Colder temperature and snowfall can wreak havoc on properties, so it’s important to be prepared. By winterizing your home, you can keep it in tip-top condition throughout the coldest season and save on your fuel bills too. To make sure you’re ready, check out these top tips for winterizing your home now…

1. Check for drafts

You may not notice them in the summer but, chances are, your home has a number of cracks and small openings close to windows and doors. Although these aren’t uncommon, they can cause problems during winter. With cold air able to enter the property and heat easily escaping, you’ll have your heating on more often if you don’t take action.

Check every door and window closely and use expanding foam, weather stripping or caulk to fill them in. With drafts minimized, you can save a significant amount on your energy bills and keep your home warmer too. 

2. Clear out drains

To operate efficiently, your drainage system needs to be free from debris. As winter approaches, however, you’ll notice a build-up of leaves and twigs filling your gutters and outside drains. When this can’t be washed away, it leads to an excess of mold and mildew, which can affect the structure of your drains.

In addition to this, excess debris increases the chance of a blockage occurring, which could require intensive repairs. By accessing gutter cleaning services at the start of the season, you can ensure that your drains are free from debris and working perfectly. With blocked drains posing a risk of flooding, it’s vital you take steps to clear your drains before the bad weather really sets in.

3. Leave your heating on

When you’re out of the house, it may seem sensible to turn your heating off and save some money. However, leaving your heating system off in low temperatures could result in pipes freezing. If temperatures are going to plummet, be sure to leave your heating on when you’re away for long periods.

Instead of turning the system off altogether, simply adjust your thermostat so that the pipes won’t freeze but you won’t be paying over the odds to keep an empty house warm either. 

4. Let natural light in

Many people rely on thick curtains for added insulation, but you won’t want to keep them closed all winter. Natural light and adequate ventilation will help to prevent rooms from becoming damp, so be sure to open windows for short periods and leave your curtains open too. Although thick curtains can be a great way of keeping heat in, they aren’t a permanent solution to winterizing your home.

Preparing for cold weather

We expect cold weather in winter but it’s still important to keep an eye on local weather reports. When you know a snowstorm is due, you can undertake extra prep, such as gritting your pathways and driveways. Preparing your home for winter will ensure you stay warm and dry while you’re at home and it can also prevent the need for costly repairs when spring arrives. 

Buying your first house or apartment represents an interesting threshold in the life of a person, with many questions popping up after you’ve managed to surmount this first and initial snag. (And some snag it is, considering the today’s real estate prices.)

Once you’ve moved in, a host of questions will assert themselves that will each require a separate and carefully thought out answer. For example, how to cut the electricity bill, whether to install solar panels, should you designate a room to act as your larder or award it some other purpose.

That said, one of the matters that you will be required to tend to straight away, so to speak, would be the decoration business. This will be the first step toward establishing yourself as the sole master of your apartment. So, the draperies you pick, the furniture you buy, as well as the paint you use to decorate the walls will all stand as the living proof of your designer genius. (Or lack thereof.)

Anyway, in this article, we’ll talk about how you can decorate your first apartment with a limited budget. As you will see, this task is easier than it appears, so you won’t have to worry too much about money or your artistic expertise, so to speak.

Right then, folks here’s the deal.

How to Decorate Your First Apartment on a Budget

1) Buy Less Furniture

This one may sound a bit odd, but it’s a legitimate way to save some money.

The thing is, once you move in your new apartment, you may get the feeling that you have to fill it with stuff as soon as possible, otherwise you’ll look incompetent.

This, of course, is not true, and many people opt to wait it out to see what pieces of furniture and home appliances they need and which ones they could do without. Why buy a brand new set of expensive chairs and then see them gather dust for years later on because you can’t figure out where to put them.

So, the word of advice is – buy less in the beginning and then add more stuff as you begin to feel the need for it down the line.

2) Get a Houseplant

If you don’t want your house to feel empty, but you aren’t willing to commit to a big buying spree of furniture, you can always get a house plant to fill in the aesthetic gap, so to speak.

Chances are, you see, a houseplant will be able to do wonders when it comes to making your apartment look like a relaxed place with some nature vibes added, as well.

Another thing – houseplants aren’t that expensive, either, so you won’t have to pay an arm and a leg to get a decent-looking one for your place.

3) Multi-Purpose Furniture

A great way around not being able to afford all the furniture pieces you need at the moment would be to buy multi-purpose furniture.

Many homeowners opt for these pieces even if they do have the money to afford single-purpose furniture, so to speak. Whether it’s a sofa that can promptly turn into a bed or a nightstand that can double as a small table with plenty of compartments, you can find pretty much any combination of furniture pieces you fancy. If you can think it up, chances are – some avant-garde Danish designer has already made it and the thing is sold on e-bay or some other similar online venue.

So, if you need the functionality of proper furniture, but can’t afford enough of it – you can always get a 2-in-1 sofa or a cheeky closet ‘n’ bed combo. Saves money, serves two purposes, and looks cool – what’s not to love?

4) Buy Second-Hand Stuff

This one’s particularly useful for young folks (especially couples) working on a smaller budget.

The idea is quite simple – instead of buying new and expensive furniture, get some second-hand pieces and then mend whatever issue there is with it. Quite simple and works like a charm more often than not.

This principle also works for other household objects such as electrical appliances, for example. While you can buy your fruit blenders and vacuum cleaners new, some of the more expensive contraptions such as refrigerators, electrical stoves, or washing machines are readily available at many second-hand shops where you can find them at half the price of a new unit. In case that second-hand appliance requires some tweaking, you can get the spare parts at a venue such as Wholesale Appliance Supplies, for example.

Again, bargain prices for functionality that does the job. Grand stuff for young people working on a tight budget.

The bottom line, decorating your apartment with a modest budget doesn’t mean you’ll do a bad job or that your apartment will look shabby. On the contrary, working with fewer means you have to turn on your creativity, which will no doubt lead you to some interesting solutions you would have otherwise never thought of.

This post was authored by Stella Ryne

It doesn’t matter if you’re moving into a brand-new space or you want to remodel your current living area—take advantage of every nook and cranny you have!

Every homeowner wants to make their home as great as possible. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a studio condo or a four-bedroom house—maximizing your home’s space is optimal for creating your dream house. If you’re a homeowner, then you need to follow these tips on how to take advantage of vertical space to free up your rooms. Do this once, and you’ll be good to go for a while!

Add a Vertical Garden

Use your wall space to grow your favorite herbs or vegetables. A vertical garden allows natural elements to spread across your living space. Plus, a wall-mounted garden is the perfect piece of décor for your wall, and it’ll leave your home smelling fresh and vibrant. Even houseplants are great additions; try hanging the plants from hooks or placing them in hanging baskets. They’re cheap, and they require minimal maintenance.

Place High Open Shelves

Installing floating shelves above doorways will make your room feel more open. Items that were previously at eye level will now go above your headspace, clearing up room and making it feel more spacious. You can also replace the cabinets in your kitchen with open shelves to show off your dishes and trinkets. Open shelving will also push you to reorganize your items.

Invest in Some Hanging Decorations

A nice art piece or hanging poster can go a long way in restyling your home. Vertical installations grab your guest’s attention. Suspend glass pieces near windows to allow natural light to illuminate the room. Another perk to having hanging decorations is that you can always take down pieces you’re tired of or that you want to replace.

Reevaluate Your Color and Lighting

Another way to maximize your empty wall space is to be smart with your lighting. Use track lights for a hanging light effect, or paint the room a lighter color to reflect more natural light. Using a different color or wallpaper on your ceiling will make people look up and really appreciate all the space. You can also add color through paintings and pottery pieces—anything bright will make your room stand out. Stripes can play into the optical illusion that your room is more spacious than it is.

Make the Most Out of Tight Spaces

A great way to maximize space in your living area is to invest in some slim storage units. Hanging closet organizers, rolling shelves, and bathroom shelving units are great for optimizing every square foot. Hanging closet organizers make your closets tidy and spacious and easily clear up space for your clothes or shoes. Another way to use all your room is with slim rolling shelves. These can fit in crevices that are only a few inches wide. Store your spices, condiments, and kitchen tools here. You can also optimize your bathroom space with storage units in and around your shower and toilet. A tension rod with built-in wire baskets is perfect for storing your soaps and shampoos. Likewise, a vertical shelving unit around your toilet can hold your toilet paper, soaps, and aromatics.

There are backyards and then there are backyards. Merely owning a backyard can hardly be considered an advantage unless you decorate to fit your needs and most homeowners have a single purpose in mind: rest. This outdoor section of your home should really be all about attaining that peace and quiet that escapes us is so many other aspects of life.

Coming home after a long day at work, pouring a drink and lounging outside until sundown is a luxury not everyone can afford. That’s why a backyard, slash safe haven, should become an exterior design goal and here are 6 way in which you can transform your backyard today!

