Blog Page 55

Value-Boosting Tips: How to Add Value to Your Home

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White house with front yard
Used with permission of Blackband Design

There are a lot of reasons to add value to your home. Maybe you’re planning to sell soon, or perhaps you simply want to enjoy your property more.

Either way, you’re probably wondering what the best ways are to add value, comfort, and fun to your home. Here are three tips that will help you add value to your home, improve your equity, and sell for a higher price!

White house with front yard
Used with permission of Blackband Design

Improve Energy Efficiency

There’s nothing that adds value to your home more than saving money on utilities and having eco-friendly features. Today’s buyers are quite focused on their impact on the environment, so having an energy-efficient home is a priority.

There are many ways to improve energy efficiency. You can improve your home insulation, which is one project that gives you the best return on your investment. Also, consider planting trees that will shade your home and protect it from the wind. You can find evergreen trees for sale in Toronto, for example.

Energy-efficient appliances are also very attractive to buyers. They save you money as well if you don’t plan on selling your home.

Create Excellent Curb Appeal

The first thing you see when you come home is how your property looks from the outside. If you’re tired of it being an eyesore, or if you’re looking to impress a buyer, invest in your curb appeal or consult with residential architecture firms.

You can start with trimming the greenery around your house. If you live in the area, look into hedge trimming in Newmarket. Having your hedges in great shape not only makes your home more attractive but also makes it safer as well. Overgrown plants near the house give criminals a place to hide.

If you have trees that are overgrown, you’ll want to hire a professional to take care of it for you. For instance, you can hire someone to do tree pruning in Alliston. Trying to prune trees when you don’t know what you’re doing can be very dangerous and can also harm the tree. Don’t risk it!

Upgrade the Kitchen and Bathroom

Kitchen with kitchen island table and chairs
Used with permission of Blackband Design

What rooms make the biggest difference to a buyer — and to you as a homeowner? The answer, without a doubt, is the kitchen and bathroom. Every homeowner or home buyer dreams of having a big kitchen with lots of counter space and storage.

Doing a full kitchen remodel can cost quite a lot of money, but there are smaller things you can do that make a big difference. For example, repaint the cabinets and change the hardware. It freshens things up and can give your kitchen a whole new feel.

You can also focus on specific elements rather than changing the entire kitchen. For example, change just the flooring, or only the countertop. You can also change the faucet in the sink to a nicer model with advanced features, like touch-on and off.

The bathrooms are a similar story but in a smaller space. You can remodel just one fixture or the floor. You might also consider adding storage, such as a cabinet on the wall or built-in shelving. These small changes add a lot of value simply by increasing the usefulness of the space.

Add Value to Your Home Today

Living room with coffee table, armchair, couch and firework
Used with permission of Kira David Design

These three simple tips — improving your energy efficiency, curb appeal, kitchen, and bathroom — can add a lot of value to your home. Whether you plan to live there for years to come or are getting ready to sell, you’ll enjoy your home more and boost your equity when you make these changes.

There’s no reason to delay improving your home. Pick one of these changes and get started today!

Thanks to all the companies linked above.

Here’s Why You Have to Install a Home Security System

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Used with permission of Jane Beiles Photography

Whether you have lived somewhere for a long time or you just moved in, if you haven’t considered getting a home security system yet, you should start thinking about it. Not only is it the best way to secure your home, but it also can make your life at home more convenient and energy-efficient. There are a lot of reasons why you need to have one of these systems in your home, and we’re going to go over some of the top benefits below.

Used with permission of Jane Beiles Photography

Peace of Mind

One of the biggest benefits that come with having a home security system is peace of mind. Knowing that your home is safe and that your family is safe helps you to sleep better at night. Some people need the home security system because they travel a lot for work, while others may find it helpful if their living situation changes (such as having children).

You Wil Save Money in the Long Run

When you get home security installed by professionals, it’s not just a one-time investment. In fact, you may be able to save money in the long run by having a home security system. For example, if you have sensors on your doors and windows, it can help you to conserve energy because your air conditioning or heating won’t need to be running all the time. Similarly, if you have smart thermostat capabilities, you can save even more money on your energy bills.

House with a front yard
Used with permission of Atelier Noel

Convenience

Another benefit of having a home security system is convenience. With many of these systems, you have the ability to control them remotely. This means that if you’re out of town and forgot to turn off your lights or close the garage door, you can do so from your smartphone. Additionally, many home security systems come with cameras that you can use to keep an eye on things while you’re away.

