Decorology

Category: open concept

  • What is the best flooring for an unheated sunroom?

    What is the best flooring for an unheated sunroom?

     

    Sunrooms are way more different from the rest of your house. Their constant exposure to the elements and traffic from outside means that sunroom floors should be sturdy and fade- and moisture-resistant. However, choosing a sunroom flooring type can be challenging, given the stark weather differences throughout the year. Much as the floors need to keep from overheating and burning bare feet during summer, they should also be able to absorb sunlight to warm the room come wintertime.

    With each floor type having its advantages and its advantages, you will have your work cut out. As such, you need to pick what works best for you. Here are a few flooring types for unheated rooms.

    Photo by tabitha turner on Unsplash

    1. Carpeting

    Carpeting is an excellent way of covering your floor, as well as adding some aesthetic value to your sunroom. The upside of carpets is that they rarely, if ever, heat up in the summer and keeps your feet snug and warm in the winter. You may, however, have to make sure to purchase an indoor/outdoor type that will stand firm against the weather. 

    • Hardwood

    Elegant, easier on the eye and beautifully crafted hardwood floor is always a deal clincher. Light-colored wood is not only aesthetic, but they also make fading less noticeable, giving you that elegant look for a very long time. You may thus be forced to keep off darker stains or put down a sturdy indoor/outdoor rug over your dark-stained floor to extend your wood’s life. However, hardwood flooring doesn’t retain much heat in colder weather in cold places or during winter.

    Laminate

    Quality wood laminate is a capable substitute for hardwood for those looking to get all the benefits of hardwood floors while avoiding the high costs of buying and installing one. Laminate is cheaper and easier to install than other materials. You only need to worry about fading, with the wrong kind likely to fade quickly. Always make sure that your chosen laminate variety includes ultraviolet protection to extend its lifespan. Alternatively, you may also want to treat your laminate with an oil-based stain as well.

    • Tile

    Tiles are an excellent option for your sunroom’s floor if you’re struggling with a bit of humidity. It’s also pretty durable when it comes to wear and tear. Maintenance is also a breeze. Just do a little research and select and purchase one of the Best Tile Floor Steam Cleaners. They are also suitable for moderating temperatures during warmer months besides being as versatile as allowing for various floor designs. Be careful when picking them out because very dark tiles can get pretty hot after a few hours in the sun.

    Linoleum

    Linoleum is quickly regaining its reputation as an eco-friendly flooring option, and is slowly but steadily coming into fashion again. Linoleum is also extra sturdy and can stand up to the heaviest traffic, making it a fantastic choice in any sunroom. It’s also extra easy to clean. Its only downside is that it is susceptible to fading. So, take care to look for sun-resistant types.

  • Completing DIY Projects at Home During Quarantine

    Completing DIY Projects at Home During Quarantine

    This year, many people have been spending more time at home than ever before due to quarantines and social distancing. And though it’s important to note that going easy on yourself through the many emotions that come up during this unsettling time is necessary, it’s also possible to want to fill your time with creative projects around the house. Maybe you are noticing things you’ve never seen before – like hardwood flooring that needs a touch-up, or the fact that your bedroom could use a new coat of paint in a re-energizing color. Or maybe you’ve had a running list of DIY projects for a while, that you’ve never had the time or space to tackle until now.

    via Margaret of York

    No matter the situation, we know that it will feel good to see some positive changes in your living space! If you are a DIY pro, or just starting out, there are some easy ways to ensure that you will have a smooth, enjoyable foray into the world of home improvement. However you choose to approach your projects, just remember to keep a positive attitude and a sense of adventure – that will do nothing but boost your creativity.

    First, make sure you have all of the tools you need for your chosen project. It’s always frustrating when you finally get some momentum going, and you find that you ended to run out and purchase something that’s integral to the project! Try gathering all of your tools, instructions, supportive materials, etc before you start. Then, you can turn on some music or a podcast and dive deeply into your project.

    via Margaret of York

    For some projects, it can be valuable to assess whether you need to call in a professional to add their expertise. Especially when restoring hardwood flooring, or even installing new flooring in your home where there once was only carpet, calling in professionals with top-tier hardwood flooring services can cut down on your time and effort. And, it can ensure that you won’t make any costly mistakes that could derail your project.

