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• Why Homeowners Should Not Overlook Winter Infestation Risks

  
  

  Winter is a busy season as there is snow to rake, parties to plan, and holiday decor to work on. You may even bear an extra workload at the office before closing for the holidays. It is easy to overlook pest management because you believe these pesky intruders are on a break. But overlooking winter pests may set you up for an unpleasant surprise as you encounter a massive infestation sooner than you imagine. The best piece of advice is to stay regular with your pest control measures, even as the snowy season begins. Let us share some good reasons to stay ahead of infestation risks even in winter.

  The enemy is right here

  You expect rodents and bugs to go into hibernation when temperatures drop sub-zero. But the problem is that they hibernate inside your living space because it is warm and moist. Even dormant ones are a concern as they can cause a full-blown infestation once the season changes. They may conceal themselves in nooks and corners, storage areas, beneath the rugs, and behind the curtains. You may not see them during the day, but you will see signs of pest presence at some point. Most homeowners ignore the problem due to a lack of awareness, but the enemy is right here. You must stay alert to prevent an infestation in your living space.

  More food and places to hide

  Winter may not traditionally be the pest season, but these unwanted guests have much more to feast on during the festive days. Food leftovers on the table and kitchen countertops and crumbs on the floor after the party give bugs and rodents all they need to thrive. You must go the extra mile for preventing pests during the Winter because they have more places to hide. Imagine a swarm of bugs concealing themselves in the Christmas tree and wreaths. They may also squeeze themselves inside the decor items, gift boxes, and trash cans. So you definitely have a reason to pay more attention this season.

  You may bring them in

  Another concern for homeowners is that they may actually bring these hidden enemies home this season. For example, a new furniture piece for Christmas may be home to termites. You may even get bugs in with the Christmas tree and decorations. Firewood is another potential carrier. A vacation at this time of the year increases the risk of bringing bed bugs from a hotel room only because of a lack of awareness. They have better chances of staying in because the doors and windows are sealed to keep the heat in and cold winds out. When the risks run high, you must be more aggressive about your pest prevention and control measures. 

  Pests may seem like a less significant concern during the freezing weather, but ignoring them is the last thing you should do. The threat is as daunting as any other time of the year, so you must take measures to address it. Schedule regular pest control services by experts to safeguard your living space. 

  partnered post • cc-licensed art by kynd_draw

• Should You Invest in a Backyard Pool?

  
  

  There’s nothing like having a chlorinated oasis in your backyard to beat the heat, host parties for family and friends, and spend your days relaxing next to clear, blue water. For homeowners, swimming pools can be a significant investment and commitment. Choosing a backyard pool requires a lot of consideration. What size and style are best for your property? Should you get a Gunite or fiberglass pools, and will the pool add value to your home? Let’s take a closer look at some pros and cons of investing in a backyard pool.

  Pros of Investing in a Backyard Pool

  Property Value

  A backyard pool can increase the value of your home. You’ll attract more buyers if you build a pool in your house, especially if you live in a hot climate.

  Recreation and Exercise

  Swimming in backyard pools is an excellent low-impact exercise option for adults and children. It is also possible for them to be therapeutic. Since water does not place full pressure on an athlete’s injuries, aquatic exercises are often used to rehabilitate sports-related injuries. You can also play games, host parties, and lounge out to tan on scorching summer days.

  Reduced Lawn Maintenance

  Your backyard can be significantly reduced in size if you have a pool in your backyard, depending on its size. If you don’t want to have too many plants in your yard, or would like to fill empty spaces, this can be a good solution. Reduced lawn area could be perfect for those with mobility issues. 

  Cons of Investing in a Backyard Pool

  Seasonal Maintenance

  Keeping your backyard pool clean will prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. To ensure the acids and alkalis are balanced, you must clean them and check the pH levels regularly. Swimming in an unclean pool can make you sick and attract pests. Spring and fall are the two main times for opening and seasonal closing pools and regular maintenance. The process of covering and uncovering your pool can be complicated.