Better Protection Against Break-Ins

One of the most important benefits of having a home security system is that it helps to protect your home from burglars. According to the FBI, homes without security systems are three times more likely to be broken into. This means that you have a better chance of being burglarized if you don’t have an alarm system installed, so it’s important that you have one set up.

Lower Homeowner’s Insurance

If you are a homeowner, your insurance rates may go down by up to 20% if you have a home security system installed. Although this doesn’t sound like much, it can be significant, especially over several years.

Living room with chairs, coffee table, firework and window with curtains
Used with permission of Marianne Simon Design

You Will Have Remote Access to Your Home

Another great benefit of having a home security system is that you will have remote access to your home. This can be useful if you need to let someone into the house, such as the babysitter or repairperson. It also means that if you forgot to lock up before leaving for work, but are already on your way there, then it won’t be a big deal. Most security systems allow you to configure these things from your phone or mobile device.

These are some of the top benefits that come with having a home security system. If you’re still on the fence about getting one, then hopefully this has persuaded you to make the decision. Remember that it’s always better to be safe than sorry, so don’t wait any longer and get yourself protected today!

Thanks to home-security.com for consulting.

How to Turn Your Property into a Profitable Investment?

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House with front yard
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

Owning a property is a good thing, but it can be a big source of stress to you. If it’s mortgaged, you will have a loan to pay monthly for almost 15-20 years. The government will demand taxes from you every year, not forgetting the utility bills that will be sent to you every month. As though that is not enough, your property maintenance will be part of your to-do list. 

There is a better way for you because you can turn your property into a profitable investment today to help complement your income. Getting advice from a reputable property management company can help with the options available to you. These tips will help.

House with front yard
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

Seek advice for a property management company

Your property can become a liability if all the money required to upkeep it goes from your pocket. To help you make the situation better, you might know that it is possible to earn from your property, but you don’t know how to do it. Do not struggle alone searching for ideas but team up with a good property management company for workable ideas. Property managers are professionals who spend years in business, so they understand the market well. 

Seek advice from responsible property managers in Jackson or in other U.S. cities, depending on the location of your property, to benefit from their strong experience in the property market. The property manager will advise you on the available options and help you work out the options to ensure you start earning from your property the soonest. Some of the trusted names in property management in Jackson include Evernest, Real Estate Solutions, and Belhaven Residential.

Share a room

The strategy of inviting a roommate to share the rent has been used for many years by tenants. By sharing, they afford to live in the upmarket areas and pay the same amount of rent they would have paid in a low market area. It can be more beneficial to you if you are the property owner. Instead of servicing it with every coin from your pocket, rent out a room or two to a tenant. Depending on the rent value in your area, you can offset most of your bills from the rent earnings. 

Minimize conflicts by following the rules of renting out a property and ensuring there are signed agreements. You may go through the services of property managers to help you do a hassle-free process. 

Living room with dominant white color, arm chairs, stairs and a bedroom gallery
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

Add more rooms to rent out

You might not be ready to share the comfort of your rooms with another person. This is okay but check around your compound to see if you have some extra space. If your space can allow some extra rooms, invest in it. 

Build a property that will be marketable and one that will earn you a reasonable amount. Do not ignore the building regulations in your state to avoid falling into trouble with the authorities. Before you build, search out if the rent average in your area will be reasonable to invest in building a rental suite. You can use rental platforms online or directly engage a property management company. 

Turn your property into an accommodation suite

This idea might work better if you do not live on your property. However, if you still want to continue living there, it can still work for you but it will have some restrictions on your part. The location of your property will also determine if the method will work for you or not. 

There are many people out there seeking to pay a property owner to live in their property for a few days. You just need to get the right company to work with. You may decide to rent out a few rooms and share the kitchen, bathroom, and living room with another person for a week, a month, or just a few days. This makes your property more like a guesthouse that gives you a continuous flow of income as long as there are people seeking accommodation. 

Back yard with outdoor furniture
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

Do market gardening

You might have a large piece of land idle on your property. If you live in a suburban setting, this idea can work perfectly for you, although it can still work for those in an urban setting but still own large pieces of land. A land as small as half an acre will work okay. 

Survey your local market to know the kind of vegetables and fruits that sell best in the market. You might also work on the idea to grow flowers for the local market. People will appreciate food grown organically because this is the new trend in the market. You just need to market it well and keep some variety in production. Be careful to find out the laws governing such activity in your area or state.  

Thanks to evernest.co for consulting on this post.

