How to Hire a Professional Roofer in Your Area

Replacing your roof is a difficult, comprehensive job. You may be inspired to take a do-it-yourself approach to the task, but it can be dangerous to yourself and potentially hazardous to your home. The last thing you want is to damage your roof even further during a renovation or repair! Hiring a professional roofer is an effective means of taking full advantage of a company's knowledge and experience to attain the results you want. But actually hiring a roofer may be confusing or daunting for some. Here are a few key tips for hiring a professional roofer in your area.

Get a referral from past customers

Are you looking to hire a top-rated professional roofer, but uncertain how to get started? Why not begin with getting a referral from a past customer? Some roofing companies participate in a referral program with their clients that can pass savings and high-quality work onto new customers. Previous customers such as a business or individual will likely get a few referrals from the roofing company that they can pass on to other people. This can help you gauge the quality of the roofer and decide if you want to interview them for your project. Another way to assess a potential roofer is to check out their past work. A roofers website will likely have a portfolio of previous work and there may be some places locally you could go take a look at to gauge whether you want to hire their services. 

Learn as much detail about the vendor as possible

Training, experience, license, and insurance are all key factors to look for in a roofer. It is dangerous to hire an unlicensed roofer. Doing business with an unlicensed referral can cause insurance issues and liability problems after working with them. Sometimes scammers will go door-to-door to try to sell you unlicensed roofing services,  it's best to avoid these services as they are likely unlicensed every state has different licensing requirements, so ensure your roofer has the proper up-to-date/maintained license for their business. Also, ensure they have insurance – especially liability insurance – before hiring. As you go through the selection process, ask them about their training procedures and experience to determine whether they're a good fit for the job. Often, all of these factors work in conjunction with each other to demonstrate a roofing company's professionalism and trustworthiness. 

Search reviews and potential vendors online

So, why are reviews important? Regardless of the quantity of positive or negative reviews, detailed entries provide insight into a roofer’s business practices. Are customers typically satisfied with the work? Does the roofer provide a warranty? Were they easy to work with? Friendly? What sort of costs were associated with the project? Were there any major incidents or concerns throughout the project? Reviews can answer these and more questions, so be sure to read as many as possible and avoid any roofers with particularly negative feedback. Put together a list of possible roofers for your project by searching online for “the ten best roofers near me” and reaching out/interviewing a few of them before making a hiring decision. Learning as much as possible about the people you’re trusting to work on one of your home’s most essential elements is crucial to successfully complete your roof renovation.

Find out how long the installation will take

Roof upgrades or brand new installations can vary on the length of time it’ll take to complete the job. A small roof or simple repairs might take a day. Most jobs, however, require around two or three days to finish. More complex roofs will require more time. When you’re preparing to hire a roofer, have them come out to your home to perform an estimate. A roofing estimate will cover—among other things like materials cost and payment methods—an estimated timetable for the job’s completion. If you like the estimate, have the roofer submit a proposal to fully lock-in a time frame and cost. If you're satisfied with their proposal and believe they're a good fit, then it may be time to sign a roofing contract with them so you can get your project off the ground as soon as possible.

Ask about the company's safety procedures

Protecting themselves and their workers is an essential function of any quality roofing company. Ask to review the company's safety policies/procedures and find out if their OSHA standards are up-to-date. If they're not, you should seek a different company. OSHA compliance is essential for roofing companies. Are they using a guardrail and fall protection system as required by OSHA standards? If not, they can put themselves, the property, and those around them in danger. Ladders, scaffolding, and lifts should also be of good quality with up-to-date inspections. Inquire about what sort of safety procedures they have in place to protect your property damage or injuries. Ensuring that all the safety standards are in place sets everyone up with a positive and safe experience for the duration of the project.

3 Environmentally Friendly Ways to Dispose of Garbage

No matter how conscious you are with what you purchase, you will inevitably have garbage at the end that needs to be disposed of. When getting rid of waste, there are eco-friendly practices you can adopt that will help support a healthier world to live in and reduce your carbon footprint. Small but simple measures can make the world of difference, so here are some environmentally friendly ways to dispose of garbage. 

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Recycle

The most common and eco-friendly way to get rid of garbage is by recycling. There are tons of benefits you can gain from recycling waste, such as conserving natural resources, saving energy, and reducing how much waste is incinerated or sent to landfills. Before you start recycling, you must purchase the correct containers and put different types of waste into them.

Whether it’s glass, paper, plastic, or metal, the last thing you want is to mix garbage up as this could cause problems. Also, while 75% of waste can be recycled, many homeowners don’t have any clue what types of materials can be recycled. If you’re completing a home improvement project and are using a roll off dumpster, knowing the dos and do nots will mean you know what items can go into it.

Composting

For those who love to cook, you will inevitably have some food waste at the end. Instead of all your excess food going in the trash can, why not consider composting it? Composting transforms your food waste into fuel that can be used for the plants in your backyard. Even if you don’t have tons of outdoor space or live in an apartment block, you can donate your compost to a local garden.

If you’re worried about composting being expensive, think again. All you will need is a compost bin to get started which can house all kinds of foods, including fruit waste, vegetable peelings, and grass cuttings. All of these are quick to break down and will provide soil rich in vital nitrogen and moisture. Composting adds nutrients to your soil, reduces landfill waste, recycles kitchen waste, and is fantastic for the environment. 

Reusing

When you go grocery shopping, how many times do you bring along a reusable bag? If the answer is not many, now is the time to get into the habit of reusing. Plastic consumption is at an all-time high, and if you’re the type of shopper who purchases plastic bag after plastic bag, you may not be aware of the damage this can have for the environment. Plastic takes roughly 450 years to decompose, so instead of sending it all to a landfill, purchasing a cloth bag and using it frequently is a great idea. Reusing bags will also save you a great deal of money in the long run.

If you’re a homeowner who is looking at ways to be more environmentally friendly, using any of the practices above to discard your garbage can make a real difference to the world. It’s easy to be more eco-friendly, so whether you recycle, compost your waste, or reuse different items, getting into the green habits is key for helping future generations and saving the planet. 

5 Signs Your Paving Needs Replacing

If it has been more years than you care to imagine since you last had your driveway or parking lot paved, you may start noticing more cracks and potholes which could signal that now is the right time to get it replaced. Your asphalt pavement only has a certain lifespan, especially when you factor in heavy traffic, UV rays, and freeze-thaw cycles that can all cause wear and tear over the years. If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a revamp, here are some key signs your paving needs replacing.