  Family Safety

  Children can be at risk around backyard pools. Non-swimmers can also be at risk. You should invest in securing your pool to avoid liability for any injuries. Make your backyard pool safe with door locks and safety fencing. Most pool owners set strict rules about the use of the pool that should be followed by all family members and guests. Talk to your insurance agent about the necessary and recommended coverage if you are installing a backyard pool. 

  Installation

  Pool construction is a lengthy and costly process. Your backyard could go without use for two to three months while it is being built. A pump and filter are also needed. Additional costs like a adding a new deck in the yard, various toys to use in the pool, and additional landscaping can also delay the process and drive up the costs. 

  If you are dreaming about a backyard pool, consider these pros and cons before you start construction. 

  partnered post • photo by NeoMonge from Pixabay

• 7 Home Improvements to Make Before Starting an In-Home Salon

  
  

  Starting an in-home business can be pretty daunting. You want to make an ideal space for clients, but you don’t want to change your home too much. So, if you’re finally expanding your freelancer MUA status to a salon owner – you’d want to keep your space up to par to cater to your clients.

  There are a lot of possibilities when it comes to home improvements before turning a part of your home into a salon. We’ll list all the necessary home improvements you’ll need to save you the trouble. So, keep reading to find out what those are and more helpful tips!

  1. In Depth Cleaning

  It’s best to start with the basics. While we all keep our houses neat, a different level of tidiness is required for a business. You will bring people into your home, so it should pass all the necessary checks. Keeping up with cleaning as time goes on is also essential. No one wants to come to a salon with dust on the counters and hair on the floor. First impressions are everything. 

  If you have just started, you’d probably revamp the room or area you need for the salon. So ensure you clean the place extensively after the renovations and invest in separate cleaning supplies for the salon. If you require help, you can look into professional options. For example, if you live in Denver, Colorado, you can look into Commercial Cleaning Services Denver Colorado, as professional services can do a more thorough job and provide convenience.

  2. Investing In Basics

  Some essential items for the salon can make or break your business’s look and overall feel. You would usually find chairs, tables, mirrors, and other pieces in salons. Investing in new pieces will be super helpful in the short and long run. Try not to use the furniture and other essentials from your home, as it’s always better to keep your personal and professional items separate. This avoids unnecessary overlap and is a lot cleaner as well. 

  You don’t have to break the bank getting luxury items. You can go for in-budget items that provide a neat and professional look. Try to make sure you are following the same aesthetic for everything.

  3. Sinks or a Wet Station

  It is a highly essential item for any salon, and an in-house one isn’t any different. Most salons offer a wash for a cut, as having freshly washed hair helps get a better final result. Since that is the standard, most clients will expect this as well. A wet station is not something that you should look over. They can be a bit pricey but are extremely helpful. The other alternative would be taking the client to a bathroom, which is just messy and a bit unprofessional. An in-house salon doesn’t mean lacking the equipment found in regular salons. If you can’t afford it, try starting with a regular tub and save up for a wet station.

  4. Convenient Flooring

  It’s no secret that salons can get super messy. Flooring can be super helpful not only for aesthetics but also for maintenance. There are many options, but we’d recommend going for what’s most convenient. You should also consider whether your priority is long-term maintenance or short-term. If we start with the classics, wood is pretty manageable. Still, the build-up of dirt will eventually be a problem. If you want more style choices, you can also look into carpets. While they’re easy enough to maintain, they wear away much quicker than the other options.

  Ultimately, vinyl flooring is considered to be the best option. They’re not too expensive and have a good warranty as well. Plus, you can go for luxury styles or a more classic look based on what you want.

  5. Redo Your Walls

  Normally walls aren’t something we focus on specifically. But since clients sit still for hours while getting work done, the walls become their primary view. Walls are also what you tend to see when walking in somewhere. Cracked, peeling walls are a no-go in your business space. They give a sense of aging and show a lack of care, even if that isn’t necessarily true.

