05 July 2021

Finding a Wood Fence Contractor in Oklahoma City


If you are looking to fence your home, you will find that there are several options that will come up. One option that is becoming quite popular is a wooden fence. However, the question is usually about its capacity to meet your family’s needs in terms of outlook and security. 

A wooden fence is a type of fencing constructed with wooden materials. It is commonly used for domestic settings like lower-level garden boundaries or perimeter fencing. Although a wooden fence does not provide security as much as other options like steel or brick fencing, it is very easy to maintain. 

If you stay in Oklahoma City or other parts of the world, you will find that a wooden fence is a classic choice for so many homeowners. If you find it attractive, you can contact your wood fence contractor in Oklahoma City or any other town you may be in to handle the installation. 

Reasons to Install a Wooden Fence


The following are some reasons to install a wooden fence:

Affordability

The fence of a home might be a significant investment, depending on the type you go for. If you do not take out time to determine what you want, you could end up paying thousands of dollars or more. If you are willing to handle maintenance regularly, wooden fences can be a considerably less expensive option. They are not as durable as steel or brick options, but with proper maintenance and installation, they can survive for many years.

Adjustable Height

You can't change the lengths of other kinds of fences (like steel or brick fences) after they've been ordered or constructed. This is because the parameters are set at the point of production. If you order the wrong length or decide on a different length after some time, you can chop down what you don't want with a wooden fence.

Visual Appeal

Wooden fences are attractive and have a natural appearance. They can easily blend wonderfully with any scenery as they come in different colors. You can decide the best fit for your home and ask the contractor to install them. Wooden fences can also be customized to suit the season. For instance, you can decorate them during yuletide and this also improves the beauty of the home.

Eco-Friendly

Another advantage of a wooden fence especially when compared with other options is that its components are recyclable. Wooden fences are nearly 100% biodegradable, and since wood is a renewable resource, it is a good investment.

Privacy and Protection

Are you looking for the ideal privacy fence for your home? Wooden fences will keep your family and possessions safe. They are solid fences that keep unwanted guests out and also keep the things you care about inside.

Tips for Choosing a Reliable Wooden Fence Contractor

The following are some tips to guide you with choosing a reliable contractor:

Research

Before you interview any contractor, it is recommended that you research the company you intend to work with. Start with their customer care services and verify that they have an active service line because you will be needing it at some point. 

Also, check that they have a verifiable address. A good way to know a fraudulent company is through the absence of an address on their advertisement or website. Make sure to check the Better Business Bureau to find a list of registered companies. Doing this will go a long way in helping you find the right company to work with.

Negotiation Method

A reliable contractor allows you to make a decision without any form of pressure. However, if you find a contractor who is always calling to know if you have made a decision on working with them, do not hesitate to terminate the negotiation with them. 

This is because they may probably be a fraudulent company seeking to scam you. It can also be an inexperienced contractor that may end up messing up the job. 

Estimate or Quotation

A reliable contractor gives an estimate of what is needed for their services. If they fail to give you one, then you need to search for other options. Giving you an estimate allows you to check your budget and determine whether you can handle the project at the moment or wait for some time.

An estimate also allows you to verify if the contractor is overshooting the bills. You can embark on market survey to verify the prices of different woods.

Quality of Materials 


This is your home and you certainly want the best. Find out the quality of materials the contractor intends to use. If you do not feel comfortable with the materials, you can check out other options or let the contractor know about your reservations about their proposed materials.

As a homeowner, it is recommended that you also research different woods used for fencing and the best option. Armed with good knowledge, you can make recommendations to the contractor.

Payment Method

Inquire about the contractor’s payment policy. Some contractors request for full payment upfront while others may request for partial payment pending when they complete the job. You can also find contractors that accept payment only when they have completed the job. You need to know the company’s policy and check if you feel comfortable with it.

Read Reviews

While it is important that you research a company before working with them, it is also recommended that you read online reviews to get an insight into the operations of a company. Reading reviews also allows you to assess the quality of services rendered by a company. 

It is difficult to find a company without a few scathing reviews. However, you have to trust your instincts to guide you in identifying the wrong company. Also, bear in mind that some companies generate fake reviews to deceive unsuspecting members of the public. You may need to read between the lines to spot fake reviews. Additionally, if you need help with identifying fake reviews, you can check here.

Consider the Timeline 

It is common to find wood fencing projects that take some time before they are completed. However, it is important that you ask the contractor for an estimate of the duration needed for the completion of the project. Good quality jobs are usually not rushed but this doesn’t mean a contractor will take several weeks or even months to complete the project.

Ask the company for their timeline and check if it suits your needs. If it is too long for you, then you can check out other options. Also, note that the goal is to have a top-quality job and this should guide you in negotiating with other contractors.

Use Referrals

If you need to skip other procedures in choosing a contractor, the best method to use is referrals. You can ask family and friends for recommendations. One benefit of using referrals is that it saves you the time you would have used to find a company on your own. However, you will also need to research the companies provided to check if they meet your needs.

Conclusion

Wood fences are one of the options to consider if you are looking to fence your home. However, you need to choose a reliable company if you want the best. We have discussed some tips to help you choose a contractor to work with. Feel free to check them out.

04 July 2021

7 Reasons to Consider Professional Home Door Installation


Are you about to install a new door? Although not many homeowners pay attention to the condition of these structures as long as they open and close, they need to be upgraded or replaced after a certain period. 

While many individuals decide to install their home doors themselves, this job is best trusted in the hands of experts. Professional installers ensure clean installation by using the right tools and practicing the right techniques. 

When hiring a home door installation company, make sure it provides EPA-certified products. 

These are the main reasons to consider professional installation.

Enhanced curb appeal

One of the main reasons for homeowners to consider professional front door installation is the possibility of enhancing their curb appeal. The exterior of houses is the best way for household residents to leave a good first impression. The front door is what visitors first see when arriving at your house, as well as what neighbors see when passing by. It’s actually the focal point of the exterior. 

Even though the accent of professional installation is placed on functionality, a well-installed front door also looks attractive. As long as it’s installed properly, this structure complements the architecture of the entire house. No one considers shabby doors inviting or attractive. 

Proper insulation

Another reason for homeowners to consider hiring professionals for this job is getting proper insulation. Professional insulation is indispensable for protecting your home from cold and heat, which is why it has to be proficient. Experienced installers make sure the door is a great fit for the frame by measuring everything correctly.


Moreover, the benefits of proper insulation are numerous when it comes to the comfort of homeowners. It makes sure temperatures are well maintained both in summer and winter. Insulation is essential for preventing the cold and humidity from affecting the house. Also, professional installers ensure draughts are minimized even in situations when the central heating system is switched off. Visit this website for some useful tips for putting insulation around a door. 

Better energy efficiency

Homeowners are advised to consider professional front door installation because of the increase in energy efficiency. Insulation is directly responsible for the efficiency of homes, as it makes sure heat is kept outdoors in the course of summer while indoors during winter. Nevertheless, the majority of old homes have front doors that fail to meet the modern requirements for energy efficiency. 

