Posts for Syndication

There are many great things about owning your home, but dealing with plumbing problems like sewer line repair, clogged drain, etc. is not one of them, especially as holidays approach. It’s in this time of the year where plumbers receive the majority of requests to fix problems at home. If you live in Kent, United Kingdom, you will know how hard it is to find great plumbers in Gillingham. Be sure to do extensive research into each plumbing contractor you decide to work with. If you need a plumbing repair in Berkeley County, the Smoak’s team is a highly recommended experts to call.

The good news is that there are several simple and inexpensive steps you can take to keep plumbing problems — start by scheduling an appointment with an expert who will not overcharge you, for that contact Sarkinen Plumbing using the link.

A sprayer hose in your home kitchen sink makes cleaning so much easier. But only if it’s not constantly catching on the shutoff valves. Keep it running smoothly by slipping 1/2 inch foam pipe insulation around the pipes and shutoff handles. In case you need some expert assistance, this hydraulic pipe bender contractor can come handy.

If you have a double stainless steel sink, you may experience the ‘gong effect’ when you wash dishes. Quiet it by spraying expanding foam between the sink basins. This is easiest to do before insulation, but you can still try with the sinks in place. Once the foam is hard, trim off the excess. You may also want to check your drain and clean it from time to time and to make sure everything is in order you can get some Camera Leak Detection done.

If one of the kids dropped a toy in the toilet, or someone’s toothbrush fell in and got flushed, don’t use a plunger to unclog the toilet. That could just wedge the hard object in more tightly. Instead, use a wet/dry shop vacuum to suck out the water and the object. It’s so important to choose the correct contractor for your home renovation, the plumbing services from redditchprestigeplumbers.co.uk are generally considered to be the best in the west midlands, UK.

Here’s one last tip that will help when managing plumbing repairs (find out more here) in your home. If you ever need to shut off the water to do a plumbing project in your home, fill several two-gallon buckets with water first. The toilet will then be able to be flushed and tested during the work. Get More Info here.

You can always contact a professional like Make It Drain Plumbing & Rooter to inspect your plumbing fixtures and let you know what needs to be repaired.

Labor Day has passed, which means it’s time to get ready for fall. An important task is to prepare the landscaping around your home for the cooler months. You don’t want spring to roll around and discover that your once-lovely landscaping has been ruined.

Be sure to rake up any leaves that fall on your lawn. The changing colors of autumn leaves are beautiful. However, if you let the leaves pile up on your lawn, it can get damaged as clumps of old leaves may prevent the grass from getting sufficient oxygen.

If you have decorative bushes or roses planted around your home, now is the time to stop pruning them. Pruning encourages new growth and since you don’t want to risk your plants with a growth spurt in the winter, it’s time to let them begin to wind down. The exception to the no-pruning rule is dead wood, which needs to be removed to prevent bugs from nesting.

While pruning should be stopped, feeding must continue. Be sure your plants are adequately nourished for the lean winter months. Add fertilizer and compost to the soil and thoroughly weed your garden beds as well. Weeds should be easier to pull as the weather cools and the plants start to wither and dry up. If you have trees that need to be removed, make sure to contact a hazardous tree removal service.

Now is also a great time to plant perennials in many places. Bulbs especially will get a head start on growing a strong root system during the cooler months so that your home can be filled with beautiful blossoms come spring.

Additionally, you may also consider adding landscape stone and other decorative items to improve the look of your backyard. Moreover, you may also take the time to address issues with your asphalt driveway and make necessary asphalt repairs.

Taking the time now to clean up, clear out, and prepare will have you enjoying your landscaping and your home throughout the coming seasons.

How beautiful is the landscaping of your home?

Does it flow with the lines of your house and blend well with your neighborhood?

Have you noticed others making upgrades over the summer like for instance adding a retaining wall, having a tree removal and trimming service, or installing some cable railings, and dreamed a bit about making some improvements yourself?

If you have been thinking about a new look for your home and backyard, you’ll be interested in hearing about some of the latest methods of landscaping.

Especially in areas where drought is a concern, sustainability is a big focus these days. Both native plants which are more drought tolerant and low maintenance and edible plants create useful and sustainable landscaping. Herbs, lettuces and other vegetables also contribute to a feeling of self-sufficiency and can be fun to use when preparing meals, especially if young children reside in or visit your home.

Landscaping Your Home Can Be Sustainable, Fun & Relaxing

As the economy improves, homeowners also seem to be making material choices involving natural wood, fabric and stone materials, further adhering to the sustainability trend. Many homeowners are creating more living space in their homes by finishing and equipping patios and decks as outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas. Of course, you’ll continue to see water features and fountains of all sorts in landscape design, created from both luxury and “found” materials, as there’s nothing quite like the sound of water cascading softly when creating a personal retreat.

What is your favorite trend in landscaping? Have you recently made any additions to the exterior of your home that you suspect have either increased its sales value or have elevated its value to you personally? Would you consider your landscaping to be sustainable?

Maybe when you bought your home, you dreamed of growing old there. You envisioned future generations coming to visit and saw yourself establishing lifelong neighborhood friends.

