The Difference Between Residential and Commercial Gutters

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Are you a commercial business looking to replace your gutter system? You may not know, but when replacing your gutter system for the first time there are many different factors that you need to take into consideration to ensure that you choose the perfect system for your business. One of the big decisions that you will have to make is whether to opt for residential gutters or commercial gutters and this decision is normally based on the type of property that it is needed for. In this article, we will be taking you through the main differences between residential and commercial gutters, so you can choose the one that will be best for you.

 The Installation Process

One of the biggest differences between commercial and residential gutters is how they are installed. Residential gutters are designed to be installed in your home. They will be installed on the edge of the roof and this is normally a shed, gable, or hipped roof. With commercial guttering, these are normally installed in commercial properties which are often bigger and you will also often find that they have flat roofs.

The Size and Style of the Gutter 

Another big difference to consider when choosing between residential and commercial guttering Is the size and style. The size and style used for a residential property will not be the same as that of a commercial property. In a residential property, you will tend to find that U-shape or K-style gutters are used, however, in commercial properties the preferred choice is often commercial box gutters. When getting commercial box gutters, you will first get a quote for the cost of the job. If you are happy with this quote, the work can then begin. The first stage is to remove the previous gutters and they should be recycled if this is possible. If not, then they should be disposed of properly. The next stage is to have your new commercial box gutters installed. This is done with either steel or aluminium and they will be affixed to the building with industrial strength brackets for long term secure fastening. The final inspection will then be carried out to ensure that the new guttering system is performing to the best of its capabilities.

Negative Repercussions

It is vitally important that you understand the difference between residential and commercial gutters as choosing the wrong one can have disastrous consequences for your home or commercial property. If you do not have the proper coverage then you risk having your gutters not being able to do their job properly. This can then lead to leaks in the roof and your gutters becoming damaged. This can result in lots of time and money being wasted trying to correct this problem and changing the gutter system.

Laws and Regulations 

Depending on where you live, there can be different rules and regulations that you need to follow when you are having new guttering systems installed. Make sure that you check out what your local laws and regulations are. This is particularly important if you own a commercial property as it is likely that there could be regulations about the gutter size, how they are installed and where exactly the water drains out.


Don’t Always Opt for the Biggest Guttering System

A common mistake that many people can make it opting for the biggest guttering system that they can which is often true in residential properties. The thought behind this is normally that you can achieve better coverage and it will require less maintenance, however, the experts will tell you that this is not the case. Just because a guttering system is bigger, this does not necessarily mean that it will be a better fit for your particular property. It is also worth remembering that big gutters can also require more maintenance than small gutters as they can end up collecting more debris.

The Aesthetics 

As well as all of the practical advice above to take into consideration, it is also important that you think about the aesthetics of the guttering system that you are choosing. When you put a large commercial gutter system on a residential home it can appear bulky and take away from the lovely look of your home. What’s more, it will also cover the fascia board and trimming that you want to carry out to keep your home looking the way that you desire. Take a look at other houses that you like and see what gutters they have installed. This can give you a better idea of what exactly you should opt for, just make sure you are looking at places with a similar style of roof!

The Items You Need to Improve Your Home Décor

No matter whether you are decorating your very first home or are looking to overhaul just one room that needs sprucing, interior design is lots of fun and is the ultimate way to put your own stamp on a home to make it yours. However, interior design can be a tricky, and costly, process and so it is vital that you are not wasting your money on unnecessary purchases. In this article, we are taking you through the items that you should consider implementing in your new interior design project that will instantly lift a room.

Plants 

One of the easiest ways in which you can spruce up your home is to bring the outdoors, in! Really, this type of purchase can be as expensive or as cheap as you want it to be. This can range from anything from a gorgeous bonsai tree to a simple fern. It is also important to consider the maintenance of plants and so you may want to opt for one that is not going to require a whole lot of attention from you. Plants come in a tonne of different shapes, sizes and colours, so no matter what the colour scheme is of your home, you should be able to find one that fits with your room.

Rugs 

A good investment to make in any room when it comes to interior design is a rug. This can add colour, warmth and texture to any room and it is definitely an essential for any room that has a cold wood or tiled floor. Always try to check it out in person before purchasing online so you can get a better idea of its real size and how it will fit in your room.

Artwork

Another easy way to add some gorgeous finishing touches to a room when having an interior design overhaul is to get good artwork. We would recommend getting a focal piece for a room as not only will it add that little something extra to your room, it will also act as a great conversation piece. At an online art marketplace such as Fine Art America, you can choose from a wide range of wall art prints including framed prints, canvas prints, art prints, metal prints, acrylic print and posters. With millions of unique products to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect artwork for the room you are designing.

Chairs

No matter whether you are changing up the interior design of your kitchen, living room, or dining room, chairs are normally always involved and can be a great feature in any room. Opt for a comfortable feature chair that everyone will want to sit in and that adds personality to a room.

Pillows

Finally, don’t forget the importance of a good pillow. Pillows provide the homely feel to a room and you can even match them to your artwork for a polished and sleek look. We would recommend keeping away from the unusual patterns and textures and opting for classic styles with soft edges and clean colours.

Pests in Your Home: More Than Just a Nuisance

Pests are almost unavoidable, populating every part of the globe. The problem is that for every specimen you see there are many more that you don't. Once they enter your domain, they tend to reproduce and invite others and before you know it you have a pest infestation. Not only are they a bother, but they can get into and contaminate your food supply, bite, cause allergies and disease and damage the structure of your home. The good news is that you have the ability to reduce the risks of pests entering your home through common sense measures and professional services.