Consequently, homeowners won’t have to rely on their HVAC system as much as they did before, as cold and warm air won’t escape the house. As a result, household residents will notice improvements in the cost of their utility bills. The savings on an annual basis can really be significant. 

Professionals recommend doors made of energy-efficient materials like fiberglass and steel, equipped with polyurethane foam insulation. They ensure these structures have built-in weather stripping, which prevents moisture and rain from entering the house. Also, interior air is contained to provide comfort and save energy on heating and air conditioning. 


Increased security

Professional installers not only make homes energy-efficient, but they also address security concerns, mainly related to the front door. It’s supposed to be safe and secure to prevent burglaries from taking place. Workers taking up such projects consider all the important security elements, such as the alarm system, camera installations, and peephole. 

Furthermore, professional installers are experts in selecting the safest type of front door for each home. Homeowners looking for camera installation would get a model specially designed for camera supervision. CCTV camera systems are usually installed for the purpose of 24/7 surveillance. Cameras are either inserted in slots or added to the structure. Home security systems are unquestionably considered the best alternative of protection against burglars.

Additionally, models made of high-quality steel and fiberglass are believed to be much stronger than older models, as well as equipped with new technologies. Experienced installers use modern materials and techniques like advanced adhesives and industrial lasers. They use bolt locking systems and peepholes with a wide-angle to provide extra security. The following link, https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-fiberglass-or-glass-fiber-820469, explains the properties of fiberglass and its manufacturing process. 

Remarkable durability

Another reason why an increasing number of homeowners decide to hire professional door installation services is being provided with durability. When installing a door of your own, the chances of fitting it wrong are indeed high. While this structure might look perfectly installed to you, it will probably seem crooked to an experienced installer.

In addition, these professionals advise homeowners on the choice of materials so as to ensure low maintenance and a long lifespan. They usually recommend models made of fiberglass and steel, which require almost no maintenance. Conversely, high-quality wood models require a higher level of maintenance in the form of staining and painting. There are even fiberglass models with faux wood finishes, which are almost identical to wood in appearance. 

A clean installation

A clean installation is guaranteed when professional installers are in charge of fitting home doors. It means they ensure no damage is done to the frame or the walls surrounding it, as well as the structure itself. If you decide to install it by yourself, the chances of doing damage are high. 

By trusting the installation process in the hands of experts, you will save yourself the headache of replacing your existing model with a new one. You will also save plenty of free time and energy, which you would otherwise waste on performing the installation. 

The right tools

Hiring professional installers means having no worries about the equipment necessary for the installation process. These specialists are armed with the required tools for the job, such as a screwdriver, drill, circular saw, wood chisel, hammer, router, etc. Buying these tools only to perform the installation will cost you more money than hiring a professional. 

To sum up

Make sure to hire experts for this job in order to prevent unnecessary damage and waste no time. 

They provide door functionality and visual benefits to homeowners!

03 July 2021

Choosing Reputable Heating and Boiler Repair Services in Edinburgh


Do you live in Edinburgh and have a broken heater or boiler? Whether it is not working properly or is about to be faulty, it is important to employ the services of a professional to fix the problem. Otherwise, it may escalate further and cause damage to property and lives. 

Finding trustworthy and qualified pros in Edinburgh might be hard, especially since there are many options available. But it won’t be a good idea to choose at random. A professional can quickly understand what the repairs involve and offer expert advice for maintenance after rendering their services. So, instead of trying to patch things up by yourself or asking just anyone to help out, consider hiring skilled personnel.

Now, when you need heating and boiler repair in Edinburgh, you may wonder which professional should help you with the repairs. Would it be a plumber or an engineer? In this guide, we will discuss the difference between both, and which one you should consider. We will also enumerate the factors to keep in mind when hiring the services of a repair company.  

Should I Hire a Plumber or an Engineer?

When your heater or boiler has issues, it might be challenging to decide which of the professionals to hire. Well, a plumber is not the same as an engineer, but they can help you with the repairs. A plumber works on various things like bathroom installations, drainage fixtures, installation of appliances, and cold and hot feeds.

Aside from these, a plumber can install a gas appliance, if registered to carry out such services. They should hold a license that allows them to work on gas equipment, not only water plumbing systems. On the other hand, an engineer specialized in heating and gas appliances can repair boilers. So, whether you choose to employ an engineer or a plumber, you must ensure that they are registered to repair gas appliances. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Heating and Boiler Repair Service in Edinburgh

In Edinburgh, like every other place in the United Kingdom, there are many choices available when looking for a heating and boiler repair service. Choosing the best one is not easy without keeping in mind certain factors. Now, here are seven important factors to consider to enable you make an informed decision.

1. Search for Reputable Companies Using Credible Sources


One credible source we have today is the internet. It holds more than 90% of the important information we need. By using it, you can find different companies and check their credibility. On certain third-party review sites like Checktrade and Trustpilot, there are reviews and testimonials from past clients and customers of various businesses. These testimonials are credible as the site owners try to verify them before publishing them on their site. 

Also, you can read reviews on the social media pages of those businesses, especially on Facebook. In this technological era, many companies have websites. You will typically find testimonials and reviews from past clients there. 

You can also get their contact information such as physical office address, telephone number, and email address on the websites. Consider using any of the information to contact them, so you can hear directly from them or even request references of their previous clients. In this way, you will get first-hand viewpoints from those who have previously employed their services.

Another credible source you can use is trusted family members and acquaintances. They may have hired such services in the past, so you can ask them for recommendations. You can click on https://patch.com/california/sancarlos/classifieds/gigs-services/94261/what-is-the-difference-between-a-plumbing-and-heating-engineer to learn more about the differences between a plumbing and an engineering company.

2. Check for License and Confirm its Credibility

In the United Kingdom, professionals who have licenses to work on gas heaters or boilers must be Gas Safe certified. So when hiring any heating and boiler repair service, verify that their license is on the Gas Safe website. This license means that they have skillful training and the necessary qualifications to do a good job for you.

3. Check for their Experience

A reputable heating and boiler repair business with many years of experience will surely give you top quality repairs. For years, they have been building important skills and undergoing training that is necessary to achieve this. They also have a good reputation that has made them continue existing and functioning in the industry after many years.

If a business doesn’t do sound repairs, it will lose customers and in a long run, cease to exist. So when looking for a heating and boiler repair business, choose one that has enough experience and a track record of doing a great job.

4. Check for Certifications and Qualifications

A company with certifications will follow a strict ethic code and would have carried out various technical examinations, so they have qualifications in the field. You can check or ask if the repair company you have in mind has its members under certain professional bodies like CIPHE (Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering). This professional body ensures that its members use the latest inventions in their field when carrying out repairs and installations.

5. Ask for Manufacturer Preference

It is possible that the heating and boiler repair business has a preference in repairing boilers from a particular manufacturer. This is common with companies that get repair jobs for a particular brand most of the time. As a result, they have become experts and know every part of the appliance and how to make it work when it is faulty. Therefore, asking the repair company if they have any manufacturer preference will save you money and time.