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Potholes

We all know how much of a nuisance potholes can be when driving, so if you have noticed them forming in your paving, it’s time to get it fixed. Potholes occur when water freezes below your pavement, creating upward pressure and cracking the asphalt. To avoid any accidents occurring, look into enlisting the help of experts like richfieldblacktop.com. The longer potholes are left in your paving, the more damage your vehicles may sustain, not to mention it being hazardous for pedestrians. 

Standing Water

If you’ve noticed standing water forming in your paving, this is never a good sign and must be rectified as quickly as possible. Potholes and deep cracks can harbor water before it has had a chance to drain properly, resulting in extensive damage to your paving’s foundation. If you notice puddles are still in your pavement a couple of days after heavy rain, you must hire a professional who will come out and inspect it for water damage. 

Discoloration

Your asphalt pavement ideally should be black. However, over time, the color may begin to fade thanks to rain, sun, and harmful UV rays. If you have noticed a discoloration in your paving, this will put it at a higher risk of developing cracks and potholes. No matter what concerns you have, it’s always best to consult with a contractor who will check whether the discoloration warrants a paving replacement. 

Crumbling Edges

Parking lots, pavements, and roads are secured with concrete at their edges. However, as time passes, these edges can start to disintegrate and break away, resulting in debris spilling out onto the street. If you’re a homeowner or work in property management, your priority should be on other pedestrians in the area, as any damage will put their health and safety at risk. If you notice crumbling edges, you must get it repaired or replaced immediately. 

Sinkage

An asphalt pavement is best created on a crushed gravel area. However, the base can start eroding over time, meaning you may begin spotting sinkage close to the area of the asphalt pavement. If sinkage occurs, this is a major sign that water is trapped in downspouts, so you must contact a gutter repair service as quickly as you can. 

Whether you’re a homeowner or property manager, updating your paving will instantly boost your curb appeal. If you have noticed any of the red flags listed above, you should get your paving replaced, otherwise more damage will accumulate. 

Finding a Top Flooring Company in NJ

A real estate property cannot be said to be complete without proper flooring. This is why we advise residents of New Jersey and every other part of the nation to be particular about their flooring.

This part of the house has to be in the right shape considering its importance. This is why this article will discuss the importance of having a good floor and the essential services of flooring companies. The whole purpose is to engage the best flooring company in NJ so you can enjoy all the benefits that come with good flooring.

What Do Flooring Companies Do?

A flooring company offers the professional service of installing various kinds of floors in a building. Some of the flooring options that can be installed include the following:

• Vinyl
• Natural Hardwood
• Synthetic Hardwood
• Concrete
• Mable
• Ceramic
• Linoleum
• Terrazzo

These are just a few of the flooring options that can be explored by people who need the services of these service providers.

However, the choice eventually made would be largely influenced by your location and needs. As a result, you are supposed to ask yourself some very important questions before making a choice. Some of the pertinent questions include the following:

• How much humidity and moisture is generated because of the weather condition?
• Is there any provision for improved air quality inside the property?
• Is there a need for a child-proof floor?

Such questions will help you figure out the best floor for your residential or commercial space. The point is that you should not only choose an option simply because it is your preference. You need to be certain about its functionality.

Other than installation, these service providers offer the following services:

Industry and Professional Advice

As explained earlier, carrying out a flooring project is a very important process. As a matter of fact, a property should not be considered ready until this process is effectively carried out.

You are expected to consult with a flooring company to get the best option for your location and needs. These service providers are in the best position to give you professional advice because of their line of work.

For instance, they can advise you on the flooring option you should go for, the brand you should purchase, and several other issues.

Sales of Various Kinds of Floors

Whether your decision is natural or synthetic hardwood, rug or carpet, concrete or marble, many of these companies are into the sales of these items.

Although there are random salespersons who sell these items, buying from these companies is a lot better.

For one, it is economical and reduces stress. For instance, buying from them will also mean you have the right hands to handle the installation. Furthermore, they understand the industry well enough and know how to avoid the wrong products.

So, buying from these service providers means you are buying top quality for the most part.

Installation

This is the most technical aspect of the whole process. You can maneuver your way around getting the right product, getting it at the right price, and all that. However, installation is a different ball game as it takes a professional to carry it out properly.

So, we suggest that you do not try going down the DIY path for installation. For instance, a capable service provider understands how to go about installing shock absorbers, adding decorative elements, strips, and blocks.

The point is that this is their game and you should hand the project over to them. For more on this subject, you can visit: https://www.youramazingplaces.com/hire-professional-flooring-company/

Repairs and Maintenance

Your floor will need some repairs at some point. Hiring this service provider is the right thing to do when it is time for repairs.

For instance, you may realize that certain parts of the house (like the kitchen) may have been affected by moisture or humidity. This can in turn affect your floor and there is the need to address it on time. These professionals can come in handy during such times.

Furthermore, they also carry out maintenance. These companies conduct maintenance of various hardwood floors using machines such as the drum sander, edger, orbital sanders, and a few others.

Importance of Proper Installation of Your Floor

The floor is a very important part of the house. Some of the critical roles it plays are listed and explained below:

Makes the Interior Design Good Looking

It might interest you to know interior decorators do not joke with the floor. This is because it plays an important part in how a space will look. A bad or bad-looking floor can send the wrong message.

So, you are strongly advised to pay attention to the look of your floor if you want your space to look good.

It Impacts on Your Health

Many people who decide to handle the flooring project themselves do not realize the health impact of this part of the house. They will allow the professionals to handle the job if they did.

For instance, certain floor options can trap dust; trigger allergies which is terrible for asthma patients. So, you are advised to consider your location and health status before choosing an option.

We strongly suggest that you consult with a capable service provider to get the best option and ensure it is properly installed.

Safety

Proper flooring helps ensure that you are safe and free from accidents within your space. For instance, a flooring option with shock absorbers will minimize the health hazards if you trip and fall.

Also, there are child-proof options that can be explored if you have minors and you are concerned about their safety within the house.

These are just a few of the importance of ensuring that you have the right floor in your residential or commercial space. For more information on this subject, you can check here.

Conclusion

The floor is a very important part of a building. As a result, you have to be particular about having the right flooring.

In this article, we have discussed how the services of flooring companies can help you enjoy what a good floor has to offer. We suggest you consult a good service provider when you need these services.

How To Identify Mold In Your Home And What To Do

Vasco Sousa on Unsplash

Mold is among the most detrimental elements in today’s world. By definition, it is a fungus type that grows in clusters and only becomes visible when it starts reproducing. Most people only appreciate the effects of mold spores on the health of people with allergies, but the spores can affect even those without allergic issues. Moreover, it causes structural damage to your home when not managed in time.