    A fresh coat of paint is an easy way to spruce up your living space and add extra energy to inspire your day to day activities! Bright colors like red, orange and yellow are perfect for creative spaces that require focus, energy, and attention. Red, in particular, is perfect for a kitchen, because not only does it promote warm feelings and connection but it promotes a healthy appetite, too!

    More subdued colors like blues and greys are perfect for your bedroom, bathroom, or your meditation space. If you find yourself struggling to relax when you get in bed at night or to keep your mind focused during meditation, consider that the design elements in the space may not be conducive to relaxation or calm mental states.

    via Margaret of York

    Adding plants to your living space is another great way to improve your well-being and make the room feel homier and put together. If you’re someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, working on your porch or patio to make it comfortable and livable could be an excellent way to express your creative energy.

    via Margaret of York

    No matter what project you choose to take on, as long as you approach it with a positive outlook, a can-do attitude, and the right tools and support, we know you will have a fantastic DIY experience. And you will come away with not only a sense of satisfaction with your achievement, but also a beautiful new addition to your home that you can enjoy for years to come. Thanks to Floors NC for consulting

  • 6 Ways to Make a Clean Home

    6 Ways to Make a Clean Home

    Keeping a clean and organized house is the key to keeping a healthy and organized life. At times it may be difficult to maintain homeostasis in your environment, so here’s six ways to make a clean home:

    via Kelly Martin Interiors

    Determine Spatial Arrangement

    Understanding the order of your day and setting up your home to accommodate this can bring harmony to the chaos. For example, if every morning you plan to have coffee in a rocking chair next to the bay window, you would want to put your rocking chair permanently next to the bay window. Other furniture in that room would be aesthetically placed with that concept in mind. Once you have determined where the most important daily events will take place, arrange your furniture accordingly.

    Pick a Theme

    Psychological studies support that we tend to like things to match; to find similarities between objects or within a group of objects brings us pleasure. To have complimentary colors, patterns and shapes is not only aesthetically pleasing, but can make your home seem tidy even on unproductive days.

    via Kelly Martin Interiors

    Assign Item Placement

    Do you have a place for every item you possess? Assigning a permanent spot for belongings gives you a way to manage what you own and can alert you to what you may still need to have. This is a big time saver since once an item has an assigned space, you’ll be more likely to return it after use and notice it when it’s gone. Mapping out possessions can also help determine if it’s time to obtain a storage unit or start tossing stuff in the trash.

    via Kelly Martin Interiors

    Organizational Design

    With the first three things completed, you may want or need to purchase additional organizational items such as shelves, bins and various sized storage containers. In keeping with your overall theme and spatial arrangement, you give your home further depth in organization. Consider investing in a label making device so that others in your home can continue with upkeep in your absence. After all, maintenance should be a group effort whenever possible.

    Disinfecting

    Now that everything has a place and everyone is able to go with the flow in putting their things away, general disinfecting should be as easy as spraying a preferred chemical and wiping it away. Sweeping, mopping, washing, and scrubbing can be done as needed. Many people incorporate a habit of “cleaning as you go” which reduces the amount of time spent on “deep cleaning”. That being said, professional deep cleaning services can prove invaluable if you move into a home that has been neglected for a long time, or if you don’t have the adequate time or skills to keep your home clean.

    via Kelly Martin Interiors

    Decontaminating

    Finally, it’s time to service that HVAC unit. Circulating clean air should also be a factor in having a clean home. Dirty air can increase the need for dusting and cause allergic reactions. Airborne viruses and bacteria are more likely to cause infections if your air isn’t properly filtered.  Be sure to schedule regular maintenance visits for repairs or a new unit installation if necessary.

    After all, keeping a clean home isn’t just about managing a mess, it’s about managing life.

  • Get Creative With Your Home Repair Projects Using Concrete

    Get Creative With Your Home Repair Projects Using Concrete

    You are not lacking in ideas and vision for things you would like to implement in your home; those projects you can DIY or those that take professionals to accomplish. When the home renovation is on the agenda why not consider utilizing a strong, resilient, and yes aesthetically pleasing material like concrete. This may be out of the box creativity, however, this material is multi-functional, sustainable, definitely durable, and cost-effective all while adding strength and presence to any room quite effectively and easily.