6. Check if They Have Bonds and Liability Insurance 


Gas appliances pose risks that could be deadly at times. When repairing heaters or boilers, a professional will make sure he or she is properly kitted and will try to avoid situations that could cause explosions or overheating of gas systems. But sometimes, this situation can be unavoidable. To avoid 'bearing the brunt' by being liable when such unfortunate situations occur, it is advisable to hire a repair company that has insurance and bonds.

7. Consider Costs 

It is important to consider the cost of your boiler repair when looking to hire a repair company. Before the engineer or plumber commences work on your appliance, there will be discussions on what the problem is, how it will be fixed, and what that would cost. If you have a budget, try to have more than one heating and boiler repair service in mind. Compare the prices they offer and choose the best one for you and your budget. 

Always remember that the quality of a repair is more important than the amount it costs. This doesn’t mean that an expensive repair will be high quality or a cheap one will give you issues. Make sure that you do not go for just any price. Consider the other above-mentioned factors when making your decision. You can also read this article to see what a boiler repair may cost in the UK.

Final Thoughts

After the repairs are done, it is important to ask the repair company for a written document. This should show the work done and the costs incurred during the repairs. This documentation can be important to you when applying for insurance. Hopefully, this informative guide will be of great help to you when deciding which heating and boiler repair service to hire in Edinburgh.

Getting New Combi Boiler Replacement and Installation in Edinburgh


The clement weather in the city of Edinburgh can be appealing especially during the summer season. It gives room for a lot of partying and funfair. But the truth is that it does end as the winter period sets in. 

This winter season comes with flu, common cold, and cough. This is an indication that it is necessary to always check that the central heating units are in order before the onset of the winter period.

As the winter period sets in, it is expedient to be sure that your Combi boiler is functioning. This device provides you with hot water for your daily needs and to keep your home warm. Combi boilers are effective central heating units and water heaters and they are essential for the provision of both heat and hot water to the home.

The truth remains that Combi boilers are mere machines that can be faulty at any point in time. So you would at some point need a gas combination boiler replacement to keep enjoying its functions. If you are moving into a new home, you should consider checking if there is a functional Combi boiler. 

This article will let you in on when you should have a Combi boiler replacement and why you need a Combi boiler replacement and installation

When Do You a Replacement?


The following are some signals to look out for:

Intermittent Breakdowns

This is the first sign that you might just need to change your boiler if you have repaired it up to two times in a year. With this, you may need to think about replacing it as it might have just served its purpose and needs a new installation.

Inefficient Operations

It can be frustrating to have a machine that isn’t in tiptop form. The machine is working but it isn’t effective enough. In this instance, you will find that the boiler is struggling to heat up the home and only provides warm water. When this happens, it is an indication it is no longer serving the purpose so you just have to let it go.

Incompatible with Smart Technology

New Combi boilers now come with built-in compatibility with the internet. With this, you can have control over your system regardless of your location and this saves costs from your energy utility. So if your old machine isn’t in sync with this then you need a change.

Unavailability Of Moving Parts

The boiler just like other appliances has various moving parts that would break down at some point.  So, it might just be wise to save cost by only replacing those parts but if they are not readily available, it is better to change the entire model for one that the parts can be obtained without the hassle

Leakage

This is a clear sign that you need a team of engineers to come to your rescue. This shows that your internal components are giving way and need some replacements. You might need to be more proactive with this to avoid your entire machine experiencing damage, corrosion, rot or rust.

Benefits Of Combi Boiler Replacement and Installation

Here are some benefits attached to having a replacement:

Efficiency

This is the most outstanding benefit of having a boiler replacement and installation. You would have a well-heated home when you need it most. 

Size

You would be handed a more compact size boiler as Combi boilers are more compact now. You can easily take advantage of the size and place it where you feel will be more convenient. You can even hide them away from the rest of the household especially children to keep them from tampering with it.

Noiseless Operation

The machine is manufactured with high-quality materials and design. This helps to improve their flexibility in a way that makes it less noisy, especially when compared with the old ones. With this modification, placing it near the bedroom wouldn’t be much of a problem any longer as its operation is noiseless.

Better Controls

This is a unique feature that one gets to enjoy with new combi boilers. They support the current heating controls. As earlier stated it can be programmed and managed with the help of the internet. It can be on a Smartphone or a tablet. So, this simply means, the heating system can even be controlled on the go.

Reduced Carbon Emission

Unlike some models of old boilers that emit carbon dioxide into the air, this is not the case with new ones. A new machine will rather bring a reduction in overall carbon emission in the home and since it will be working efficiently as it should, there will be less emission. With this, it is safe to say that you would have an environmentally friendly boiler.

Save Money

It is always a good idea to fix most appliances that are energy-saving to avoid high utility bills. Of course, the Combi boiler isn’t an exception. The fact is that gas is always costly and its price is always increasing. So, it is better to have a working boiler to avoid unwarranted consumption of energy. With less energy consumption, it will only mean one thing; less energy bill and saving of money

Aftercare

The good thing about hiring a reliable company for your replacement and installation is that there is always routine maintenance. So, if you have a team of engineers or technicians from a worthwhile company, you can rest assured that you wouldn’t need to shop around when your appliance needs good servicing. The team will always be on hand to take the load off your shoulders.

These are some important tips to guide you if you need to install or replace a Combi boiler. If you need more tips, you can search the internet. If you need tips on how to maintain heating systems, you can check here: https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/interiors/ventilation/how-to-maintain-hot-water-heating-systems/

Conclusion

We have discussed some vital details involved in getting a new Combi boiler replacement and installation in the city of Edinburgh or any other location. You just need to contact a reliable company to get yours replaced when the need arises. 

01 July 2021

Tips on Pruning for Your Gardening


A major factor required to have and maintain a beautiful and healthy garden is pruning. For an amateur, this process may not only be physically draining but could be quite tasking mentally. This is because a lot of mental planning and preparation is necessary for this process to be successfully carried out. 

The information which we will discuss in this article will help you prepare and plan for the maintenance and care of your garden so that it will give you years and years of beauty and function. Let us begin with the basics.

Pruning – Definition 

Pruning is a procedure where some plant parts like the buds, branches, and so on are selectively removed. This is done to serve both landscaping and horticultural purposes. You can find the definition here.

Reasons for Pruning 

Knowing how and when to prune your garden is very important. However, what is more important is understanding why this practice has to be done in the first place. This will give you a clearer vision of what you need to achieve. The reasons for pruning are several, however, here are some of the most important ones:

  • It helps to maintain your plant’s health. During this process, you would cut off dying, damaged, diseased, or dead wood, and take off rubbing and crossing branches. This would ensure that the plant remains healthy. 
  • It helps to control the size of the garden plants. 
  • A well-pruned garden’s ornamental features like the fruits and flowers will be accentuated. 
  • It would help you maintain the desired shape you want for the plant. 


Time to Prune 

If you prune your plants when the time is not right, you may get a highly undesirable outcome. Usually, the time to do this procedure is determined by some key factors, like the plant’s type, how much pruning is needed, and the desired result. 