Top Tips on Buying the Best Gazebos for Your Garden

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Do you wish your backyard patio to be a more engaging area to enjoy a good time with friends and family? Then it’s possible you’ve pondered adding a gazebo to make it more welcoming.

A gazebo is a distinct, open building constructed in a garden. It is sometimes hexagonal or octagonal in shape with a beautiful roof placed over it. If you are looking to add a gazebo to your garden, there are various models with build quality and aesthetics that you can find in home improvement and design stores to pique your interest.

If you live in or around Ireland, you can easily find the best Gazebos in Ireland with the right guide handy. We’ve also included some pointers in this article to assist you in choosing an option that will be useful in your bid to make your garden patio a relaxation haven.

Tips on Buying The Best Gazebos

GazebosGazebos can be made out of different materials and they include Vinyl, wood, steel and aluminum. It’s advisable to choose a gazebo material depending on your outdoor space and weather condition. For small and friendly spaces, a pop up gazebo may be an ideal solution. The first two tips below apply to structures made with metal but you can also use them as a guide for other materials:-

The Metal’s Thickness

When the bars are thick, they are difficult to bend or flex when under strain. Once the bars begin to bend, they get weaker and will finally break after a short period of time. The bars should be narrow at the underside, with an appropriate measurement of 0.8mm. Knowing this should convince you to choose one made of solid metal.

Type of Metal

Steel is used to make a number of gazebos in the market. Rust is the main reason why this sort of gazebo isn’t ideal for different weather conditions. When kept in humid conditions, they rust quickly because the frames become significantly weakened and almost worthless. You’ll need to get one made of sturdy aluminum, like aluminium pergola because it doesn’t corrode readily.

Covered Area

While this may not apply in all cases, it is vital to consider it before buying a gazebo. You should check to see whether it will fit in your garden, and the simplest way to do so is to measure the area beforehand. This will allow you to determine if you can access your outdoor space without too much difficulty. If you are searching for ideas for a small area, you can watch this video.

Joints

The joints are one of the most essential components in determining a gazebo’s longevity and strength. The majority of these products the market have plastic or nylon roof joints. While this is a less expensive alternative for the manufacturer, it is a poor decision for the user because it shortens the gazebo’s durability.

A metal joint at the tent’s roof is critical to its long-term durability. This is because they can withstand pressure from the wind or any form of movement on the roof, unlike nylon or plastic joints that get easily weakened when pressure is applied. The metal joints on the gazebo roof act as suspension, absorbing and limiting motions caused by severe winds. Options with aluminum joints are recommended since they will last a long time.

Reinforcements

Reinforcements are not just added features, but they also provide strength to the gazebo’s structures. Many gazebos lack reinforcements and this has an impact on the frames’ long-term stability. Reinforcements are beneficial to the bars, and certain commercial models feature them. Knowing this should help you choose models with strong reinforcements.

These are some important considerations when buying a gazebo, according to our recommendations. If you don’t have the cash right now but still want to build one, you can find helpful tips here: https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Gazebo

Conclusion

A comfortable home is always fun to live in and this explains why most homeowners go the extra mile to add facilities that make the home lively. One of the installations that can make the home a fun place to be is a gazebo. If you’re thinking about adding one to your garden patio, it’s ideal to know exactly what you’re looking for. It’s okay to go for aesthetics, but if you plan to use them for a long time, their durability should take precedence over all other considerations.

We recommend that you look for high-quality options in home improvement and design stores. You can always refer to this article if you need a simple buying guide. Thanks to Dublin Garden Sheds for consulting.

7 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Showings

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There’s no denying that first appearances matter, and it’s 100% true. How a place appears and how it is portrayed matters a lot. That’s why most homeowners pay special attention to their house before putting it on the market. 

Selling a house fast at a considerable profit is every seller’s dream, but it doesn’t just fall into your lap. Planning and knowing how to prepare your home professionally is key to getting buyers interested. So, whether you’re listing your house on the market for sale or want an estimate of its value, we’ve got the perfect information for you. With this article, we will share expert tips on preparing your home for viewings. Let’s get started!

used with permission from Kate H Design

Bring Your Neatness Freak Out

Keeping your home tidy is not only soothing, but it also gives you a sense of health and well-being. So, if you want to sell your property faster and for a good price, you should bring out your inner neat freak and start organizing your place. Start by thoroughly cleaning your house, including the counters in the kitchen, bathrooms, fireplace, shelves in the laundry room, and tables. 