  A paint job will do wonders for the overall look of your business. You should also avoid going for colors that are too bright and distracting. Many people find it bothersome to be faced with a view like that. You shouldn’t be afraid of going for fun colors either. Neutral colors are always a safe bet, but pastels are also a beautiful option.

  6. Salon Specific Equipment

  Regardless of your specific services, you’ll need equipment for your salon. This includes hairdryers, straighteners, styling products, makeup products, and much more. Many home-based salons decide to use their own makeup and styling products, which is definitely a big no. Not only is it highly unsanitary, but it’s also extremely unprofessional. Even if your clients agree to it, it still isn’t a feasible option. You don’t need to go over budget buying new products, as these are items that are available in all price ranges. There are tons of great drugstore options for makeup and styling products. In many cases, drugstore items can even be better. For hairdryers, straighteners, etc., amazon has many great choices too.

  7. Style Based Changes

  It’s important to pick a theme or even have a general idea of what you want your salon to look like from the start. It’s easier to make choices if you have a vague idea of what you want. You should also decide which age group your salon will focus on more specifically. You obviously shouldn’t tailor everything to fit a certain age group, but appealing to the majority is always a good idea. For example, younger age groups will have different preferences regarding makeup and haircuts. While older clients will want different options. You can tailor your decor to most of your client’s tastes or have various options to appeal to everyone. But make sure the different options don’t clash and end up looking messy.

  Conclusion

  So, those are the home improvements we suggest as essentials for your in-house salon. It may seem like a lot to do, or you might think what you have at home is enough. Instead, plan out what you need, make a budget, then follow accordingly. Focus on the essentials we’ve listed as a start, and then you can continue building up as time goes on. It may be scary, but you’ll figure it out as you go.

  partnered post • image from Pixabay by Victoria Borodinova

• How to Prepare Your House to Sell Quickly

  
  

  When you’re getting ready to put your house on the market, it's important to make it look its best. You want potential buyers to be impressed when they walk through the door, and you want them to be eager to make an offer. We will discuss some tips that will help you prepare your house for sale and make it more appealing to buyers.

  Make repairs

  If there are any obvious repairs that need to be made, take care of them before putting your house on the market. This could include fixing a hole in the wall, repairing a leaky faucet, replacing cracked tiles, or repainting chipped paint. These small repairs can make a big difference in how potential buyers perceive your house. After repairing walls, you can still use a Gallery Hanging System to dress up your home in an appealing manner – without the damage. This will show that your home is well-maintained and that you're not trying to hide anything.

  De-personalise your decor

  This means removing any personal touches that could turn potential buyers off. For example, if you have bright pink walls in the nursery, you might want to consider painting them a more neutral colour. Or, if you have a collection of Star Wars memorabilia on display, it might be best to put it away for the time being. You should also remove any items that could be considered controversial, such as political signs or religious artwork. By making your house neutral, you'll make it more appealing to a wider range of buyers.

  Declutter

  One of the most important things you can do is declutter. This means getting rid of anything that's not absolutely necessary and putting away any personal items such as family photos. You want potential buyers to be able to imagine themselves living in your house, and that's difficult to do if the surfaces are cluttered. Decluttering can also make your house look more spacious and brighter, which is bound to make it more appealing. Struggling to choose what to keep and what to get rid of? You can use this guide on decluttering your home, room by room.

  Deep clean

  A deep clean is also important. This means more than just running the vacuum and dusting the shelves. You'll need to clean areas that you might not normally think of, such as:

  • The inside of all your appliances
  • Baseboards and moldings
  • Light fixtures
  • Windows (inside and out) and windowsills
  • Doors and door frames
  • Cupboards

  If necessary, you can hire a professional cleaning service to do a thorough job. Professional carpet and oven cleaning in particular can make a big difference. If your house looks spotless, potential buyers are more likely to get a good impression.

  Add curb appeal

  Another important tip is to add curb appeal. This means making sure the outside of your house looks just as good as the inside. Start by power washing the exterior, and then move on to trimming bushes, pulling weeds, and adding fresh mulch. You might also want to consider repainting the front door or adding a new welcome mat. These small changes can go a long way in making your house more inviting.