All homes contain the key ingredients that support mold growth. These include darkness, warmth, oxygen and some moisture. Unfortunately, identifying mold in your home is not so easy. To ease the identification of mold so that you can promptly deal with it, here are some signs you can look for.

Visible Mold Spores

Mold spores are normally visible as green, black or white spots, somewhat like discoloration on sections of your ceilings, floors, walls and furniture. The spores are velvety, rough or fuzzy depending on the mold type and the area of growth. In some cases, the mold spores look like dripping green slime. Unfortunately, visible mold spores are often indications of a serious mold infestation because the visible sections are only the tip of the iceberg.

House Occupants Have Lingering Flu-like or Cold Symptoms

If the occupants of your home are constantly dealing with cold and flu-like symptoms whose exact cause you cannot pinpoint, mold might be the culprit. It is tough to detect the spores when mold formation has just started behind your walls or in places with leaks. Even so, if people do not have flu-like symptoms when out of the house and only get them within your walls, this should lead you to investigate your property’s mold infestation. In a few cases, people experience frequent or chronic nosebleeds when exposed to mold spores. 

Worsening Allergic Symptoms

When exposed to mold-infested interiors, people with a pre-existing allergic respiratory condition often have a flare-up of their condition. For instance, if you are asthmatic, you might deal with unexplained breathing issues when you are indoors with no clear cause. The same is true for those with conditions that compromise the capacity of their lungs, like lung cancer and emphysema.

A Damp or Musty Indoor Smell

Most mold species have distinct odors. As such, it might be difficult to pinpoint a specific smell as a pointer of your property’s infestation by the fungus. Even so, you will usually notice that your indoors have a musty earthy smell even when you have scrubbed them clean. It is advisable to investigate any musty smell in your indoors so that you can rule out mold infestation.

Itchy Skin

Most property owners know that mold spores thrive in wet areas but do not know that damp clothing also forms a good breeding ground for the fungus. If you often leave your clothes on the floor or hang your laundry on an indoor rack that does not leave them adequately dry, this could mean coming into contact with damp clothing that harbors mold spores. The spores, when in contact with the skin in susceptible individuals, cause itching that can lead to secondary infections from the skin lesions it causes.

Bubbly Walls

Mold infestation sometimes causes the formation of bubbles on your walls. The bubbling is quite evident in the sections exposed to a lot of water. Therefore, if you suspect you have mold in your home, check the walls in your basement and those around bathrooms or toilets. If you see bubbling here and there are other signs of a mold infestation in your home, this might be a pointer to the presence of the fungus.

In most cases, homeowners reach for soap, water and bleach along with other cleaning products touted as the best for getting rid of mold when they notice the signs above. Even so, mold spores are very tiny and easy to spread when disturbed. As such, DIY cleaning might worsen your home’s mold infestation because it primarily spreads spores.

Bottom Line

The best solution for getting rid of mold in your home is hiring a professional mold remediation company. The experts will come armed with the right tools for testing the presence of mold before they embark on mold damage restoration. Testing for mold helps the experts know the extent of infestation in your home and the mold type they will be handling. With this information, they can employ the right remediation measures.

Once the experts have successfully tackled your mold infestation, ensure you prevent the fungus from re-invading your property. You can do this by ensuring your rooms are adequately ventilated, cleaning spills promptly, installing dehumidifiers to lower the amount of indoor moisture and fixing drainage issues. You can also use mildew and mold-resistant paint for places that are highly prone to mold infestation like bathrooms, basements and toilets.

Spring forward with kitchen appliances blooming with color

I don’t know how your winter has been going but I’ve been looking out my living room window and seeing this for the last three months.

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It’s pretty I know, but I think I’ve shoveled more snow this past winter than I have ever in my life. In fact, we’ve had nearly two feet of the stuff since January.

In a month or so the scene above will be replaced by the blooms of the thousand daffodil and scilla bulbs I planted last fall. 

Last October I decided to transform our front yard into what'll be the springtime blaze of color I’ve always wanted. In fact, what people think of as “spring colors” stems from the colors of the flowers that, around here, kick into high gear in March and April.

Siberian Squill (Scilla siberica) photo by Yoksel 🌿 Zok on Unsplash

The pale greens, blues, lavenders, yellows and pinks that usher in spring seem to exist to chase away winter boredom and unease.

Jetfire daffodil (Narcissus cyclamineus) photo by Marina Lakotka on Unsplash

There’s an appliance brand called Northstar hat incorporates this palette and other vibrant pops of color into their products – providing a much-needed break from the endless sea of stainless steel. Northstar is a brand made in North America by Elmira Stove Works.

Northstar ranges, refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers and dishwasher panels, splash backs and range hoods come in nine not-so-standard colors along with more than 1,000 custom hues, providing tons of design flexibility.

These appliances aren’t retro kitsch. They’re very well made, high-performance, luxury appliances decked out in mid-century finery. Full of character and functionality, they work equally well in mid-century, retro, farmhouse and contemporary kitchens.

I checked out the Northstar photo gallery and found some examples of their kitchen suites used in modern settings. I have to say the effect is spectacular.

How could anyone walk into any of these kitchens every morning and not instantly feel more energetic and optimistic?

So, what do you say? Ready for a kitchen complete with cheerful, colorful appliances reminiscent of the bloom of spring?

These Northstar appliances offer a nostalgic feel but – at the same time – something altogether fresh and new. I recommend that you check them out.

Tools and Irrigation Supplies You Absolutely Need as a Gardener

Gardens. They come just like humans: in different forms, sizes, and colors. Some gardens are filled with tomato plants, whereas others are filled with green peas. Some people prefer to plant flowers, and others, believe it or not, have a garden filled with cactuses.

A garden is a very unique way to show your personality. Plants are living beings, just like pets, and in the same way, they need to be taken care of with love and lots of attention. The way a gardener takes care of their garden is a way to tell how disciplined, patient, and careful that person is.

And, believe it or not, gardeners have increased over the last years, because of the whole quarantine situation, and how people have started to look for ways to improve their mental health and share themselves with other living beings.

Surprisingly, taking care of plants and seeing them grow, also counts as a form of contact. In fact, gardening has gained a lot of popularity thanks to quarantine, according to this article. This is also the case for landscaping, just on a smaller scale.

Considering the benefits, it is to no surprise. Scientifically proven by research and studies, gardening can greatly improve someone’s mental health because it aids the body at lowering stress levels, and increases the brain’s production of dopamine and serotonin, two hormones heavily related to happiness.