When to Use Pest Control

A fly here and there or a stray ant making its way to your sink may not warrant the need for professional help. However, if you live in a bug-friendly region like Northern Virginia and turn on the lights to find many bugs scurrying to seek cover, calling the pros is certainly something to consider. Luckily there are many companies that specialize in pest control in the Northern VA area and other places where a variety of bugs pose a threat to homeowners. They can do a thorough search of your home, including the outside perimeter to see if you have an undetected infestation. Then they will then provide a monthly treatment designed to address your particular needs based on their findings.

Disrupting Your Life

Pests are more than just a nuisance. They come into your home seeking shelter and food. The problem is that if you don't properly seal dry goods or prolong your cleanups they will take root. Things like replacing the paper flour and sugar bags with plastic resealable containers are a step in the right direction. Wiping down counters and appliances, vacuuming and cleaning floors often also helps. If you have children make sure to limit their snacks to certain areas so as not to spread the insects to other areas of your home. Leaky pipes that produce moisture can also cause insects to stay around. Bugs like the cockroach hang out near moisture-prone areas. By eliminating access to water you can help to rid your home of these critters.

Hazardous to You and Your Family

During the spring and fall months, many people open their windows and doors as a way of bringing in the fresh air. Unfortunately, if your screens are not sealed properly or have holes in them, that's not all that will enter. Insects such as flies, mosquitoes, and bees will also find their way inside. Flies regurgitate every time they land on you, your furniture, countertops, or your food. Since they collect food from dirty sources like trash cans, they can spread diseases like typhoid causing family members to become sick. Many mosquitoes carry the West Nile Virus which is especially dangerous to seniors and young children and bees that have a hive near your home can become territorial and protective making them aggressive and willing to sting. Before opening your windows make sure that the screens fit tightly and that there are no visible holes.

Compromising Your Home's Structure

If you live near a construction site or an abandoned home, you may end up with insects like the carpenter ant or termites. Since they work their way from the inside out, early detection is critical to preserving your home's foundation and structure. Once you see one it's almost always too late. If you reside near suspect areas or if you think you may have a problem, have a professional take a look to confirm or allow you to breathe a sigh of relief.

Preventative Measures

Regardless of the climate, you live in, pests will find a way indoors. Thankfully, there are things you can do to reduce the possibility of them entering. Trim hedges, cut back tree limbs and remove weeds from around the perimeter of your home. Make sure your outdoor spigot is completely off and dispose of any stale source of water accumulated from recent rains. If you have a wood pile near your home, move it back at least 5 to 10 feet from your foundation.

Humans and pests coexist, so there is never a way to completely eliminate them from your home. However, there are many ways to prevent an infestation and keep them under control.

Ways to Update Your Home

It might seem like a superfluous task to fix up your home. You already live there and, as long as things work, you may feel fine with the way things are. However, taking the time to remodel and repair has beneficial effects on your cost of living, quality of life, and your overall health. The how and why might seem baffling at first, but there are a number of ways to update your home, at an affordable cost. Here are just a few tips to help you get started.

The Why

Updating your home can affect your health. A remodel is a change in your life, and change is good for you! It allows you to practice flexibility and adapt to different circumstances. Change also pushes you out of your comfort zone. When you learn to be okay with the changing circumstances around you, you get out of your rut. This can also help you manage anxiety and stress in a more healthy way, with positive coping skills and acceptance, instead of a fight. Changing your home can be a deep emotional experience. A home is full of memories and it can seem disloyal to change anything about the way it has always been. However, if you welcome the change, you may find it becomes even better than what it was when you began. You can do it.

Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel is one of the most popular home updates, and with good reason. Modernizing your kitchen can improve everything from basic cooking to family gatherings during the holidays. Some ways to do this include switching to stone or glass countertops, and sanding and painting your wooden cabinets to give them a new flair. If your kitchen needs more than a few slight changes, you should consider a full and complete kitchen remodel. This gives you the opportunity to work up close with design professionals to reinvent your kitchen. The creative choices are up to you; however, you will have the chance to run them by a designer, to be sure you have what you want. Remodeling this way also takes some of the DIY pressure off of you. From the financial aspect, a full kitchen remodel can cost upwards of $15,000. If the price is too steep, a remodeling company might help you get the financial assistance to make the changes you want to make. Don’t be afraid to ask about their financial aid options.

Appliance Repair

Now is the time to fix that old dishwasher you keep saying you will address someday. Even the most state-of-the-art appliances can receive a great deal of wear and tear over the years. You want to be sure your appliances work as they should, so they last even longer. This is why you should contact a company who makes this their specialty, like appliance repair Bend. They can fix your appliances, from microwaves, ovens, and refrigerators, to more specialty appliances, like your patio heater or pizza oven. If you aren’t sure whether to repair or replace an appliance, experts suggest that if the repair costs more than fifty percent of the cost of replacing, you should purchase a new one. The best way to avoid full replacement is proper upkeep. Regular maintenance ensures the lifespan of your appliances.

Security and Locks

If your home security is not up-to-date, you need to make it so. Statistics show that 66% of burglaries are residential, and that homes without a security system are 300% more likely to be targeted. Don’t let you and your family become prey because of an overlooked necessity. Luckily, there are many self-service security technologies you can install and monitor yourself. These allow you to track video footage for specific times and dates. You can also use a company to help you set up your new security system, if you don’t feel comfortable attempting it alone. If the idea of this is baffling, you can start small. Changing your locks can be as easy as contacting residential locksmith services to help you renew your home security. By taking this step, you lessen your chances of being a victim of a forced-entry, making your home and family safe and sound under any circumstance. There are so many options to protect you, so get cracking.

