Blog Page 50

Services That Can Help Make Moving Simple

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Front of the house with the front yard
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Moving to a new place can be exciting. But it can also be stressful and frustrating. Thank the heavens for services available to make moving more tolerable. Below is a compilation of some of the best services that can help you with the different aspects of moving. Now remember, if moving with pets can be stress free, MyBekins.com, than keeping your floors clean can be too.

Front of the house with the front yard
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Car Shipping Calculator

If you’re moving to a different state and don’t want to drive all the way to your new place, you can just ship your car. Many auto transport companies can ship your vehicle safely and promptly. The cost of car shipping depends on different factors. 

It’s easy to get car shipping quotes online. One way is to use a car shipping calculator. One of the best things about this service is that it’s free to use. The site uses equations and computations collected from several car shipping companies in the U.S. The service can help people save money by allowing them to compare prices from different service providers.

Zumper

If you live in a big city, it can be challenging to find the right apartment. Once you find an ideal place, you need to act fast or lose it to other apartment seekers. If you want to get ahead of the pack, you need to download Zumper. 

Zumper is not just your usual rental site. The app gives you real-time alerts about new apartments before they are listed in other places. Zumper has more than a million listings. You can also course your application through this app. It will give your application to landlords along with your credit report, saving you time and money in the process. This app is available for iOS and Android. 

Rooms

Living room with TV, fireplace, a sofa and a table with books
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Getting a roommate is still the best way to save on rent. But how do you ensure that you don’t attract a creep or a serial killer in your search? One way is to search for a roommate through Roomi. 

The best thing about this app is its strict yet straightforward application process. Before you can sign up for the app, you need to provide your Facebook account or email address, write a bio, and answer five questions. After being accepted, you can now search for potential homes and roommates and contact people using the built-in chat feature. 

The app was invented by Ajay Yadav. The idea for the app came after a housemate cleaned him of his belongings. You can download Roomi from the Apple AppStore and Google Play Store. 

OfferUp

The moving experience presents an excellent opportunity to evaluate your possessions and get rid of stuff you don’t need anymore. This is the best time to downsize, especially if you’re moving to a smaller place. You can now finally discard items that are just gathering dust in your home. 

You probably have tons of clothes you haven’t used for months and kitchen appliances you’ve only used once or twice. You can make money with your old stuff. But if holding a garage sale is too taxing, you can just use OfferUp. It’s an app that lets you sell stuff without the hassle of having to sit all day in your garage and haggle with your neighbors. OfferUp is available for iOS and Android. 

Chipolo

If you’re the type of person who constantly loses essential items, then Chipolo is for you. It’s a device that you can attach to your keys, wallet, phone, bag, or any other item that you can’t afford to go missing. If you can’t find the item, just ring Chipolo through the companion app and the device will play a 100-decibel alarm until you’ve located the object. 

Chipolo also has a “Notify When Found” feature where you can ask help from other Chipolo users if you have a missing item. The app is available for iOS and Android.

Unpakt

Porch with arm chairs and glass doors in the yard
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Whether you’ll have a stress-free moving day or not will largely depend on the moving company you’ll hire. But it’s not easy to find the right moving company. How can you be sure that you won’t be scammed or shortchanged? 

You can turn to Unpakt to help you find legitimate moving companies with services that match your needs. All you need to do is enter your pickup address and destination point and the app will give you a list of pre-screened and licensed movers. Also indicated are the prices of services, and they are guaranteed not to change. 

Unpakt has already helped thousands of individuals save time and money by matching them with the right moving company. You can download Unpakt on Apple AppStore and Google Play. 

Takl

There are just so many things to do if you’re moving to a new place. Are you sure you can do it all? You don’t have to do all the necessary tasks yourself. You can seek help from Takl. 

It’s an app that allows you to post tasks that you need to accomplish, and then users can reply to your post if they want to take on the job. The app screens and performs a background check of those looking for work for the users’ safety and peace of mind. For transparency, posters need to put their price upfront for other users to see. Takl is available for iOS and Android. 

Most people dread moving to a new place. But that’s just because they are not aware of the services above. With these services, you can turn moving from a stressful to a fun event.

Thanks to Renee Pena for consulting.

Buying New Entry Doors for Your Miami Home? Ask These 5 Questions First!

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House entrance with front yard
Used with permission of Blackband Design

All front doors are not created equal. Many homeowners make the mistake of assuming a door is a door. They think to themselves, “What makes one better than the other?” The truth is a lot.

Garage doors and entry doors have an important yet often overlooked function. First, they are the first thing guests see when entering your home. A well-designed exterior door is also something that keeps intruders from breaking in. And for South Florida residents, they protect properties from disastrous hurricanes and storms.

As you can see, a door is not just a door. Installing a cheap or poorly designed option can reduce your home’s curb appeal and make it an unsafe living environment.

House entrance with front yard
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Fortunately for Miami homeowners, various front door styles and options are available. Many of which are both beautiful and secure. To help narrow down your choices, we’ve selected a few essential factors to look for when finding the perfect entry door.