Keep ‌bathrooms and toilets clean

When preparing a property for viewing, most homeowners overlook ‌bathrooms and toilets. Yet, your bathroom plays a crucial role in making an excellent first impression of your home. A dirty bathroom or toilet gives the impression that the house is messy. Therefore, you should clean these facilities before putting the house up for viewing.

Ensure you throw away all the extra toiletries, shampoos, sponges, makeup, and sponges. Utilize toilet freshener tablets to give your bathroom a fresh and fragrant appeal. Clean your shower and bath fittings thoroughly, and if your sealants are leaking, replace them. Also, let in natural light and heat to remove excess moisture.

Invest in Curb Appeal

You should expect most potential buyers to drive by your property before actually inspecting it. Therefore, you must focus on your curb appeal and make the exterior of your home attractive. For example, if you have a lawn, mowing and planting flowers should be one of your top priorities. Also, refresh your front door by painting it. The outside of your property should appear appealing, so a buyer wants to enter.

used with permission from Kate H Design

Be a buyer

Think like a buyer when putting your house up for sale. Present it as something you would like to buy. If you examine your place as a buyer, you will pay close attention to even the smallest details that you would otherwise overlook. Ensure everything is clean, from the ceiling to the floor. The baseboards and tiles should all be clean and well scuffed. Keep your windows clean as well; they need to be clean as a whistle so enough sunlight can enter. 

Set the Stage for Your Kitchen

Kitchens are the heart of every house, and buyers pay special attention to them. So, when you prepare your place for viewing, you should do your best to make the kitchen appealing. Polish and clean all surfaces, cabinets, fittings, handles, and appliances. Make sure to clean the inside of fixed appliances as they are included in the sale too.

Clear your counters of excess spices and utensils, and open the windows to let in the fresh air. You should make something welcoming, such as bread or coffee, on the day of viewing since they are among the most inviting aromas. It is best to avoid cooking smelly foods as their aroma will last in the kitchen for a long time.

used with permission from Kate H Design

Perform minor repairs

In some seller’s markets, you can sell a lived-in home without many complaints. However, repairs can make or break a sale in regular or buyer’s markets.

Replacing cracked floor tiles or countertops and patching holes in the walls should be done as soon as possible. Fix leaky faucets, doors that don’t close, and kitchen drawers that jam. If your walls are currently hot pink or purple, consider painting them neutral. You don’t want buyers to recall your home as “the orange one.” Make sure to replace burned-out light bulbs, as well as those that have been in use for some time. You don’t want a bulb to blow out when you flip the light switch on during a showing. If you are mindful, you can easily avoid this incident. After all, a positive experience for the buyer is what you want to achieve.

A little greenery never hurts

You can add plants to any space to make it look fresher and livelier. To make a place feel warm and inviting, plants can be used in many ways. Put some flowers in the vase or move some pots to your living space from your porch. Various real estate experts agree that fresh flowers can warm up any place and make it look inviting. 

Also, when people visit your home garden where you grow different veggies and fruits, provide them with fresh juice to show off your produce.   

Final Words!

You must plan carefully and prepare to show your home to buyers to ensure a quick and successful sale. Your first impression will decide whether the buyer will buy your property or not, so make sure you keep this in mind. Thus, it’s always a good idea to use your extra cash to make your place more visually appealing. Make your house unique by thinking outside the box. Thanks to Potty Mints for consulting

How does eyelash growth serum work? science explains

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Bedroom with table, mirror on the wall and baskets
Used with permission of Leo Designs CHICAGO

You might be tempted to try a lash serum if you weren’t born with fluttery lashes and don’t want the hassle of falsies or extensions. Serums, designed to strengthen, lengthen, and volumize lashes, are more popular than ever, especially now that face masks have become commonplace and beauty regimes have switched to focus solely on the eyes.

On Instagram, there are lots of glowing reviews and celebrity endorsements, but do these items work? Are they, more crucially, safe for your sensitive eye area? Ask a dermatologist has to say about lash serums before you leap.

Bedroom with table, mirror on the wall and baskets
Used with permission of Leo Designs CHICAGO

What are lash serums?

Lash serums are light, concentrated treatments that claim to give you thicker, healthier lashes. Some are combed through the lashes like mascara, while others are applied with a fine applicator along the upper lash line.

While some lash serums claim to lengthen your lashes, most over-the-counter lash conditioners accomplish the same thing. They may maintain lashes healthy (and help them grow longer by preventing breaking), but they lack active medicinal components that have been shown to boost lash growth.

What are the benefits of lash serums?