Vertical gardening

Adding a garden to the backyard is a real must because there are countless health benefits stemming (pun intended) from a garden and gardening in general. Instead of going for a usual small garden in one corner of your property, try to create a vertical garden leaning against the fence.

Not only will a garden wall maximize the use of space but it will provide with a wonderful background to the lounge to. Add to this the benefit of stopping noise pollution and dirt from penetrating your oasis of peace and you get the perfect backyard improvement.

A “no-mow” yard

A verdant garden is often associated with a lawn whose color green will match that of the rest of the backyard. However, in many places around the globe, there are water issues that prevent the lawn from being watered properly. These patches of green might look nice but they gulp huge quantities of water, skyrocketing the final maintenance cost.

This is the main reason why you should give a “no-mow” backyard a try. This time of landscaping, better known as a xeriscape is drought-tolerant and it requires only rain for watering. Such a lawn is maintenance-free by default but it will still look nice if you plant the right flora like various cacti species.

Adding an egg swing chair

A hammock is one of the most obvious backyard additions that will help you transform this space in a matter of minutes. However, they are very safe for children to use. Luckily, there is an alternative in the form of a freestanding egg swing chair. Nowadays, they can be purchased ready-made at any garden center and place anywhere inside the garden you see fit. Wouldn’t it be cool to cuddle up inside one when you feel the whole world is out to get you!

Awnings for the windows

There is one part of the backyard that people usually overlooked because it’s an integral part of the house. Window awnings never get installed because homeowners never bother to look that way but what a difference awning can make. In fact, adjustable outdoor awnings come with user-adjustable pitch so are bound to be well-protected from the sun. And if you are worried about strong winds, then rest sure because they are made using Titan Flex technology whose name speaks for itself.

Paver stone pathways

A backyard can often be large in size so you are likely to get mud on your shoes going from one end to the other. That’s why pathways are a neat addition because they allow you to use the garden even when the ground is wet. Use simple paver stone tile to crisscross the garden with walkways. As an alternative, you can use polished beach pebbles that are available for purchase at large garden centers.

Bohemian furniture for the patio

In terms of furniture design inspiration for the patio, you cannot go wrong with implementing a Bohemian style. It comes with a timeless value that places it outside all the epochs so it will never go out of fashion. Furthermore, its stylish look is combined with a fairly low price as you can acquire it at a garage or a yard sale. Just make sure the sofa is comfortable enough to sit and sleep in.

The 6 stylish ideas listed here are bound to breathe life into the dullest of the backyard. Once you create a green wall, install outdoor awnings, and throw in an egg swing, your backyard will be upgraded to an oasis of tranquillity.

 

This is a contributed post by Patrick Adams, Freelance writer and blogger, Sydney, Australia  https://www.clippings.me/patrickadams

 

 

This is a contributed post with affiliate links

It’s easy to buy an off the rack house. There are housing developments everywhere with the same design repeated over and over again with only the door number distinguishing each property. It’s hardly a personal statement or ambitious design, is it?

So what can you do if you live in one of these boxes and want to make it your own? 

Rework the Outside Finishes

The first thing you can do to make your house your own is to rework the outside finishes. For example, you could add wooden cladding or you could use smooth white render for a cleaner finish. You can paint your front door, swap out your windows and use colorful window frames. You could even change the roof tiles in favor of bright metal sheeting, a job http://www.ddroofing.com/ would be ideal for. 

Another way to change the feel of your building is to make much more of your garden. Using trees and shrubs to alter the approach to the building is a good way to edit the way people see the building and to hide the bits you aren’t so fond of. Clever planting is a great way to provide shade for your house and to improve your surroundings immeasurably. We should all be planting more to help the environment so even if you like your house, you should find somewhere to put a shrub or two! 

Don’t be Afraid to Build

There is nothing more depressing than a house that’s starting to look run down. However, you can look at this situation as an opportunity to create a house that truly works for you. Many standard houses are built with small windows and little consideration for the aspect of the home. If you are willing to take the plunge and do some building work, you can certainly bring a lot more light into your home. 

Many people now prefer the idea of open plan living but houses are still being built with lots of small rooms. To counter this, a builder can knock down any interior walls that aren’t structural, giving you a more open plan space. Similarly, moving rooms around your house can help to create a better sense of flow. If you look at your house as though it is an empty box, the options are endless.

Put Your Stamp On Each Room

Once your house is beginning to feel more like you structurally, it’s important that you put your stamp on the interior design as well. There are a few design principles you might like to consider but the most important thing here is that every space feels like you and your family. 

There’s no such thing as good taste. Taste is a very personal thing and everyone likes something different. Standing by your taste can take some bravery but you know you’re right when you enter a room and relax into it. This is when you know that your house isn’t a duplicate anymore; it’s the real deal. It’s yours.

Easy Halloween decoration ideas for your home

With Halloween just around the corner, you are probably wondering how you are going to decorate your home. Now, some people spend months installing decorations and designing their homes so that it is as spooky as possible. Others, on the other hand, decide that decorating their home for Halloween is childish and that they shouldn’t bother. Well, we feel that the best attitude to have is in-between. You should decorate your home for Halloween, but you shouldn’t spend a fortune on it. So, if you agree with us so far, let’s take a look at some easy Halloween decoration ideas that you can incorporate in the next couple of days.

Halloween decoration ideas for your home

The world’s most creative Halloween decorations are usually thought up when there is a fixed budget. After all, if you have all the money in the world to spend on Halloween decorations, why would you bother with being creative. So, if you are worried that you do not have enough money to decorate your home, you are in luck. A low budget can even be a creativity boost. All you need is some cardboard, duct tape, and paint, and you will easily create beautiful decoration pieces that are bound to bring your home into the Halloween spirit.

Halloween wallpapers

One of the easy Halloween decoration ideas is to simply put up temporary Halloween wallpapers. You can put these on your walls, your doors, and your furniture in order to bring the whole house in Halloween spirit. There are numerous designs that you can choose from, so don’t shy away from looking for one that suits your home the best.

Creative pumpkin carving

Now, we can consider easy Halloween decoration ideas and how to implement them. But you simply cannot have Halloween without carving a pumpkin.  So, what are you to do? Well, simple. Go to YouTube and pick a tutorial that suits you best. Ideally, you want to have a practice pumpkin on which you can make your rookie mistakes. But, after a bit of practice, you’ll be able to follow the instructions and make a perfect pumpkin lantern. These should be the key to your decoration as they are the most recognizable symbol for Halloween. Mind you, you don’t have to limit yourself to “Scary faces”. If you are feeling confident in your pumpkin carving abilities, you can attempt to copy some of the stuff online that is truly a work of art.

Cardboard monsters

It is a common mistake to view making monsters out of cardboard as arts and crafts for kids. People, who know nothing about it, think that no decent piece of decoration can be made with simple cardboard. Well, they are wrong. There are countless online guides and tutorials on how to make beautiful, yet spooky cardboard monsters. Ghouls, trolls, bats, witches, and even spiders. All of them can take their form with some precise cutting and proper painting. True, you might need to get some decent cardboard in order to make some. But there are a lot of designs that only require everyday cardboard, a bit of duct tape and some colorful paper. So, go to websites like movers101.com if you want to learn where to get cheap moving boxes. That way, you can start creating your little cardboard monster army as soon as possible.

Spooky balloons

If you plan on hosting an outdoor party for Halloween, then you’re in luck. Along with pumpkin lanterns and cardboard monsters, you only need to place spooky balloons. “Now, how in the world can balloons be spooky?” you might ask. Well, simple. First, go to your local store and get helium balloons. Then, you can either draw ghost faces on them (you should do this for white and orange balloons only), or you can place a light cloth over them. Soon, your balloons will look like cute little ghosts. Add to that some proper lighting and you are bound to create a great Halloween atmosphere.

Halloween cushions

People often overlook cushions when it comes to decorations. This is why it is no surprise that they are almost completely ignored during Halloween. But, as it turns out, cushions can be one of the better easy Halloween decoration ideas. You can get cushion covers at your local store or even order then online. Soon you will see that there are hundreds if not thousands of creative designs that you can use to incorporate Halloween into your home. And, if you happen to be moving to a different part of the city or you simply need to store away your Halloween decorations, you are in luck. Cushion covers require no storage space, and can even be used as wrapping materials.

Light

You need to have the proper light effects if you are going to create a true Halloween mood. All the easy Halloween decoration ideas and all the work that you put into them won’t do you much good if you don’t set the light. So, how are you supposed to do that? Simple. First, use your lamps. Multiple lamps are usually a better choice for a living room since they provide a more natural feeling light. So, if you are still using an overhead light for your living room, reconsider. All you need to do is to put Halloween decorative shades on your lamps and make sure that the light is low.