1. How Strong is Your Door Frame?

People often don’t acknowledge the importance of a frame or its role in keeping a door in place when on the hunt for a new entry door. For instance, leveling, hinging, opening, closing, and locking are all essential components of a door that work because of its frame.

Depending on your South Florida home, there are different types of door frames to choose from, each with its pros and cons. Here are a few examples.

  • Aluminum: Aluminum is a popular framing material because it is affordable and durable. It also looks sleek and modern for those looking to enhance curb appeal.
  • Wood: Wood is a versatile option as homeowners can paint it any color they’d like. However, wood options can require more maintenance to keep the frame’s newer appearance after installation.
  • Vinyl: Vinyl is an energy-efficient framing material for homeowners interested in reducing their carbon footprint. Additionally, it doesn’t show scratches or dents as much as other options.

The Key Takeaway: Once front doors are installed, they solely rely on the frame to remain in a proper working condition. Therefore, the frame needs to be high-quality so that the door is even and secure.

2. What Kind of Material is the Main Door?

House garden with a storage
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Similar to its frames, the material of the front door provides unique benefits that can help you reach your home’s exterior design and performance needs.

Ask yourself questions such as…

  • What is my desired aesthetic?
  • What level of light do I want coming into the home?
  • Do I prefer doors with decorative glass?
  • Am I concerned about privacy or intruders?
  • Are there any energy efficiency requirements I want?
  • What level of maintenance can I keep up with?

Answering these types of questions will steer you in the right direction of whether wood, fiberglass, or steel front doors are best for you. For example, fiberglass entry doors require less maintenance and upkeep as they are more dent-resistant than wooden doors.

The Key Takeaway: There are many options when it comes to front doors. Take the time to research different materials, window panel styles, and personalization opportunities.

3. What Kind of Glass Comes Built into the Doors (if any)?

As someone living in Miami looking to update your home’s entry door, consider one made with impact glass.

More than 41 percent of hurricanes that hit the United States also make some kind of landfall in Florida. Therefore, it’s crucial to implement all necessary precautions to protect your home and loved ones.

The most significant advantage of impact resistant doors is that they are engineered to withstand forceful winds, rain, and impact from flying debris without succumbing to damage.

These types of front doors come designed with two layers of impact-resistant glass outside of a layer of plastic. Therefore, in the chance that the glass does break, it will adhere to the inner plastic instead of spreading sharp shards of glass into your home.

But that’s not all! Additional benefits of hurricane-rated doors included increased protection from intruders, improved insulation, noise control, and more.

The Key Takeaway: While Miami is a fantastic place to live, it does experience more hurricanes and storms than any other state. For this reason, South Florida homeowners should consider installing impact glass doors for extreme storm protection.

4. Is the Entry Door Properly Insulated?

Doors and a image of goats in the hall
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Energy-efficient doors help maintain optimal temperatures in your home. They have excellent insulation properties that require less fossil fuel-powered energy to keep your home at the desired temperature. In other words, excess hot and cold air is not escaping from your home, causing the thermostat to work harder.

How can you identify a door’s energy efficiency before purchasing? In most cases, it will be labeled as ENERGY STAR qualified. To receive this rating, the door must pass three requirements:

  1. If it contains glass, the glass must have multiple panes.
  2. Manufacturers must build the doors with wood, polyurethane foam, fiberglass, or other energy-efficient materials.
  3. The entry point must have weather stripping components to keep it tightly sealed to the door frame.

The Key Takeaway: Alongside living in a more eco-friendly house, Florida residents are rewarded with reduced utility costs and discounts on home insurance when installing ENERGY STAR-rated doors.

5. Does the Door Come With a Warranty?

A warranty guarantees defective products will be repaired or replaced by a door manufacturer or installer. Because the types and lengths of these contracts vary among door installers in Miami, it is essential to know your options before making any final decisions.

For instance, warranties can last anywhere from a couple of years to the lifetime of the house. Even if you plan on selling your home within the next few years, having a front door with a lifetime guarantee can be a big draw for home buyers. It can increase the home’s value in many cases.

The Key Takeaway: In your initial conversations, be sure to ask about an installer’s product warranty. Installing a new front door can be costly. Therefore a contract can give peace of mind that you won’t have to pay more money for any unforeseen complications.

Need More Details? Alco Windows and Doors Can Help

House with entry door and a garden
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects

Entry doors serve a vital role in protecting your home and welcoming guests. When you invest in a new door for your Miami property, there are many factors to consider; from the materials used to how it will look on your house. Our list of 5 considerations can help you better make the right decisions for your particular needs.

If you’re still not sure about what type of entrance would be best for you or if you need help with installation, contact Alco Windows and Doors today!

Give us a call at (888) 877-2526 or schedule a FREE consultation today – we have expert consultants ready and waiting to answer all of your questions!

Luis Alvarez is the founder and owner of Alco Windows and Doors. Coming from a family with more than 15 years of experience in the glass and glazing industry, Luis used his background knowledge to found a company dedicated to providing quality service and support for those looking to protect their loved ones from severe weather.