If you want to simply remove dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the plant then the pruning can be carried out any time. 

Prune shrubs and trees either during the latter part of winter or very early in spring (March-April), that is, before new growth begins. 

If you have plants that flower during the last season’s wood-like rhododendrons, lilacs, and fruit trees, then you need to prune them in once blooming is over. This will help maximize the flooring of the next season. 

For better clarification, let us discuss the months in the year and what to prune at such times…

1. February to April

If you have some summer shrubs, then this is the best period to prune them. That is before the spring’s bud break. If you do not have some summer shrubs in your garden, then we only wonder why you can also prune your fruit trees and evergreens during this period. 

2. May to June 

This is the period to prune your spring shrubs such as azalea, rhododendrons, forsythia, Pieris (Andromeda), Spiraea, Lilac, and so on. 

3. June to July 

June to July is the perfect period for thinning most shade trees (deciduous trees) like linden, oaks, maples, birch, crap apple, spruces, plum, honey locust, willow, flowering cherry, and so on. Ensure you do the pruning before the new shoots become fully grown and turn woody. Prune the hedges to retain clean lines. 

4. August to December 

This period of the year is not such a great time for pruning. We would advise that you still just removing damaged or dead branches at this time. This is because; heavy pruning during this period can stimulate new growth. These new growths may then be unable to mature on time for the winter, causing them to be vulnerable to frost damages. 

Pruning Hydrangea 

Pruning Hydrangeas can be quite confusing because the guidelines for the various species common to Long Island are different. Visit https://www.bhg.com/gardening/trees-shrubs-vines/shrubs/best-hydrangeas/ and find out how to choose the best hydrangea for your garden. Below are some of the guidelines for specific species. 

  • H.serrata and H.macrophylla: these species of hydrangeas are said to be summer bloomers, however, they behave like spring shrubs and set flower buds in the previous year. So, you would need to: 

1. Your pruning during early spring should be reduced to just thinning practices and removing deadwood. Reducing the height is completely unadvisable during this period because you would be cutting the season’s flower buds off. 

2. Pruning to control the plant’s size should be done in mid or late July. At this period, the bloom should have started drying. You will have to sacrifice the beautiful effect of dried flowers if you do this, but this is how to control these species’ size. Ensure you do not wait until August as this would be too late. 

  • H.petiolaris and H.quercifolia: To control shape and size, prune after flowering. 
  • H.paniculata and H.arborescens: these react well to both light and hard pruning. 


Pruning Hedges 

Follow these special notes when you prune your hedges:

  • Allow your hedges to get a bit bigger than you trimmed the previous time. Trimming them to the previous spot each trim time will shorten or weaken each plant’s longevity. 
  • With hedges, shapes are very important, the base or bottom always have to be wide or even wider than its top. This way, sunlight will be allowed to get to all the leaves, it will also prevent ice buildup or snow damage. 

Methods of Pruning 

The following are the various methods of pruning:

1. Thinning 

This is used to reduce live branches density. And for your information, Japanese knives can be used for this method since you are working on garden shrubs. This method is done so that sunlight and air can get into the plant’s inner parts.

2. Cleaning 

This involves just removing diseased, dead, and broken stems and branches. This method is best for established or mature plants. 

3. Reducing 

This is used to decrease either the width or height of plants. The essence of this method is to make the plant tidier and more attractive. However, this method is not so great for some shrubs and plants, so always consider the health and species of your plants before you do this. 

Conclusion

The pruning tips discussed in this article will help you maintain the function and beauty of your garden.

29 June 2021

Few Things You Should Know About Sliding Patio Doors


A patio door is a large opening made of glass used as an opening from the house in place of the traditional swinging ones. 

Every time an individual moves into a new home, making it more comfortable is always their top priority. One of the aspects one should consider is having a sliding patio door and window. 

While many may think of it as an intense and tiresome process, in the long run, the benefits that come with having them outdo the cost that was be incurred initially. They present individuals with several benefits, as explained in this article. 

Accessibility and durability

Using a sliding door makes it easy for one to open or close by eliminating the need to push or pull. Its use becomes more realistic when carrying groceries into the house or exiting the house with bags. 

They also last longer since they are strong, and their way of use does not allow individuals to easily cause damage to them, unlike the standard ones that are always prone to banging. 

They can be up to twice the size of standard doors. In this case, it becomes much easier to move items inside and outside the house. They allow easy movement of large-sized items such as tables and chairs. 

When holding parties, whether inside or outside the house, it is easier for people to use them without creating unnecessary traffic. Two people can use the door at ago even if they are headed in different directions. 

Natural lighting 

The fact that they are made of glass means that they are transparent hence they allow sunlight in. Natural light will help save on electricity that may be otherwise used to light up dull rooms even during the day. Better even, it provides unique scenery during nights when there is moonlight. 

More space 

When using them, no space is used up in opening and closing. Hence, one can place furniture next to the door without necessarily affecting entry and exit into and from the house. 

Better even the space can be efficiently utilized by placing other items such as flower pots to create some beautiful appeal when entering and leaving the house. 

Generally, having them also gives the house a spacious look through optical illusion similar to mirrors. See this link to learn how you can install some into your property https://www.ronhazelton.com/projects/how-to-install-a-sliding-patio-door-ronhazelton.com 

Outside view

Since they are made of glass, one can have a nice view of the outside while on the inside. In addition, it presents exciting experiences such as watching kids playing outside. 

Better even, during events such as open-air luncheons, an individual can just sit and observe what is happening outside without necessarily having to go out or interrupt what is going on. 

Individuals can also opt to observe their gardens from the house, which helps them note aspects they would not otherwise notice when doing rounds in the garden. 

Energy saving 

It is amazing how glass can regulate internal temperatures. For example, by using a glass door, winters will be warmer, making it unnecessary to use up electrical energy to keep the rooms warm. 

On the other hand, during summers, temperatures will be reduced, doing away with the need to use up electricity to bring down the temperatures in the house. This is mainly the case where the glass runs from the ceiling to the floor. 

Another advantage of temperature regulation is that it keeps away foreign materials such as debris or raindrops. 


Free flow of air

It is common to have homes stuffy due to lack of proper ventilation. It is also common to have some pollutants like smoke and cooking odors in a house in the event that the food gets burnt, all of which need to be eliminated. 

To get rid of these, sliding it open allows huge amounts of air to stream in, causing the house to have plenty of fresh air. 

In cases where the inside gets too hot, individuals can also opt to have them open instead of using an AC that is expensive to use.

Streamlined

Different from the traditional entrances, these use minimal space when opening or closing. It ensures that in instances where curtains need to be installed, they will never be a bother when one needs to use the door. 

They also do away with the cramped feeling of having traditional doors thus making the place look elegant. Click here to see how you can replace your patio door.

Conclusion

Sliding glass doors are the best way to make homes look amazing. However, they may not be suitable where so many individuals living in different houses share the same compound since they allow individuals outside to have more details of what is going on inside the house, especially where there are no curtains. As such, they minimize the amount of privacy an individual has, making them best suited for situations where only one family is using up a compound.