Another way to tackle light, if you don’t have multiple lamps, is with candles. A neat idea is to put candles into jars and then put decorations around the jars.

This is bound to create the right mood for your living room. If you choose to do so for an outdoor gathering, just make sure that you have enough. Candles don’t produce as much light as electrical lights, which is why you might even consider combining them with a couple of standard lamps.

From gorgeous fall weather to entertainment and fun, find out what goes into hosting the perfect outdoor party for your guests (and you!) to enjoy.

Hosting an outdoor fall party can be a lot of fun. Fall is the perfect season to sit outside in cozy sweaters and enjoy hot beverages with friends. You can’t go wrong with good weather and good company. A lot of factors go into hosting the perfect outdoor party—here are some suggestions on how to keep your guests happy.

Invite guests early

Sending out invites early is the first indication of a rocking fall bash. It signals to guests that you’ve planned ahead and that they weren’t last-minute invitees. You don’t have to work out every detail of your party by the time your guests begin to RSVP, but knowing how many people to expect will help you plan everything, from the menu to activities.

Make it warm and cozy

Even if you have a daytime party, it may last past sunset. The weather can get chilly once the sun goes down, so keep your guests warm with plenty of blankets. You can lay them over seating arrangements or keep baskets of them around the party.

Staying warm is more than just blankets, too: a campfire is an outdoor party staple. Light a fire in your firepit or build your own bonfire (space and proper permits permitting) for guests to gather around and warm up. Make sure to have enough materials to keep the fire burning for your whole party; if the fire dies out, you lose lighting and warmth. Also, because fall can be an unpredictable season, prepare for rain or cold with tents and heat lamps, or plan a backup space indoors.

Keep guests full and hydrated

The secret to a great party is well-fed guests. Eliminate the chance of hangry visitors with a planned menu. Depending on your party size, you have several options. Decide beforehand if you’ll serve a full meal or just have appetizers and snacks. Once you’ve chosen, make the decision to cook or cater.

For any size party, have warm drink options for your guests to enjoy. A perfect fall drink is warm apple cider. Add cinnamon sticks and star anise for a fun twist. Another great fall drink is hot chocolate, which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. For adult parties, you can create and pre-make a signature cocktail. Booze up your apple cider and keep it in a crockpot so that guests can serve themselves and you can enjoy your party instead of playing bartender all night.

Offer entertainment

Keep your guests entertained by offering optional activities when conversation lulls. For a mid-party activity, have a basket of mini pumpkins or gourds for guests to decorate and take home. You can also mix snacks into the fun. Put apple slices on sticks and set out melted caramel and toppings so that guests can make their own caramel apple slices. Roasting marshmallows over the fire is also a time-honored fall party tradition. Making s’mores is a fun activity that results in a delicious treat.

You could also add some fall staples to your activities list. Bags (or cornhole) is sure to bring out your guests’ competitive spirit, or you could set up a relay race to really get people up and moving. An upside to this activity is that people will stay warm when they’re running around! Bob for apples, send the kids on a fall-themed scavenger hunt, or simply enjoy the company of your guests. All of these are great ways to host a fun outdoor fall party.

For some of us, there’s nothing more refreshing than nabbing a nicely made cocktail after a long day of work. Let’s just say that if you love a good drink in the comforts of home, then you most certainly need your own mini bar. And you can do it on a budget too.

Must-try Mini Bar Designs

You have no shortage of places to purchase mini bar items from. There’s the internet, and there are also furniture stores that offer these items. But concocting your own mini bar lets you bring in personal touches, that would otherwise be nonexistent in store-bought furniture. Get creative with a DIY bar from scratch, or rely on furniture that only needs an instant upgrade.

#1 Floating Wall Shelves Mini Bar

Here’s your solution if you want a mini bar inside your small apartment. Tack a bunch of functional wall shelves to an empty wall space, and add your favorites. By clustering bottles of your favorite alcoholic drink on the shelves, you get a wall that feels like a bar without taking up any floor space. Complete the look by hanging a chalkboard over the display to tie the mini bar arrangement altogether.

#2 Drinks in a Vintage Case

There’s no shortage of stuff you can use when it comes to creating your own mini bar. And with number two, we’re still sticking to the floating trend. Someone thought of using a vintage case as the main design element in this mini bar. And it’s beautiful, compact, decorative, functional, and oh so stylish.

#3 Tune In to Your Drinks

Who says everything at the flea market or the thrift store is garbage? That’s certainly not true. Some genius turned this classic box TV into a mini bar and stocked it with everything a mini bar needs. And there’s no reason you can’t take inspiration out of this too. Just think about how cool that would look in your living room.

#4 Drinks in the Closet

This mini bar idea is ideal if you have a family, and you want to keep all the fragile materials and breakable stuff away from the reach of children. Also, it looks very charming when you open the doors of the modified closet and reveal glasses and bottles of liquor. And by adding a full-sized mirror in the background and some accent lights, you can turn a once drab closet into something charming.

#5 Replicate a Bar Cart

Turn a bar cart into a mini bar. It’s probably one of the easiest and most budget-friendly way you can create a mini bar. Grab a couple of stickers and grab an accent signage to stick on your mini bar cart.

#6 Just Hang Wall Art

Pick your favorite table. Seriously. Take any piece of furniture that occupies floor space. And if you have an empty wall space, that’s all the better. Get your favorite piece of wall art and hang it up. You can choose wall art with funny quotes, decals, or the traditional ones with canvas.

Platforms you can use for this include:

• The detached top of a red wagon.
• Bar cart made of metal pipe pieces and wood boards.
• DIY mini bar by stacking cinder blocks and wood boards.
• Side tables with new paint jobs.

#7 Mini Bar Out of a Weathered Door

Create your very own rustic bar. If you have an old door sitting around your garage, you can turn that charming vintage door into a mini bar. Attach shelves and balusters to house your liquor and your favorite glasses. It’s going to require some handiness skills. And finally, to recreate the aesthetic, you can paint it however you wish.

Repurposed Mini Bars

Whichever one of these brilliant ideas you decide to choose, customizing mini bars can let you create one that would suit your needs. For storage, displaying your most-prized liquor, or just to provide a good spot to relax and chill when you get home. It’s time to create your own mini bar.

Bio:

Katherine Belle is a contributor at Enjoy Canvas. She goes to great lengths to seek out new interior designs every time. She likes reading, designing, and of course, writing about interior design.

 

 

Discover some home renovations that increase home value. Invest your money back into your biggest investment, and make your house look great.

For the average American, their house will be the biggest investment they ever make. Historically, property values increase steadily over time. In the last 20 years, however, that hasn’t been the case in every part of the country. There’s one way to make sure your property value goes up, though; invest in your home. Renovations that increase home value come in many forms. To make your house look better and more modern, you don’t have to spend a lot of money, but you can if you want to.

Finish Your Basement

Add to the livable areas in your house by finishing the basement. If you already have a finished basement, then freshen the look. Making basements look like taverns trended in the 70s and 80s, but that isn’t so hot these days. Some drywall and a coat of paint, paired with some new furniture, will create a cozy spot for everyone. You can spend a ton, or spend a little; the bottom line is that a basement remodel adds livable square footage and value to your house.

Create a Smart Home

Wire up your home, and control it with a tablet and app. With so many smart gadgets for the home on the market, you might not know what to buy. Smart light switches can sense when you come into the room and will remember your lighting preferences. Get a smart thermostat you can control from anywhere in the world via an app. Consider adding some extra security with a doorknob that has a camera in it, so you can see who comes to your front door while you’re away.

Make it More Efficient

A home’s energy efficiency is very important. So much money gets wasted on electric bills because of poor insulation and inefficient appliances. If your A/C unit, water heater, or dryer are more than 20 years old, you may want to replace them with newer ones. Windows also impact your electric bill. Replacing windows is not a cheap job, but it’s well worth it. Newer, energy-efficient windows will eventually pay for themselves. Old windows that don’t properly seal will blow money out the window every time your A/C kicks on.

Take Your Time

Money concerns everyone, so don’t think you need to take out a loan and make all kinds of improvements at once. Start small by painting a bathroom. Then continue to make small changes as more money comes in. You could replace the toilet and sink next, and before you know it, you will have a new bathroom. Then move on to the room you think needs help the most.

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Finding mold in your home is never a good sign. As well as looking unsightly, mold can cause health problems if exposed to over long periods. This could include skin irritation, itchy eyes, headaches, wheezing and even serious respiratory problems.

You can sometimes remove mold with nothing more than a dry sponge. However, it will come back unless you address the cause. Mold tends to only grow in warm and damp conditions. Dampness is usually the big culprit and the factor that is easiest to tackle. Here are just a few things that could be causing your home to be the perfect environment for mold growth.