Before founding Alco, Luis joined the Marine Corps in August 2006, completing boot camp at the Marine Corp Recruit Depot, Parris Island, SC in November that same year. The following year he entered the Officer Candidate School (OCS) and graduated in July 2007. 

In April 2012 Luis Alvarez deployed to Morocco as part of Operation African Lion, serving with TOW/Scout Platoon and H&S Co 4th Tank Battalion. Luis earned the rank of Sergeant prior to completing his service. 

Upon transitioning to civilian life, Luis used his military experience to effectively found and oversee Alco Windows and Doors. His attention to timeliness guarantees efficient installations focused on meeting planned deadlines. His background in preparation and organization ensures flawless window and door projects, no matter the job size. 

His leadership experience promises a “job well done” mindset from every member of the Alco team – from salespeople to installation professionals.

A graduate of Florida International University with a degree in Mathematics, Luis takes time to give back to the community by serving as an adjunct professor at Miami Dade College. He also stays active in supporting local youth organizations like the Magic City Cup and his local jiu-jitsu studio.

 Luis ensures all his involvements never encroach on the most important thing in his life – his family. His girlfriend and three children are the center of his life and he places high value on being present and active in their lives.

Luis’s family is incredibly important to both his company’s success and his daily motivation to help others. 

He believes homes are built around people supporting one another, and his dedication to his home in South Florida ensures Alco Windows and Doors will always put the customer’s safety and satisfaction first.

Thanks to alcoimpact.com for consulting.

5 things to Consider When Choosing Upholstery Fabric

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Living room with big white couch
Used with permission of Millhaven homes

Are you working on an upholstering project? This can be exciting and rewarding as a hobby. One of the first things you are going to need to get started is fabric.  This is what is going to totally transform your furniture and allow it to adopt a new style.

But, if you have never upholstered before, you may not be sure where to start when it comes to fabric. There are just so many to choose from. Well, here are five things you need to consider to choose the right one for your project.

Various fabrics

The Material

First of all, one of the things you need to consider when choosing upholstery fabric is what type of material to use. Indeed, there are many you can select. For example, some homeowners love wool since it is soft and can even absorb odors from the ambient air. Then, others like leather since it is durable and can have a unique texture. Another good option is linen since it is a breathable fabric that feels luxurious and is durable. Thus, think about your lifestyle and choose a material that you love.

The Style

The fun part of shopping for upholstery fabric is choosing a style you like. Thankfully, there are now many different patterns and styles to choose from. For example, you can choose from floral designs, as well as animal prints and other contemporary and classic styles. A good brand to check out is Penny Morrison. There is a range of luxurious fabrics you can select from, including stripes, florals and ancient Greek motifs. There are fabrics for everyone and with a style that you will love.

The Color

Living room with big white couch
Used with permission of Millhaven Homes

When you have found a fabric style that you like, you are going to have to think about the color. For instance, the legs of your armchair or the couch might dictate what color is going to be the best to match. Take a look at the furniture you are upholstering and think about what is going to work well. Then you can see if the fabric is available. If you are not sure, a lot of companies that sell fabric will send you a sample. It may be worth getting one so that you can make sure you love the fabric you are selecting.

The Availability

Once you have found a fabric that you love for your upholstery project, you need to make sure that somebody has it in stock. In particular, if you are following the latest trends, you have to be prepared to shop around and be patient. You may be surprised by how quickly fabrics sell out when they are on-trend. In addition, ensure that the store has the right size that you need for your project. Of course, you are going to need more if you reupholster a couch compared to other furniture. Having a list of different fabrics that you like can make sure that you are not disappointed. Alternatively, you might have to be patient.

Thanks to pennymorrison.com for consulting.

How to Choose the Best Dining Room Light Fixture

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Dining space with table, chairs and firework
Used with permission of Blackband Desing

The dining room is a space where family and friends gather to savor good food, conversation, and the chance to forget about the world for a while. Whether you are an avid entertainer or prefer quiet dinners with your loved ones, it’s a place that offers both excitement of entertaining as well as intimacy of close conversations.

When it comes to lighting, choosing the right fixture for a space can be difficult. The dining room is one of those areas that has a powerful impact on mood and ambiance. This blog post will share some tips for picking out the perfect light fixture in your dining area!

Lighting Basics

Dining space with table, chairs and firework
Used with permission of Blackband Desing

The first thing to note is that lighting matters. When it comes to the dining room, you want to consider the ambiance and mood that you want to create using zinsco breakers as well. You want your space to be relaxing and inviting, but also warm and homey. If you are entertaining a lot, or have a large family at your table, it’s important to consider lighting that will be able to accommodate all of those people.

If you prefer a more intimate atmosphere with fewer people around, then consider choosing an area light fixture so that your dining space feels less crowded. This is because some overhead lights can have a harsh glare on the face of the table; this can make having guests over for dinner more difficult.

The other thing to consider is how many bulbs you will need for your dining space. If you have something a little bit brighter than what you need, it’s best to spread out the light so that it’s not too bright. You can also add a dimmer switch so that you can control the brightness of your area light. This way, you don’t have to worry about over-lighting or having too bright of an area light.