    Under Foot

    via Wayfair

    The Industrial and commercial arena has always shown their love for concrete now the home front is catching on to the great way a floor can be the foundation of strength one can stand on with confidence. A concrete floor is simply beautiful in its simplicity while being equally easy to clean away marks and discolourations.

    On Top of the World

    via Orange & Elm

    The kitchen is the most utilized space so incorporating concrete into this room is a win-win. Two very popular projects to include this material into is the sink and countertops. Both are central places of much use. A counter made of concrete can be poured effortlessly in one try and there are no imperfect cracks or joints to complicate things. With no spacial crevices, food safety is at a premium and clean up a cinch. A sink that cleans and uses water temperature will benefit from concrete retention properties and if your garbage disposal is a loud distraction the soundproofing will lessen the brash noise it may emit.

    photography by maree homer for inside out magazine.

    Rub a Dub

    Within the confines of the bathroom is a space that is often a “refuge”, a place to truly be alone and shut the world out. It is one of the most intimate locations in the home that everything can be stripped down here. So imagine adding a bathtub made of concrete. It is a solid influence that even in a smaller size can offer a commanding presence. Along with this are the properties it carries of heat retention so that long luxurious soak can be extended as long as you desire. In the design of a shower, concrete offers a clean sleek surface where cleaning is quick and effective.

    If the Walls Could talk

    via Decoholic

    If your walls had the opportunity to communicate from a concrete perspective they would speak of efficiency first and foremost. A concrete wall is support and barrier to many things being held in or kept out. It will positively impact lowering your energy bills due to its cooling and healing capabilities. Did you hear that? Probably not as concrete contributes a soundproof barrier to noise. You can add special flair touches to the integrity of the room mortar mix colors based on any of the different touches of texturing, staining, stamping, and more.

    Warm my Heart

    The warmth of a central location of the cosy charm and ambience the interior space whether living or bedroom could enjoy a flickering, warm log whether it is real or faux. Utilizing concrete offers a distinctive choice in shape, size, and aesthetic feel that grounds the room quite well. Again this is derived from the features that concrete can bring to a fireplace such as fire resistance, heat retention, and workable material to gain the look and appeal you desire. Just apply mortar mix colours and the beauty of its appearance will shine through.

    Concrete has come a long way from boring and functional now offering so much more to your home renovation and construction plans. It can be creative, and practical serving you and your home quite well for years to come. Thanks to Cement Colors for consulting

    Author Bio

    I’m Manna, We will happy to help you about Link Building. Please visit here.

  • Mold Remediation in the Basement

    Mold Remediation in the Basement

    via Millhaven Homes

    When flood water seeps into your basement, you can expect that problems will follow afterward. Mold can be one of the problems if you don’t get rid of the moisture immediately. Since basements are often dark, dank, and cold, cleaning and maintaining it might be the last thing in your mind.

    It is recommended to check the basement twice a month, especially if it’s already the rainy season. There are times that you may notice that flood or melted snow is already seeping into your basement, and you may not see this problem until it’s too late. The resulting wet materials are the perfect growing area for fungi, such as mold. You can read more about fungi when you click here. For issues involving mold, here is some information that can benefit you.

    What Mold Needs to Grow

    Two components contribute to the growth of fungi. The first one is damp space, and the other one is wood or any material that the mold can grow on. Once an area of the house is flooded and the moisture is retained, it will take less than a week for mold and algae to grow on wood and any other surfaces in that place.

    If you have experienced a flood, you must dry any material that has moisture in it. You may need a little help from the professionals if the issue is too much to handle. Some contractors can help you with areas that have poor ventilation and lighting.

    Mold begins with a spore that floats everywhere around and inside the home. The spores are always around the environment, and they can’t be exterminated completely. If the spores don’t come in contact with water, they will be left sitting wherever they land. But if there’s water around, they can turn into a problem.

    If water is added in the mix, the fungi will begin to spread their tentacle arms. The arms called hyphae will tangle into the surfaces to grow. The arms will be fuzzy and slimy when it comes to areas where it’s dark and damp. Note that any material inside the basement can be a thriving place for the fungi as long as the water is present.

    via Millhaven Homes

    Effect of Mold in Various Materials

    Drywall

    There are times when you check the basement on a rainy day and discover that flood is coming in. Sometimes, melted snow falls from the roof into the ground and seeps into cracks and crevices near your property’s foundation.