  
  

  Think about staging

  Staging your house means arranging furniture and decor in a way that's appealing to potential buyers. It's important to make each room look spacious, bright, and inviting. For example, for your bedrooms, think about the way you would want a hotel room to look and try to emulate that in your own home. You can stage your house yourself using these tips on how to stage your home for a quick sale. Either way, it's worth the effort, as staging can make a big difference in how quickly your house sells.

  Organise your storage

  Organise your closets, cupboards, and attic. Potential buyers are bound to snoop, so you want to make sure they're impressed by what they see. It also shows that your house has ample storage space and that it's easy to keep organised. This is always a plus in the eyes of potential buyers. On the flip side, organising your storage will make it easier for you to pack when the time comes to move, so it's a win-win! If you're feeling uninspired, a quick look on Pinterest will give you plenty of storage ideas for every room in your house.

  Think smells

  If you have pets or are a smoker, it's important to neutralise any smells that could turn potential buyers off. After your deep clean, consider spraying a light, neutral-smelling air freshener throughout the house. You might also want to bake some cookies or brew a pot of coffee before potential buyers come to view the house. These smells have a way of making a house feel more inviting.

  Make sure the price is right

  Of course, one of the most important things you can do to sell your house quickly is to price it right. Work with your real estate agent to come up with a competitive asking price. If you price your house too high, you might end up sitting on the market for months. But if you price it too low, you could end up leaving money on the table. The key is to find that sweet spot that will attract buyers and help your house sell quickly.

  Take your furry friends elsewhere

  While we love our furry friends, they might not be the best selling point for your house. Removing your pets from the premises during showings is generally a good idea, as some people are allergic to animals or simply aren't animal lovers. If you have the option, it's best to board your pets or have someone take them for the day. This way, you won't have to worry about them getting in the way or leaving behind any unwanted mess.

  Market your house properly

  If you want your house to sell quickly, you need to market it properly. So, make sure the estate agent you choose has a good track record and is familiar with the local market. GetAgent is a great platform you can use to compare local estate agents and find one that's right for you.

  Once you have appointed an agent, you can take a look at the listing they create for your house, and see if it's well-written and includes good photos. You might also want to consider marketing your house yourself, using online platforms like social media or classified ads.

  All in all, preparing your house to sell quickly doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips, you can make your house more appealing to buyers and increase the chances of selling it quickly – as well as getting the best possible price for it. So, make sure you take the time to prep your house before putting it on the market. It could make all the difference in the world.

  partnered post • top image by client; cc-licensed image by Kendyl Young

• 6 Helpful Tips To Plan Your Home Remodeling Without Stress

  A remodeling project transforms your home into a more comfortable and attractive living space. It can also add resale value, making it a sound investment. However, it's stressful, expensive, and even a safety hazard when not done correctly. It makes sense, then, that you want the process to go as smoothly as possible. Here are six helpful tips for planning your home remodeling without stress:

  

  Define Your Goals

  Before anything else, ask yourself what you hope to achieve with the remodeling project. Doing so helps you determine the scope of the work and make better decisions along the way. It's also important to be realistic about what you can accomplish, given your budget and timeframe.

  Factor in other aspects of your home the remodel will affect, such as the need for new furniture or window treatments. Your heating and cooling system may also need to be updated to accommodate the changes. Visit CM Heating for advice on whether to upgrade your current system or if you should consider alternatives, such as ductless mini-splits.

  Set a Budget

  Have a realistic idea of how much the remodel will cost before you start. The effort enables you to avoid sticker shock and make informed decisions about where to spend your money. Factor in the cost of permits too.

  If you're planning to finance the remodel, research loan options and compare interest rates. Home equity loans usually have lower interest rates but require you to put your home up as collateral. You may also be able to finance the work through a personal loan or credit card, although the interest rates will be higher. If possible, save up the money in advance to avoid paying interest.

  Hire a Qualified Contractor

  Don't try to tackle a remodeling project independently unless you're confident in your abilities. Even then, it's often best to hire a professional contractor with the experience and knowledge to get the job done right.