Lighting Style

When choosing an area light fixture, think about the lighting style that you prefer in your dining room. There are different lighting styles and patterns out there, but here are some examples:

Traditional

Dining room with round table and three chairs around it in the corner of the room beside the window
Used with permission of Jane Beiles Photography

This is the most popular style of lighting in dining rooms. It consists of recessed lighting behind your area light fixture, and strip lighting that runs along with the ceiling. This is a very classic look and will give your dining room a traditional feel.

Wrought Iron

If you want to add some subtle charm to your dining room, then go with this type of lighting. It’s similar to traditional lighting, but instead of having recessed lights, it will have a small decorative light on the top of your area light fixture.

Faux

What this style means is that it’s not anything that you can see with your eyes; it’s more like an accent piece or the “icing” on the cake. It’s meant to give your dining room a certain feel, but it’s not noticeable at all.

Flood

While this is a very popular style of lighting, it can be quite expensive. This style consists of recessed lighting in your dining room ceiling, with light fixtures that are on the walls and above the table. This gives off a very dramatic look to the space and can be used in any style of the room.

Wall Mounted

If you don’t have enough space for recessed lights or if you just want something different, then wall-mounted lighting is perfect for you! These are mounted directly onto your walls, giving off an industrial look to your space and making it feel more spacious and open.

Gigi

Kitchen and dining room designed in bright and dark colors
Used with permission of Jane Beiles Photography

This is a very popular style of lighting in the dining room and sets the tone for a modern dining room. It’s a sleek and modern look, with lights that are mounted to the ceiling, giving off a very clean look.

Granite

Another popular type of lighting that you can use in your dining room is the Granite look. This style is gaining more popularity, as it’s very simple to install and gives off a very contemporary feel to your space. It’s best suited for those who are just starting with their decorating ideas and have a minimalist style, as it will fit right into their space without taking away from it at all.

Hamptons

This is a very popular style of lighting in the dining room that is great if you want to bring a bit of class and sophistication to your space. It’s very simple and minimal, with lights that are mounted to the ceiling, giving off a coastal feel to your space.

Thanks to bigelectricsupply.com for consulting.

How to Detect Water Leaks in Your Home

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Beige designed kitchen with island and dark bar chairs
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

One of the easiest ways to detect a water leak in your home is by examining your walls. When water is leaking from a wall, its appearance will change. Paint and wallpaper will start to warp and may even begin to peel or tear. Puddles will also form near the wall, and you may need to pull up your carpeting to determine if there is a leak. To find out if your walls are leaking, turn on the faucets in the room.

Water leaks can be caused by several reasons, including cracks in the pipework, corrosion, and blockages. While there may be no sign of a leak when water is gushing from a pipe, an undetected leak can cause extensive damage if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are a few easy steps you can take to detect a water supply leak in your home.

Beige designed kitchen with island and dark bar chairs
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

Check the water meter. The water meter can be located in several locations in your home, including outside. Before you check it, turn off all the water in your home. Make sure that no appliances or faucets are running. Look for any movement on the water meter. If it moves, there’s likely a leak in the water pipe. Taking these steps now will help you detect the source of the problem before it causes more damage.

Locate your water meter. These meters can be located in various places in your home, including outdoor areas. You can use this information to find leaks in your home. The water meter is a great way to spot water problems early on before they become major and cost you money. To detect a leak in your water pipes, find the meter and fix it before it worsens. And remember, you can also check the water ring if you notice higher water bills.

The first clue to look for a water leak is higher-than-normal water usage. If your water bill is unusually high, it may be due to a leak. If you have a higher than normal bill, you may need to hire a plumber to repair it. The plumber will be able to spot a leak and fix it before it gets worse. If you have a leak, you must take action before it becomes serious.

Designed part of the bathroom with a sink and a mirror
Used with permission of Lisa Furey Interiors

Water leaks are a common problem in homes, but they can cause major damage to your property and water bill. By detecting a leak early, you can fix the problem before it worsens. You can check the water meter to see if it has a reading that is higher than normal. If you find a low water reading, the leak may be a clogged pipe.

Water meters can be located in many different locations in your home. If the leak is a small one, it may be difficult to notice. But if you notice that it is higher than normal, the problem could be a major one. If it is a bigger problem, you should hire a plumber right away. You can also check the water meter to see if it has a reading that is higher than normal.

Water meters are another way to detect water leaks in your home. They can be located on the inside of walls or under floors. Using a meter can help you pinpoint the source of a leak and stop it from spreading. It is also possible to find leaks underground by checking your local utility company’s water meter. You can also check the water meter on your main cutoff valve.

Kitchen with island, refrigerator and kitchen cabinet
Used with permission of Leo Designs CHICAGO

Checking your water meter is an excellent way to detect a water leak. You should be able to find it inside and outside of your home, if it is leaking from a pipe. The best way to find a leak is to check the water meter by turning off all water in the house. If it moves, it is most likely a leaking pipe. Afterwards, you should turn off the water at the main cutoff valve and start examining your home for any signs of a leak.