    When it comes to drywall, there are times when the fungi grow between the walls. This is an issue that you can no longer ignore. You can call an expert in mold remediation to provide you with a solution to this problem. These experts can do dehumidification, sump pump installation, testing, and other methods to remove the mold inside your home.

    The fungi are not only inconvenient, but they can also cause serious health risks to the people around the home and damage your home’s foundation. One of the tests that the pros do is to drill a hole behind the drywall area. They stick a testing tool to check the presence of fungi. If they found out that there’s a significant amount of fungi growing in there, they will suggest replacement of portions of the drywall that were affected.

    Wood

    via Millhaven Homes

    In many properties, wood is present in the basement in the form of floors, walls, frames, and furniture. This is another vulnerable material that you should watch out for. It can contain pathways where the fungi can attach their hyphae and reproduce.

    There are times when there’s too much mold in furniture that can break down some of the framings and support. There are times when the fungi grow on the other side of the planks and make the floor splintery or breakable. It can take an expert to discover the extent of the problem, especially if you have a dark basement.

    What you can do to remedy the situation is to bring any wooden furniture upstairs. It would be best if you dried it out in a ventilated area to reduce mold. You can read about how to effectively remove them from your wooden furniture on this site here: https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/cleaning-tips/a27076660/remove-mold-from-wood-furniture/.

    via Millhaven Homes

     One thing that you should keep in mind is that the spores can transfer from one room to another. You can risk spreading them if the other rooms in your house are always damp. You can wrap small objects with plastic bags before you transport them upstairs to reduce the risk of spreading mold. Thanks to Basement Waterproofing Gurus for consulting

  • 9 Reasons Why Investing in Cafe Blinds is a Good Idea

    9 Reasons Why Investing in Cafe Blinds is a Good Idea

    Do you believe that investing in cafe blinds is a necessity for any Australian homeowner? Or do you see it as a passing trend which you’d rather sit out?

    As you’re probably aware, Australia is a pretty warm place—for the most part. The upside to this sunny weather is that you can sit on your porch more often and take in the beautiful scenery. But excessive exposure to heat or sunlight can negatively impact your health. By installing cafe blinds Melbourne residents can drastically minimise such occurrences and so much more.

    Keep reading this article to find out why buying this type of outdoor blinds is a step in the right direction.

    via Kira David Design

    1.    Diminish Glare & Block Out UV Rays

    We’re certain that most people prefer a bright and sun-filled home to a gloomy one. Provided, of course, that the sunlight doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable in your own home. However, we all know how hot a room can get during the hottest part of the day, not to mention the extreme glare caused by excessive light.

    Reading a book or watching television can prove to be a real challenge in such cases. Cafe blinds will effectively block out harmful UV rays as well as diminish the glare.

    2.    Save On Your Energy Bills

    To some people, purchasing café blinds seems like an unnecessary expense. But think of the money you’ll potentially save on your energy bills in the long run. High temperatures will have people maxing out air conditioning systems in a bid to keep their living spaces cool. This naturally translates to a high energy bill come end of the month—but not if you install these outdoor blinds

    Café blinds are known to be energy efficient. Because blinds help reduce the overall summer heat gain, your home is kept cool throughout the day.

    via Kira David Design

    3.    Enhance Visual Appeal

    We not only love café blinds for their practicality but also for their cosmetic appeal. If anything, the superb finishing on most blinds can instantly enhance a room’s overall aesthetics. It helps that they are available in different colours, materials and designs. Simply pick your preferred style to match your home’s exterior.

    Whether you decide to purchase blinds that are made of wood or breathable woven fabric, you’re guaranteed to create an aesthetically pleasing space.

    4.    Designed to Last Long

    There’s definitely nothing flimsy about most modern café blinds designs. We do however urge you to make your purchase from reputable manufacturers who won’t compromise on their products’ quality.

    Picking blinds that are made of high grade material such as PVC or aluminium means that they’ll last you a long time. You won’t have to worry about making repeat purchases in the near future.

    5.    Provide Privacy

    via Kira David Design

    If ever you’re tired of prying eyes from nosy neighbours, installing cafe blinds certainly takes care of that. We all value our privacy, whether we’re relaxing on our verandahs or catching some rays in our sun room.