  Get recommendations from friends, family, and co-workers who have recently remodeled their homes. Once you've compiled a list of potential contractors, check their references and licensing status. The Better Business Bureau is also a good resource for finding reputable contractors in your area.

  Have a Contingency Plan

  Despite your best efforts, there's always the possibility of something going wrong during the remodeling process. Have a contingency plan in place to deal with unexpected delays or problems. It could mean having a temporary kitchen set up in another room or renting a storage unit for furniture and other belongings.

  

  You should also have some financial wiggle room in your budget to cover any unexpected costs. A 10-20% contingency fund is typically sufficient, although you may want to set aside more if your project is particularly complex.

  Stay Organized

  The key to a successful remodel is staying organized throughout the process. It includes keeping track of paperwork, scheduling progress check-ins with your contractor, and maintaining a budget.

  Create a binder or folder to store all critical documents, such as the contract, permit applications, and invoices. This will help you stay ahead of deadlines and avoid missing important details. Also, communicate regularly with your contractor to ensure the work is progressing as planned.

  Be Flexible

  The reality is that remodeling projects rarely go as planned. There will likely be some bumps along the way; be flexible and go with the flow. Keep an open mind about the needed changes, such as using different materials than you originally wanted. Don't be afraid to speak up if you're unhappy with the work done. It's better to address problems as they arise rather than wait until the project is finished.

  It Doesn’t Have To Be Stressful

  You'll transform your home into the oasis you've always wanted with careful planning. Have clear goals, a realistic budget, and a qualified contractor. Remember to schedule an all-around inspection after the remodeling to avoid potential hazards. Prioritize the heating and cooling system, plumbing, and electrical wiring to ensure your home is safe and comfortable.

  partnered post • images by Max Vakhtbovych & Cal David at Pexels 

• 5 Tips for Avoiding Emergency Heating Repair

  

  Your HVAC system helps you maintain a comfortable environment, regardless of the weather. Unexpected HVAC issues can be challenging, and could be due to an unresponsive thermostat, the heating system making strange noises, cold air coming from your heating system, clogged condensate line, frozen coils, and outdoor units.

  Your furnace having a yellow flame, the fan not turning off, the carbon monoxide detector going off, and warm air from your ducts could all be signs that you need emergency heating repair. This article outlines five tips for avoiding emergency heating repair.

  1. Stick to a regular maintenance routine

  Regular HVAC maintenance means lesser breakdowns and repairs in the future. A professional preventive service enables technicians to spot problems before they worsen. You may learn more here to check why getting your system regularly inspected means worn-out parts get replaced to avoid possible issues down the line. The electrical components are examined, and all parts are lubricated for optimum performance.

  Keeping up with annual tune-ups ensures your system lasts longer. A properly functioning heating system lowers utility bills and ensures improved indoor air quality. With heating and cooling experts like Buckeye HVAC, you can get quality maintenance services to keep your system in pristine condition.

  2. Change your air filters regularly

  Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining good indoor air quality. They get clogged with dust, dirt, bacteria, pollen, pet dander, and spores, making it difficult for your heating system to push air via the ductwork, causing it to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature. This increases your utility bills and the HVAC’s chances of breaking down.

  Replacing your air filters regularly avoids unnecessary damage while increasing your system’s lifespan. It helps improve indoor air quality by eliminating odors, pollutants, and allergens. It also balances humidity. Air filter replacement enhances energy efficiency, resulting in lower energy bills.

  3. Program your thermostat

  A programmable thermostat allows you to run an organized heating program without struggling to change the settings throughout the day manually. Failure to program your thermostat could cause your heating system to work inefficiently. If you constantly adjust your thermostat, you might be pressuring your heating system and wasting energy. Consider waiting for at least eight hours to change the temperature.

  4. Keep an eye on your humidity levels

  Failure to maintain the correct humidity levels in your home impacts the heating system and could damage your furnishings and electronics while causing physical ailments. Dry air may cause a sore throat, nosebleeds, eye irritation, dehydration, and respiratory diseases like bronchitis and asthma.