The best way to know if you have a leak is to hire a professional plumbing company to help you identify any leaks. Clogged and blocked drains can be a sure sign of a leak somewhere or any unpleasant odors. If you need someone to look at blocked drains in Melbourne, you can go online to find a reputable plumber who can assist you with any plumbing problems.

Thanks to fixitrightplumbing.com.au for consulting on this post.

2022 Bathroom Trends to Look Out For

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The new year will likely bring lots of dynamic change to one’s home. With many people adopting a permanent work-from-home model, tons of homeowners are now ready to invest in home upgrades that they have wanted for a long time. And bathroom remodels are one of the biggest targets for remodels in 2022. As a result, demand for kitchen and bathroom upgrades has grown by 40%. And it is no surprise. After all, a hard day in the office should be followed with some rest and relaxation – and there is no better spot for that than a bathroom that has gone through a significant overhaul to be exactly what you want.

Bathroom remodels are more desirable than ever before, allowing you to tailor your bathroom to your wants. You can add elements that speak to you and inspire you. The ideal bathroom will be different for everyone, although hot trends in 2022 include minimalist approaches and design inspired by nature. Additionally, functionality remains essential since many people spend more time in the bathroom than ever before, so we see an increase in many practical solutions for the bathroom.  

Another trend that has increased in importance in 2022 is the desire to enhance sanitation and cleanliness in bathrooms across America. People want clean homes and sanitized surfaces, and the bathroom is a primary target since tens of thousands of units of bacteria can be found on bathroom surfaces. Therefore, when incorporating new features into your bathroom remodel, you may want to look at things that promote cleanliness and sanitation.

In light of these changing needs within home bathrooms, there are several key trends that we will see become more prevalent in 2022, especially with homeowners that do the work themselves, including:

1.   Smart Technology: When remodeling one’s bathroom, it’s straightforward to focus solely on how things look and feel. However, many new smart technologies also enhance wellness and the sanitary nature of the space. For example, a heated towel rack is a great way to help you transform your bathroom to make it more comfortable and cleaner. This technology can kill tons of bacteria found on our towels (even the clean ones) to provide ongoing health and wellness. Adding this to your bathroom is a great way to combat germs and enhance your comfort, especially when combined with other cutting-edge technologies, like air purifiers and smart toilets, reducing the number of germs in your home and improving overall wellness. And these technologies can often be implemented with little work or previous experience by following the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

2.   Wet Rooms: Wet rooms are enjoying a surge in popularity – and for a good reason. After all, these rooms have all of the amenities of a luxurious bathroom but are even more functional. For example, wet rooms have the same flooring throughout the entire room and have little or no barrier between the shower and the rest of the bathroom. With a well-designed wet room, it’s easy to feel like you are at a spa or wellness center. And as a bonus, they are easier to clean, reducing the number of germs in the bathroom (which is notoriously germy). And installing something with a uniform surface across the entire room can often be more straightforward than installing different types of flooring, tile, or other bathroom surface materials.

3.   Nice Finishes and Accessories: There is no denying it – bathroom remodels are expensive, often costing around $20,000. And while doing the work yourself can reduce this expense substantially, material costs remain high for many things. The cost of some remodel materials may tempt one cutting corners with inferior products. But high-end bathroom accessories deliver a huge amount of bang for the buck. In addition, high-end accessories often hold up longer, look better, and ensure that your space feels luxurious. And you can find options, such as those sold by Bathroom Butler, like quality towel bars, soap dishes, and toilet paper holders, among others. These accessories can enhance both the look and the feel of your bathroom – and ensure it is the ideal space for your family.

4.   Country Chic: The country chic look in bathrooms often includes elements of a French country bathroom, rustic designs, cathedral ceilings, wooden beams, and high-end fixtures. It can also feature a romantic bathtub, ornate chandeliers, and natural stone or wood detailing. In short, this look encapsulates timeless simplicity – making it the perfect look for anyone wanting to transform their existing bathroom into a space that you never want to leave.

5.   White and Gold: Since the end goal for many people undertaking a bathroom remodel is to create a better space to provide self-care and mental relaxation within the home, it’s no surprise that many modern designs feature a white and gold color scheme. This pairing is viewed as the height in luxury (think white marble and gold fixtures and accents). When picking out the details of your new bathroom, consider a few that might have this color combo – it’s sure to catch anyone’s eye and make them envious of your new bathroom!

There is no doubt that the upcoming year will be another big one for bathroom remodels, especially with the DIYers around the country. Adding design elements can help you improve the health and wellbeing of your entire family and make your bathroom feel more like a spa. Considering these trends throughout your remodel process is one sure way to love the finished product!

Thanks to bathroombutler.com for consulting on this post.

8 Ways To Make Your Home Safer Today

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House with porch and outdoor funiture
Used with permission of Alice Lane

Home is where the heart is. That’s why it’s important to keep yours safe and secure. From accidents to burglaries, it’s key that everybody in your home contributes to keeping it safe.