    Café blinds will provide you with that much needed privacy without necessarily blocking out your day time view. You can still view the outdoors by adjusting the blinds according to your preference.

    6.    Optimise Your Space

    Installing cafe blinds is a fast and easy way to maximise your space—something which people with space constraints will appreciate. No need to break the bank by embarking on an expensive home remodeling exercise.

    By simply covering your verandah or patio with these outdoor blinds, you automatically create more usable space. Consider this route the next time you feel like you don’t have enough space to host your intimate family gatherings.

    7.    Enjoy Your Patio All Year Round

    Granted, Australia is hot, but not all the time. You’ll also experience rainy and windy weather. Does this mean that you won’t get to sit on your patio or entertain your guests during these seasons? By installing café blinds Melbourne residents can utilise their patios all year round. Just make sure you purchase blinds that are made of materials designed to withstand the changing temperatures.

    Cafe blinds not only protect you, but your furniture too from harsh weather elements. As you know, changing weather conditions can damage your patio furniture causing shrinking or swelling, fading and premature wear & tear.

    These outdoor blinds will also keep dust and unwanted pesky bugs out of your space. You can enjoy your family bonding time (or me-time) in peace.

    via Kira David Design

    8.    Dry Washing Outdoors

    You know how frustrating drying your washing can be, particularly during the rainy season. No need to hang washed clothes all over your living space. By installing cafe blinds, you can dry your washing under your patio or balcony.

    Even if you do have a tumble dryer, think of the energy savings you’ll make if you opt for this economical route.

    9.    Add Value to Your Home

    Any improvements or upgrades you make to your home will increase its overall value. This is something you’ll find particularly beneficial if you ever decide to sell your home. Because of all the reasons we listed, your home becomes more appealing to potential buyers.

    There you have it: nine good reasons why buying cafe blinds is certainly a no-brainer. Are you ready to buy yours? Thanks to Alfresco blinds for consulting!

  • DIY Ceiling Fan Installation Guide

    DIY Ceiling Fan Installation Guide

    Installing or replacing a ceiling fan takes a few steps that can be done in less than a day. Here are easy steps for your ceiling fan installation.

    via Millhaven Homes

    A ceiling fan adds beauty and cool air to any room of your home, but installing one yourself might seem like a challenging task.

    With a few easy steps and a bit of patience, you can perform your own ceiling fan installation in no time.

    Read on for some steps that will help you perform your very own DIY installation so you can enjoy the perks of having a ceiling fan in your favorite space.

    Gather Your Tools

    Before you can perform any ceiling fan installation, you’ll need to make sure you have some basic tools. If the fan doesn’t include a support brace, you can find one at most home improvement stores.

    Other tools you’ll need will include a ladder, some wire cutters, and a screwdriver. Make sure you read the instructions that come with your ceiling fan thoroughly, as they typically include a detailed list of all the tools you’ll need.

    Before you prepare to install the ceiling fan, make sure that the electricity is turned off in the room. You can do this by finding the breaker labeled for the room and flip it to the off position.

    Never install any light fixture or other hard-wired device without turning off the power first. If you have family members who come in and out of the home, leave a note in bold letters telling them to leave the breaker alone while you’re working.

    via Millhaven Homes

    Use a Ceiling Support Brace

    Ceiling fans are heavy, so you’ll need to install a support brace between the ceiling joists before installing the fan. Most ceiling fans weigh up to 50 pounds.

    If you don’t have access to the joists from the inside, you may need to get to them through the attic. Most of the time, you’ll probably install your new fan in a spot where a different light already existed. If not, you will need to cut a hole in the ceiling drywall to accommodate the fan.

    The ceiling support brace is what will keep your fan steady and secure. Always read the instructions to ensure that it’s attached securely. Check to make sure that the support brace is centered and positioned correctly before moving on to the next step.

    Your fan should come with a bracket. Install the bracket by attaching it to the support brace using the included screws.

    Prep the Downrod

    A downrod is what holds your fan from the ceiling to your desired height above the floor. It not only adds a nice aesthetic, but it also allows you to determine how low or high you want the fan to be positioned. Consider a rustic option from palmfanstore.com for a variety of beautiful styles and designs.