New Roof

If you don’t already have a metal roof, it’s a good idea to consider getting one. In comparison to asphalt shingles, metal roofs are stronger and tend to last longer. Metal roofs have also been shown to minimize heating and cooling costs, lower insurance rates, and can have environmental benefits. The panels of a metal roof fit together to provide superior coverage. Unlike asphalt shingles, the metal panels lock together and are less likely to fall off and break due to weathering. This results in fewer leaks and fewer repairs. You very well may end up needing to replace shingle roofing as soon as seven years after its installation. While you might pay more for a metal roof up front, the cost exponentially beats that of repairing asphalt tiles. Find a local contractor to help you decide if residential metal roofing is right for you.

The changes you make to your home will improve your life. Installing newer, energy efficient technology can lower your environmental impact and cost of living. Not only will your appliances and amenities be newer, but your life will feel easier knowing that things work the way they should. No more damp clothes coming out of the dryer or putting out buckets under your leaky roof when it rains. By embracing the change that comes with fixing up your home, you will learn how to be adaptable in any situation. Remodeling will help you jump out of your rut into a brave new world--and a beautiful, fresh-feeling house.

Ways to Waterproof Your Kitchen

In a home, the kitchen is often the center of all activity.

Almost all residents and guests pass through the kitchen and use it for its many purposes – crafting meals, enjoying a snack or a drink together, passing quick conversations over breakfast before work or school, washing hands, and much, much more.

The kitchen also receives a lot of water activity, and sometimes it is unwanted water. Spills, steam vapor, pipe leaks, overflowing sinks and a myriad of other problems can strike a kitchen at any time. Especially when living in a tropical climate like Florida or other wet and humid places prone to leaks and flooding, keeping your kitchen dry can feel like a very real and very important challenge.

However, there are ways to keep this beautiful and essential space safe and dry in your home.

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Whether you’re building a kitchen from scratch or just want to update your existing space, check out these three great ways to waterproof your kitchen and protect it from as much potential water damage as you can.

1. Choose Your Floors Wisely

If you’re building or redoing your kitchen, an easy way to be smart about waterproofing starts with the materials you use to build and decorate this space.

An easy switch to keep your kitchen safe is using tile instead of wood or laminate floor. Tile, when bound together by grout, is sealed off from water. This will keep your floors safer from water, whether it’s a quick spill or a hefty flood. With tile flooring, you can wipe up or drain your kitchen much faster and without fear of further damage, mold or any other underlying issues!

2. Bring the Outdoors In 

While you can swap out flooring choices fairly easily in a new kitchen, choosing cabinet materials may not present as simple of a switch. It’s probably pretty practical to believe that your kitchen will include wood cabinetry, which could be damaged by leaky pipes or flooding if left unprotected. Water-damaged wood can also harbor mold, a definite health hazard.

Thankfully, there are special cabinets made to be waterproof, weatherproof and life proof. Turning your search for new cabinets to the outdoors can result in some pretty amazing finds.

With the rise in popularity of outdoor kitchens, outdoor cabinets have been created to withstand rain, snow and other soggy experiences. Using these cabinets inside can save you a lot of headaches in the future if something were to go wrong.

3. Protect What You’ve Got

If you’ve already got a kitchen you love and don’t have the desire, time or budget to replace any of its existing features, have no fear. Thankfully, tools have been created to help protect your kitchen as well. There are ways to waterproof your kitchen, mainly your cabinets, that can make a big improvement with just a little time and elbow grease.

First, protect the insides of your cabinets with vinyl tiles. These tiles usually run incredibly cheap, and many come with peel and stick adhesive already fixed on the back. Use these tiles to cover the plywood bottoms of your cabinets. This will help protect the wood from inevitable, daily drips, small leaks and spills.

Also, be sure to laminate your cabinets. Laminate can be found at any home improvement store and will add an essential extra barrier between the wood of your cabinets and water, preventing damage. You can laminate your cabinets yourself with a little sandpaper, wood glue and some nails, or you can call a professional to do it for you. Either way, this is a step that should not be skipped.

What If Water Has Already Struck?

Your kitchen is a beautiful space that deserves the protection it needs to continue to thrive. Accidents happen easily and quickly, so don’t delay on taking these steps to preserve your space.

But if you’re already dealing with a water damage crisis, don’t fret. It doesn’t mean the end of your kitchen. It will mean, however, that you will need to contact true experts in water damage restoration. If you do live in a humid state, like Florida, you will want to be sure to find Florida property restoration experts who specialize in the efforts and techniques required to repair water damage when the climate is so naturally wet and humid. It will take a bit more work, but you will be able to get your kitchen back.

So, go forth, and enjoy your water-proofed kitchen free of anxiety!

Making the most of your space

Roughly seven in ten homeowners in Britain say they are not happy with their home and 28% of participants stated that their home is simply too small for them…

So, how can this be resolved? By making just a few changes to your home, some DIY spirit, a few decent decorating tools and a bit of good old fashioned elbow grease you can quite literally transform your home to not only appear bigger but to have much more useable space. Try a few of the tips and tricks in the infographic below and you’ll be surprised how much of a difference you can make.

The Colorful World of Laminate Flooring

Flooring is not something that you would frequently consider as a key aspect of your home design. After all, when looking around your own or someone else’s home, you will rarely look at their floor first. Normally it’s their wallpaper, mirror or other decorative feature instead.