House with porch and outdoor funiture
Used with permission of Alice Lane

In this article, we look at 8 ways that you can amp up the safety of your home today. Let’s get started.

Rule #1: Check Alarm Systems Regularly

Installing an alarm system is a major way to improve the safety of your home. Alarm systems alert you in the event of an intruder (or any other suspicious activity) and can be personalised to suit your needs. If you don’t have an alarm system installed yet, this is the number one way to increase the security of your property. When choosing an alarm system, opt for a trusted company that works with reputable manufacturers and the latest technology. If you’re on the hunt for an Alarm System Melbourne, Ninja Security is one of the top choices.

Once your alarm systems are installed, make sure that you check them regularly. This includes motion sensors, carbon monoxide alarms, and smart doorbells. Regular checks will ensure that they are working correctly and protecting your home from unwanted visitors.

Rule #2: Switch On Security Lights at Night

Typically, home intruders like to work at night when it’s dark. If an intruder sees lights on in your property, they are much less likely to risk entering. This is why it’s a good idea to switch your security lights on when it’s dark, especially when you aren’t home. Setting the lights to come on at the same time every night will make it appear like somebody is home, potentially deterring intruders.

Rule #3: Lock Rooms with Dangerous Chemicals

Master bathroom with bathtub, sink and a chair beside
Used with permission of Massucco Warner

If you have children or pets, get in the habit of locking rooms in your home where there are potential risks. For example, the laundry room contains chemicals that could be dangerous to young kids if ingested. Similarly, keep electrical appliances, sharp knives, or weapons locked away safely at all times.

Rule #4: Exercise Internet Safety

Home safety begins on the internet. Avoid sharing your personal details (such as your address, phone number, number of occupants in the house etc,) online. There are lots of scams, so the less personal information you share the better unless it is through a trusted site. Another tip to keep your home safe from internet scams is to never share on social media the dates when you will be on vacation or your home will be unattended. This information could fall into the wrong hands, resulting in a burglary.

Finally, under no uncertain circumstances should you post a photo of your keys online. You will often see people share photos of their house keys on social media when they buy a new home, showing off a new keychain. Fun, right? Actually no. Nowadays, experts can make a copy of your keys with just a photo. So, avoid posting snaps of your keys.

Rule #5 Secure your Door

Yellow entrance door on the white house
Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Make sure your door is sturdy to avoid intruders kicking your door down. Start by bolting a door brace. This reinforces the door frame, helping it to sustain blunt force. Installing a deadbolt will strengthen your door, adding an extra layer of security, while safety studs will strengthen your hinges making it difficult for an intruder to remove the door from the frame to enter your property. Do some research and make sure all of your doors are as impenetrable as possible.

Rule #6 Always have a Well-stocked First Aid Kit On Hand

Having a safe home is about more than preventing intrusions. It’s also about avoiding accidents and injuries in the home. Keep a first aid kit on hand and replace items as you use them. Be sure to keep some aspirin in your first aid kit in case somebody suffers a heart attack. When somebody shows signs of a heart attack, they should chew aspirin immediately while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

Rule #7 ​​Keep your Mail in Check While You’re Away

Going away? You may have done a great job of setting your lights to turn on and leaving your car in the driveway, however, a pile of mail in your mailbox is a dead giveaway that nobody is home. If you get a lot of mail, ask a trusted friend or neighbour to come by regularly and take it inside to avoid leaving tell-tale signs that your home is unattended.

Rule #8 Protect your Porch

Table surrounded with chairs, sunflowers in a vase and big doors leading to yard
Used with permission Breeze Giannasio

As online shopping becomes the new normal, porch piracy is on the rise. It’s estimated that billions of packages are stolen from porches every year. To deter thieves from your porch, it’s time to protect your porch. Invest in a porch lock box or a mailbox sensor to keep your packages safe until you return home. Alternatively, speak to your neighbours and arrange to leave packages with them if the mailman comes when you’re not home.

Final Thoughts

Our home is our haven. It’s the place where we make memories, rest, and relax. To keep your home safe and as peaceful as possible, it’s important to practice some safety measures. Install an alarm system, keep risks away from pets and kids, and be careful about what you share on the internet. With just a few simple steps, you can keep unwanted intruders at bay.

Thanks to ninjasecurity.com.au for consulting on this post.

Top Tips For Clean Drainage System In Your Home

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Master bathroom with bathtub, sink and a chair beside
Used with permission of Massucco Warner

Your home plumbing system is a very important part of how your home functions as a whole. It allows you to wash clothing, have a shower, clean your car, and do so much more. One of the most important parts of this system is the drains in your sinks and shower.

If these drains get clogged up or are unable to work for another reason, they can make it very hard to use water effectively. Not only that, but issues with your drains can lead to damage and potentially even some expensive repairs. As a result, you need to do all you can to keep these drains clean and clear of debris. This article is going to go over a few tips on how you can ensure your drains are always clear.