However, as much as you still love it, over time, your home may have gotten a little worn in areas. Perhaps you’ve just noticed changes in styles and decorating trends or watched the remodel of a nearby house. Either way, at some point everyone feels the need to make changes, and your home is a great place to start.

If you look through home improvement magazines or spend a lot of time on Pinterest, you may feel overwhelmed by the amount of time and money others say you have to spend to update your home. In reality, with a little ingenuity, you can easily update the feel of your home in a weekend.

Your front door is a good place to start if you’re looking for an easy update. If replacing the door is out of your budget, think about painting it a new color. Changing the house numbers or outdoor lighting are other easy and inexpensive fixes that your guests and neighbors will notice.

The kitchen is the heart of your home, so if it feels outdated or dark, you can change it up pretty easily by planning a new kitchen design and having kitchen remodels. Installing a new backsplash is a great weekend project that can really lighten up a room. Ceiling tiles, wallpaper, or a chalkboard are all inexpensive additions, too. Replacing an old faucet is one more easy change, as is replacing the hardware on the cabinets in your home. If you have more time to commit, you might even think about painting your cabinets. It’s an inexpensive way to get a more modern look.

The master bedroom is another often neglected room in your home. If yours lacks flair, consider reviving the furniture in your room or making yourself a headboard. Anything from off the shelf units to old doors or window shutters can be converted into a headboard. Collage techniques involving family photographs or postcards from trips you’ve taken can create a very individual look. And to make your master bedroom even more relaxing, consider having an air conditioning installation.

Have fun with your updates and don’t get discouraged by glossy magazines and big budgets! Your home can be beautiful and stylish, even on a budget.

Are you thinking about selling your home? According to the National Housing Survey conducted by Fannie Mae, 74% of those surveyed feel that now is a good time to buy a house while 40% believe that now is a good time to sell. If, however, you find yourself deciding that staying in your home is the best choice, you might be thinking about updating your property.

Included below are a few ideas that raise the value of your home but don’t cost an arm and a leg.

Talk to a professional. Interior designers and other real estate professionals (me included) can give you lots of ideas for improvements, like for instance a new roof or siding installation. Easy changes like moving furniture or adding a new paint color can really jazz up your home and add value.

Get a home inspection. A professional inspector can find even the smallest of problems, like a water leak and it’s always easier and less expensive to fix small problems.

Paint your home. Newly painted rooms look clean and modern. Neutral colors are a good choice, especially if you’re thinking of selling. Neutrals appeal to most people.

Landscaping matters. Plant shade trees. They are beautiful and over time will save you money on your air conditioning bill. Plant low maintenance, drought-tolerant plants. They look very nice, improving the curb appeal of your home and making your yard more enjoyable.

Update the bathroom and kitchen. Small changes can really make these rooms shine, like for instance having a kitchen stove repair or adding some plumbing fixtures. A new sink or new light fixture will make either room more modern and appealing. You may also consider getting plumbing repairs and maintenance done like main sewer line cleaning, septic pumping, etc.

These inexpensive updates can make your home more enjoyable for you while you live there. They will also increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers should you choose to sell.

Has the recent birth of the Prince of Cambridge inspired any decor changes in your home? Apparently, many parents-to-be are anxious to follow the example of the Duchess of Cambridge in choosing muted tones and elegant styling for their homes, and particularly in their nurseries.

Speculation from a variety of news organizations has the royal nursery fitted with a creamy white wicker Moses basket from Blue Almonds, a London boutique, with the chosen nursery colors described as earth tones, with a mix of sage and browns. Located in a twenty room apartment at Kensington Palace, the recently upgraded home and nursery is reported to have the latest security features, as well as a private garden which the Duke and Duchess and young Prince can enjoy by stroller, when not occupying the royal nursery.

Costs of outfitting the royal nursery (and pictures of the room itself) have not yet been disclosed, however considering the significance of its occupant, are likely to be high. In the United States, the average bedroom remodel, which would include a nursery, costs between $2,978 and $13,659 depending on the location of your home, according to the Houzz Real Remodeling Costs Guide.  These numbers are based on the average room and nursery, such as one you might find in your home, rather than one created for royalty, so don’t expect the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to keep in that dollar range.

When remodeling a room in your home, do you outline a budget and track projected costs? What percentage of your budget do you use towards material costs such as paint and flooring versus the amount set aside for furnishings? Have you recently remodeled a nursery in your home? If so, what inspired your decor and what would you do differently were you to do it again?

Summer weather is heating up, giving even more reasons for you to make the most of the outdoor space surrounding your home! With your backyard furniture and seating getting increased use, you may be considering upgrading the look and style of your backyard. As for those that like the outdoors, the Premium Log House website has plenty of log cabins in interesting locations available to you.

Investing in a log cabin can be a great decision, but like any income property in Alberta, it’s crucial to be fully aware of what you’re getting into. Take the time to understand the potential repairs, maintenance, and significant upgrades such as ac replacement that might be necessary. Being prepared to invest both time and money ensures that you’ll be well-equipped to handle any challenges that come your way, making your investment in prebuilt cabins in Alberta truly worthwhile.