28 June 2021

3 Big Expenses Made Cheaper

Expenses are undoubtedly unavoidable in your personal and professional life. Rents, utilities, food, transportation, and cell phone bills are some of the most common costs everyone incurs in their daily life.

However, there’s always the need to spend less to save cash as money is scarce. Therefore, it’s always prudent to find clever ways to save on some huge expenses. Here are three main expenses in life and how you can save money on them.

1. Housing


Housing costs are easily the single most significant monthly expense in many peoples' budgets. Mortgage payments, rents, and homeownership's associated costs can eat up your rent, so looking for ways to save on your rent is essential. As such, if you’re renting your place, consider renegotiating your rent with your landlord as a possible way to lower your housing costs. Also, you can get a roommate to save you money on rent as well as utilities.

Furthermore, you can shop around in the neighborhood for more affordable accommodation and relocate. On the other hand, you can refinance your mortgage if you have one to lower your monthly payments. Additionally, consider renting a room if you have extra space to earn additional income. You can also downsize or move further from the city as your last resort to enjoy lower housing costs. The right moving company is undoubtedly essential to enjoy a seamless move. Dependable movers such as Muscular Moving Men can assist with your relocation needs, especially if you're moving within AZ.

Muscular Moving Men are full-service Scottsdale movers, offering homeowners and businesses in AZ a broad selection of helpful relocation services. These movers assist with local, long-distance, and commercial moves. Additionally, they provide packing services to help you pack up your belongings, whether just a room or your entire home. Also, they offer state-of-the-art storage units, so clients can store various possessions at different stages of their move. What's more, this professional moving company's mover athletes undergo background checks, rigorous training and are courteous and friendly. In addition, they have years of experience in the moving industry, helping many Scottsdale residents with their moves for many years.

2. Transportation

For many people, transport is the second biggest expense after housing and probably food. However, with some careful planning, your transport cost needn't be a massive drain on your monthly budget. Therefore, you can buy a bicycle to use for short distances, and consider walking more often to spend less on gas. Also, public transportation is worth considering since it saves you money on gas, maintenance, insurance, among others. In addition, you can explore carpooling with friends and coworkers to split fuel costs, saving you a significant amount of money annually. Furthermore, consider investing in a less expensive used car to save money on your transport costs. Trusted online auto auction sites such as Auto Auction Mall will come in handy when seeking cars for an affordable price in Ghana.

Auto Auction Mall is the largest dealer car auctions online platform for salvage and insurance, used, and pre-owned vehicles. You can find some great cars for sale in Ghana from some of the world's best automakers, like VW, Toyota, and Nissan, at great prices. In addition, Auto Auction Mall helps Ghanaian buyers purchase their preferred passenger cars from dealer-only auctions like Copart and ship to Accra. To purchase and ship clean cars to Ghana, you can start with a simple search of your preferred model on their website. Some of their cars are "buy now," meaning you can readily buy them after making full payment. However, you’ll have to deposit and schedule an auction for vehicles and bid a minimum of $600 on your preferred car to get started.

3. Building Costs

via GIPHY

Building your home from scratch is another high cost for homeowners who choose to build their own house over paying mortgages. While this is a good idea for several reasons, constructing a new home is still a costly endeavor that requires proper financial planning. Leading home builders such as Interiorly.ca can help you arrive at an accurate calculation for your home building.

Interiorly.ca is a Toronto-based home builder specializing in interior design work and homebuilding. Their website's blog offers helpful articles on various topics to assist homeowners with renovations, remodels, and interior design. One of the frequent questions they receive in their line of work daily is "how much does it cost to build a house in Ontario?" Most builders provide accurate estimates to clients on a price-per-square-foot basis. This way, you can have a fair idea of how much the final building will cost. However, several other factors like your building permit costs, shape and size of the house, general contractor choice, location, and quality of building materials can also affect your home's final price. Therefore, you can consider less expensive material alternatives, using space creatively, and reducing your number of walls as some key ways to reduce your construction expenses.

Expenses are a normal part of living that everyone must plan for adequately. The points above are some three common expenses and how you can save on them.

The 5 Best Remodeling Methods to Upgrade Your Church

Church upgrades are a fantastic way to energize your congregation and get the feeling of community back on track after a long time away from in-person worship. Yet bringing back your ceremonies and meetings will require a revamping of the physical space that you all share in these functions.

Time away and the powerful weathering effect of time itself have created the need for many chapel upgrades and overall maintenance work within churches all around the United States. With these five tips, remodeling your church and getting back on track can be made easy.

1. Start with the roof.


Your roof is one of the most important components of the building itself. A new roof installation or a roof repair is best done by professional roofing contractors. Hiring one of many Northern Virginia roofing contractors to complete any repair work that you may need on your building is crucial for success in this space. It’s the best way to ensure the safety and health of the people who will once again rely on the structural integrity of the church’s physical presence on a weekly or daily basis. A contractor who can provide references and samples of their past roof repair work is a great choice in this industry.

The truth is that roofs have a shelf life just like anything else. The average roof—commercial or residential—will often last for about twenty years before needing a replacement. Take this aspect of your building seriously and continue to provide the physical shelter that your congregation has relied on for many years.

2. Consider other external needs as well.


Beyond the roof concerns that you may have, there are a number of other important upgrades and repairs to make around the exterior of the property. Gutter cleaning, Siding replacement, and landscaping are all important steps to take when working to renovate your church for an imminent reopening. Gutters and siding are particularly important because without proper maintenance in these areas the building can become susceptible to mold growth, rot, or insect infestation. Take care of the building itself and it will pay you and your congregation back in spades.

3. Landscaping


While still focusing on external components of the church grounds, it would be a mistake to discount the importance of great landscaping. Quality work in this area can provide you and your faith-based community a fantastic worship space that can flow out into the fresh air during the summer months or on a nice autumn day.

Studies have shown that time spent in green spaces can reduce stress and promote overall health and wellbeing. Coupling the power of communal spirituality with these benefits can be a great boost for your community.

4. Bring in a new slate of amenities within the church in order to boost attendance.


Church supplies—banners, envelopes, communion supplies, and everything else you use on a daily and weekly basis must be replenished after a long stretch away from community events. The church equipment that you rely on to manage mass and the various needs of your community is crucial to a great service. Make sure you’re up to date on these staples.

5. Consider an interior overhaul.


An overhaul that sees a totally new interior could be the perfect way to welcome back your congregation after a long time away. Putting down new flooring, revamping the pews and altar, and adding new decorative flair that gets worshippers in the spirit of faith and community can be a game changer for any church.

Going all out on your renovations can perhaps give you the spark you’ve been looking for to restart your community’s engagement.

The Ultimate Guide to Womanhood

Your womanhood isn't defined by the work you do, your body parts, or the relationships you have — you define your womanhood. Womanhood involves a ton of milestones, most of which are life-changing. From finding the perfect bra to finding out what no one tells you about menopause, here's a quick guide on how to navigate some key milestones in your womanhood.