Leaking water

Damp patches on walls or ceilings that are covered in mold are a clear sign of a leak. This could be a rainwater leak or it could be a plumbing leak.

Rainwater leaks are most commonly caused by roofing damage, however, rainwater can also leak in through cracks in window frames and doors. If damp patches get worse after a period of rain, it’s likely that this is the cause.

As for a plumbing leak, this could be caused by a damaged pipe or a damaged appliance/fixture such as a washing machine or toilet. If you suspect this to be the case, your best option is to hire a plumber to seal up this leak. Such a leak could be continuous, causing major water damage, or it could only occur when a certain appliance is used – either way you should get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent future damp and mold growth.

Rising damp

Rising damp occurs when water rises up from the earth and permeates walls. If there are signs of mold and damp on the bottom of ground floor walls or in your basement, rising damp is likely to be to blame.

Rising damp can be prevented by installing a damp proof course around the foundations of your home. This barrier stops your walls from soaking up water from the ground, preventing the damp conditions for mold to occur.

Lack of ventilation

Lack of ventilation is the most common cause of mold. By ventilating your home, you can allow moisture in the air to escape. If it is not allowed to escape it will often collect on walls as condensation, transforming into mold. Ventilation will also allow mold spores to escape, preventing further growth.

Opening windows is one simple way to ventilate your home – however, in the cold of winter, this isn’t always possible. It could be worth looking into heating and air services that allow you to control the temperature while also dehumidifying and purifying the air. Extractor fans could also be useful in the bathroom and kitchen – these rooms often get the most moisture build-up as a result of steam from cooking and showering and an extractor fan can help to pump this steam out of your home.

Hanging wet clothes indoors

Damp laundry can also sometimes lead to mold growth. As it is drying, moisture evaporates into the air and often ends up on walls and the ceiling. Meanwhile, piles of clothes that are left damp for long periods could even start to develop mold growth.

To avoid damp clothing causing mold, always hang your wet laundry outdoors. Alternatively, you could buy yourself a tumble dryer so that you don’t have to hang up clothing at all (useful for a rainy day or if you don’t have any outdoor space).

There’s a huge difference between a house and a home, and everyone wants that cozy feel after a long day. Here’s how to easily make your house into a home.

Having a house is one thing, but having a home evokes an entirely different feeling. If you don’t feel completely at ease when you come back home after a long day, or if your house just doesn’t feel like it’s yours, then it’s time to make some changes. Your house should be your refuge, and with these tips on how to make your house into a home, you can achieve that atmosphere.

Add touches of art

Bare walls are often the culprit behind dull, sterile spaces. To really bring in some life and personality, adding touches of art is the way to go. There are so many reasons to decorate your home with artwork, ranging from simply adding variety to bringing your personality to the forefront. Best of all, artwork is completely unique to you and your interests.

Use plants to bring life to a space

Plants add some lovely color as well as an element of life to help make your house feel more like a home. Taking care of a living thing will make you feel more responsible, and that responsibility will make you feel more tied to your house. Plants are an incredibly simple touch that will improve the way you feel every single day.

Incorporate your favorite color

The last thing you want is for your house to feel like it’s not even your own. Without personalized touches, though, that’s very likely to happen. That’s why something as simple as incorporating your favorite color into your décor is the perfect way to turn your house into a home. From hanging a colorful painting to painting an accent wall your favorite color, there’s no end to the ways in which you can splash your home with your hue of choice.

Hang pictures of family and friends

Few things can make your house into a home quite as effectively as adding pictures of your family and friends. These will act as physical reminders of all the people in your life who make it whole. By adding pictures of these people to your space, your home will feel cozier in no time at all. Be sure to pick out frames that speak to you as well. They should add a lovely touch of decoration to the space while displaying your loved ones as a constant reminder of happiness.

Use rugs for coziness and dimension

Nothing is worse than stepping onto a cold floor in bare feet. Bare floors don’t just feel unpleasant—they can also feel barren and forgotten. To avoid these problems entirely, make sure to use plenty of rugs. They’ll not only make day-to-day life more comfortable, but also add some interesting dimension to your rooms. To make your house feel like a home, it’s important that you include subtle touches such as these to improve your quality of life.

Light up some candles you love

Few things can bring us back to a particular moment or memory like scent can. Whether the smell of apples reminds you of childhood summers or the scent of pine reminds you of Christmas nights spent with family, every fragrance evokes something special. To bring that homey feel right into your house, burn some candles with your favorite scents each night. Doing so will help you relax, and you can start to associate those beloved smells with your own home.

 

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It can’t be helped, your home is going to get dirty. On the inside you have full control, you manage how much dirt and debris is allowed to be spread around. But on the outside, you almost have no say at all. If it rains, it won’t just make your home wet but it will make it dirty. Why does this happen? As the raindrops onto the ground it dislodges soil particles from your garden, dirt and dust on the pavement or driveway outside your home and splashes it onto the front of your home. Couple with this that rainwater is already dirty due to water evaporating from land and drifting out into the sea salt air over oceans, it’s always going to cause your home some kind of harm. It may only be little and you won’t notice it for many years, but the exterior of the home is slowly but surely withering away. If you don’t do anything about this, the signs of an unloved home appear everywhere.

Chipped and tired

If your home has tiles instead of shingles, this is one of the first places to begin examining for wear. Tiles are made from clay which is itself a delicate material and even though it is hardened to produce tiles, it’s still vulnerable. The issue of chipped tiles arises when the outer layer of the tile which is hard, is slowly eroded away leaving the softer clay on the inside exposed. This accelerates the degradation. Contracting roofing experts will update your home’s appearance while also making it physically stronger. They know how to waterproof the roof and make it more robust for the winter months but also, replace shingles and tiles. If you need a total overhaul of the roof and a new one put in, they can do so. Fully insured, bonded and licensed this kind of specialist company is what an old and haggard exterior needs.

Needing a new coat

The most visible sign of wear is when you have a home with a faded paint job. Nothing is more out in front than a paint job that has seen better days. Parts of the wall might be exposed, different tones are bashing heads, the underlayers are showing their age and the overall style is anything but modern. This is why you must take it upon yourself to give your home a much-needed new coat. You might also that giving your home a slight gloss coat brings it up to date with the most contemporary styles. You might want to consider sticking to neutrals such as white, grey, beige and dull browns like walnut. Contrary to interior design it’s better to not go with a matte finish because you want the sunshine to glisten off your home and increase the curb appeal.

A tired and weak roof isn’t just a poor sight but it can be dangerous especially if you have tiles. Contract experts that know how to make it more water-resistant. By giving your home a new lick of paint, you can bring it into the new era of contemporary exteriors.

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Are there cracks in your home’s walls that you keep ignoring? Not all cracks are serious – a small crack in the plaster or drywall is unlikely to have many consequences and can usually easily be covered over. However, larger cracks are worth checking out and could have all kinds of negative effects. Here are just a few reasons to get those more prominent cracks checked out.

It could be costing you money in energy bills

Large cracks could be letting heat escape – or alternatively letting drafts in. As a result, you could find yourself reaching for the thermostat more often in colder weather. By fixing up these cracks, you could potentially save yourself money on your bills by consuming not needing to use so much energy.   

They could be letting in water

There could also be a risk of water leaking in when it rains. Water could get into the cavity wall and cause damage or even leak through into your home. This could lead to structural damage, mould and unsightly damp patches. Cracks in the roof should be a particular concern when it comes to leaks.

They could be letting in pests

Did you know that a crack only has to be large enough to fit a pencil in for a mouse to crawl through? Cracks are common forms of entry for rodents and creepy-crawlies. It may even give pests access to the inside of your home’s walls where they can crawl around (your only option to get these pests out may then be to call pest control). All in all, cracks are not good if you want to keep the critters out.  

Your home’s structural integrity could be at risk

Large cracks could be a sign of something worse – your home could be slowly falling apart. The most common cause is subsidence, which may require foundation repair. Poor quality home improvements such as extensions or badly-fitted windows can also cause cracks. Roots of trees and plants can also cause cracks is they’re growing too close to your home. All of this could be very dangerous if ignored as it could lead to walls and floors collapsing.

It could be negatively affecting your home’s value

It’s possible that cracks in the walls could also be reducing your home’s value. If you plan to sell your home in the near future, this could be something worth looking into. Visible exterior cracks are likely to have the most significant negative effect on your home’s value.

To assess the cracks in your home, the best option is often to hire a surveyor who will be able to determine the severity. You can then decide if any further action is needed. You may be able to seal up small cracks yourself cheaply, whilst others may require professional intervention.  

