repairs are services that, as mentioned, usually take a licensed plumber, so this is why it pays to keep the number of a plumber like Edward’s Enterprises handy. You never know when that water heater might go on the blink.

2. Dripping Faucets

Is there anything more annoying than dripping faucets? Even so, as annoying as they might be, the cost of losing all that water can quickly add up on your next utility bill. While you might joke about the noise those dripping faucets make being like Chinese water torture, they are no joke when you see just how high your water bill is.

In fact, to see just how much those leaky faucets are costing you each year, check out the Drip Calculator provided by The American Water Works Association. It may be a quick fix like a washer and it may require a whole new faucet, but either way, that’s a whole lot cheaper than your water bill. You can count on that!

3. Leaking Pipes

Most often you will need a plumber to repair broken pipes. Unless the pipe is situated above ground or in the interior of the home such as the pipes running on a wall by a washer or water heater, it would be a job beyond what the average homeowner could handle.

This is one repair which can’t wait because of the danger of water damage to the home. Not only can severe leaks cause black mold, but the structural damage could be irreparable if left leaking for lengthy periods of time.

4. Clogged Drains

Clogged drains can be easy to fix if the problem is in the pipes under the sink or tub. Usually something is simply caught in the elbow, but other times it isn’t the drain at all. Sometimes roots have busted through pipes which cause the actual pipes to become clogged and over time, that backs up into the basin.

If you can’t plunge or clear a clogged drain easily with a snake, plunger or chemical, and if there is nothing apparently blocking the elbow, it’s probably time to call in the plumber. Finding the clog may not be as easy as you think.

5. Toilets Constantly Running

Most people aren’t aware of just how much water is wasted with a toilet that constantly runs. By some estimates, a running toilet can waste up to, or even more than, 200 gallons in a single day. That’s a lot of water to waste! Not only will you be wasting one of our precious resources, but your water bill will be sky high. Typically, the problem is a faulty valve that simply wore out over time. They are easy to replace with a few tools, but if you are mechanically challenged, it might be time to call in the handyman or plumber.

When in Doubt – Call a Plumber

So, there you have five of the most common plumbing problems every homeowner should be prepared to deal with. Some can be quite easy and inexpensive to fix and others may be a bit costly requiring specialized equipment and skills. In any case, you can’t leave plumbing in ill repair for lengthy periods of time because those leaks, drips and clogs can end up costing you way more than you are prepared to pay. If in doubt, call a plumber.

Changing Your Home When Aging

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As we get older our needs change. Our homes should change with us. Although many aging people want to hang on to the things that are near and dear to their heart, it is best to keep it simple. It is good to hang on to a few choice things, yet pare down to keep life light and simple. Aching bodies and lower energy can make life a little more difficult when we are older. It is best to keep life as simple as possible when older so we can deal with each challenge aging may throw at us. Simplifying your home and making it easier to get around as we get older is a must.

Clearing the Way

Open space to easily get around is important when getting older. This stops people from running into things. This also helps to have a clear mind and feel safe when getting around your home. If you or your spouse needs a walker to get around, having wide space and wood floors helps. You can do two things if you have a two-story home. You could remodel and just make a one story livable space and use the second story for storage. You can also install stair lifts to help you get up the stairs.

Accessible Kitchen

The kitchen is also another area where you can make your life simpler when aging. You can redesign the kitchen to adjust for maybe height differences. If you can have a sink where you do not have to bend your back, but is custom made for your size, this helps. This will help with any back problems over time. Also, having a wire dish rack at eye level can help with doing dishes. It may be harder for an elderly person to keep bending over to a dishwasher. By having a dish rack, you can place the dish neatly on the rack and have them air dry. By having the rack at eye level, you can transfer the dishes right to the cabinet. Working with a kitchen designer to make your kitchen easier to function in is great when aging.

Storing and Condensing

The hardest part of getting older is having to reduce the size of what you have. There are usually a lot of memories associated with stuff in your house that you can not part with. It is important to let go of some things and keep the most important things. There is another angle you can approach this without having to let go of everything and still make space and that is by getting self storage unit in London as an example if you live close to that area. As long as you're close to civilization you can easily find an easily accessible and secure storage facility.  You can utilize some of your memorabilia into the decorating of your house. Once you do that, and have one neatly organized room full of storage bins with lids, that is about all you should have. Anything more can become so burdensome to you. You want a clean slate throughout old age to be able to think freely and well. Aging itself is hard enough, make your home easy to live in.