“Many over-the-counter eyelash serums hydrate and strengthen lashes, making them appear thicker and less likely to break,” explains Li. Because your lashes are less likely to break, they have a better chance of growing longer and fuller.

Amino acids (to build healthy hair follicles), ceramides (to lock in moisture), panthenol (to hydrate and protect lashes from breakage), peptides (to nourish and strengthen lashes), and biotin (to improve hair’s health by strengthening keratin) are some of the most common ingredients found in lash serums.

Is it safe to use lash serums?

Bedroom with table, mirror and plant
Used with permission of Blackband Design

You can’t be too careful with your eyes—they’re your most sensitive organ, and the skin on your eyelids is the thinnest on the whole body.

If the thought of using a lash serum makes your eyes twitch, rest assured: according to Li, lash serums are harmless when applied correctly. Like any other skincare product, a lash serum could contain substances that cause adverse reactions in some people, she warns.

Is it okay if I use the lash serum on my brows?

Most over-the-counter lash serums are completely safe to use on your brows. (Be sure to read the label and the instructions.) There’s no scientific evidence that these serums make lashes grow longer, and there’s no data on how they affect brows. But, if nothing else, they’ll leave your brows conditioned and less prone to breakage, much like your lashes.

How long should I leave a lash serum on my lashes?

“Most skincare products’ results are normally noticeable after at least two months of use,” Li explains, “and lash serums are no different.” She claims that to see effects; the substance must be used consistently usually every day as directed by the manufacturer or on the advice of a physician. However, the effects are temporary; your lashes will revert to normal after you stop using a serum and the development cycle has completed.

How To Buy A New Mixer- Your Ultimate Guide

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If you’re living in India, there’s no doubt that you’ve seen or at least heard of a mixer grinder. The high-pitched grinding house we get here from our kitchens is quite a normal experience, isn’t it? From whipping up tangy sauces to chutneys and curry bases, like our kitchen knives, mixers are an essential kitchen appliance we just can’t do without. Regardless of whether you are a veteran or a novice, you could always make use of a mixer. It will definitely ensure an easy and convenient cooking experience and hopefully save you a lot of time and energy.

On that note, let’s take a quick look at what you need to do in order to purchase a new mixer.

used with permission from Andrea West Design

Wattage

The first and most important thing you need to check with your mixer grinder is the amount of wattage it comes with. The higher the wattage is, the more useful it is for you to grind the toughest of ingredients at a higher and faster speed. Wattage that is between 500 Watts to 750 watts is considered good for a mixie in India.

Speed

The speed of a mixer & grinder often decides whether you should choose this or not. It tells you how quickly your blade can rotate every minute. For domestic and wet grinder, you will need a speed that is somewhere between low to medium. If there is a higher RPM, the spice of liquid may not grind or blend in effectively. You could search for high quality grinders that offer better speed control so that you can change the settings as per the requirement.

used with permission from Andrea West Design

Jars

The more jars, the better it is. Find a mixer grinder that comes with 2-3 jars. They should always have varying capacities that meet your needs and requirements. You could also use one for grinding some spices or even making chutneys and juices. A break-resistant lid or even a durable body should be able to withstand the usual wear and tear. So make sure you buy the best mixer grinder that is ergonomically designed and good enough to suit your needs.

used with permission from Andrea West Design

Blades

Blades are also an important criterion to consider when it comes to picking the right mixer grinder for yourself.  They’re the ones who do all the work, so it has to make sense and verify the quality as well. Ensure that the stainless-steel material is preferably of 304 grades. The steel grade also matters as they tell you whether they are steel resistant to corrosion or oxidation.

Excellent cooking requires the best kind of food processing tools. Crompton usually offers you the best set of wet grinders that come with consistent batter so that you can make the best quality crispy dhosa, idlis and chapatis. Crompton also makes the task easy, efficient, swift and convenient, & contrary to popular opinion, they are not as expensive as they used to be. Now anyone anywhere can afford these grinders. Thanks to Crompton for consulting.

Can Little Kids Use Acrylic Paint on Skin?

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Every parent wants the best for their children. On special days like birthdays, it is normal to paint their faces with various crafts. Face, hand, and feet crafts are common among kids. Even for older people, the paint used must be safe.

So, can children use acrylic paint on the skin? Acrylic paint is generally safe on the skin of little kids for short periods. While the paint is non-toxic, it is not completely safe for children under three years.