Know your bra size

If you've ever worn the wrong bra size, you know how uncomfortable it can feel. Worse still are the resulting backaches and occasional breast pain. The solution to this is to find a bra that's the right fit, but this isn't always easy to do. This is because bra sizes vary significantly across lingerie brands. What qualifies as a B-cup at one store can easily be a different size at another store. To avoid this, get measured to find your correct bra size. Most lingerie shops can measure your bust for free, but if you're an avid online shopper and are wondering, "How do I measure bra size?" the first step is to have a measuring tape on hand.

To start, wear a non-padded bra or go braless. Next, grab your measuring tape and guide it around your torso, directly under your bust. Make sure that the measuring tape is level on all sides—standing in front of a mirror can help with this—and that it has a snug hold. Whatever figure you get, round it off to the nearest whole number. If you get an even number, add four inches to this figure, and if you get an odd number, add five to it. Your band size should be the total of this calculation. For example, if you measured 30 inches, your band size is 34, and if you measured 31 inches, your band size is 36.

To get your bust measurement, find the fullest part of your bust and run your measuring tape around it. Whatever figure you get, round this off to the nearest whole number. Finally, to know your bra size, subtract your band size from your bust size, and for every inch count a cup size like this:

  • 1 = A
  • 2 = B
  • 3 = C
  • 4 = D
  • 5 = DD (E)
  • 6 = DDD (F)

For instance, if, from your measurements, your bust is 37 inches, and your band is 34 inches, 37-34=3, so you're a 34C. You don't need to be a pro bra size calculator with this easy bra size method.

Wear the right bra for your needs.


Hormone fluctuations, weight gain, pregnancy, and age can affect your bra size. If you're a new mom, for instance, and you intend to breastfeed, your regular bra may not be the most comfortable fit for you during this time. Luckily, nursing bras and pumping bras offer comfortable bra options to match your body's changing needs.

Most women experience a change in breast size around the time when they are five months postpartum. If you're in this stage, you'll need a comfortable bra that you can easily adjust to support the changes you may be having in your breast size. Simple Wishes' Reversible Sleep Lounge Nursing Bra is a great option for this time because it allows you to easily slip your breast out when nursing or pumping. Their Supermom Bralette is another great alternative because of its drop-down cup feature. Besides being a great nursing bra, their nursing bralette can also double as a t-shirt bra.

Alternatively, you can also try Simple Wishes' Adjustable Hands-Free Pumping Bra. What makes this bra so great is the fact that you can wear it over any nursing bra. Considered their most supportive pumping bra, it's designed to wear only when pumping. As you transition from postpartum to breastfeeding, your main priority when it comes to finding the perfect bra is comfort. Knowing this, allow your body the time it needs to recover and stay away from underwire bras.

Understand your cycles.


In most women, estrogen levels begin to fluctuate once they reach 35. At this time, the effects of these hormonal changes are mild. It isn’t until most of these women reach their 40s that they start to experience symptoms of perimenopause. During perimenopause, your body produces lower levels of estrogen. The average length of perimenopause is two years, after which you enter menopause. Your doctor will confirm that you've reached menopause when you haven’t had a menstrual period for a period of 12 consecutive months.

Going through perimenopause and menopause can result in uncomfortable symptoms such as fatigue, hot flashes, urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, night sweats, mood swings, sleep problems, gut problems, and more. Tracking your perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms is a great way to understand your cycle to help you find relief. Some more severe symptoms may require you to seek medical treatment, and tracking your symptoms can help your doctor understand your symptoms.

Midlife health tracker apps offer the best option when it comes to helping you understand your cycle. This is because they can help you gain a proper understanding of your overall health while offering insight into some questions you may have, like: how long does menopause last?

Please note that the insight offered by menopause health tracker apps shouldn't act as a substitute for any recommended course of treatment suggested by your healthcare provider.

24 June 2021

Simple things to make your garden more attractive

Photo by JR Harris on Unsplash

With summer now underway, you are probably spending more of your leisure time in your garden than you usually would. Perhaps you enjoy relaxing in your pool after a long day at work, or having a few friends over for a barbecue and a few chilled drinks. However, you may not fully enjoy your garden if it is less of a tranquil paradise and more of a neglected junk yard. Here are some simple things to make your garden more attractive.

1. Flowers

Your garden might currently be very low maintenance, with a cement drive way and perhaps a patch of scrubby lawn for the kids to play on. While concrete flags and untended lawns do remove hours of garden maintenance, they are less aesthetically pleasing than a garden that is bursting with color. Flowers are a simple way to add some color to your garden. Simply take a trip to your local garden center and choose the flowers that you find most pleasing and plant them in your garden. Use flowerpots if you do not have flowerbeds; these also have the advantage of being moveable, so you can take your colorful flowers with you if you move properties.  

2. Pond

Adding pond water features into your garden will bring you many benefits. A pond will attract insects and other wildlife to your garden, such as frogs and dragonflies, who thrive in an aquatic environment. Furthermore, ponds and other water features, like fountains, provide your garden with an air of tranquility in which you will love to sit in to relax and unwind at the end of a stressful day. Ensure that your pond includes a water filter to keep the water moving and prevent it from stagnating, ensuring that your pond is a clean and healthy environment in which plants and wildlife can thrive.

3. Maintain garden furniture

If left exposed, your garden furniture can experience a battering from the snow, wind and rain of the harsh winter months. It’s unsurprising, then, for them to be in poor condition when you are ready to use them again in summer. Chipped paintwork, weakened wood, and faded colors all make for garden furniture that is less-than pleasing to the eye, as well as possibly being unsafe for use. Take some time to maintain your garden furniture by adding a fresh coat of weatherproof paint and carrying out repairs, and remember to use a tarpaulin cover when not in use to protect your furniture from the elements.

4. Garden ornaments

Garden ornaments are a quick way to brighten up your garden and make you and your guest smile. Garden gnomes are outside ornamentation classics, but you could also shake your things up a bit by looking at other types of garden ornaments. For example, you could have some flamingo statues for a tropical touch, or perhaps some tasteful figurines of woodland creatures to create the relaxing vibe of a mysterious pine forest. 

Implement these four tips and you’re bound to boost the attractiveness of your garden.

6 Big Reasons to Hire a Professional Plumber to Fix Your Leaking Toilet

Photo by Gabor Monori on Unsplash

According to EPA statistics, most Baltimore residents experience plumbing leaks that result in over one trillion gallons of waste water. Many homeowners understand that house appliances do not remain in stellar conditions for an extended period. You might encounter numerous plumbing issues such as a leaking toilet, a clogged bathroom, or cracked walls. When you encounter such faults, you might be tempted to carry out a DIY project on your plumbing system. Such repairs can cause further damages and extra costs because you are not a certified plumber. Therefore, you need to hire a professional plumber to sort out all your plumbing issues, especially a leaky faucet.

Below are reasons why you should call a licensed plumber to handle your leaking toilet.