In reality however the floor is the most critical aspect of your room design. This is because the tone and color pallet of your floor, acts as a catalyst to the rest of your room design. From wall coverings to furniture, it all goes through what kind of floor you have in the room.

From tiled flooring to natural hardwood flooring, each type and style will affect the direction that your home design will take.

So what if there was a type of floor which is flexible enough to meet your exact design ambitions, while also delivering the charisma found within natural hardwood flooring.

Thankfully there is such a combination – the colorful world of laminate flooring.

This is one of the most customizable forms of home flooring, allowing you to fulfill your design ambitions by designing from the ground up.

This is thanks to a thin printed layer within each piece of laminate flooring, allowing for a wide range of colours and shades, normally difficult to obtain in natural wood flooring.

For example, take a look at our white laminate flooring, offering a distinctive wood look and feel in a sleek and cool white finish; allowing light to envelop the room like nothing else.

What’s better is that this does not need staining or any other expensive work to achieve this look. So how does laminate flooring achieve this feat?

It all lies in its design, as each piece consist of a durable and hardwearing central layer – which the printed design is layered on. After this a transparent layer is then placed over this, creating the desired effect.

This allows for multiple colors and grain effects including brown, oak effect, black and grey laminate flooring.

This offers limitless possibilities when renovating your home as with a simple snap, click installation common with most laminate designs, you can completely change the tone of any room.

For example say you are looking to maintain the soothing and sophisticated look in your bedroom yet need to replace your aging carpet. Then how about some brown laminate wood flooring. On the other side of things, say you were wanting to define your new dining room space, how about some traditional oak laminate flooring, for a traditional restraint look and feel.

What’s great is how long this new color and tone will remain within the home. Bypassing the fragility and high maintenance of tiles, hardwood and vinyl floors; the 4 layers found in laminate gives it enhanced durability.

This makes it a great option for rooms with heavy traffic levels such as the living room, thanks to its hardwearing design. This also means it is easier to clean and maintain, as spillages and dirt can simply be mopped away, without much risk to your floor.

Once this foundation is down then you can begin to design your room around the unique tones and color pallets available with laminate wood flooring, or even simply find the color that’s fits your current design.

Top Advantages To Installing Solar Shades In Your Home

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If you’re looking to replace your current blinds or shades over your windows, you’ll definitely want to give solar shades a close look.

Solar shades are unique over other kinds of window treatments in that they work by reflecting the rays of the sunlight rather than allowing it to come through the window, while simultaneously absorbing the heat from outside.

The best analogy would be to think of solar shades as sunglasses. Your sunglasses can both filter and shield sunlight, and solar shades are the same way.

Now that you know what solar shades are and why they work, you might be wondering why exactly they would be a wise investment for your home.

Here are the top advantages to installing solar shades in your home:

They Are Available In Numerous Designs

Most blinds and shades are available in a wide variety of styles, designs, colors, shapes, and textures, and solar shades are no exception. It’s not like you’re limited to just one or two designs. You can certainly find a set of shades that will complement the colors and furniture in your room to give that room a more appealing and attractive look and feel to it.

They Block UV Rays

One of the best benefits to solar shades is the fact that they are effective at blocking ultraviolet (UV) rays. This is important for your family’s health, because UV rays can potentially cause diseases such as skin cancer.

They Protect Your Furniture

There are many natural enemies of furniture, including spilled beverages, pet hair, and of course, sunlight. In fact, sunlight can really degrade your furniture and cause it to lose value. Solar shades are very efficient at filtering out sunlight and especially UV light, which means you’ll protect the investment you made into your furniture.

They More Efficiently Regulate Heat

Solar shades do far more than just keep sunlight out of your home. They are also very efficient at minimizing the amount of heat that transfer into your home from the outdoors. When that heat is blocked, it means that your home can feel like a cool haven from the hot and humid air that’s outside.

They Reduce The Need For Air Conditioning

Since solar shades work wonders for reducing the temperature inside of your house during a warm summer day, the need for your air conditioning is naturally reduced. This will enable you to save more on money.

Furthermore, during the winter, solar shades will likewise to help conserve the heat inside of your home, which will make your home more energy efficient and also help you to cut your expenditures on your monthly bills.

Installing Solar Shades

Our solar shades the only great window treatment option? No, but they definitely are among the most technologically advanced window treatment options available, and are an excellent way to improve your home without spending a ton of money.

Top Tips for Renting Out Your Spare Room

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If you’re looking for some extra cash, you might have considered renting out your spare room. This is a great idea that works well, but it is important that you consider everything before letting someone move in. We’ve put together a list of some things that you should consider when deciding to rent your room out.

Get References

If you are going to let someone move into your home while you are living with it, you want to make sure that both you and your property are safe. By asking prospective tenants for references from previous landlords, you can figure out who is the best tenant for you. Perform a few of your own background checks, have a look at their public online presence if you possible to understand what sort of person they are!

Providing Facilities

There are some rules when it comes to renting a room. You need to consider that you will have to include a bathroom and access to your kitchen. Although you may not want to share your space with them, it is not as simple as letting them sleep on your spare bed.

If you’d like to make some extra cash but don’t have the space, you could always use the space in your garden to build somewhere. You can buy all the custom-made parts from Armstrong Steel and have them ship it to you. This way you can build a steel building for your new tenant and give them more space!

Advertising the Room

If you’re going to rent a room, make sure that you advertise it in a safe place. You don’t want your message to reach the wrong people and you also don’t want to be only getting responses from time wasters! Using a trusted website such as Easy Roommate to advertise your room will make sure that everything is using the right channel. You don’t even need to pay to list it here so take a look at our advice on listing rooms.