The Challenges Behind the Peace

Now that we know how gardening and landscaping can help us achieve a certain level of inner peace, we have to consider something too: the challenges we have to surpass in order to achieve said benefits.

Still, most of these challenges are pieces of cake. They just become challenges because of one simple thing: lack of experience. Without the experience of gardening, and of course, without the knowledge required for it, we are pretty much set to fail during our first attempts of growing a plant.

And that is okay, it is part of the process, and failing helps us improve, and understand, the personality of the soil and plants we are trying to work with.

But some people prefer to avoid failure, and that is also a wise decision. To do so, they research and learn about different things, then, prepare themselves for the adventure.

And believe me when I say that, one of the most important parts of gardening is having the right tools. This includes things like shovels, rakes, digging tools, pruners, hoses, wheelbarrows, among many other things. For very detailed information on the matter go here: https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/must-have-garden-products/.

The Pre-Gardening Process

The right tools will help you during certain aspects of the process. The first part of the adventure is preparing the soil for planting. This will require you to clean the place from weed, rocks, and any other debris that might complicate the process.

You might also want to set up a pattern that will display the garden itself since it will work as a limitation, and as a mark for people that there’s a garden and they have to be careful around them. 

A type of fence can be helpful if you have small children or animals that might want to “play” around your garden. And we all know how that usually goes.

If you are an indoor type of person, or just someone who doesn’t have the outdoor space to go for a garden, you can pick a certain area of your house to plant an indoor garden. For that, you’ll need gardening pots and soil, then organize everything accordingly.

Choosing Plants and Designing

Some people go as far as designing their gardens even before buying the plants. This can be difficult, but very possible, and can be helpful since it will be a way to distribute the space of your garden much more efficiently.

Now, picking plants comes up next. This is, possibly, the most important part of the process, since you’ll have to pick plants that physically attract you, and also, that can be maintained by your current level of skill.

There are plants that are great for beginners because of their simplicity, and if you are a newcomer, they should be your priority. Afterward, you can try more complicated plants. The main idea of this is to adapt yourself to the activity and improve as time goes on.

The Maintenance and Watering

After you’ve properly set up your plants, now is time for probably the second most important part of the process: maintenance and watering. You see, plants require water and sunlight to nourish themselves and grow healthy and strong.

With that said, too much sunlight can dry some plants, and too much water can drown and rot their roots. That is why, before picking a certain plant, you should accurately research them to understand their properties and water them accordingly.

Depending on the size of your garden, you can depend on a watering can, or go for an irrigation system. The latter option works wonders if you don’t have the time to water your plant at specific times of the day (usually in the early morning or during the night) since they can do the job for you and other irrigation supplies can make the process much easier, like water pumps and hoses.

Depending on the type of garden you have, some irrigations system can go as far as watering the plants based on the amount of water they need, and some can be set up to water different plants with different levels of water, at different times, and even set up timers for you to check out the whole process. These are called smart irrigation systems, but you also have the option of having much simpler systems, based on what you like. 

Take in mind that this option is very common among outside gardeners, since maintenance is probably the most common problem among beginners since they tend to forget to water and maintain the plants at certain specific times. 

How to Find Kitchen Appliance Repair Contractors In New York City

If you have a faulty kitchen appliance, you must be wondering where you can find a company with the ability to fix it properly. This may not be an easy task, but with these few tips, we guarantee that you will get the best repair contractor.

Don’t Try To Rush It

This is one of the most important steps you need to follow. You may really need your appliance to be fixed quickly, but choosing a contractor hastily could really cost you. Being inconvenienced a bit is better than getting your appliance damaged because of a hasty decision.

Ask about their Experience

Each company has different levels of experience so make sure to ask them about it. If you don’t know what to ask you could question them about the following: 

How long has the business been running? Always look for a contractor who has been in the business for over a year. A company that has a long track record like Fuse HVAC & Appliance Repair of New York is more likely to have experienced workers. There is still a chance that a new company might be able to provide great services, but it is still a lot safer to pick a company that has been in business for a while. 

Ask For References

Can the contractor you picked give you references? Many reputable contractors out there can assist you in finding people’s reviews about their services or give you references. You could find references and reviews from…

1. Their current customers. Ask your contractor for some references from either their previous or existing customers. 
2. Communities on social media. A Facebook group could give you recommendations or reviews from people living around you. They may also have a comments section you can drop your questions in.    

Find Out If They Have Licensing and Insurance

You need to make sure that any contractor you are thinking of hiring is licensed and insured. If you see that they are not treading carefully. This is because it happens, and they might end up damaging your appliance. And the thing is that you will be the one to bear that cost unless they are properly insured. Most repair companies will readily show you the license numbers so don’t forget to ask. Visit https://www.icnj.com/blog/how-to-make-sure-your-contractors-are-properly-licensed-and-insured/ to find out how to check if your contractor is properly licensed and insured. 

Find Out Whether They Are Factory Authorized

It is always important to find out about this. Being factory authorized means that whatever professionals working for that company have gone for background checks. It also means that a certified trainer has trained them on that appliance they are repairing. Interestingly, any factory-authorized company will be happy to discuss this. 

Find Out Whether They Carry Out 24 Hour Services 

Let us say your refrigerator broke down in the evening but you just restocked it. If you don’t fix it immediately the food in it might go bad. Some companies close by around nine in the evening so they won’t be able to address the problem at that time. Hiring a 24-hour repair company will ensure that your emergencies are taken care of even late in the evening. 

Look at the Way They Respond to Any Bad Reviews

It is not really possible for a company to be able to satisfy all their customers. If you see that a company has many good reviews with just a few bad reviews, they may be good. The important thing here is how that company responds to the bad reviews. If a company responds rudely to the review, it shows that they do not care about their customers. But if they apologize and offer to fix the issue, it means that they are willing to please their customers. Click here to see what research revealed about reviews. 

Ask How Much Their Services Will Cost

This is the last question you should ask if you have followed all the previous steps. If you have multiple companies you are thinking of hiring, this final step can help you determine which to pick. 

Conclusion

These are the few steps you need to follow to find the right appliance repair contractor. They may be very easy steps, but they will have a big impact on the kind of contractor you get. Just try them and see how they work out.

When choosing between natural stone and quartz composites, Vadara makes that choice a breeze

I have natural stone floors and counters in my kitchen and yes, they’re beautiful. But man oh man are they a chore to keep looking clean. My travertine floors somehow manage to hide dirt and be dirty at the same time and so we sweep them every day and mop them two or three times a week. As a bonus, last year we paid several thousand dollars to have them “refreshed.” That involved having all of the accumulated divots and cracks filled then then the whole floor was sanded and sealed.