1. Plumbing Equipment 

Professional plumbers have special equipment for specific repairs. Hence, when you opt to fix your toilet with any tool, you might not achieve the desired results. Most homeowners do not have these plumbing tools, and trying to compromise with other equipment might result in further problems that were not present. Moreover, one needs the required expertise to repair a leaking faucet successfully. Thus, hiring a certified plumber is the best decision, and you will not have to worry about purchasing the right tools for the DIY job. 

2. Service Warranties

Using an unlicensed plumber to fix your leaking faucet is a huge blunder since they do not provide any service warranty. Conversely, professional plumbers have this option as a mandatory policy. Hence, experts will always do a perfect job and ensure you get real value for your money because they do not want to return in case of any faults. However, if you encounter a faulty component, the professional plumbing company will offer free repairs. Instead of repairing the leaking toilet or getting an amateur, it is always wise to call expert plumbers to handle your plumbing repairs and enjoy the insurance cover. 

3. Reduces Damages

Leaking toilets often occur when you least expect, and trying to solve the problem immediately might result in further damages. You might puncture the pipes or destroy the faucet beyond repair. Most homeowners try to do DIY repairs, not knowing they might escalate the problem. More plumbing problems mean you will spend extra cash on repairs. Therefore, it is imperative to avoid such situations by hiring a skilled and certified plumber to handle the issue. 

4. Comprehensive Diagnostics

Another significant benefit of calling an expert plumber is thorough inspection and evaluation of the plumbing problem. The professional might identify other underlying issues that you did not know existed before. Homeowners usually get detailed diagnostics of the entire plumbing system. This prevents impending plumbing disasters from occurring. In addition, an expert will dig further to establish the cause of the leaking toilet and offer practical advice to the homeowners to avoid such problems from recurring. 

5. Professionalism

Certified plumbers often operate with a sense of professionalism and integrity. The experts often undergo training to establish various plumbing issues and how to fix the repairs. Amateur plumbers can use the wrong tools to fix faulty components. Without any warranty, you can’t claim any free maintenance in case the issue is unresolved. Therefore, professionalism is a fundamental aspect that homeowners need to look out for in plumbing companies to get permanent solutions. 

6. Health and Safety

Plumbing might seem like an easy DIY project when you encounter a leaking toilet. However, the repair is beyond the leaky faucet and malfunctioning system. You can get exposed to harmful contaminants and health hazards while trying to fix the issue alone. Apart from puncturing water pipes, you might mess up the entire sewer line and contaminate drinking water. Therefore, it is much safer to hire a certified plumber to handle all the plumbing repairs.    They have the expertise to follow health and safety regulations. Ultimately, professional plumbers prioritize the safety of your home and community while carrying out efficient services. 

When it comes to plumbing, it is advisable not to gamble with your home. Whether it is a leaking toilet or a broken pipe, make sure you call a professional plumber to fix the repair. While it may be cheaper to handle the issue, you might cause further plumbing problems that will cost you money to repair. Thus, before hiring a plumber, carry out due diligence to know more about certifications, warranties, and professionalism. You can also read customer reviews to find out if the plumbing company has positive ratings. Do not use your home as a DIY project; seek out experts to come and fix your leaking toilet. 

23 June 2021

Kitchen Fire Cleanup and Precautions

Photo by Chris Karidis on Unsplash

The kitchen is arguably the hub and heart of every home. Unfortunately, it is the most vulnerable room to fire damage from ovens, stovetops, fryer oil, toasters, and microwaves. Thankfully, most homeowners can contain kitchen fires before it spreads to the entire house. Nonetheless, you will still have to deal with fire-damaged countertops, cabinets, soot, and other forms of damage resulting from kitchen fires. While kitchen fire restoration experts can help you with the cleanup, below are some tips on responding to a kitchen fire.

Dealing with Kitchen Fire Damage

After containing the kitchen fire, consider the following tips when dealing with the aftermath;

  • Take Safety Precautions

Even if the fire has been put out, you should observe fire safety tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. In most cases, damage from kitchen fire isn’t extensive. However, you should invite professional inspection to assess your kitchen since the fire may damage hard-to-see areas, such as electrical systems, ductwork, and gas lines.

  • Ventilate the Entire House

Among the first things to do following a kitchen fire or any other fire damage is ventilating the entire house. Open all the windows, use fans, and other options to clear soot and dust particles that may be dangerous. Ventilating also airs out smoke and burnt food odors. Note that smoke and soot from kitchen fire will spread everywhere. Therefore, you should also consider changing your HVAC filters.

  • Document the Damage

After ensuring that your kitchen is safe and habitable, you should document and take an inventory of the extent of the damage. Taking photos and documenting all the damaged items can assist when making an insurance claim. Some items to include in your inventory include personal belongings, kitchen appliances, cabinets, and any other item consumed by fire.

How to Clean After Kitchen Fire

Smoke and soot are the main challenges when it comes to cleaning your kitchen after fire damage. If the damage from smoke and soot isn’t extensive, you can DIY-clean your kitchen using the following tips;

1. Assemble Your Gear

If you’ve seen before, the aftermath of a kitchen fire is soot residue, which forms an unsightly greasy film over kitchen surfaces. Soot residue is often sticky and mainly made up of carbon particles that can penetrate the skin, eyes, and lungs. The harmful nature of these compounds requires that you use proper protection as you do the cleanup. Wear face masks, rubber gloves, and goggles.

2. Start by Cleaning the Air

As mentioned, fire damage always contaminates the air, making it dangerous to breathe. Therefore, open all the windows and doors in your kitchen. You can also place fans in every corner of your kitchen to create cross-current airflow that drives out contaminated air. You shouldn’t run your AC when cleaning as it will circulate the contaminated air through the ductwork into other parts of the house.

3. Clean the Surfaces

Removing soot from kitchen cabinets and other surfaces is a real struggle. However, use a strong cleaning product to rinse the surfaces thoroughly and clean the surfaces repeatedly. Note that you may have to repaint flat finishes after cleaning to cover stains from soot. Some of the equipment that you will need to clean the surfaces include;

  • Trisodium phosphate – if mixed with water, Trisodium phosphate has industrial-grade strength and works well on soft residues. It is a strong agent, thus use with gloves and avoid splashes. Also, don’t use this agent to clean chrome fixtures and ceramic tiles.
  • Degreaser products – though not harsh as TSP, these agents cleans all types of surfaces. However, always check specific details to ensure that you choose the right product for the job.
  • Dry soot sponge – soot sponges can clean all surfaces effectively, including fabrics. They are designed to remove soot residue without water or any other liquid cleaning agents.

Freshen Up Your House

Even if the flame were confined to the kitchen, your entire house might be affected by foul odors. Therefore, you should freshen up the house after the cleanup. You can do this by;

  • Using an orange citrus cleaner to wipe non-porous surfaces after removing all the soot
  • Opening coffee containers and leaving them inside closed cabinets
  • Placing bowls with vinegar at different locations to absorb the smells
  • Sprinkling baking soda on the carpets
  • Contacting a fire restoration company for help in setting up an ozone generating machine that quickly refreshes indoor air

Conclusion

Even though fire hazards are unstoppable, you should implement various fire prevention tips to reduce the risks of encountering fire damage in your kitchen. Regardless, if the situation has already happened, you should be well prepared to handle the aftermath. While you can handle a small kitchen fire outbreak, you should leave serious kitchen fire damage restoration to professionals. Using wrong cleaning products or wrong techniques can lead to irreversible damages.