  Not maintaining an appropriate humidity level may require increasing the temperature as the heating system must work hard to heat your space. With the help of a hygrometer or smart thermostat, you can easily ensure proper humidity levels in your home.

  5. Give your heating system a break

  Your heating system works hard through winter to keep your home at the most comfortable temperature. You can give the system a much-needed break when the weather conditions are more tolerable. Consider keeping your thermostat at a temperature close to the one outside. Wear extra clothes whenever you feel cold. Inspect your doors and windows for drafts or air leaks to ensure your system doesn’t overwork.

  Endnote

  Sudden HVAC breakdowns can be stressful. Use these tips to avoid emergency heating repair.

  partnered post • image from Sprinter Lucio on Pixabay

• 5 Bathroom Remodeling Tips

  
  

  Whether you need a complete bathroom makeover, or are only looking to change a few aspects of this space, bathroom remodeling projects can get quite complicated. Fortunately, you can successfully manage these upgrades by considering critical aspects that give these projects lasting value. Here, we look at five bathroom remodel tips.

  1. Know how much bathroom space you have

  Before you kick off your bathroom remodeling project, it is vital to consider how much space you have. By focusing your remodel on this fundamental element, you will quickly determine the best type of bathroom to install and the features you should include. For example, if you want a master en-suite bathroom with a spa-like vibe, you should prioritize installing glass doors from Van Isle Glass to separate the tub and shower areas.

  2. Align everything to your budget

  Bathroom remodels are often expensive, and to avoid running out of money when your project is halfway, you need to develop a realistic home upgrade budget. The best decision is to consult a bathroom remodeling expert to help align your budget to all expenses, including labor costs and materials. To save on money, prioritize completing the essentials and parts that are of most value to you. Most importantly, you must avoid the temptation of starting your bathroom remodel if you do not have enough funds to complete the project.

  3. Consider lighting and ventilation

  You must never skimp on lighting and ventilation when remodeling your bathroom. Whether you have a tiny or spacious bathroom, ensure you allow in as much light as possible and enough ventilation to avoid mold growth due to damp air and moisture. Remember to utilize natural light by adding windows and skylights besides using mirrors to reflect the available light and create an illusion of more space.

  4. Get the right vanity and storage options

  Bathroom vanities are a must-have feature and a chance to make a big statement. When picking these elements, you should prioritize options that freshen your bathroom’s aesthetics without taking too much space or being too small. For example, you could opt for a corner sink if you have a tight space or a floating vanity to make your bathroom look larger. On the other hand, a double vanity is a better option for a spacious family bathroom.

  Besides getting the right vanity, you should also have adequate storage options in your bathroom. Consider using floating shelves, organization units below your vanity, and hanging hooks on unused sections of your walls.

  5. Add some luxurious features

  A bathroom remodel is never complete until it has a little sprinkle of luxury in it. This does not mean going overboard with your budget but involves including aesthetically pleasing features in this space. Popular luxurious features you can include in your bathroom are heated towel rails, smart showers, non-slip flooring, heated floors, and wall décor.

  endnote

  It takes the right level of planning and forethought for a successful bathroom remodel, and with these tips, you are guaranteed to give this all-important room a form that complements its function.

  partnered post • photo by R Architecture Melbourne at Unsplash

• 6 Ways to Bring Your Dull Kitchen Space Back to Life

  
  

  A dull and bland kitchen can suck the life out of cooking and hosting gatherings. The grease-stained cabinets, rusty and old-fashioned knobs, chipping wall paint, and ancient appliances give off a dreary vibe. And that can make even the most enthusiastic home cook feel uninspired.

  If your kitchen needs a quick redo, there are many ways to bring it back to life without gutting the whole space and starting from scratch.

  Let’s discuss some easy and budget-friendly ways to add life to your boring kitchen space:

  • Repaint or Reinstall Kitchen Cabinets

  Your kitchen cabinets draw attention without much effort. They’re one of the first things people (especially guests) notice when they enter your kitchen. If your cabinets look shabby, you can either repaint them or reinstall them.