The paint should be used for short periods and washed right away to avoid being absorbed into the child’s skin. While most acrylic paints are labeled non-poisonous, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. There is a difference between non-toxic and safe, with everything coming down to how you use it.

Join me as I discuss the safety of acrylic paints on kids’ skin.

used with permission from Alice Lane Interior Design

Is Acrylic Paint Safe on the Baby’s Skin?

Safety is crucial when it comes to any products that babies use. Acrylic paint is safe for the baby’s skin, but it is not recommended. Any paint expert will advise you to consider a different type of paint.

But why? While most acrylic paints are non-poisonous, it doesn’t mean they are 100% safe. Chemicals that go into making acrylic paints might not be 100% safe.

For example, ammonia in acrylic paint is not safe on anybody’s skin. However, the paint is non-poisonous when used for explicit art projects. But still, test the paint sensitivity on the child’s skin before use.

You can test paint sensitivity by putting a small amount on the kid’s feet for a few minutes. Observe any adverse reactions. Make sure you wipe it off thoroughly after testing.

Is Acrylic Paint Toxic?

Generally, acrylic paint is not toxic for daily DIY projects. The label itself reads non-toxic. However, the paint could become toxic depending on how the kids use it.

You need to consider water-based acrylic paints with a non-toxic label. So, how do you tell whether the paint is safe for children to use?

First, check the non-toxicity label. However, the best approval is looking for the Art and Creative Materials Institute’s Approved Product (AP) labels. The AP provides a stamp of approval showing the product meets the necessary safety requirements.

Any acrylic paints for children must come with an AP seal. The seal shows the paint is approved for safe use by kids.

Secondly, you can look for the American Society for Testing Materials code (ASTM D-4236). The code shows the ASTM approves the paint for use by children’s crafts.

It is important to look for label warnings on the paint before use keenly. In general, most modern acrylic paints found in stores are safe for little kids to use. However, as indicated earlier, the paints are not suitable for toddlers.

While children can apply the paint on the skin, it is not safe for extended periods. This is important for toddlers that have very sensitive skins.

used with permission from Alice Lane Interior Design

How Do You Get Acrylic Paint Off Baby’s Skin?

When you decide to use acrylic paint on your kids, then you need to get it off their skin pretty fast. Acrylic paint dries fast, so you need to clean it fast.

The best way to remove acrylic paint from the skin is by wiping it off using soapy water. It is pretty easy to clean water-based acrylic paint using water and soap. Warm soapy water loosens the acrylic paint making it easy to wipe off.

Water and soap are pretty effective, even for acrylic paint that is starting to dry. Apart from water and soap, you can also baby’s oil. Apply a generous amount of baby oil on the skin and gently massage it.

Common oil-based products like petroleum jelly, vegetable oil, canola oil, and butter can also help.

Lastly, you can use alcohol to wipe dry acrylic paint off the skin. Rubbing alcohol or acetone on the paint area can help remove it. However, this should be the last method to get acrylic paint off a baby’s skin as it can be irritating.

You can use cotton and dip it in alcohol before rubbing it against the paint. Once the paint wipes off, clean the area with soapy water.

used with permission from Alice Lane Interior Design

Is Acrylic Paint Toxic if Swallowed?

Most acrylic paints are toxic if swallowed. However, the level of toxicity depends on the ingredients of the paint and how it reacts with the body.

Acrylic paints contain ammonia and formaldehyde, which cause respiratory irritations. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission explains ammonia and formaldehyde levels that are considered toxic for the body. This is the main reason children under the age of 3 should not use acrylic paints. They usually tend to put things in their mouth and might end up ingesting the paint.

However, older kids from the age of 3 can safely use acrylic under supervision. When dry, some acrylic elements might evaporate and produce fumes in the air.

When sanding acrylic paints, make sure you work in a well-ventilated area.

What kind of paint can you use on baby skin?

Knowing the correct paint to apply to the baby’s skin is important. When doing handprints and footprints, the best paint is water-based and toxic. In the simplest terms, water-based paint uses mainly water as the main liquid as opposed to oils.

Below are some of the common types of paints available.

Water-based paint

This is by far the safest paint option for use on the hands, foot, and face. Furthermore, there is a lot of regulation on the manufacture and use of these paints. The paint is non-harmful and doesn’t contain toxic ingredients found in most acrylic paints.

The paint is also easy to apply using a toothbrush, sponge, and paintbrush. It also cleans easily after application by wiping using a damp cloth. However, water-based paints crack and rub off easily.