    If you have a sloped or angled ceiling, you will need a special downrod made just for these types of ceilings. Run the main wires through the downrod first, then attach the top piece to the ceiling mounting bracket.

    For flush-mount ceiling fans, thread the wires through the canopy ring. Flush-mount fans don’t require a downrod.

    To achieve your desired height, adjust the downrod using the included extra sections. You can usually make the fan as high or low as you want to if the kit includes this option.

    Ceiling Fan Installation: Wiring

    via Millhaven Homes

    Once your support bracket and downrod are in place, it’s time to begin wiring your new ceiling fan. If the fan has a hook, you can use it to hang the fan while you work. If not, you may need to ask a friend or family member to help you hold the fan steady.

    Connect the fan wires to the wiring inside the ceiling. Always read the instructions carefully to be sure you’re connecting everything correctly. 

    Match up the wires by attaching the copper or green insulated wire to the ground wire in the ceiling. Then, match the black wire to the supply black wire for the fan motor. Finally, repeat the process by matching the white or neutral-colored wire.

    Gently push all of the connected wire into the junction box. If the wires are too long, use your wire cutters to make them shorter so they fit securely. Attach the canopy of the fan onto the mounting bracket and make sure all of the screws are tightly secured.

    Blades and Bulb: The Final Steps

    Now that your new ceiling fan is secured and wired, it’s time to attach the fan blades. Use the included hardware to attach each blade according to the instructions.

    Don’t tighten all screws until you attach each blade. Newer models may have a special quick-install blade that makes installation easy. Just align the arm posts on the blade with the slots, and then slide them outward till they click in place.

    Always make sure you attach your blades in the proper direction facing downward. Take your time and slowly drive the screws into the blade until they feel tight and secure. Make sure the fan is balanced so it’s quiet and evenly installed.

    Screw in the bulb or bulbs into the canopy of your fan, then attach the globe that’s included with your fan. Make sure everything looks good and then restore power from the breaker box. Turn on your fan, and enjoy the nice cool breeze!

    Enjoy Cool Air With a New Ceiling Fan

    Performing a ceiling fan installation is a great way to experience cool, circulating air and a beautiful new look in your home. With these easy steps, you can install a ceiling fan in just under two hours.

    Always remember to turn off the power to the room where you plan to install the fan for safety.

    For more great DIY tips, decor ideas, and inspiration, visit our website today! Thanks to the Palmfan Store for contributing!

  • Trending colours for doors this year

    Trending colours for doors this year

    Interior design can seem a fickle business. This year’s passé is last year’s hottest property, so keeping on top of the trends can seem an exhausting business. However, if you make sure that you pick and choose your fashions wisely, you might come to realise that they do not change quite as much as you think. Take tropical prints, for example. These have been in fashion for some time, the nuances changing ever so slightly. So if you choose some fashionable base colours which will tone with the more extreme fashionable items, these can be swapped out periodically at low cost (think to change a few cushions and throws, for example). 

    via Blackband Design

    While it is always important to stay true to what you love in your home, many of us do want to have a place to feel proud of. One that is stylish, one even that others might envy. There are many ways to achieve this and many different areas to focus on, and one that may not spring immediately to mind is your interior doors. 

    Doors impact the overall look of the home, whether it is because they are tatty and old looking, super stylish and modern, in keeping with the period in which it was built. Doors allow light to pass throughout thanks to glazing, or simply because they are contemporary and neutral and blend harmoniously in. 

    These days, there are so many types available, high quality and reasonable in cost, especially thanks to online retailers that you can even get them in a colour to suit the themes of your rooms. Let’s take a look and sift some of the colours which are trending for doors right now: 

    White – although not technically a colour, this is still a key ‘colour’ for doors thanks to its neutrality. White goes with almost anything so can be used in a variety of ways. 

    Photo by Esther Wilhelmsson on Unsplash

    Grey – the grey colour scheme which has been popular in recent years still has a good deal of gravitas and having internal doors in this colour takes it up a notch. Ultra-modern, charcoal grey interior doors will really make your home look super stylish and up to date. 

    via Blackband Design

    ‘Wood’ – ok, again not a colour, but showing the actual essence of the material your doors are made from, will make the place look a lot more rustic and natural. This can lend a traditional feel, or contemporary, depending on how you implement it and can even look highly luxurious if you choose a wood such as oak. 

    via The Spruce via  My Leitmotiv

    Green – this is an extremely calming colour and is on the up and up popularity-wise. It’s been in the background for some time thanks to tropical and natural prints which have adorned wallpapers and soft furnishings, but the colour now has its own gravitas. Emerald, sage, mint – all of them will work in different rooms in different ways, and your doors can tone to match. 