My stone counters can’t just be wiped off when something spills. No, they have to be washed and then dried lest a dingy film develop that in turn attracts more dirt to itself. So every couple of days I wash them with soapy water, rinse them and then buff them dry.

When we settled on this house, it had a kitchen in it already that the previous owners had renovated at huge expense and it had all of the mandatories expected in a larger home in a leafy suburban neighborhood. It had a Sub-Zero, grasscloth wallpaper, oak floors, a marble fireplace and most importantly, natural stone on the floors and counters in the kitchen.

When I was a designer, I specified all of those things countless times for homes just like this one. But it wasn’t until this house that I had to live with those specs and I have to say that given the choice, I wouldn’t pick natural stone again.

I’ve always fancied myself to be a purist. I’d always dreamed of the sorts of natural stone surfaces I curse every day now. Years ago, when quartz surfaces started to show up in showrooms I scoffed at first, and I dismissed their claims of easy maintenance. “Quartz composites look fake” I used to tell myself and “I could never live with fake stuff because after all, I am a purist.” After seven years of living with the real stuff, I’m ready to start all over.

Not really, but that’ll be something for the next person who buys this house can deal with. In the meantime, I’ll keep cleaning, cursing and dreaming about some new quartz surfaces I just learned about.

KBIS, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, was a virtual event this year but despite the lack of in-person interactions, players in the Kitchen and Bath Industry still used the event to showcase their new offerings.

One of those players, Vadara Quartz Surfaces, rolled out six new patterns of their quartz composite surfaces and each of them is worth real consideration for people looking at natural marble. Marble is a classic surface but it’s notoriously difficult to live with. All it takes is a dripping bottle of olive oil left in place overnight to leave a marble counter with a permanent stain. And I mean permanent.

Vadara’s new patterns don’t have that problem because they’re quartz composites and by definition, they are impervious surfaces. As impervious surfaces and in contrast to real marble, they’re a snap to clean and to keep looking clean.

Vadara’s new colors and patterns follow. Anybody who doesn’t know better, and even people like me who do know better, would be hard pressed to tell that these colors and patterns weren’t dug out of a marble quarry in Tuscany.

• Bella Dolce – a luminous bright white background with delicate brown and grey veining
  
  
  
• Calacatta Fresco – a dimensional off-white and grey background with dynamic grey veining
  
  
  
• Calacatta Oro – a dimensional off-white and grey background with dynamic brown and grey veining
  
  
  
• Cascada Perla – a dimensional off-white and grey background with dynamic grey and white veining
  
  
  
• Solano Bella – a dimensional off-white and grey background with delicate grey veining
  
  
  
• Varenna – a luminous white background with delicate grey veining
  

It used to be that opting for quartz composite counters meant settling for a material that looked like a combination of terrazzo and concrete but these new patterns from Vadara put that entire conversation to rest for good.

These six patterns are nearly identical to real marble and in all candor, I’d put any of them in my home. What really knocked me off my horse is their Calacatta Oro.

Calacatta marble has always been a favorite of mine. Calacatta is a white marble that has veins of grey and varying shades of brown and gold. 

Here’s a close up of Vadara’s Calacatta Oro: 

That slab looks so much like the real thing that I want to forget about the real thing.

But as a reminder, here’s real Calacatta:

That’s nothing short of amazing.

Vadara’s full collection consists of 32 colors and each takes its inspiration from a natural stone. This material is sold as slabs and comes in two thicknesses, 2cm and 3cm. It’s cut on the same equipment and sold by the same fabricators as natural stone.

If you’re looking at natural stone for your home, you owe it to yourself to look into Vadara.

Tips on DIY Bathroom Renovation

Bathroom renovation is one of the exciting DIY projects that you can embark on. If you're not sure when you should think of remodeling, check this page. But before jumping in with both feet, there are a few less exciting things to think about so that your project turns out exactly the way you envision it. 

Your artistic freedom and sense of decoration can come to the fore regardless of the size of the room. Still, the DIY remodeling of larger rooms gives you more choices, while smaller spaces need to be deprived of something.

Plan In Advance

In order to make your bathroom renovation project go as smoothly as possible, you need to take some time to plan and organize everything. The base of your project should be your vision and ideas.

Next, your plans should include the estimation of the time and costs of the project. Your budget is a significant factor which you shouldn't neglect. Although you'll do most of the job yourself, you still have to pay for furniture, appliances, decoration, etc.

Check the Current Condition

One of the first steps to take when you start planning your bathroom renovation is to check how this room looks now. Maybe it needs installation repairs, so check all plumbing fixtures for leakage. Also, make sure to inspect the electrical wirings. If they are obsolete and worn out, preventive replacement is always a better solution than emergency repair.

If everything works fine, you might just want to refresh it a bit. Some people are crazy about new trends, so they change the lighting or essentials every year. If this desire for changes hit you, take a good look at what you have at your disposal. That can bring you some savings.

Tiling by Room Requirements

Tiling is something that you should include in your bathroom remodel plan. You can choose from a wide variety of colors and dimensions. Pick something that will go well with the rest of the room. Make sure that the tiles match up with each other well, especially around your shower and tub. You don't want to install too many tiles and have the room looking crowded. 

When it comes to the faucet and shower, you can still use tile if you wish, but you might want to go with something more sleek and classy for your bathroom renovation. Some people choose glass for their sinks and tubs because it's both beautiful and durable. This material also gives a modern look, making it easy to incorporate into any design. If you choose glass for bathroom essentials, match them up with the rest of the room.

Forget about Bulky Furniture and Appliances

The idea of minimalism is generally accepted, and you can use it for bathroom renovation. It's a perfect time to get rid of bulky essentials and appliances that take up too much space and make you feel cramped.

Today, you can find smaller versions of bathroom furniture and appliances on the market. They are just as useful as the standard ones, but they take up far less space. The same goes for the tub. Consider replacing a classic bathtub with a smaller hot tub. If you place it in the middle of the room (provided you have a larger bathroom), you will feel like you are in a spa.

Think about a Vanity

If you will replace your existing sink or faucet, choose something that is both functional and beautiful. You should think about getting a vanity if you don't have it. Double or single-sink? That will depend on the size of the room. But you really don't have to waste money on double-sink vanity. Two people using sinks in the house bathroom at the same time is a rare situation.