Set Rules

People who rent out their spare rooms often have issues with their tenants doing things that they don’t want them to. This is why it is important to set out some ground rules before the tenant moves in. If you don’t want them playing music at 1am or having people over, make sure to tell them before they sign anything. This way you can avoid any problems and be happy with your tenant. Although even if you set rules and get references for the tenants you can still run into problems.  For that reason it's best to purchase cheap landlord insurance so that you are insured for damages to the home caused by renters.  

Inform the Right People

If you own the house you live in, you cannot simply just rent out your room. It is important that you inform both your mortgage provider and your insurer just in case something happens. By doing this you will cover your tracks and ensure that everything goes to plan.

Summary

Overall, we think that is important that you make sure to consider everything when you are thinking about renting out a room in your home. Being a live-in landlord is different to one that is not present so make sure to do your research!

The Do's and Don'ts of Good Landscaping Design

Creating a lovely yard requires more than a shovel and a few potted plants. It takes a lot of design, planning, and elbow grease - all in that order. Once you’re through with the design, you have to carefully plan how to implement it. However, in every stage, you must know what to do or not to do if you’re to succeed. Let’s look at some of the do’s and don’ts of proper landscaping.

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Do Keep Some Grass

Are you tired of digging deep into your finances to maintain the lawn? Then replacing the grass with a deck or brick paving seems like a good idea. But as far as aesthetic appeal and feet-friendliness are concerned, having a fully-paved yard might not be such a bright idea. So how do you strike a compromise between cost and yard appeal? Simply mix the natural and artificial. By all means, install the paving, but also retain some grass.

Don’t Mix Landscaping Styles

About the styles to use, what’s the secret to effective landscaping? In one word, it’s “consistency.” When you pick a theme, stick to it from one end of the yard to the other. And as tempting as it might be, avoid throwing in any beautiful style that you see on your drive home. Doing so only turns your backyard into a cluttered, embarrassing mess.

Do Create a Centerpiece

Looking out over the yard, do you see any feature that draws your eye? Or, do you see only grass? Now picture the same yard with a small pond, elaborate fountain, or cozy fire pit. Even in your mind, you immediately notice the effect such a centerpiece would have. So, install one, but don’t go overboard. Remember, the idea is to create an affordable, eye-catching focal point, not an overly-fancy, expensive one.

Don’t Plant Non-Native Species

This can’t be repeated enough: Never install a plant that isn’t native to your climate or location, no matter how beautiful it is. But how much harm can it do, anyway? It can do a lot of harm, especially if you start with your pocket. For starters, plants that can’t adapt to the local climate soon wither, leaving you with another landscaping bill on your hands.

And just like weeds, they can turn invasive and spread uncontrollably from your yard and into the neighborhood. So how do you know which species are best suited to your location? You consult a professional, of course.

Do Consult a Professional

So, you have no clue about landscaping? Then know this: there’s no such thing as an accidental masterpiece in either landscaping or anywhere else for that matter. An appealing yard is always the result of detailed planning and extensive know-how, not of shifting things around hoping for the best. So instead of making a mess of things, consult landscaping teams like Architectural Landscape Design, and let them design the yard for you.

Don’t Plant Trees Close to the House

Despite being native to your area, trees have no place near your house. In fact, the farther away from the house you plant them, the better. And here’s why. During winter, snow-laden tree branches often break and fall onto your roof, costing you thousands of dollars in repair bills.

So how far from the house should you plant a tree? For short trees, make that no less than 20 feet. But for tall trees, the minimum distance increases to 50 feet.

As you landscape, remember to compromise between beauty and cost. Install stand out elements that catch the eye but without clashing with each other, damaging the environment, or destroying the house.

Clever Space-Saving Tips for Your Apartment

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With the size of the average US apartment measuring around 889 square feet, apartments are steadily shrinking as developers squeeze in as many units as possible. But however small you think your living space may be, it's likely to be much bigger than one particular apartment in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen which measures just 78 square feet. Regardless of how small your apartment, there are many tricks to maximizing every bit of space you have.

Maximize the space under your bed

Your bed is hiding lots of potential storage space underneath. If you are buying a new bed, look for one with plenty of built-in storage underneath. If you already own a bed but it's low, get some bed risers to raise it up. Then you can store away items in rollaway boxes in the new space you've created. You could even invest in an elevated bed that you fold into the wall, leaving you with a great space to use during the day.

Consider scale and proportion

When choosing new furniture, make sure you pay close attention to scale and proportion. For armchairs and couches, you need to look for designs that are compact and tight rather than a traditional three-piece sofa that will simply overpower the space. And of course, the golden rule is to try to find a piece of furniture that has built-in storage or has a multipurpose function.

Make the most of high ceilings

If you are fortunate to have an apartment with a beautiful high ceiling, then make the most of it by creating a mezzanine level with a space that you can fill with floor-to-ceiling storage. This is a fantastic way of giving your apartment a luxury feel, while also giving you an extra level between floors. And of course, some much needed extra storage.

Use visual design tricks

The ultimate trick for maximizing a small space is to distract the eye. By providing a point of visual interest, the focus will not be on how small a room actually is, but on an eye-catching design instead. Creating a busy feature wall with some bold artwork and different sized picture frames will distort the perception of space. Using mirrors is another great cheat to making a room feel much bigger and brighter.

With a little investment, time and some creative thinking it is possible to make the most out of every last bit of space in your apartment without compromising on style or comfort.