    The days of your doors playing second fiddle to your interior design are over, thanks to the incredible range which is now available. So why not try something new and more daring? 

  • Tips to Prepare Your Home for a New Pet

    Tips to Prepare Your Home for a New Pet

    The best way to go through life is by sharing it with a pet. Once all the discussions have been made, and the “roles” assigned to each housemate, it’s time to go and pick up your new fur baby. No matter if you’ve chosen to adopt or you’ve decided to purchase your new companion, you’ll be bringing a new living creature into your home. And just as you want your home to be comfortable and accommodating to you, you want to make sure you provide the same to your new pet.

    That being said, here are a few tips on how to successfully pet-proof your home and create a welcoming environment for your new fur baby.

    Make your home safe

    via Blackband Design

    To an untrained eye, our homes don’t seem particularly hazardous at first glance. However, do know that every power outlet, unsecured cord, open trashcan, easily-reachable knickknacks and even houseplants can pose a huge threat to your pet’s well-being. In addition to food, toys, vet visits, and pet insurance, a major thing you should keep in mind when you get an animal is pet-proofing your home. So, no matter the type of pet you’re bringing into your home, make sure you first remove, tighten, secure and close off anything that can potentially harm them in any way. If the pet you’ve chosen will roam freely around your house, make sure there’s zero chance they can get themselves in any kind of trouble.

    Create a personal space for your pet

    Furthermore, your new pet will need to have their own personal spaces, so that they can fully feel like a real part of your family. Of course, if you choose pets that are going to spend the majority of their days in cages or aquariums, those will pretty much be their own oases. However, if you bring home a more active pet, such as a puppy or a kitten, you’ll need to ensure they have a designated space of their own. Also, if your kitten is going to be an indoor cat only, you’ll need to provide them with a designated place where they can relieve themselves. So, make sure you check out some quality cat litter boxes as well.

    via Blackband Design

    Make your pet feel welcome

    Next, since your fur baby will be going through a huge change – even though the change is for the better – you will need to make sure you do all you can to make them feel welcome in their new homes. What this means is that you will need to obtain some animal-appropriate toys and stock up on treats. You want to choose treats that are both healthy and delicious. If you are especially worried about your pet (cat/dog) settling in, particularly if they are quite an anxious animal, then you may want to try using pet sticks that contain CBD as many consultants suggest CBD for dogs and cats as it helps to ease any tensions caused by anxiety-provoking situations such as moving home. Dogs and cats, particularly when they’re still small, are super active and they require lots of attention. So, you’ll need to have something that will help you keep them engaged and active throughout the day. Additionally, pet treats will be a great help especially throughout the training portion of your pet’s adjustment period. Quick treats are usually best for training use, but you can also give your pup treats such as bully sticks as a reward and to keep him busy.

    via Blackband Design

    Prepare for the adjustment period

    Every new pet owner needs to realize they’re bringing a baby into a new environment. Sure, it might be an animal baby, but it’s still a baby nonetheless. So, you’ll need to prepare yourself for some late-night crying that just won’t stop. That being said, one of the biggest mistakes new pet owners make is bringing their fur babies into the bed with them to soothe them. This will only eventually result in having to share your bed with your pet. If that’s something you don’t mind, that’s fine. But it’s always a better idea to simply tough through the adjustment period and teach your pet to sleep in their own beds.

    via Blackband Design

    Change some of your old habits

    In the end, your new pet won’t be the only one who will need to go through an adjustment period. Instead, you’ll also need to let go of some of your old habits and make room for some new ones. First off, you’ll need to change the way you clean your home. While you’re probably used to cleaning your home with store-bought products, do know they can potentially be very dangerous for your pet. Moreover, if you get a puppy, you’ll need to ensure they get plenty of walks each day, multiple times a day. Once you have a perpetually clean space, you can buy that recording system you’ve always wanted so you can learn what your pet really does when you’re not home- https://omniviewtech.ca/ !