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Everyone wants a beautiful garden to call their own. However, it can often be a luxury to own a garden in the first place. If you count yourself among this number, then it can be that arranging and decorating said garden is one of your ambitions for the long term. And yet, due to the amount of upkeep it can take, the cost of investing in new features and sometimes the flat out worry as to how this will progress in the first place, many can become somewhat disenfranchised.

But is there a real purpose to be disenfranchised? Sure it takes effort to run and restore a garden to its full glory, or repurpose it to your design, but that’s where half the fun is! So, let us take a more optimistic approach to garden design, something that will help us feel a sense of positivity and will help us recognize the beauty of the task we have in front of us. It is a luxury worth respecting, after all.

Please, let the following advice inform you:

Attend To That Large Project

When we think of a large garden feature, we might become somewhat apprehensive as to actually making plans to implement our desires to that end. This is because we may visualize a garden fountain as belonging to the front entrance of a mansion, or a garden pool to be a marker of true expense and luxury. However, if you have the room for it, the money to invest and the ability to clean and maintain said installation, there’s no reason as to why you should feel an exception here. Plan the dimensions, invite a consultant to consider your possibilities, and discuss the future of your garden plans with your partner. There’s no reason to artificially hesitate for little reason.

Consult With The Experts

It can be that you have your own ideas, but because you lack the seasoned gardening skills (pun intended), you might find it hard to actualize your dreams. There’s no shame in this, it can be the equivalent of someone who feels the rhythm of dance within but struggles to move as soulfully as they would like to. This is where collaborating with proven services such as Lonestar Landscape Design can be positively enlightening. Not only does this open you up to many possibilities that you may not have imagined, but it can also structure your plans in the best way, perhaps helping you find more utility in your garden than you thought there could be.

One At A Time

There’s no reason why you need to perfect your garden in one summer. You could focus on a play area for your children, or building the garden shed, or the installation of your greenhouse and vegetable patch first. Taking an itemized and specific approach can help you build up the interconnected patchwork of your garden, without having to worry about the fully cohesive picture until you start putting the piece in place. Odds are, your concentrated efforts in smaller locations will make all the difference over the years.

With this advice, we are certain that you’re to find more optimism in your garden design.

 

Traveling is fun and exciting. But preparing for your travel can be intense, tiring, and quite dull. We often tend to forget something we intend to take on the trip at the last minute hassle. And sometimes the one thing you forgot is so critical that it could ruin your entire trip. Travel checklists come handy to make sure you have taken everything you need on your journey. It can avoid travel mishaps and disasters, and ensure you enjoy the entire time. It is a preventive measure that will help you pack perfect every time.

If you are yet to decide on your travel plans, then use a scratch-off map to look for destinations to travel. Once you have your travel plans in place, the next step is to pack. Packing for your travel happens in multiple steps. The trick is to cover all these components without overdoing. Here is a list of all travel essentials or an ultimate travel checklist that will make sure you pack right every time.

First comes the bags: Your travel bag needs to hold everything you need in the journey. And, depending on the activities you have planned during the trip, you might need more portable or easy to carry luggage. So, explore the market for wheeled cases, duffle bags, high tech backpacks, and more options before you narrow down the right one. The size of baggage you choose should be able to accommodate all your things without having to carry too many additional hand baggage. So, take your time to pick the right one.

Next comes your hand baggage: If you are inseparable from your neck pillow or require basic grooming stuff like your hairbrush, moisturizers, lip balm, earplugs your hand luggage is the right place to pack them all. Choose a good bag, preferably a backpack, where you can carry your electronics, travel docs, and these accessories together. Try bags with multiple compartments to ensure you don’t end up searching them for hours to grab your earphones. Travel pillows are incredibly comfortable. You can either add them to your handbag if space permits or hang it on the strap of your bag to keep it accessible anytime during your journey.

 Items to keep:

• a) Basic makeup and grooming accessories
• b) Earplugs
• c) Tissues and Sanitizers
• d) Travel sickness medications
• e) Travel pillow
• f) A small water bottle

Next comes your smart travel accessories: In the modern age traveling without your gadgets is impossible. From laptop to DSLRs, you need to pack everything you need during your travel. Try to keep your devices, preferably in your hand baggage. This type of packing makes the security check easier, and these gadgets are up for grabs any time you like on the journey. Start by listing all the essential accessories you need during your trip. Place them in the table, alongside their adapter cables, to ensure you can charge them during the journey.

Items to keep:

• a) Smartphone and Power Bank
• b) Laptop
• c) Camera
• d) Noise-cancelling headphones
• e) Adapter plugs
• f) Extra wires or cables
• g) A small portable speaker

Packing your toiletries: It is good to travel with just the essentials, but your toiletry kit should include most of what you need during the journey. Your hotels or hostels might provide you with essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo, but it is good to carry one yourself for backup. If you are planning a long trip, then you can pack them in their original containers. But if it is just for a couple of days, then use simple DIY tricks with plastic bags, straws to pack a small portion. This packing technique will make your bag petite to carry.

Items to Keep:

• a) Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss
• b) Shampoo and Conditioner
• c) Feminine hygiene products and Makeup remover
• d) Sunscreen
• e) Hairpins, rubber bands, bobby pins
• f) Tweezers, razor, and trimmer
• g) Face wash and Travel towel
• h) Hair gel or spray, mousse and hair styling appliances
• i) Contact lens solution, hairbrush or comb

Having a small medical kit on your journey can be useful during emergencies. Pack a few essentials such as

• 1)     Paracetamol
• 2)     Anti-inflammatory
• 3)     Cold and flu tablets
• 4)     Vitamins
• 5)     Bandages, wire gauze, antiseptic cream
• 6)     Motion sickness tablets, antacids and antihistamines
• 7)     Any other prescribed medication

The wardrobe checklist: Depending on the place and purpose of travel, your wardrobe choices for the trip will vary. Make sure you carry at least two extra pairs of clothes as a backup for the journey. Use the capsule packing technique by choosing neutral colors for jackets, footwear, trousers to make sure they pair well to create multiple outfits. Do not forget to pack essentials and sleepwear. If you are packing for a business trip, then ensure you keep your formal after properly cleaning them.

Items to keep:

• a) A sweater or jacket and a scarf for layering
• b) T-shirts for casual wear
• c) A pair of jeans – In neutral color to match with many outfits.
• d) A pair of dress or skirt
• e) Formal outfits – dress, blouse, blazers, tie, trousers, skirts
• f) Yoga pants, joggers or track pants
• g) Pjamas or sleepwear
• h) Belt and socks
• i) Undergarments appropriate for the clothing and activities such as sports bra
• j) Sunglasses, Hats, Watch and Jewellery
• k) Bikini or swimwear if necessary

6. And finally, your travel documents: Your travel documents are the most important component of your journey. While technology has enabled smarter traveling with most travel document available in your smartphones, there are still a few documents you need to carry in the paper. Either way, make sure you organize them in one folder to get easy access.

Items to carry:

• a) Passport and Visa – Original and a copy
• b) ID – Any ID proof such as student ID, employee or government ID
• c) Travel insurance
• d) Hotel reservations, Itinerary
• e) Boarding pass and Travel tickets
• f) Emergency contact details

Apart from these, check your wallet or handbag for

• 1)     Cash – exchange your cash in case you are traveling to a country with a different currency
• 2)     Credit cards and Debit cards
• 3)     Frequent flyer cards, if any

Add any other items you might need during your trip to the checklist, such as food items or other clothing necessities based on your needs. Don’t forget to carry a map like the one you can find here on your journey. With a map in hand, one can easily wander around the country without having a fear of getting lost. Check the columns every time you add these items to the bag. Ensure you pack properly to make everything accessible. This checklist will make sure you enjoy a hassle-free journey and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

A contributed post from LANGRIA Home Decor & Furniture

Majority of us have to work for at least 8 hours in an office, every single day. That requires us to sit and work on our desks for the majority of our shift. As a natural result, we have to deal with the aching shoulders and back pain. Not everyone can afford or has the time to visit a chiropractor for 3 sessions per week. The best solution for this back pain is to invest in the best office chair for back pain. With the help of this ultimate guide, you will not only be able to choose the best model at the best price but, you will also be able to cure your back issues. The following is the list of top 10 office chairs for back pain.

ARGOMAX BLACK HIGH BACK DESK

This chair has entered the top 10 list of best office chairs for back pain due to its stylish design and back comforting features. It is firm, sturdy, and very comfortable as it allows you to easily move and stretch. It does not make you feel stuck in one position for the whole day. It has an ergonomic design which means that the hair has been designed by keeping in mind the needs of a human being especially with back problems. This chair is made in a very comfortable manner with cushioned armrests, backrest, and customizable headrest. The smart auto-adaptive base feature enables the backrest to modify according to your weight. Due to its one switch functioning feature, the chair can tilt back to 135ᵒ and has a three-way lock component. The glass fiber outline, and the nylon gives you a breathable backrest. It is comfortable yet, firm.