How to Buy a Planter

These days, there are many interesting, quirky and lovely planters available on the market right now, available for use both indoors and outdoors. How do you choose the best one, though? Whilst a big part of this is down to your individual taste and the style of your home or garden, there are some things which you need to consider.

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To make sure you give your plants the best chance in their lives, you need to invest in the right planter for it and you should buy planters with your plants’ needs in mind.

Are You Buying the Right Size Planter?

This is perhaps the most important point to consider when investing in planters from ePlanters; no one plant is the same and you need to ensure you are buying a planter which is sufficiently sized and can cope with the plant as it begins to grow and develop.

Do not make the classic mistake of first buying or deciding on a planter and then deciding on the plant to go in it. Instead, you should decide on your plant(s) first and then buy the appropriate planter or planters. This avoids both a) you picking a planter which restricts the choices in plants you have, and b) stunting your plant’s growth prospects.

Is the Planter Suitable for What You Need?

This mostly depends on whether you are buying an indoor or outdoor planter. For instance, some planters will not fare very well with outdoor weather conditions or extreme heat. Plus, you need to take other things into consideration, such as the wind or the intensity of the sun.

If your planter is going to be exposed to the hot sun all day, every day, you will need a planter which is made from a non-porous material such as synthetic resin. This helps retain moisture and stop the soil from drying out.

Is the Planter Mobile?

Often overlooked, the mobility of a planter is a very important consideration. With some plants, you will need to move them around often or occasionally and you are going to want a planter which makes this as easy and painless as possible.

If you need to be able to move your plant around, you should think twice about buying a very heavy or cumbersome planter which is going to make the job excessively difficult. Although a concrete urn-style planter may look wonderful, you are not going to be able to move it very easily! They are designed to stay put.

You should avoid thinking that buying a planter is a simple job; it’s not! When you are thinking about buying a planter, you need to ensure it fits the needs of your plants, is suitable for what you need, and you have given a thought to mobility. Picking a planter is not simply a case of buying the prettiest one, it requires a lot of foresight and you should definitely choose the plant you want first, to avoid disappointment later down the line if you buy a planter which is too small for your desired plant.

What to Consider Before Opting for Bin Hire

There are many different reasons why you might find yourself in need of bin hire in Melbourne. From home renovations through to commercial demolition projects, skip bin hire is the best way to effectively and conveniently carry out a large rubbish removal job. However, there’s much to consider before you go ahead and book in with a bin hire Melbourne company. Here are some of the necessary measures you should take to ensure the best bin hire experience.

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Consider the Materials

Prior to contacting local providers of bin hire in Melbourne, it’s a good idea to identify what kinds of materials you’ll be filling the bin with, as it’s likely that the nature of your project will impact what kind of bin you should and can hire. There are also many instances where professional assistance with the removal may be necessary. For tasks like asbestos removal and disposal of huge amounts of waste, you’ll need an expert team to take on the job in the safest manner, as they’ll have access to the necessary equipment, technologies and techniques.

You should also look into services like excavation, demolition and site clean ups before picking a bin, as these services may actually offer a more effective and efficient solution than hiring a single bin. It might also be a good idea to look into selling any recyclable or biodegradable products to recycling companies.

Consider the Bin Type

Once you’ve properly identified the kind of project you need a bin for, it’s a good idea to start investigating the different products available from bin hire Melbourne providers. There are many versatile and practical skip bin sizes that can help you achieve your rubbish removal needs. Whether you need a mini skip or something larger, a good provider will be able to help you out and provide you with the best bin type and size to suit your requirements. At this stage, you should consider how much waste you’re intending to get rid of and choose a bin accordingly.

If you’re intending on removing rubbish for a larger job, it’s a good idea to get a professional team on board for assistance. This will help to reduce hassle, plus you won’t have to carry any heavy and difficult loads on your own. Bin hire experts are also aware of various safety precautions to help guarantee a smoother rubbish removal process.

Consider Different Providers

For the best rubbish removal experience, you should look into different bin hire Melbourne providers that are capable of tackling the job. No matter how big or small your project is, it pays off to conduct as much research as possible on the provider before forming a relationship with them. Looking for credibility, reputability and a good amount of experience will no doubt guarantee a better experience and a smoother journey.

Consider different providers in your local area and compare their prices so you know you’ll be getting the best deal possible. If you’re unsure about what kind of bin you specifically need, simply talk to an expert that can advise you on the best bin for your needs.

How To Save Money When You Are Buying And Moving Into A New Home

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Moving can be a major expense, especially when it directly follows the purchase of a home.  On top of all of the costs associated with your down payment and any closing costs charged by your realtor, you have the expense of moving and then dealing the cost of any unexpected things that need to be repaired or replaced once you move in. Yikes!

A lot is going to happen so it’s best to make sure that you are prepared for it and that you know how to save money during this process. You don’t want to go into your new home already upside down or underwater with debt.

Hire A Moving Company

Too many people assume hiring a moving company is the worst thing to do. They think that doing so will cost them a lot more money than simply conducting the move on their own. While there might be those rare cases when someone can save money by moving everything on their own, it is usually the other way around.

The reason for this is because you might have a lot of stuff that will require multiple trips in multiple vehicles to get it all done. This will put a lot of wear and tear on those vehicles, especially with their suspension systems because of all of the extra weight being transported. Then you have the cost of gasoline for all of the vehicles as well. All of that can add up to a lot of money. Then you’ll want to calculate what your time is worth. Instead of using the few days off of work to move and unpack, you might have to spend all of your time moving. You’ll then be back to work before you have a chance to even get started on organizing anything in your new home. As you can imagine, hiring a professional moving company such as Allied Van Lines may be the more affordable choice. They will also save you a lot of time as well.