    With all of that said, getting a pet is so much more than just bringing an animal into your home. It will require some proper research and adjusting on both of your parts. However, once the adjustment period is over, you can expect a life filled with joy and love. Thanks to the Gear Hunt for collaborating!

  • Arlington VA Mover’s Advice – Moving To Arlington Guide

    Arlington VA Mover’s Advice – Moving To Arlington Guide

    Are you soon moving to another neighborhood or perhaps another state? In any case, you must be overwhelmed with stress and anticipation while planning your relocation agenda. However, your agenda might not work out exactly as you planned, as there is a plethora of tasks that need to be done in such a short notice.

    Anyhow, instead of overstressing about not being able to finish everything on time, you can hire the services of professional movers who are trained in handling every aspect of the procedure.

    These are the main reasons for hiring a moving company.

    via Millhaven Homes

    Reduce stress

    Handling the moving process tends to be rather stressful, as you’d have to attentively pack all of your belongings and transport them safely to your new address. You’ll probably need to take a few days off work in order to place the items in boxes and attentively label each box. Also, you’d need to hire a transport service to load the boxes and deliver them to your new home.

    Anyhow, by hiring a removal company you wouldn’t have to worry about any part of the relocation process. These professionals will not only load and transport your belongings, but also pack them for you. You’d only need to get in touch with the mover and leave everything in its professional hands.

    Therefore, instead of being preoccupied as well as overstressed by the relocation preparations, try to enjoy the last couple of days in your current neighborhood. Visit this page for some tips on having a stress-free moving experience. 

    Save time

    via Millhaven Homes

    Organizing the procedure on your own may prolong your relocation much more than you intended. Homeowners rarely keep to the moving agenda, which isn’t the case with professional movers. These professionals will make sure everything goes according to plan so as to be completed in a single day. Conversely, you’d certainly need an entire week to take care of every aspect.

    However, professional movers are experienced and highly efficient in their job. They employ special packing and loading techniques that speed up the process. Even upon the arrival to your new home, they’ll let you settle in the neighborhood by unpacking your items. Instead of spending the whole day on unpacking boxes you could familiarize yourself with the area or do some chores.

    via Millhaven Homes

    Ensure safety of your belongings

    Hiring a removal company provides more for its clients than its basic relocation services. In fact, it offers a sense of security that your belongings are in safe hands. In case you are obliged to move out from your old home, but the lease start date for the new one is a month ahead, you can use the storage services. Actually, movers can store your items in their warehouse, under constant surveillance, until the date of transporting them to the new location.

    In addition, professional movers, such as https://www.themightymoversllc.com/ , provide their customers with a full protection of their valuables during the relocation procedure. In case some of your valuables get broken or damaged due to the movers’ negligence, the cost of the items will be covered by the company or you’ll get a replacement.

    Prevent injuries

    Apart from the heavy boxes, moving involves lifting bulky furniture items from your home into the truck. Anyhow, homeowners with no experience in heavy lifting are likely to get injured, as they don’t use any tools to help them with the process.

    On the other hand, moving professionals are experts at handling bulky and heavy items, employing the right techniques and tools to make sure that no one gets injured. They will load, unload and even assemble your furniture, without requesting any assistance.

    It’s cost-effective

    via Millhaven Homes

    Many homeowners refuse to hire a removal company mainly due to the cost of its services, but hiring a professional mover can actually be cost-effective. When handing the relocation process on your own, you’d need to purchase a myriad of boxes, labels, bubble wrap, and tapes so as to pack the items. You’d also have to hire a truck or a van to transport your belongings, as your car won’t fit the mountain of boxes.

    Conversely, hiring a moving company indicates purchasing no packing materials, as these are included in the packing service. Naturally, they are equipped with a truck, so you won’t need to hire a separate transport service. Also, owing to their safety precautions, you won’t risk losing or damaging any of your things. In the case of a negligence on their part, they’ll cover the cost, which won’t happen when moving on your own.

    Wrap up

    Hiring a removal company will really take the pressure off your relocation process.

    Let the professionals take care of all the packing and transportation while you mentally prepare yourself for the new chapter in your life! Thanks to The Mighty Movers for consulting!