An even better choice is a vanity with shelves. It will allow you to keep your toiletries on hand and prevent them from being hung around. The mirror is an unavoidable part of the vanity. Think about the lighting inside it or some attractive decoration.

Check the source below for tips on choosing bathroom lighting:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/deringhall/2018/06/12/7-must-read-tips-on-choosing-bathroom-lighting/ 

A complete bathroom remodeling will cost you more than just getting the basics done. That's a large DIY project, and if you don't have a budget sufficient to meet your wishes, you should always plan out your remodel in stages. That way, you'll get what you want without robbing a bank.

The Guide In Finding Reliable And Affordable Plumbers In Canberra

Faulty water heater, slow draining sink, dripping faucets, leaking pipes, and much more are the problems that may happen over time, especially in old houses. However, redoing your kitchen or bathroom should be entailed by the assistance of professionals.

Instead of doing it yourself, which might inflict a problem (read more), try getting yourself one.

Finding a plumber may no longer be a problem, as many people can offer you their service. They often circulate in digital media; some offer 24/7 service, making it convenient for you to contact one of them.

However, the challenge is how do you find a plumber in your area that is reliable and affordable? How are you going to find a plumber that provides a service that can fit your budget? How would you know that they can meet your requirements as their client?

Here are the factors you need to observe and consider when finding reliable and affordable plumbers in your area:

Feedback

It is very crucial in finding the perfect plumbers for you. Having them say what they've got from a plumbing service would help you decide and know how reliable a plumber was to them. It is the safest way to rely on them since they have been with that plumber business's assistance and service.

Try asking at least some for feedback in your neighborhood. If most of your neighbors like a reputable plumber, then maybe that plumber is reliable for repairing or redoing a kitchen or bathroom since they have gained other people's trust through their service. These plumbers wouldn't recommend them if they weren't, were they?

Good Reputation

Like feedback, a good reputation can show this in reputable plumbers' sites regarding their job. Their clients often may leave a review on their site with a one to a five-star rating that might help you know what exactly they've experienced in the rest of the project. 

Once a plumber gained a good reputation, they have been known for their reliable work, making it convenient for us to decide whether we get them or not. 

Of course, it matters the most because who wouldn't want to hire a plumber with a bad reputation? We'll only consider what's good to be assured along the working process.

Experience

Experience is an essential aspect we must look upon when looking for a reliable plumber because their work isn't easy to comply with. It sometimes requires a certain degree of expertise to perform this job to give the best plumbing service. Often, experience is the best way to gain knowledge and mastery in every plumbing service. That's why always choose a plumber with many years of experience. It is guaranteed that they have been reputable for every project they have.

Also, inefficient plumbers are often charged at a lower cost than those in this field for many years already. Probably, if you're on a budget, you might consider having a plumber that is low-in-demand. However, this is an ineffective strategy, which might cost you more. Usually, the plumber is being paid for their working hours. Thus, having an inefficient plumber working for you might be insufficient to finish the project quickly; it might cost you more, instead. 

On the other hand, if you have reliable plumbers in your renovation, it will save you from repeatedly fixing and repairing faulty materials in your home; given that they are already trusted enough to deliver nothing inefficient but quality.

Completion In Equipment

One of the particular reasons why not all are capable of doing plumbing is the equipment. It is crucial to get a plumber who has complete plumbing material, (https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/hygiene/plumbing10.pdf) while knowing its pros and cons. It will help decrease their working time, which is more affordable for every client. Since often, plumbers are being paid every hour. This will also help guarantee that they will complete their service on the same day as possible.

Safety

A reliable plumber must ensure safety in their work. They must know the proper safety guidelines in doing such repairing and fixing of leakages and such. This will represent how careful and dedicated they are in working on a project.

Communication Skills

This is one of the essential skills that should be had by plumbers. This symbolizes how well they collaborate with you because they can connect with you easily by communication. 

This will also show how willing they are to listen to your input as a customer, which would help in the renovation. 

Dedication

You can see this in how engaged they are in accommodating you. This helps, especially when you are still finding one, to ensure that the plumbers are happy to assist you in every circumstance throughout the renovation.

 License 

It is significant to find a plumber with a license to do work related to this kind of stuff. This kind of job is risky and might be challenging to perform. Each plumber should be licensed to ensure that they have received certification from the relevant administrations to guarantee that the clients are handled by professionals who have expertise in this field.

It will prove that they are able and they are allowed to perform this kind of service to their clients.

It will also represent that whenever any damage is done due to their neglect, it would be their handle, not ours. It is so beneficial for us, especially when we are renovating under a budget. Thus, the renovation will be under a warranty that is more effective for us.

It's convenient to get a plumber, particularly when you have no experience doing mechanical items such as repairing and fixing. Find a reputable one such as Blueline plumber; they have the professional plumbers trained with the highest knowledge and skill to be qualified. They are also responsible for making critical calculations that are much needed to maintain the water pressure so that further complications would not happen.

To ensure that no issues can arise even after several years have passed, they, therefore, even when prolonged in use, they put commitment into hard work to do all the necessary things to keep it safe and stable. Although preventing it from being broken is unlikely, they offer the best operation they can to ensure that it is properly repaired, ensuring that it won't fail soon enough. As long as it is, of course, maintained by the clients.

How to Maintain a Septic Tank

Taking care of your septic system is essential for several reasons. For one, you don't want it to be out of commission at any time since it serves such an important function. Depending on where you live and the nature of the issue, you may find yourself unable to flush wastewater out for days. Not only that, but you want to keep your system in good shape since repairs and replacement can be expensive. Let's take a look at how you should care for your septic tank system.

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Pump and Inspect Regularly

Owners should make sure that septic systems are inspected every 3 years at the very least. However, many experts recommend that you have it checked every year. This is especially the case for alternative units with features like electrical pumps, switches, and mechanical parts. 

The inspection has to be performed by a certified septic service professional. These systems are usually pumped every 3 to 5 years. 

Even if you have a good system, sludge and other sediments will start building up after a while. A septic tank service will come and pump out the residue using trucks like those you'll find at satelliteindustries.com. 

Many factors will affect how often you should pump your system. Things like the septic tank size, your household size, the volume of solids in wastewater, as well as the amount of water the household generates will all make a difference. An inspector will be able to tell you when it would be a good idea to have the tank pumped.

Don’t Overload Your System

You want to make things as easy as possible on your septic system. All the water used by the household will go through it, so you need to start being efficient. The average person living in a single-family home will use approximately 70 gallons per day. But all it takes is one leaky or running toilet to waste an additional 200.