Get What You Can For Free

If you are still a little nervous about the cost of moving into your new home, you can always take the time to find used packing materials that you can make use of. Stop by your local grocery or department stores on their delivery days and ask if you can have their boxes. They should be willing to give them to you for free and then all you have to purchase is the packing tape and maybe some bubble wrap.

Once you are done with the boxes, you can recycle them or pass them on to another person who might have a need for them. As long as they are still sturdy, they can be tapped up again and again for future use.

You might also want to take some time to talk with friends and family who have just recently moved. Ask what they did to cut back on the cost or what they wish they would’ve done differently. This way, you can learn from their experiences and mistakes in order to ensure that you are saving as much cash as possible.

These are just a few tips that you can use to reduce the cost of your next move. Trust us: you will be glad that you did since you never know when an unexpected expense is going to pop up once you’re in the new house.

Reducing the Cost of Your Move

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While moving is certainly something that most people prefer not to do, it is something you will do several times throughout your life. A new job in another city, the birth of a child or a retirement, are just a few of the reasons people move. Regardless of the reason, moving is expensive, hectic and stressful. However, there are ways to reduce the overall cost of your move and make the process a bit easier for you and your budget.

Create a Plan and Establish a Budget

Planning your move in advance will allow you to complete all the necessary things for a successful, uneventful move. Try to schedule movers at least a month or two in advance so you know roughly the cost up front. make sure that you factor in everything such as your travel expenses, packing supplies and cleaning supplies. This way when you arrive at your new home you'll have money available to make the improvements you want like upgrading or remodeling your kitchen.

Finding Reliable Movers

Everything you own will reside on the truck so it's important that you take your time and research companies ahead of time. Get at least two to three quotes and then check their record of service from testimonials of actual people who used them. You can acquire names of companies like North American Van Lines through family, friends, and co-workers of look online. Once you have the estimates in front of you, you can then make a decision based on the fees and service records. Additionally, make sure to ask about larger items you may have like a piano or appliances to see what the additional cost will be.

Consolidate Before You Pack

The last thing you want is to move into your new home and have a lot of things you either don't need or don't want. Before starting the packing process, declutter. This may take you a few days to achieve, but in the end, it will save you space in your new place to add new things. It will also save you money on the cost of the moving company by using less room on the truck. With the items you don't want to take along you have several options. You can have an estate sale and make some extra cash to apply towards the move, give things away to family and friends or donate the furnishings and clothing to a local charity.

Time to Pack

Now that you have things sorted out it's time to start the packing process. Here's where you can save a lot of money. The moving company is going to offer to supply the boxes in the allotted qualities and sizes you agreed to, however, they come with a pretty hefty price tag. Instead, a better option is to check with the local businesses in your area to see if they can save boxes for you. Even if you need to go to several places and make more than one trip they are "Free". Additionally, you can use linens, towels, newspaper and even coffee filters to wrap up fragile items, adding more to your savings. You will need to purchase packing tape but this will not cost you a few dollars versus several hundred dollars.

Schedule Your Move During the Off Season

In addition to packing your own boxes and acquiring them for free, you can save even more money by scheduling your move during the off-season. The months of September through February will give you the best rates. If you are unable to do that, then at least make the move the second or third week of the month and try if at all possible to avoid the weekend.

Moving doesn't have to cost you your entire savings. With a willingness to do some of the work yourself, decluttering and acquiring the boxes for free, you are well on your way to having a successful, stress-free move.

5 Tips to Decorating Your Kitchen

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Meals are prepared in your kitchen and it’s the room where each member of your family hangs out and everyone converges. Whether you get to the kitchen to get some water to drink, prepare a quick meal due to your busy schedule or catch up over the weekend with your family around the kitchen island, it needs to be an inviting and functional space.

Although remodeling your kitchen is a sure way to give it a new look, there are other simple ways to decorating your kitchen without breaking the bank. Here are tips to help you spruce up your kitchen to an inspiring room where you look forward to each day and enjoy preparing your meals:

Top 5 Easy Ways to Decorating Your Kitchen

1. Create a Focal Point

What grabs your attention the moment you walk through the kitchen door into the cooking room? Is it the backsplash, the kitchen island or the walls? What do you want to stand out in your kitchen? Hang an artwork on a wall or paint it in a bold color you want in your cooking space to act as the focal point.

Alternatively, find wallpaper with a beautiful pattern or texture and fix it on one wall in the kitchen to make it stand out. Using colored tiles on your backsplash, colored bar stools or appliances can also give your kitchen an instant new look, atop making it inviting.

2. Add Open Shelving

Open shelves give you an option to display your collectibles for an attractive look. Color coordinate items on your shelves and keep them minimal for a clean yet attractive look. Open cabinets is a great alternative to installing shelves if there’s not much space in your kitchen.

Remove cabinet doors or replace them with glass doors to display your items. Chinaware, matching glasses, food stored in transparent containers, cookie jars and vases are some great accessories to display on your open shelves.

3. Use Grey PVC Tablecloths

Dressing your kitchen table or island is both functional and decorative. Grey PVC doesn’t just add a modern look in your kitchen, but also protects your table surface from spillages.

4. Create a Display Gallery on a Kitchen Wall

If your kitchen looks boring with plain walls, consider creating a gallery to add some visual interest. Vintage dishes, framed album covers, different types of mirrors, fabric swatches, framed wallpaper, baskets, empty frames in varying sizes and shapes, and antiques can make up a beautiful wall gallery in your kitchen.