PROS:

• Easy to adjust headrest and backrest
• Promotes correct posture
• Reclines Easily
• Ergonomic
• Supportive and Sturdy
• Breathable and Comfortable

CONS:

• The armrest could be more adjustable

STEELCASE GESTURE CHAIR

This office chair supports your posture by copying the natural movements of the spine. Its armrests are put at the back which allows you to easily sit down while its S-shape backrest supports and arranges your spine. Its Gesture 360 arm feature allows it to move like your arms to encourage your utilization of various devices such as your laptop or PC. The seat flaunts delicate edges to accommodate sitting for consecutive hours and it also comes with air pockets underneath the foam cushioning, for that extra comfort.

PROS:

• Holds various devices
• Stylish Design
• S-shape backrest
• Comfortable seating

CONS:

• No headrest
• No lock for armrest

LA-Z-BOY DELANO BIG & TALL EXECUTIVE BONDED LEATHER CHAIR

This chair has entered the list of the best chair for back pain due to its elegant design, beautiful chestnut upholstery with a bit of wood action. Due to its extra padding, this executive chair is one of the most comfortable office chairs made for preventing lower back pain. The seat comes with a comfortable width and has the capability to support 400 pounds of weight. It is made up of leather which makes it comfortable, easy to clean, but it can cause you to sweat a lot. For extra comfort, you can tilt the chair or adjust its height as per your liking.

PROS:

• Stylish and elegant
• Firm and sturdy
• Easily reclines
• Adjustable height
• Supports 400 pounds of weight

CONS:

• Leather causes you to sweat

KADIRYA HIGH BACK BONDED LEATHER

This stylish chair is made up of bonded leather and can quite possibly be the best executive chair for you. Its high back helps it support your back and lower back quite comfortably. For extra comfort, the seating has been padded in a way that it forms a waterfall edge. This feature relaxes your hamstrings so you can sit and work for prolonged hours. Moreover, you can recline to 120 degrees whenever you feel like stretching during the day. The seat is definitely durable and reliable but, it can only support up to 250 pounds of weight.

PROS:

• Stylish and Comfortable
• Reclines Easily
• Supportive armrest
• Durable and Stable

CONS:

• Recline is not supportive\

ERGONOMIC MESH COMPUTER OFFICE DESK MIDBACK TASK CHAIR

This office is chair perfect for your midback support and is capable of supporting up to 250 pounds of weight. It comes with a wide seat, an adjustable height, and has the capability of reclining up to 135 degrees with 360 degrees swivel. The triangle armrest provides additional support however, their height is not ideal for tall people. The breathable mesh material and backrest shaped like the alphabet ‘S’ adds to your comfort and ideal back support.

PROS:

• Certified by BIFIMA
• Ergonomic backrest

CONS:

• Low armrests
• A bit flimsy
• Seat is not padded

TOPSKY MESH COMPUTER OFFICE CHAIR

This ergonomic chair comes with a skeletal back synchronous mechanism which makes it customizable and offers adjustable lumbar support. You can adjust its headrest in three different positions and the adjustable armrests are an addition to the armrests. The chair can easily recline up to 145 degrees and can hold up to 350 pounds of weight. Moreover, the breathable mesh material prevents you from sweating.

PROS:

• Good lumbar support
• Adjustable headrest and armrest
• Breathable material
• Reclines easily

CONS:

• Not durable enough

MODWAY ARTICULATE ERGONOMIC CHAIR

The adjustable armrests of this ergonomic office chair allow you to find your perfect position while working on the computer. Furthermore, you can also adjust the chair’s height and the depth of the seat as well. The safety lock allows you to stay stable while the chair has been reclined. It is user-friendly and very affordable. Moreover, its hooded caster wheels allow the chair to roll over carpeted surfaces as well.

PROS

• Adjustable
• User-friendly
• Breathable Material
• Stable and secure recline
• Affordable

CONS:

• Not enough padding

RAYNOR ERGOHUMAN HIGH BACK MESH CHAIR

This chair is one of the best office chairs for lower back pain due to its adjustable back angle feature which allows you to choose the ideal reclining position for you. Moreover, it relieves pressure off from your spine which prevents you from falling prey to conditions like sciatica.

 

PROS:

• Adjustable and easy recline
• Breathable material
• Adjustable lumbar support
• Improves posture

CONS:

• Not ideal for short people

HERMAN MILLER EMBODY CHAIR

This ergonomic chair allows your weight to be evenly distributed through its overall cushioned construct. It helps you improve your posture and alleviates lower back pain. It showcases a strong frame made out of graphite. The seating is comfortable yet firm which makes it even better for people suffering from any sort of back pain.

PROS:

• Sturdy and Stable
• Comfortable and Breathable
• Evenly distributes weight
• 12-year warranty

CONS:

• Not available in multiple size

LANGRIA COMFORTABLE V SHAPE MEDIUM BACK MESH HOME OFFICE DESK CHAIR

This is the best office chair for lower back pain and has been designed to align your spine. The chair has been constructed using breathable Korean mesh and nylon casters. It can swivel at 360 degrees which allows you to move freely. The height of the chair can be easily adjusted through the use of a flip level. The contours and the curves of the chair provide excellent lumbar support and makes sure that your spine is properly aligned with the backrest. It has been designed to meet your standards and has been certified by BIFMA as well. Furthermore, this chair can support up to 285 pounds of weight without exploding.

PROS:

• Breathable
• Ergonomic design
• Comfortable yet firm
• Aligns your spine
• Easy to construct

CONS:

• Only supports 285 pounds of weight

ULTIMATE BUYER’S GUIDE:

The following are the points that you must look for in the best office chair for back pain.

• Adjustable: It must have the features of adjustable height, backrest, headrest, and armrest.
• Ergonomic Design: The chair should be designed by keeping sciatica and patients who suffer from other lower back pain problems.
• S-shaped backrest: It must come with an ergonomic backrest shaped in the form of an ‘S’. This shape is very ideal for people already suffering from lower back pains.
• Mobile: The chair must provide easy mobility. You should not have to leave or drag your seat for the smallest of tasks.
• Comfortable seating: The seating should be wide and padded.
• Swivel and Recline: The chair must have the ability to recline at a minimum of 120 degrees and swivel at 360 degrees. It allows mobility.
• Good Material: The material of the chair should be comfortable, durable, and breathable.
• Good enough weight capacity: It must be able to support at least 250 pounds of weight. Any chair that has less weight capacity than 250 pounds is of no use.

CONCLUSION:

Sitting for hours can seriously damage your back and can cause a lot of problems for your lower back. Hence, investing in an office chair which is specifically designed to cater to lower back problems is a great investment. Through the detailed reviews and the ultimate guide provided above, you will be able to purchase the best office chair for lower back pain problems.

 

 

 

 

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Having a wonderful home is something we all strive for. We all like to have our own personal touches and make our home exhibit our personalities.

But, do we take into consideration the psychological effects that our home has on us? I am going to go through just a few simple things that can take your home and make it feel like a perfect little paradise.

Where is Your Furniture

This one may be open to some controversy. The Chinese, call it Feng Shui and believe it’s connected to Chi. This may or may not be true but what is certainly true is that the positioning of your furniture can affect the feel of not only your house but also you.

It’s quite a simple concept really, imagine you are in a restaurant and facing a wall whilst eating, it puts you in a closed and claustrophobic mindset, open up the field of vision and that mindset alters. 

We as humans have perceptions of certain situations and the position of our furniture can remarkably alter them depending on who we are as a person, after all, some people insist on a window seat on a plane for no other reason than it put them at a state of ease.

Let There Be Light

Lighting is hugely important when it comes to adding a positive feel to the home. Obviously, the darker something is, the more closed off you feel. This then results in a negative feeling. 

Some small changes you can make are relieving yourself of any overgrown foliage that may be stealing your outside light. You could even take some modern window treatments that will allow light and privacy simultaneously. 

Mirrors on the inside, on the opposite side to smaller windows, is a great little trick for adding extra light and this also gives the illusion of a larger space due to light dispersion. 

Take out the Trash

Well, not literally take out the trash but absolutely consider decluttering. Clutter is one of the worst things for your mind and home. Let us be honest, if you have a guest and clutter, you both feel a little uncomfortable.

What’s more serious is the effect clutter can have on your state of mind always remember the words of mothers of old “Tidy house, tidy mind” 

You could even completely declutter and go completely minimalist, minimalism is fantastic for the mind and allows clarity and focus. 

Crisp Fresh Air

An amazing trick to add a little positivity to the house is this, open every single window. The sudden rush of fresh air in the house is enough to alter the mindset of anybody and it also adds a certain unknown positive vibe to your home. It is almost as if you are releasing any negative energy out into the world. 