This is why you might need to make some modifications and change your habits. Consider adding low-flow toilets and showerheads, and aerators to faucets. Choose the right load size when doing laundry. Also, make sure that you keep your showers as short and sweet as possible. Everything you do will add up, so always find ways to save as much water as you can.

Be Careful with What You Waste

We’ve all been guilty of putting something in the toilet that shouldn't have gone down there. Even if it may seem convenient, you should never use a toilet boil as a trash can. 

For instance, many have the bad habit of dumping grease in their toilet bowl, but that's one of the worst things you can do to your septic system. Other things you should never dump in the toilet include hygiene products, prophylactics, diapers, and even things like dental floss, as it may get tangled up in some components.

These are all things you have to do if you want to keep your system healthy and in working order. It will increase its longevity and ensure that you don’t suffer a shortage at the worst time possible.

Should You Choose A Specialist Or General Plumber For A Commercial Project?

The plumbing in a building is a system or a network of pipes, valves, fittings, tanks, and other fixtures that are used to supply water as well as remove waste from the building. It most times also includes the heating, cooling, and gas supply systems. Its purpose is to collect, convey, distribute and remove water or other fluids around and from a building.  

The type and size of the plumbing system in a building is dependent on the structure and size of the facility but most plumbing involves two main subsystems. These are the supply subsystem and the drainage-vent-waste subsystem.

Plumbing follows the principles of gravity, pressure, water level, and so on. It can be very complex to understand for the layman so it requires specialization. It is critical to sanitation and in the broader sense to public health. With the benefits of the supply of safe water and good sanitation comes the risk of cross-connections, contamination of water, scalding, or thermal shock. For this reason, getting the right professional plumber to work on a building is quite important. You can see this article for more on this.

Common issues that can be encountered with a plumbing system include leaks and drips, low pressure of water, a malfunctioning system, rust, smelly water, contamination, blockage, and many others. While some of this may be fixed without the help of a professional, it is advisable to call a plumber to fix it. If not done properly and with the right tools, the situation may be worsened.

A system that is professionally designed will have fewer issues. This coupled with using materials of high quality will ensure that your system encounters fewer problems. 

Types of Plumbers

When it comes to plumbers, there are different types as well as different specialties. The most common are residential and commercial plumbers. Some specialize in one of these two but most plumbers are often able to handle these two types of projects. There are also general contractors who work on any project which can be residential, commercial, public, or other spaces. They can also offer services such as gas fitting, installing HVAC systems, and so on. Some may only do installations while some do repairs and servicing.

Specialist plumbers are those who are experts at installing or repairing specific types of plumbing. Examples of these can be drainage and sanitary plumbers, gas fitters, water plumbing for fire protection systems and irrigation, roof plumbers, etc. You can check this link https://mayfairplumbing.com.au for more information.

Plumbing systems typically perform the same functions whether they be residential, commercial, or any other type. No matter the system, it should be able to deliver clean water and remove waste.

Commercial Plumbing

A commercial plumbing project involves working largely on commercial buildings or facilities that people tend to use quite often. These can include places such as offices, parks, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, malls, etc. it also includes any structure that requires large and industrial-grade pipes and outlets. Plumbing for high-rise residential buildings may also qualify as commercial because the system is designed in a way that accommodates several users at the same time. While the scope of work for a residential plumber is similar to that of a commercial one, it involves certain differences that are quite important.

Commercial plumbing has a large scope of work which requires the use of more pipes, faucets, toilets, showers, and heating systems. All these or most of it have to at some point be connected and need to be available 24 hours. They also must not fail. Considering a hotel with several floors for example and with hundreds of rooms.

The plumbing systems need to be top-notch and must be able to support a high level of usage from several people. Plumbers in this system must account for gravity as well as water pressure. They must ensure that no matter the floor level, the water pressure stays the same or come with a very negligible difference.

A key feature of commercial plumbing is its safety requirements. As it is for public use, this kind of system is subjected to higher levels of safety standards. Also, in a commercial system, the plumbing issues that might be encountered can vary greatly.

For example in a high-rise building, an issue on a particular floor can be a result of another issue on a totally different floor which can interestingly be the consequence of another issue. For this reason, commercial plumbers are often prepared to handle multiple issues during maintenance.

What Type of Plumber Should You Use For a Commercial Project?

As can be seen above plumbing is a very critical aspect of any building and not the least a commercial structure. If it is not properly done, it will result in a lot of issues for the owners of the structure. Maintenance will be difficult, costly, and time-consuming not to talk of the fact that you may not get a permanent solution to the issues. 

It is essential that you get the plumbing right from the start of the project. When the building is complete and in use, it is always more difficult to fix these issues. To this end, which type of plumber is best for a commercial project?

The type of plumber you use is neither here nor there. While a commercial plumber can serve as a specialist in handling commercial projects, oftentimes, most plumbers have the capacity to handle different kinds of plumbing projects.

What you should be more concerned about is if the plumber you are engaging can do the job. Are they experienced, licensed, insured and can they deliver what you desire whether they be a specialist or general plumber? You can find information in this guide on choosing a commercial plumber.

Conclusion

The plumbing system is critical to the survival of users of any building. It is also important for public health as a bad or poorly installed system is a recipe for issues and serious health disasters. This is why it is important to get it right from the start of building construction especially when it is a commercial structure. As long as the plumber has the requisite knowledge, licenses and can deliver a good job and follow city codes, you can choose them.

The Many Benefits of Timber Frame Homes

 

A home is one of the places that people spend a lot of their time. It is where you relax, be yourself, de-stress and generally let your hair down. For this reason, it is essential that wherever you call home is a place of beauty that you are satisfied and happy with. This means that your home must be welcoming.

There are several ways of constructing a home and also a variety of materials that can be used such as bricks, clay and of course timber. While every building type has its strengths and advantages, custom timber homes are of a special kind.

What are Timber Frame Homes?

These are the kind of homes that use frame structures made with wooden beams and large posts and are attached by wooden pegs or any other type of decorative joinery. These kinds of homes are a popular choice for people who love to self-build.

Typically, the walls of a timber house are positioned outside the timber framing leaving them exposed for visual and aesthetic effects. These framings are strong and they are well established forming the basis of the building and this can last for several years. You may read more from here.

Advantages of Timber Frame Homes

There are lots of benefits when it comes to timber frame construction. It is strong enough that the structure does not need load-bearing walls to cut through the house. This means that it can be designed in any way that you desire. It comes with factory standards and a fast build time. Its skeleton can be decorated or covered in any way that you like meaning that the house can fit in anywhere or look like any other home style. Below are further advantages of this kind of building.