Pipelining For Homeowners: Are CIPP Lining Cost-Effective?


Broken pipes, water or sewer line, can cause bigger problems if ignored for too long. Homeowners should act promptly and contact a plumbing contractor to handle pipe issues. The two ways of repairing faulty and damaged pipes include traditional excavation-replacement (also known as dig-and-repair method) and CIPP lining. 

What Is CIPP Lining? 

Cured-in-place piping (CIPP) refers to a trenchless pipelining method of repairing damaged pipes. Unlike traditional piping repair methods, CIPP doesn’t involve extensive digging and property damage.  

With trenchless technology, plumbing contractors can repair and replace broken pipes with minimal excavation in less time. They use the advanced equipment such as a max vacuum pump, to ensure a successful pipe repair. 

Is CIPP lining cost-effective for homeowners? Find out the answer to this common CIPP lining question by reading below. Take a look at how the costs differ between trenchless and traditional methods to determine if CIPP lining is more cost effective than what most homeowners are used to go for. 

Upfront Costs Depend On Methods Used 

When it comes to the upfront costs of trenchless lining versus traditional pipe repair, the latter is slightly less expensive than the former. Homeowners have many plumbing contractors to choose from when it comes to traditional pipe replacement, because this is a common pipe repair method. 

The average upfront cost of a traditional pipe repair is between USD$50 and USD$250 per foot. The cost varies depending on several factors such as the materials and the location of the pipes. Most traditional plumbing jobs involve over 10 feet of pipe, and the average upfront cost includes materials and labor. 

For the trenchless pipe repair, the upfront cost depends on the technology or method used. The two trenchless technologies for pipe repair and replacement include the following: 

  • Lateral Pipe Lining: In CIPP lining technology, the plumbing expert creates a new pipe in an existing pipe. The CIPP contractor utilizes existing pipes and adds an epoxy resin layer to re-line the pipe, repair cracks, and close gaps. By doing so, soil intrusion and leakage are prevented. The cost for CIPP lining ranges from USD$80 to USD$250 per foot. 
  • Pipe Bursting: This trenchless piping technique utilizes a hydraulic or pneumatic head. It destroys the old, damaged pipe and then drags in a new replacement pipe. As compared to lateral CIPP lining, pipe bursting is less expensive. The cost ranges between USD$60 and USD$200 per foot. 

Consider The Hidden Costs  

While the upfront cost of traditional pipe repair and replacement is less expensive than the trenchless method, you also need to consider the hidden or other costs. There could be additional costs not covered by the quoted price above.  


Here are some examples of hidden costs of traditional pipe repair and replacement method: 

  • Excavation Cost: Traditional trenching repair methods don’t include the old pipe excavation cost. The cost of trenching ranges from USD$4 and USD$12 per foot.  
  • Hiring Another Contractor: The plumbing contractor may ask a subcontractor to perform the digging, which adds to the additional costs.  
  • Landscaping: While the price estimate of a traditional pipe method may cover the excavation cost, it may less likely include the cost of fixing the landscape. Homeowners need to hire someone to fix their garden, which may costs hundreds or thousands of dollars. 
  • Additional Work: If the contractor encounters large, heavy objects over the sewer pipes, the homeowner may incur separate charges for relocating the objects.  

CIPP trenchless technology doesn’t have the above hidden costs because the procedure is minimally invasive. It eliminates ruining landscaping, driveways, and sidewalks. Trenchless techniques are a more cost-effective and faster solution for residential pipe repair projects.  

Save Time And Save Money 

It’s important to save time in resolving plumbing emergencies and other plumbing-related issues so you can resume your normal routine as soon as possible. Because CIPP lining involves less completion time than traditional pipe repair and replacement, you’ll save more time and use it to focus on your family, work, or business. 

CIPP lining is a cutting-edge technique without open-cut excavation and pipe replacement. It works by inserting an epoxy resin-impregnated liner through the old pipeline. After which, the liner is cured to create a durable pipeline. So, just imagine the time and money you’ll save from trenchless pipe lining over traditional pipe repair and replacement. 

Conclusion  

CIPP lining is cost-effective. Because this pipe repair method doesn’t involve extensive digging, you’ll save on material and labor cost, as well as the cost in bringing back the beauty of your yard after the excavation. In addition, you’ll save yourself from the hassle and stress of overseeing workers within your property with CIPP lining, unlike several days of operations supervision using traditional methods. 

22 June 2021

Home Design Tips for Cat Lovers

Photo by Juli Kosolapova on Unsplash

If you have a furry friend that follows you around your home, or seems to always be off somewhere causing havoc, it might be time to make a few tweaks to your home.

Taking inspiration from this cat owner’s apartment, we’re sharing several design ideas that your kitten will lap up like a saucer of milk.

Vertical Space

Providing your pet with not just ground-level space, but vertical space will give them the freedom to stretch out, explore and oversee their kingdom. And since very little space above furniture level is used by us humans, there’s no harm in making a little more room for your fur baby. 

Giving your cat lots of opportunity to climb and rest higher up with floating shelves, pet stairs or small cubby holes can be both practical and stylish for everyone involved. Cats tend to prefer sleeping in higher up places, as it allows them to feel a little safer. That, or they just like to keep an eye on humans and their food bowls...

Using staggered shelving across the wall can create a cool and contemporary living space with practical storage while also being a stairway to heaven for your kitty cat. 

Just remember not to over fill the shelving, otherwise you might your belongings all over the floor when you wake up in the morning. 

Toilet privacy

Just like us humans like privacy when using the bathroom, cats are no different. Rather than having the litter tray out for all to see, hiding it in a cabinet with a small entryway for your kitty will give them the privacy they need. It’ll also keep your home looking and smelling much nicer for when guests arrive. 

Sun traps

If there’s one thing cats love, it’s a good nap in the sunshine. Whether you install a cozy window seat or use wooden blinds to bring the sun in, your cat will have a new favorite snooze spot. Because, as we all know, they’ll never use the pet bed you bought them. While they’re not using the window seat, you can enjoy the perks too – if you have permission, of course. 

Their own door

If you want to keep the room warm and toasty in the cooler months, or don’t want to keep getting up to let your cat out, it might be time to upgrade the door. A cat door for a sliding door frames is the perfect way to make your cat a little less high maintenance. Without having to leave the door open just in case they want to come in, you’ll also be able to keep the living room cozier for you and the family. 

Loop-free pile

Carpets with a short or loop free pile are the way to go for cat homes. That way, when they ‘forget’ where their scratching post is, you don’t have to invest in a new carpet. Having a little rug in the room where they can snuggle, snooze, and scratch, will hopefully stop prevent them from using the sofa leg.

It’s time to give your cat the kingdom it deserves.