Are you ready to make some positive changes to your personal palace, if so, I hope these few little tricks helped.

It is common for homebuyers to overlook wiring and electrical aspects when choosing a house. Most people are drawn in by aesthetics such as front faucets, exterior design, deck and patio, floor, ceiling, and space. While these are all important to inspect, plumbing and wiring are just crucial. The disadvantages of having a poorly placed installation or low-quality products range from mere inconvenience to life-threatening health risk. Therefore, it is essential to keenly review the wiring and electrical components before buying a house. Here is a look at five things to check.

Type of wiring system

There are three main types of wiring systems electricians use today. These include lead sheathed, surface conduit, and concealed conduit wiring system. The type of wiring chosen depends on your unique electrical requirements as well as personal preferences. Concealed conduit wiring, for instance, is installed behind the wall plastering. This makes it far more aesthetically appealing. However, if you are planning to set up a private server house for a home-run business, this may not be the most convenient system for you. Choose a system that is easy to troubleshoot and add extensions.

There are also different types of wires available in residential homes and apartments. Understanding the existing types may help if you have any appliances that require a particular kind of cable. Other things to think about when assessing the wiring system include interior decorations and fixtures and power capabilities.

Flickering and buzzing/vibrating noise

Wiring problems can be challenging to troubleshoot through mere inspection. You need to pay more attention to the behavior of your electric system and appliances. A flickering or dimming light may signal problems with wiring. A buzzing sound is also characteristic in tripping circuit breakers. Turn on the lights and a few appliances and note any unusual behavior. If your lights flicker, dim or the system produces a buzzing sound when you use multiple devices, the problem might be a loose connection. You can then request an upgrade or discount before buying the house.

Check for chewed and frayed wiring

Rodents, pests and inexperienced handymen can damage the sheath or coating that covers your wires. Naked wires carry a significant risk of fire and shock. According to research, approximately 1,000 people die every year as a result of electrical injuries. Most injuries result from shocks and fire burns. It is therefore vital to check all wires and ensure exposed regions are covered. Before buying a house, make sure you call a professional electrician to inspect and replace faulty cables in all rooms. If you are replacing the wires, find better choices that will withstand pest and rodent attack. You might also want to find a solution for the pests.

 

Discoloration burning and scorching

Circuit breakers are designed to trip whenever the system is overloaded. Tripping shuts cuts off all power supply so you will need to turn it back manually. This can happen once in a while. If the circuit breaker trips more often, it may be a warning sign about the state of the wiring in the house. You can ask the host to turn on various appliances and gauge its stability based on the other factors mentioned above (flickering, vibrations, buzzing sound). If circuit breaker trips during your viewing session, request a comprehensive assessment from qualified electricians.

Keep track of system and circuit breaker trips

Circuit breakers are designed to trip whenever the system is overloaded. Tripping shuts cuts off all power supply so you will need to turn it back manually. This can happen once in a while. If the circuit breaker trips more often, it may be a warning sign about the state of the wiring in the house. You can ask the host to turn on various appliances and gauge its stability based on the other factors mentioned above (flickering, vibrations, buzzing sound). If circuit breaker trips during your viewing session, request a comprehensive assessment from qualified electricians

Conclusion

There are several other minor aspects to review wiring before making a down payment for your house. Buying a home is one of the big decisions you have and pushes you a step closer to independence. Whether you are purchasing a residential home or a real estate property for renting, it is crucial to ensure the electrical and plumbing systems are at optimal form. Since you do not have full access to the house at all times, the only viable option is to hire professional experts to assess on your behalf. Also, one can stock up bulk wires of different gauge sizes and colors as per amperage requirement as this would be cost-effective.

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New places, people, and food, there’s so much to absorb and enjoy while you’re on the road. Then again, there’s no place like home. After wandering through colorful marketplaces and trekking over mountains, you need somewhere to unwind, relax, and center yourself. What better place than a home retreat? Your bedroom, as your most private space, perfectly fits the bill.

Color for Calm

The psychological power of color can’t be ignored. The color palette in your bedroom and any enjoining bathroom or outdoor space should speak to you. Cool hues of gray and beige are typically used in the bedroom because they don’t overstimulate the eyes or brain. Pastels in blue and green are also favorites for their quiet link to nature. After you’ve created a base palette, add a few deep, rich or bright accent splashes to give it life. 

While neutrals are traditional, that doesn’t mean your space has to be boring. A patterned lampshade, accent pillows, curtains, or a rug are the perfect place for brighter, joyful colors yet they’re in small doses so you maintain the calm aesthetic. Cultural, ethnic, and even personal experiences can influence how you feel about a certain color. If neutrals feel institutional to you, pick a palette that makes you want to sit down and stay awhile. No matter what that color is, it’s probably the right choice for you. 

Appeal to All the Senses

Sight isn’t the only sense you want to engage. Scents have a powerful influence over mind and body too. Lavender, for example, has a relaxing quality that’s been shown to enhance the ability to fall asleep. A 2010 study found that Jasmine can be as effective as valium when used as a sleep and mood enhancer.

Today, there are so many options to bring these scents into your space. Lotions, sprays, and diffusers but there are also shampoos, bath salts, and other bath products if you’re partial to a spa-like retreat.   

Make It Unbelievably Comfortable

A home retreat cannot include a beat-up, overused mattress. Your mattress is one purchase with which you should treat yourself. It will stay with you for at least seven to eight years so take the time to try a few out at the store. Look for one that complements your sleep style—side, stomach, or back.

Bedding matters too. Natural, organic fabrics that get softer with use can make your bed hard to resist. That’s exactly what you want the minute you walk through the door. Everything about the bed should say, “Come stay awhile.” 

Take a Hint from Nature

Nature has some seriously relaxing benefits. It can calm symptoms of depression, enhance concentration, and help you unwind after a stressful day. Bring nature indoors and you get the same benefits in the comfort of your own home. Houseplants are one of the simplest ways to make your indoor space feel more natural. A plant in the bathroom, on the window seal, or on the nightstand can be a welcoming friend after a long day. 

Nature-themed and inspired elements are another way to blend the in and out of doors. Photos, paintings, lamp bases, and even blankets with floral patterns can be enough to calm yourself with nature. 

Conclusion

Your retreat may need a soaker tub with plenty of bath salts while someone else may need an incredible sound system and a cozy reading corner. Your retreat should speak to your needs and likes. Setting the stage for relaxation and filling it with pieces that calm you will make coming home worth it every time.  

 

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Let’s face it – working from home is one of the greatest things in the world. It doesn’t matter if you’ve got an actual boss that you’re telecommuting with; it’s still just far more relaxing than working in an office environment. You’re doing real work – but all from the comfort of your very own home. But for some people, remaining productive in a home office is difficult; the allure of just laying on your bed while you’re at home can be too much for some people to bear. However, that’s why you need to design your space in a way that makes your surroundings a conduit for your creativity! That’s why we’ve got some awesome home office design tips for you right here!

Where should your home office be?

Before you think about what your home office should look like, and start looking for affordable boxes for your office supplies; you should think about where your home office will be situated. Well, you might say, that’s easy – in your home! All jokes aside, the exact position of your home office can be a major boon or detriment to productivity. Sure, if you’re living in a tiny apartment, there’s not too much choice for you in the matter. You’ll have to find room for your home office whenever you can. But don’t worry, even so – there are ways to increase productivity with some home office design tips.

For one, if the corner in which your office happens to be too dark; add some artificial light to it. The last thing you want is feeling sleepy once you sit down to do your job! And if it helps, add some office-related details to it, so that you actually feel like you’re at your job. That will keep you more disciplined, even if you may be working in your underwear or pajamas.

Working in a larger home

Once you hire a moving company like usantini.com and move to a larger home, though; you’ll have a lot more space to work with! And then you can fully utilize our home office design tips for maximum productivity and efficiency. Firstly, make sure that you dedicate one entire room to your home office. Sure, this may be less space-efficient than some would like; but it’s a good thing for your productivity, from a mental perspective. When you’re working from home, you want to have one room in your house where you know only your job is important, and thus the work gets done.

Strike a Good Balance Between the Home and the Office

Once you start planning out the layout of this spacious home office, make sure to utilize as much natural lighting as you can. This is something that homeowners often ignore when working from home! And that means placing your desk in the best position possible. Speaking of office furniture; you want something you’ll still feel comfortable using and sitting in; while also aesthetically maintaining an aura of seriousness. We’ll get into more details on that below. Also, you want your home office to be as far removed from high-transit areas in your house, such as the kitchen or the bathroom. That way, you’ll do your work in peace.