They Use Natural and Sustainable Material

A major concern for a lot of people is the impact that their home will have on the environment. Timber is a natural material and it is abundantly available and renewable. This means that it is sustainable as long as trees are planted for every one that is felled. It is also environmentally friendly, and it does not contribute to the carbon footprint nor does it cost a lot to the environment.

Timber can also be recycled. It is safe to use and handle, it is non-toxic and will not leak any chemical vapor into the building. Also, there is little or no waste during its construction.

Besides, timber is often milled and used close to where it is cut and produced. This helps to promote local economies. You can read more on this here https://www.buildersmerchantsnews.co.uk/10-benefits-of-using-timber-frame-building/44552. 

They Are Versatile

Timber frame homes are versatile that is, there is a large variety of designs that they can be constructed in. They may be traditional or contemporary and when it comes to spacious open designs, they are right up there. Due to their flexibility and the fact that they are lightweight, they are easy to install. They can suit most projects whether it is a new one or an extension. They may as well be built in a way that blends in with the predominant style in the area they are located. If you so which, they can be made to stand out.

Timber also come in different shades, colors, and textures due to different trees having differing characteristics. This adds to the aesthetics and overall beauty of the house.

They Reduce Overall Costs of Building

One critical part of building construction is its budget and cost. It can be quite worrying when delays happen and the budget is threatening to get out of hand or beyond what was projected. When using timber, you can accurately predict your costs and budget.

For this kind of construction, poor weather hardly impacts its construction as most of the work is done off-site in a workshop that is clean and dry. With this sort of controlled conditions, the budget is predictable and with no surprises along the way. 

They Are Quick to Build

The construction of timber frame houses require a dry process shielded from external elements that may delay the work. When this is done, it is then transferred to the site where everything is put together in a matter of days. All these mean that other workers and tradespeople can come in sooner to do their jobs. They do not have to wait weeks for the building to dry out.

With this, the build time can be decreased up to a third of what it will take in an average brick structure. Also, construction can be done almost any time of the year.

They Are Thermally Efficient

Because wood has natural insulating properties, timber homes make for thermally efficient ones. It gives room for more insulation and helps to keep warm as well as comfortable when compared to conventional forms of building. Also when compared to other materials like steel and concrete, it has better insulating properties. This means that it requires less energy for cooling or heating the house resulting in lower energy bills for you.

They Are Long Lasting and Easy to Maintain

Timber is a tough and durable material that can withstand most weather elements and last for a long time. Some wooden structures can last for hundreds of years although over time they may change color slightly. Wooden homes are also easy and cheap to maintain.

Finding a Timber Frame Supplier

Several companies produce custom timber homes. They may either design, build as well as erect the structure or they provide the frames so that you can self-build. The choice is usually up to you. To get a good supplier you should get different quotes and compare them. When doing a comparison, ensure that the quotes have commensurate specifications.

After narrowing down your options, you should visit the company at their factory to discuss details of the construction with them. You should also take the opportunity to see the materials they will be using. Finally, ask about the time frame that it will take for the frames or the building to be ready.

Conclusion

Timber frame homes are great structures that come with plenty of benefits. If you are looking to get one, then you are in good company and have made the right choice. Do not forget to carry out due diligence so that you can choose reliable and experienced suppliers.

Home Staging Tips and Tricks That Really Work

With the decision to put your house on the real estate market comes a lot of anxiety. While there are many reasons for emotional turmoil during the home sale process, many owners have a concern that the potential buyers won't find their property attractive enough. 

According to ISoldMyHouse.com, one of the best ways to make sure that doesn't happen is by making your residence look fantastic. Let's explore the tricks for staging your property for viewings that'll make people fall in love with it.

Points of Focus

Not every room counts the same towards a successful staging. Focus your time and energy in rooms that are most likely to influence buyer decisions, spending less on areas that don't make much of a difference. Pay the most attention to:

• The living room
• The kitchen 
• The master bedroom
• The bathrooms

Guest and children's bedrooms make much less of a difference. You can even leave them as is if they're in good condition.

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Depersonalizing the Space

Remember the objective of a home staging while planning your tasks. You want to make your house look beautiful while disregarding preferences in favor of a more impersonal look. 

The idea is to help prospective buyers see the space as their own. So, your goal is to turn the property into a stylish, charming blank canvas. 

Remove Personal Possessions

You might feel that the portraits lining the stairs make your place feel more like home, but the buyer doesn't want to be reminded that the house belongs to you. So, put photos and memorabilia out of sight, keep clothes in closets, and clear the bathroom of personal items.

Declutter

Space sells. Decluttering not only helps depersonalize but also makes your home seem more spacious. While you don't have to get rid of everything, remove: 

• Non-seasonal clothes
• Your small decor items
• Papers, books, games
• Cleaning supplies not for everyday use

Remember that buyers open your closets to check out the storage space. If the drawers are hard to close due to everything you keep inside, they'll see much less potential in the property as a whole. 

Clean Up

Spring cleaning has nothing on the amount of work you should put in making your house 100% pristine before the first viewing. You want everything to shine, from the corners to the baseboards and the ceiling. 

A tidy home suggests you took good care of it. Think about deep cleaning everything, and pay special attention to the tasks you usually neglect.

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Open and Light

Another feature that attracts buyers is freshness. A deep clean should take care of any residue odors, but you should also take out the trash before a showing. Add an air freshener and put some plants here and there to promote a feeling of cleanliness and openness. 

Make It Bright

Dark rooms look small, sad, and uninviting. So, the first thing to do is brighten it up by letting in natural light sources. Opening the blinds makes the rooms appear more spacious, too!

Then, turn on all the lights, including those in the closet and the lamps. The home will seem more welcoming, and the buyers will see the lighting setting potential, creating ideas about how they'd arrange it once they buy the house.

Rearrange the Furniture

You might quite like your current arrangement, but try to look at it with a critical eye. Is there enough walkable space?

The idea of furniture rearrangement is to open the rooms, make them easier to navigate and help buyers imagine their pieces in place of yours. 

If there are extra chairs and tables around, especially damaged ones, remove them. When you're left with the basics, arrange the furniture with a minimalist and spacious aesthetic in mind. 

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The Bottom Line

Finally, remember that home staging doesn't require a massive investment. As long as you make smart, strategic decisions, you'll boost the appeal without paying a penny. 

Consult with your agent if you're unsure which changes are necessary, and present your home in the best light. You'll sell in much less time and face fewer issues down the line, making these tasks worth the trouble.