The Bathroom

Balance becomes an issue as we age. The bathroom, and getting in and out of bathtubs and even showers, can be a potential hazard. It is important to have nonstick on the floor of all bathrooms and showers. Remodeling a bathroom so it can be a walk-in shower with enough room for a chair is ideal. This way, there is no harm in a person getting up and down from a bath. Also, a grab bar is essential to make sure you can hold on to something getting up and down from the chair. Many older people won't take as many showers as they should in fear of hurting themselves. This should be easily taken care of with a walk-in shower with the proper chair.

Getting older is inevitable, but you can stay in your home a lot longer than you think with a few changes. If you can foresee into the future a bit and adjust your house while you have more vigor and energy, that would be good. The easier you make your house to live in as you age, the longer you can stay in it.

How to Keep Your Kitchen Humming Over Christmas

While we all tend to think that the lounge area is where it’s at over Christmas, that’s not usually right. The festive season is a time when family and guests alike tend to hover around the kitchen because that’s where all the food preparation is going on.

When people are in and out of the kitchen area preparing tasty bites for everyone to enjoy or refilling drinks once again, people tend to gravitate there too. That’s even more the case when there’s a table to sit down, talk and eat at. With that said, you want to make sure everything is organised before the chaos descends.

Here are a few tips to keep the kitchen humming along well this Christmas.

Check All Kitchen Appliances are Working

Having a failing oven, a grill that won’t get hot enough, or a hob that’s playing up is less than ideal at Christmas time when you don’t have good alternatives. Similarly, if your household relies on a decent coffee machine producing delicious mugs of hot coffee to wake everyone up on cold winter mornings, then that coffee machine better not fail on you now.

Check all the kitchen appliances that you’ll use over the holidays. Ensure they are functioning properly with zero problems. If the cooker or oven is playing up, get someone in to perform some maintenance on them to diagnose what the problem is. Hopefully, if the appointment is made early enough, they can still order in a part if one needs to be replaced and they don’t have it in stock presently.

Also, look at the kitchen, countertops, flooring and other areas. If you’re realising that your kitchen is struggling along on its last legs or parts of it need replacing, such as the floor, then consider visiting the Fishpools website for ideas on how to remodel the kitchen. Not only can you find great decoration and kitchen designs, but you can also find more ideas on fishpools.co.uk for Christmas preparations too.

Get Some Cooking Books to Impress with Christmas Food

Whether you’re an undying fan of Jamie Oliver, are partial to the sharp tongue of Gordon Ramsey or prefer Nigella Lawson for a bit of posh, it’s sensible to have some Christmas themed cookbooks to hand.

Get some inspiration for what to prepare this holiday season to surprise friends and family at every turn. Some of the best Christmas books include Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook, The Great British Bake Off for some cakes and other delicious treats straight from the oven, and Nigella’s Christmas from Nigella Lawson which is still selling well after being released 3-4 years ago.

Try out a few different recipes to get the hang of them before serving them up to family or guests who are visiting. Put your best foot forward to impress everyone with your culinary skills.

Put Out Your Best Plates and Cutlery for the Holidays

If you’re like most British families, you tend to only put out your best plates, bowls, and cutlery for special occasions and keep them hidden away at other times. It’s an old-fashioned tradition that some families still enjoy following because it keeps their best cutlery and china preserved. When it’s an important day, they like to make it extra special by upping the mark on the presentation by using their best.

If that’s your family, don’t leave it until Christmas Day to bring out your finest because it gets too little use that way. Enjoy using it through the month of December; you own it, why not enjoy it?!
Plan Out Meals to Ensure There’s Enough Fresh and Frozen Food

For times when you’re not going to be preparing new dishes or spending extensive time in the kitchen, it’s sensible to plan out the meals each week leading up to Christmas and beyond.
Doing so makes food shopping trips much less hectic because with a meal plan you know exactly what proteins and vegetables are required for the next seven days. The same goes for if you shop online for food now and get it delivered.

Be Ready in Case There’s a Power Cut

Make some plans in case there’s a short power cut at home. It can happen at the most inopportune moment. Consider whether some candles and candle holders would be a good move or present too much of a fire hazard with kids or pets running around. Know where the fuse box is and how to reset electric fuses. Use a smartphone for a temporary light source.

Check whether you have any usable blankets to keep warm in case the electricity cuts out for a couple of hours in the evening when it’s getting chilly. The loss of indoor heating will certainly be noticeable at that time.

Don’t forget to decorate the kitchen area, but do so carefully. Avoid any decorations hanging over or near the cooking area because Christmas decorations are flammable. Strategically hang the decorations in a safe manner to keep the seasonal feel but without creating safety concerns.