Have a Professional Come Out to Inspect and Clean Your Drains

Master bathroom with bathtub, sink and a chair beside
Used with permission of Massucco Warner

If your drain is already clogged, or is prone to clogging, one of the first things to consider is calling a professional. They can quickly and effectively deal with any clog in minutes, in most cases.

A company like Morris Jenkins offers drain cleaning services that can make sure your system is clear from any blockage, and can inspect why it might be experiencing issues. It comes with a cost, but this is much less than it would cost to repair your plumbing or clean up a lot of water damage.

These professionals can ensure the drain is not only clean, but can also check and ensure there are no warning signs or other issues materializing behind the scenes. As a result, even if your drain is only partially blocked or slow to drain, it is still a good idea to call a professional if you want to ensure the issue is fully and completely dealt with.

Use Strainers and Drain Catchers

Kitchen with kitchen island and bar chairs
Used with permission of Kira David Design

One of the best ways to keep drains clear is to prevent things like hair, food, soap, and other debris from entering the drains in the first place. There exist many different strainers and drain catchers that can fit almost any drain imaginable. These will allow water to pass through easily, but stop everything else.

These will catch all the debris that would have otherwise gone into the drain, keeping the drain itself free from clogging. Once these catchers get full of hair or other gunk, they can simply be cleaned off and then put right back. Having to pay to get a drain unclogged can cost hundreds of dollars, compared to the few dollars it costs to prevent it. 

Treat the Drains Every Now and Then

Bathroom sink and mirror
Used with permission of Kira David Design

Another way to keep your drainage system clean and in good shape is to give the drains a treatment from time to time to keep them clear. There are a few different ways you can do this. Hot water can be poured into the sink and down the drain and will loosen any developing clogs. It should be hot, but ensure it isn’t boiling as that could potentially cause damage.

Baking soda and vinegar is another option and will work in a similar way to hot water, as it will dislodge any developing issues. If you are going to use a chemical cleaner, do so incredibly rarely as using some of them too often can degrade your pipes and be quite abrasive.

With these tips, you can ensure that your drainage system is both clean and free from debris.

Thanks to morrisjenkins.com for consulting.

10 Epic Ideas to Design Your Bookshelves

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Bookshelf and table with chairs and vase with flowers
Used with permission of Christina Wikman

Bookshelves in your house make a great impression and a better living place. It does not matter whether you love reading books or not, but you should consider keeping bookshelves in your house. They add an aesthetic look to your house as well. There are different types of design for your bookshelves, including book tree, book seat, CTline, wall-length bookcase, etc. You can choose from them.

If you are not satisfied with these ideas, you might visit here to have bookshelf 3D model. a 3D model of a bookshelf is one of the most sophisticated designs and of course ideas; you want to stick with it. However, bookshelves allow you to put your favorite books according to your needs. You can arrange them on your bookshelf alphabetically or as you wish so that you can find which one you need easily and quickly.

Bookshelf and table with chairs and vase with flowers
Used with permission of Christina Wikman

Are you passionate about different ideas for your bookshelves so that you can select one or multiple for your house? Then, you have landed on the right place on earth. This article will take you on the entire journey to find the best design for a bookshelf. Excited! You should be because you are going to know 10 epic ideas to design your bookshelves. So, let’s get into the main part of the article, shall we?

Booktree

The name suggests that the design of the bookshelf will be something like a tree. As a tree has branches and fruits hanging, a book tree will also do the same thing for you. The branches of the shelf will hold books according to your needs. To spend your summer afternoon in the park reading books, a book tree shelf should be one of the most romantic kinds.

Not only that, it does not need a lot of space in your house. In small spaces, you can install the book tree shelf and you can save space in your living room too. In the same way, you can get more information about chair designing guides for small spaces so that you can maximize the spaces in your house.

The invisible bookshelf

If you are innovative and want to make a bookshelf that will be aesthetic and invisible at the same time, you have to consider the concealed bookshelf. The shelf is directly screwed into the wall stud and presto. Therefore, nobody can understand how your books float against the wall. Isn’t it a great idea to design your bookshelf?

The interesting thing is that the design concept has already won awards for its innovation and inspiration. But you should keep in mind one thing: you cannot keep books not worth more than 15 pounds. Otherwise, it might collapse on the ground that you never want.

Equilibrium bookshelf

Home office shelf
Used with permission of Kerry Spears, Nathan Schroeder and Kelli Boyd Photography

It is another unique design where you can put your favorite books up to 120 pounds. One thing you should consider is that books that have more weight should be kept in the bottom case of the bookshelf. As you know, each part of the equilibrium bookcase stands at a single angled point, so you need to be careful while keeping and bringing out books from the shelf.

Bookseat

It is a simple but creative design of a bookshelf. The bookshelf is curved and hence becomes something like a seat. The seat is not for you, but for your books! It is a multifunctional bookcase that enhances your house’s beauty.

CTline

On this bookshelf, you can arrange a lot of books you desire to keep here. It displays books beautifully, and you can only see your books from one side. It is because the bookshelf is attached to the wall. It looks like a minimalistic art installation but works better when it comes to keeping your favorite books.