Metallic body paints

Metallic body paint is another great choice for use on the body. However, the paint is difficult to apply and remove. It is not the safest option out there and can irritate the skin. Metallic body paint is best left for professional performances.

Alcohol-based paint

There is also alcohol-based paint which is suitable for body paints. The paint can create amazing airbrush tattoos and face paints. The paint works best in sunny areas drying very fast. Furthermore, alcohol-based paints are waterproof and don’t come off with sweat.

However, it is not the safest option out there. Removing alcohol-based paints is pretty easy, using acetone or alcohol to wipe it off.

Henna

Henna is another excellent plant-based dye and stain that is used to color nails. However, you can also use it on the skin without any harmful effects.

The paint is non-toxic and safe for both adults and kids. However, some henna brands might contain harmful ingredients. It is advised you check the label before use.

Markers

Lastly, you can also use artificial markers that are specially designed for body and face painting. Most markers are generally safe and don’t include any harmful ingredients.

They are sold in packs and used on different parts of the body. There are markers for the face and other body parts.

Final Words

Acrylic paint on the skin of kids is not harmful for short periods. You can use it to make footprints and handprints. However, make sure you wash it immediately with soap and water. This prevents the paint from being absorbed into the skin.

Generally, acrylic paint is non-poisonous when used carefully for explicit projects. Despite most paints being non-toxic, it is how you use them that will determine their safety. Thanks to the paintcentric for consulting

What Is the Best Artificial Grass For Residential?

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Yard and patio with red chairs in the background

Due to reasons such as irrigation and maintenance costs of natural grass and long and time-consuming maintenance, it is not possible to use it all the time and everywhere. For this reason,a new solution has been found thanks to technological developments: artificial grass.

Artificial grass, which is produced as an alternative to natural grass, offers similar interaction with natural grass, especially on the carpet field. But it is used not only in the carpet field, but also in almost all areas of our lives. Especially the aesthetic appearance it gives to the space is preferred in residential, homes and workplaces, cafes and restaurants and in different places such as hotels. This type of grass is also known by names such as artificial turf and synthetic turf.

Artificial Grass

Yard and patio with red chairs in the background

Synthetic grass, also known as artificial grass, is a product that is produced as an alternative to natural grass and it almost does not require irrigation, has low maintenance costs and is long-lasting. Artificial turf requires much less cost than natural grass. With artificial turf, time and expense spent on the maintenance of the field are saved. It also contributes to nature due to the low use of water. Artificial grass provides much more opportunity to play games than natural turf and provides better performance than natural grass even in bad weather conditions. If artificial grass is taken care of regularly, it can have a lifespan of up to 10 years.

Advantages of Artificial Grass

Artificial grass offers many advantages when used properly. Let’s see them together!

  • It is resistant to all kinds of weather conditions.

Artificial grass, which requires very little maintenance, performs better than natural grass in all weather conditions. Natural grass can be difficult to maintain if the weather conditions are unfavorable. Ideal performance is achieved in adverse weather conditions in artificial turf.

  • It has low maintenance cost.

Although synthetic turf fields require a higher cost than natural turf in the initial construction phase, the total cost of synthetic turf is considerably lower than natural turf, considering the ideal performance of synthetic turf carpets for many years without changing.

  • It is a long-lasting product.

Synthetic grass is long-lasting. This is especially important for field investors. It can be used for many years after it is first made in addition to being easy and inexpensive to maintain.

Residential Artificial Grass

Concrete stairs in the yard

While artificial grass is used in sports fields, one of its usage areas is landscaping and it is also used in garden, residential and roof landscaping, balconies and terraces, and recreation areas of cities.

If we focus on residential areas, we may say that artificial grass has been very popular for this purpose lately. Because of Covid-19, people couldn’t go out not to be infected so they wanted to create a lush and peaceful place in their living areas. For this reason, most of the people searched for a solution and they came across residential artificial grass. Today, this interest in synthetic turf continues to increase, it is rapidly increasing in decorative purposes as well as sportive use. The reason for this is that synthetic grass carpets have significant advantages over natural grass. Avengrass, leading artificial grass manufacturer at home and abroad, offers these advantages to their customers in the best way. If you work with this manufacturer, you may contact them immediately.

Advantages of Artificial Grass Carpet Compared to Natural Grass

  1. Artificial grass provides better performance in all weather conditions than natural grass.
  2. Its cost is lower than natural grass. Because it does not need any maintenance and at the same time, it saves water for the person using it.
  3. It has a long service life. Once you have this installation made, you can use it for many years. This is not the case with natural grass. Because natural grass is very affected by external factors.
  4. It does not require the use of pesticides or fertilizers.
  5. It saves water.