Choosing the Best Furniture

As we’ve already gone into briefly; all good home office design tips dictate that you buy the best furniture for your office that you can. And all other things aside; you will definitely require the most comfortable chair. Sure, this may seem like the most mundane advice possible; but it’s important, and many people forget it. You want something adjustable and comfy, as you will probably sit there for eight hours a day; sometimes, maybe even more! Also, you’ll want a wide desk, but one that can also fit into the scope of your office. Obviously, these furniture arrangements may require that you unlock your creativity a bit.

Next up, you’ll want to buy some drawers and shelves. And yes, all of this may start to look like an actual office, but one that’s in your house. But that’s precisely what you want it to be! After all, the point of a home office is having all of the comfortableness of your house, coupled with the office amenities needed to complete your work. You’ll get used to all of this pretty quickly.

Meeting with Clients

Once you decide to work from home, you may ask yourself; what about meeting with clients? Even if you’ve got a home office, this may still be a constant aspect of your job. Don’t worry, though; that’s where your home office comes in, built with our home office design tips! You just want to get some additional furniture, mainly chairs. And if you furnish your home office while keeping in mind the things that we’ve mentioned above; you’ll have absolutely no qualms while receiving business partners in your home. At the end of the day, two things matter; that you do your job well, and that you conduct it in a professional environment. And there’s nothing that says that this can’t be your home!

Conclusion

As you may have concluded, finding the right home office design tips and arranging your home office isn’t always the easiest thing in the world. After all, you have quite a lot of different factors to take into consideration; the balance between your private and professional life not being the least of them. However, if you design your office well – all of those dilemmas will become moot! As your job will be conducted in a productivity-boosting area, and one which does not interfere with your family life.

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If you are looking to sell your home, or just want to improve the general look and feel of it, then improving the home’s curb appeal will help a lot. The exterior of your home is like the cover of a book; it sets up what is happening on the inside. So for potential buyers in particular, it will set the mood for them as they come to your home. If they enter with a positive mindset, then it can go a long way when it comes to selling. Even if you’re not looking to sell right now, adding curb appeal is often a pretty easy and inexpensive way to make your home look that bit nicer, as well as help to boost its value. So with all of that in mind, here are some projects that can help your home to make an even better first impression.

Take care of your lawn

If you want to give off a good first impression, and you have a front lawn (as well as a backyard), then taking care of the lawn is a must. If things are overgrown and tatty, then it shows to someone that the inside is likely to be just like that. Regularly care for your green spaces by mowing the grass, raking leaves, especially in the fall, and pulling weeds. They can get out of control in summer, but nipping them in the bud, quite literally, can help. Keep the space well watered, as it can keep the grass looking green, and can prevent brown spots. Little and often means that it won’t have to take up a lot of your time. 

Exterior Finish

The exterior finish of the home can go far when it comes to making a good first impression. If you have a bit of a retro pebble-dash finish on your home, then it is time to think again. You could look online for a website that does cladding, or perhaps you’d be more interested in smoothing down some brick with plaster and painting the home? If the house is already painted a certain color, then make sure that you keep up to date with it. A house looking gray that is meant to be white, is never a good look.

Power wash

After each season, it is a good idea to get a power wash for the exterior of your home, as well as things like your garage door and driveway. It is surprising how much dirt can accumulate in winter, as well as dry dust and sand in summer. It can life the grime right away and make things look like new. So this is something to do every so often. If you don’t have one of your own, then it can be really easy to rent them as many stores rent them out these days.

Giving your home a boost with its curb appeal doesn’t need to be something that can take a long time or cost a lot. Little and often goes a long way, plus, the chances are that there are already some stunning features with the outside of your home, that just need a little love.

 

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When you’re trying to conjure up something new, exciting or fresh, it can take a little time. Sometimes it’ll hit you straight away: out of nowhere, the lightbulb will flash and everything slots perfectly into place. The majority of the time it’s a case of sitting and thinking for longer than you’d like to. That mental block is one of the most frustrating things on this planet, right? Especially when it comes to a more creative side of life. 

Creativity isn’t something that someone is born with, however, even though it may always seem that way. The creative and inventive types are that way because of the focus they put into it. Anyone can be that way inclined; they just have to get into it in the first place. You may feel, at times, as though the brick wall you’ve hit is impenetrable, and there is no way of getting around it either. That’s not true; you can absolutely unlock heaps of knowledge and creativity. It may take a little time and a little work, but it’s absolutely possible. Let’s have a little look at some of the ways you can unlock these particular mental skills.  

Look For Inspiration Everywhere

When you need to come up with something that is a little different from the norm or something to suit a certain fit, then there will always be something out there that can influence your thinking. It may be in a straightforward aspect of life that you’ve seen millions of times before. It may also be in the most random place. When you’re out an about running errands or seeing friends, you could let your hair down a little and forget about the work, or you could keep your eyes on everything and everyone!

Work With The Pros

There are people out there that literally design things for a living. Homes, graphics, tools and clothes are just a few examples. Getting in touch with someone like that or a firm like that might not be a bad idea if you want to pick up a few things. You may want to just have a chat with an experienced designer, or you could hire someone to work with you and help you out. You can look around online for places, like this website, that may be able to give you the type of guidance you’re looking for.  

Don’t Worry About Judgement!

Whenever you try something new and different, you’re always going to get detractors. It happens in all walks of life. There are people in this world that absolutely love criticizing things – even when they actually like what they’re seeing. When you try something out, you should absolutely block out all of the unnecessary comments and listen only to mature constructive opinions. 

Practice, Practice, Practice

Finally, and probably most importantly: keep at it. This kind of skill is something that is honed after weeks, months and years of constant training. While some things may pop into your head in an instant, the majority of creative ideas are spawned due to the training that you’ve had. Don’t just stop bothering when things get a little difficult and stressful.  

 

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Keeping an eye on your plumbing system particularly your pipes, is essential, especially if you live in an older home. When your plumbing system ages, it will show signs of problems that a Frisco plumber can detect. You may not be aware of these issues, but ignoring the tell-tale signs of worn pipes can be costly. There are areas of your home that you may not be paying attention to. 

The basements, crawlspaces and utility might just be a few of these places. For you to make sure that your pipes will not cause any inconveniences on your part once they are damaged, it is important to perform a thorough inspection. There are many signs that will help you identify whether or not your pipes are worn out. 

Flaking or dimpling

Have you noticed any tube corrosion? It is an indicator that your pipe needs to be replaced. The pipes can experience corrosion once the water has high-acid content. Acid can eat away at your pipe’s tubing. This is common in copper pipes that have remained idle for long periods. You will need to call a plumber to address the issue. A professional plumber will perform a thorough inspection to find out where the problem lies. Replacing your pipes is the best solution that a plumber will recommend. 

Stains

Stains are also a cause for concern because they are also indicators that your pipes are no longer functioning as they should. Stains underneath your sink or discoloration found on your walls indicate an issue. There might be leaks that you need to address immediately to prevent damaging your pipes. 

You will also need to check your bathroom walls as there can be traces of stains that you need to be aware of. Once the stains appear, your pipes will begin to break apart. Do not attempt to fix the issue on your own. You will need a plumber to repair the leak. You will also need to get in touch with a contractor to fix any drywall that the plumber recommends to tear. 

Leaks

Do not ignore a small leak because this can be a sign of a more serious issue with your pipes. When the pipes leak, you need to replace them immediately to prevent your house from deteriorating quickly. Leaks can cause mold and mildew to develop. They are usually found in your bathroom wall or somewhere in your home. Mold thrives in moist environments. 

When you have leaking pipes, the mold can make them its breeding ground. Leaks that are hidden behind a wall or under a floor should also be checked. When it comes to spotting some mildew, you need to check it in your shower. There might be a substantial problem that prevents your plumbing system from working efficiently. Once there is musty smell of mildew and mold, you should call a plumber right away to find out more about the problem. 

Water discoloration

The water coming out from your sink taps should be clear. If you notice that it looks rusty, you will need to schedule an appointment with a plumber because discolored water is a sign of rusty pipes. When pipes are rusty and the water it produces is odd-colored, the taste can be unpleasant. The rust also causes the water to harden, making it difficult for you to get rid of soap out of your dishes, clothes or off your skin. 

The problem can get worse if you always skip calling a plumber to fix the issue. Your pipes, while meant to last are not impervious to any kind of damage. There will come a time when they will no longer serve their purpose. As all homes need water, you need to make sure that you have access to clean water. This will only be possible if you always make it a point to keep your pipes in check. You do not have to check the plumbing system yourself as you can always hire a qualified plumber to do the job for you. 

When it comes to searching for a plumber to do the job, always choose licensed and highly-trained plumbers. You can be sure that you will be on the safe side if you do not embark on a DIY project. Your plumbing system needs the help of a professional. Be sure to call Lex Plumbing so you can replace your pipes successfully and get clean water all the time.