Because of its diagonal construction, there is no chance to see all the books arranged there from two sides. That’s why you need to keep your books in such a way that you can recognize your books when you need them to read.

Wall-length bookcase

You can use a whole wall to construct a wall-length bookcase, which is awesome! From my point of view, I can assure you that after installing the bookcase on the entire wall in your living room, it will be really an amazing place to stay for a long time. As it holds lots of books, you can arrange as many books as you need.

Bookshelf Staircase

View from bedroom with bed and book shelf into hall
Used with permission of Casework

To solve your bookshelf design puzzle, you should consider this special type of bookshelf design- staircase bookshelf. Under the roof, you can install a loft-like nested bookshelf for you. When you are out of space in your house, this kind of bookshelf will allow you to solve the problem of your storage. It also saves a lot of space in the living room.

Console Bookshelves

Pick your favorite book and start reading lying down on the bench! Yes, it has two-folded advantages. It allows you to keep your favorite books and sit on the bench at the same time. So, it should be a comfortable position for you to pick and read.

Pulseline

The inspiration for the design was taken from the shape of a heartbeat. It looks like your heartbeat. It plays an important role as wall art and a bookshelf at the same time. But you should not keep heavy books on the shelf. Instead, you can display small books and magazines there.

Sticklebook

It is one of the innovative design ideas that save space in your living room. It is made with an aluminum bracket and strips. When you keep books on the shelf, they are attached to the wall for the strips. The design helps your living room keep spacious without taking up a lot of space. So, it might be a design solution you are longing for.

Final word

Depending on your choice and your house’s theme, you can choose anyone from the list mentioned above. All of them are high-quality design ideas for your bookshelves. A house without at least one bookshelf looks empty, right? When your favorite books are kept on the bookshelf near you at home, it is more fun and exciting!

Thanks to hum3d.com for consulting.

What Is Landlord Insurance?

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Living room with sofas and a coffee table
Used with permission of Millhaven Homes

There are over 8 million landlords spread across Australia, and that’s a lot of pieces of rental property. While the number of rental properties grows every day, so does the responsibility of owning rental property. Not only does a landlord need to find good tenants for their rental properties, but they’re also responsible for all of the property’s maintenance and repairs. If the property is damaged in a storm, vandalized, or if the tenants cause undue damage, the repairs fall on the landlord. Therefore, landlord insurance is necessary to alleviate these concerns and provide protection for situations beyond our control.

Living room with sofas and a coffee table
Used with permission of Millhaven Homes

But what is landlord insurance? What does landlord insurance cover? These are the questions that we’ll be exploring today in this article. Of course, it’s always best to know exactly what kind of insurance policy you’re considering before diving into the commitment.

What is landlord insurance?

This question is the big one that most first-time landlords ask. Landlord insurance policies are designed for property owners to help cover the various risks of renting out a piece of property to a tenant. Though most tenants will take care of your property and treat it with respect, unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

Sometimes, tenants can leave a property in shambles and the landlord to clean up the mess and make the place livable again. Some common issues that landlords face with tenants include theft, whether from the tenants themselves or a guest, damage, tenant disputes, fire, flood, and other situations. Landlord insurance is meant to help with some of the problems that arise from these situations so that a landlord doesn’t lose everything over one unfortunate situation.

What does landlord insurance cover?

When it comes to what a landlord insurance policy covers, it can vary between insurance companies. However, there are a few situations that most insurance companies will cover with a landlord insurance policy.

Exterior of the white house
Used with permission of Blackband Design

The first event is property damage insurance. Most landlord policies will cover any physical damage to the home or unit caused by fire, inclement weather, or criminal activity like a break-in. These policies usually also cover any additional buildings on the property, including a storage shed or detached garage. Some insurance policies will even cover the equipment you’ve provided on the property, like a lawnmower or snow blower.

Next, landlord insurance will typically cover liability insurance as well. So, for example, if someone is hurt while living in your rental property or visiting it, your insurance policy will help cover that person’s medical costs, legal fees, and settlements so long as it has liability coverage.

Finally, many landlord insurance policies will include loss of income insurance. Loss of income insurance means that if your rental property is damaged by a covered loss, such as a tornado, fire, or flood, and the damage prevents you from renting the property out, most policies will reimburse for the income you lost during the repairs.

What affects the cost of landlord insurance?

Table surrounded with chairs, sunflowers in a vase and big doors leading to yard
Used with permission Breeze Giannasio

Several factors can affect the cost of landlord insurance. First, the level of insurance will directly impact the cost. For example, whether you choose only to insure physical property damage or property damage and the furnishings inside the unit will change the price. Pets also significantly impact the cost of a landlord insurance policy as the risk of damage increases if your tenants are pet owners. Finally, your property’s location can change the price as well. For example, if your unit is located in an area with high crime or where flooding is a constant concern, it may affect the policy’s price.

Landlord insurance is a necessity for every landlord

Whether you rent out a house or a small apartment, landlord insurance is crucial to protecting your investment. These policies are designed to help landlords continue doing business no matter the perils they may face.