Because of these features, it would be much better for you to use residential artificial grass in your living areas. With quality artificial grass produced and installed by Avengrass, you may create a lush and peaceful environment for you and your loved ones!

Thanks to avengrass.com for consulting.

Best Bathroom Renovation Ideas: some hot trends for 2022

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Bathroom with designed bath tub, mirror and sink
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

So you’re wanting to update your bathroom and scratching your head on where to start? Wondering which renovations really add value to your property and what trends are going to hit the fan in 2022?

We get it: getting the best bang for your buck can be a bit tricky. And making sure your new bathroom is right on trend and adds significant value to your property is super important. 

That’s why we’ve taken a few mins to share our top #5 tips for bathroom renovations 2022.

Bathroom with designed bath tub, mirror and sink
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

Before we get cracking, here’s a quirky fact: 

between showering, shaving, cleaning our teeth, enjoying relaxing baths, and using the toilet, we spend more than 800 days of our life in a bathroom. That’s more than 2 years over your lifetime!

Given how often we find ourselves in a bathroom for whatever reason, it stands to reason that this space is one of the most important in our lives. And that’s why it should be open, welcoming, and stylish.

If you’re ready to transform your bathroom, check out these 5 hottest bathroom renovation ideas for 2022:

Trendy Tiles

Unique and modern bathroom tiling is becoming a staple when we think of bathroom renovations 2022. Hexagon tiles, both large and small, are becoming super popular. If you want to push the creative boundaries during your bathroom remodel, you can also consider combining several different tile forms such as herringbone, subway, and hexagon for a dynamic look.

Creating zigzag and V-shapes along your walls is another hot bathroom renovations 2022 trend to spruce up what can be a bit of a boring space.

Like a more organic look? What about an earthy slate tile or wooden tile? We’re also seeing an uptake in the intricacy of bathroom tiling with complex detailed tiles along floors and walls. If you are thinking of making your space stylish, consider adding bathroom accessories. There are various add-ons option for your bathroom such as towel rail, toilet paper holder, robe hooks, and shelves.

Choosing the Right Colour

Bathroom with bath tub
Used with permission of Alice Lane

One of the simplest renovation options to completely transform your bathroom is a colour change. And few of the most popular colour schemes heading into 2022 include:

  • blacks for a moody, broody atmosphere
  • blue shades from classic navy to baby blue
  • classic white or cream for a clean aesthetic
  • colour combos such pink and blue for a chic, energetic feel
  • monochromatic colour scheme that provides a stylish interior accented with patterns and texture for interest.

All-in-One Shower and Bath / Wet Room

Though not a new concept per se, the all-in-one shower and bath design is reaching new heights in the best bathroom renovations we’re seeing for 2022. This style can also be expanded into a full wet room in which the shower isn’t enclosed with walls, screens, or trays. Instead, there is a single drain in the bathroom that the water flows down while you shower.

Usually, a bathtub is situated against the far side of the wall as well for the all-in-one experience.

Showerheads

In 2022, single showerheads are old news.

And although they’re only possible in larger bathrooms such as master baths, the multiple showerhead trend is picking up steam in 2022 as well. There are many options here to choose from: from twin showerheads opposite each other, to 4-sided showerheads for water from every direction.

Many modern bathroom renos taking place in 2022 will also feature water-saving showerheads, LED showerheads, and multi-showerhead options that include various spray modes and jet options for a spa-like experience at home.

Indoor Outdoor Merger

Bathroom with cabinet and bath tub
Used with permission of Alice Lane

2022 will see a lot more focus on bringing natural elements into our bathrooms. Whether that be natural skylights installed above showers, rough natural tiling or timber tiles on the floors and walls, and larger glass walls that invite the outside in. What could be better than enjoying a relaxing bath while watching birds and squirrels in your backyard?

The addition of indoor plants is also a creative and modern idea, so what about installing a full-on planted garden box in your bathroom? There are plenty of plant species that thrive in a warm, humid indoor space, so get your creative hat and create your own little tropical paradise inside!

We Combit Constructions, specialist builders in North London, excited about your new-look bathroom.  And our team is right here to help you every step of the way to a beautiful bathroom in 2022.

If you’re ready to get the ball rolling, feel free to give us a quick call and book your complimentary consultation with Igor or one of our trusted sales personnel. We’re as keen as you are to get your project underway!

Thanks to combit-construction.com for consulting.