Whether you choose to upgrade your trees, shrubs or plants to bring more shade or prefer the use of shade covering or water misters, remember to think cool. However, if there are dying or rotten trees in  your yard, you may first need to have them removed with the help of a professional tree service that offers tree stump grinding services. Water elements, from fountains and portable pools and spas may also be something to consider, as well, as you plan your decor.

When thinking about seating, it’s important to remember that while wicker, metal, and rattan can be beautiful additions, they may also deteriorate quickly when used as outdoor seating, in the wrong conditions. Plastic chairs may be more durable and resist moisture, chlorine, insects, and salt water, but they have to match the look you want to achieve in your home.

Daybeds, hammocks, and wooden furniture are all beautiful looks, as well, and can be custom built or finished as you desire. In fact, built-in seating is also a fabulous way of defining space in the outdoors of your home.  Custom-built seating is more pricey, but can last a very long time. Consult online sources such as Houzz.com, Pinterest or online magazines to get even more ideas!

Summer is definitely here and vacation plans may have you planning on leaving your home in the very near future. Don’t forget to take a few preventative measures to ensure the safety of you and your home while you are away. You’ll find that being prepared and aware of potential risks makes for a better vacation and homecoming.

5 Things To Remember When Vacationing Away From Your Home

• You cannot control your level of visibility entirely once you leave. If you post to social media, including Facebook and Pinterest, while on vacation you may be putting your home at risk. Sharing vacation photos are an obvious way of showing that you are away and may create an easier target for your home for thieves.
• Lock it up. From windows and doggie doors to gates and garage doors, the security of your home requires diligence on your part. Don’t let the rush of leaving for vacation make you forget to activate your residential locking device.
• Ask for some help. A trusted neighbor or friend can notify you if something looks out of place or odd while you are away. Or you can employ a house sitter for greater peace of mind. You may even find one who will water your plants, too! If you have a big property then you may want to get professional security officers for help.
• Consider installing an alarm or timed lighting system prior to your vacation. Both can deter possible intruders.
• Truly vacation while away and plan a day to get organized when you get back. Placing your mail and delivery services on hold while you are away is critical, too. 4-5 newspapers or forgotten milk bottles on your porch signal to everyone that something is amiss. Plus, having planned an extra day to recover from your travel to go through mail and grocery shop may also allow you time for the first tip mentioned… post your awesome vacation photos to social media!

Thinking about selling your home but not sure you want to make needed repairs before listing it for sale? You’re in luck! These days, many homes are being sold “as-is” due to an ever-increasing lack of inventory.

An “as-is” home sale proposition releases home sellers from liabilities and repairs stemming from the home’s condition post-sale. That doesn’t mean a prospective buyer can’t request an inspection. It just means that the seller is not responsible for whatever the buyer discovers in that inspection. So if the inspection reveals issues, you can still sell your home.

If the home in question is a foreclosure, home buyers may be able to negotiate repairs a little more easily with a bank, particularly as they relate to safety hazards.

However regular home sales or short sales are often a different story. Time is generally a motivating factor and multiple offers may speed the process. Home sellers offering a good price are not going to want to do needed repairs if they can sell the property “as-is” to an anxious buyer. However, if they are looking for returns and profit, then they may consider having repairs and maintenance like for instance an emergency roof repair or residential roof replacement, hvac repair, new septic tank installation, etc.

Check local statutes and discuss them with an established real estate expert in your area to determine what you must disclose about your home, before deciding to sell. If you question the integrity of some area of your home, an “as-is” sale may be just the thing!

Summer is here and it’s time to take a look around your home to see what, if any, preventive home maintenance is needed. With this checklist and a couple of weekends you’ll feel secure knowing that your home is being well-maintained.

5 Tips To Maintaining Your Home

1. A yearly inspection of your HVAC system should keep air flowing nicely through your home, at the temperature you prefer. You can do this yourself. To make it easy, hire a professional that does AC repair in Waukesha, WI or other experts such as the ones from Cool With Empire in Tampa. At the very least, change the air filter (this really should be done monthly). If an emergency repair is needed, you can immediately contact the emergency HVAC services in Waxahachie, TX.
2. Evaluate the siding, particularly if it is wood, on your home. Repair any that has been exposed to moisture before it becomes a larger issue and complete any needed painting while the weather is warm. Additionally, consider a thorough inspection of your siding, including the potential need for fiber cement siding installation, to ensure your home’s exterior is in top condition.
3. Check the slant and grade of the ground around your home. It should flow away from the foundation, not towards it, to avoid flooding and puddles during storms.
4. Consider pruning plants and determining the health of large trees to avoid future problems.
5. Review your roof, attic, crawl space, basement, and fireplace chimney, making sure all pieces and parts are securely attached to avoid leaks and further damage.

Checking over these areas in your home and making any necessary repairs will allow to enjoy your weekends more this summer and take advantage of any available sunshine! Enjoy the warm weather!