Choose patterned, symmetrical, asymmetrical or freestyle item placements on your wall. Try an arrangement on the floor before fixing things on your wall gallery to ensure that once you fix something, you don’t have to remove it. It’s all about being creative and playing around with the items to use in your gallery and how to place them. Have fun!

5. Add Chalkboard Paint

Dress up one of your kitchen walls in chalkboard paint. It won’t just act as a backdrop for other colorful items in your kitchen, but is also bound to create visual interest. A gallery or floating shelf on part of the board can help create a layered, unique look for an inspired wall you can use to list your menu each day.

Whether you want to decorate your kitchen in a natural, contemporary, modern, traditional or cozy design style, you won’t go wrong with these tips.

Contact us to find out how you can decorate your kitchen on a budget with simple yet attractive tablecloths. You can utilise Zanui discount codes for great deals on tablecloths and kitchen appliances.

Five Tips on How to Keep Your Kitchen Grease Free

Whether you are a busy working mom or a single bachelor, you’ll agree that scrubbing a greasy kitchen is no simple task.

If you are looking to keep your kitchen grease free, here are 5 tips for you.

1.Kitchen hood

Cleaning greasy range hoods can be the least fun job in the kitchen. The range hood is a large fan housed in a structure suspended over the stove. It’s supposed to pull all the fumes from your stove top. The mixture of used cooking oil, fumes and particles from your food can get trapped in your hood. Over time, it becomes greasy.

Some indications that your kitchen’s range hood needs some maintenance include: the lights or buttons aren’t working, the motor is humming or is excessively loud, or smoke isn’t clearing from your kitchen.

Cleaning the range hood is simple and you only need a couple of minutes. The first step involves removing the filter and cleaning it. There are two kinds of filters: a charcoal filter and a metal filter.
The filters get rid of smoke and particles from the air before expelling it from your kitchen.

To remove the filter, look for a latch or loop. Next, dip the filter in a degreasing solution. Leave the grease to dissolve. Once all the grease has dissolved, leave it to dry before reattaching it.
The next step is cleaning the hood and the vent. To clean them you only need a household cleaning spray.

2. Microwave

It’s time to inspect your microwave closely if you’ve come to believe that microwaves are yellow in color instead of white.

Whether you are using a built-in or countertop, there are many ways to clean your microwave. Using lemon juice is perhaps the simplest. Place a cut lemon in a cup of water. Microwave until it steams.

Let the steam fill the microwave before turning it off. Go ahead and wipe the interior with clean paper towels.

Needless to say, the more you use your microwave oven, the more cleaning it requires. But if you want to keep it looking and smelling like new, cleaning it once every few weeks is an appropriate schedule.

3. Tile grout

Typically, grout, the filling between tiles, is white or light colored. Over time, grout becomes stained, dingy, dirty and discolored.

To bring back the sparkle to your tiles, you’ll need the following: a bucket, safety goggles, rubber gloves, a mop and a soft toothbrush.

Here are a couple of tips on grout cleaning:

• Make a paste of baking soda and peroxide. This is recommended for stubborn stains on light colored grout. 
• Spray shaving cream on stained grout. Scrub with a small brush after a few minutes. 
• Use a silicone-based grout sealer and apply one or two coats to dry grout. 
• Combine a small amount of white vinegar with baking soda. Next, use a soft toothbrush to scrub the grout off. Rinse with water. 

4. Wood panels

Grease can build up on wood paneling, dulling the sheen and reducing the quality of your kitchen’s overall look.

Here, you’ll need: several cleaning cloths, mineral oil, white vinegar, measuring cup, large spray bottle, vacuum with brush attachment and a microfiber dusting cloth.

Use a dry microfiber cleaning cloth to dust the paneling by wiping it. Use a vacuum cleaner if the microfiber cleaning cloth doesn’t remove all the dirt.

Next, add one-fourth of vinegar and half a cup of mineral oil to a spray bottle. Shake well.

Spray the mixture on wood panels and use a clean rag to rub it in. After you do this, bring out the shine of the paneling by buffing the panels with a clean, dry cloth.

5. Kitchen sink

Make it a ritual to clean your sink after washing the dishes, as the kitchen is a great place for germs to thrive. To clean your kitchen sink, you’ll need a sponge, rubber gloves, dish or castile soap, water, and baking soda.

Sprinkle baking soda on the sink then squirt a little castile soap onto your sponge. Next, add hot water and begin scrubbing. The whole process should take you around two minutes.

When the kitchen is clean, everything feels and smells better! Use these tried and tested tips to keep your kitchen grease free.

Finding the Funds For Property Renovation

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

Come up with a plan

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

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

Don’t peso much for a loan!

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

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

Safe as houses?

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

Seven Rules to Follow When Renovating Your Apartment

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

1. Always Check With the Landlord

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

2. Hit the Kitchen

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

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

3. Bathroom Etiquette

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

4. Floors Galore

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

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

5. Livable Living Space

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

6. Make Use of Space

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

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

7. Brighten Things Up

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

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

Renovate Away

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

What Type of Flooring is Best for Your Home?

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

Cork

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

Hardwood 

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

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

Laminate

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

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

Vinyl

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

Hard Tile

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

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

Image Source: Hotel Residencia

Carpet

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

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

Image Source: PXHere

Factors To Consider When Choosing Home Flooring

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

• Durability  

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

• Climate   

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

• Underfloor Heating System 

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

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

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