  If you choose to repaint your cabinets, ensure to use paint resistant to grease and water. You don’t want your paint job to start chipping once you use your kitchen again.

  As for reinstalling, look for a kitchen remodeling company in your area that can help you out. It is a bigger project than repainting and will require the help of professionals. You can run a quick Google search by typing the required services to locate experts in your city. For instance, typing “kitchen remodeling Walnut Creek CA” will enable you to approach professionals in Walnut Creek, CA.

  • Polish Your Countertops

  Kitchen countertops come in many different materials – each material sees the end of its lifespan differently. For instance, if you’ve been using a butcher’s knife on your wooden countertop for the past few years, it may have deeply etched scars.

  You can sand these scars and apply a fresh layer of wood finish or paint to make your countertop look new again. Similarly, if your marble countertop has lost its sheen, you can use a polishing agent to make it look shiny and new.

  It’s essential to analyze your countertop material before deciding on a reviving method. You don’t want to damage your countertop beyond repair.

  • Paint the Walls

  Trends in wall colors come and go, but a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your kitchen space. It can brighten up the whole room and make it feel new again. If you’re unsure what color to paint your kitchen, try a light and airy color like blue or green.

  If you prefer making a bolder statement, you can always go for a dark color like black or deep purple. Just ensure the color you choose complements the rest of your kitchen. You don’t want it to clash with your cabinets or countertops. You can also create a captivating focal point by painting one wall a different color from the rest.

  • Update Your Backsplash

  Oil stains and gravy splatters can make your backsplash look gross and dirty. It can be tricky to tackle if you leave it to build up. The best way to avoid this is to clean your backsplash regularly. You can use a degreaser or an all-purpose cleaner to eliminate the grease and grime.

  If you feel nothing you do will reclaim the lost glory of your backsplash, you can always replace it. You can choose from backsplash materials like glass, tile, or stainless steel. You can also sprinkle some creativity and use wallpaper or contact paper. And to avoid making a mess of your kitchen, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.

  • Improve the Lighting

  Have your children complained about the weird burnt taste in the food lately? If so, you might be burning your food while sautéing it without even knowing. The reason for this could be bad lighting in your kitchen.

  If you can’t see what you’re cooking, it’s easy to make mistakes. Not to mention, bad lighting can make your kitchen look dull and dreary. The solution is simple: improve the lighting in your kitchen. You can achieve this by installing new light fixtures or adding more windows.

  You can also use mirrors to reflect light and make your kitchen look brighter. Keep it classy and well under budget by visiting your local flea market for some great finds.

  • Bring in the Greens

  The way plants boost indoor spaces is incomparable. They improve the air quality, make the space look more inviting, and can even help you focus while cooking. If you have a windowsill, start by placing some potted plants there.

  You can also hang plants from the ceiling or place them on shelves. If you’re unsure which plants to get, succulents are always a good choice. They’re low-maintenance and can thrive in most indoor spaces. You can also plant a small herb garden to add freshness to your cooking.

  Parsley, basil, oregano, and mint are some of the easiest herbs to grow indoors. Not only will they make your food taste better, but they’ll also make your kitchen smell amazing.

  Conclusion

  So, instead of giving up and ordering take-out every night, try reviving your kitchen space with one (or all) of these tips. Trust us, your wallet and your taste buds will thank you. And who knows, maybe you’ll even start to enjoy cooking again. 

  partnered post • image by Wallace Chuck from Pexels 

• How to Check for Water, Air & Gas Leaks in Your Home

  

  infographic created by Conway Services, an air conditioning company.

• True Blue Glass: How Much Do New Windows Cost?

  
  

  Windows can make a home more comfortable, light and airy while offering functional purposes such as keeping out the heat and cold. They can only do this when they are in optimal working order. If your windows need replacing, you may be wondering how much they cost. In this post, we'll explain the various factors that can affect the price.

  The importance of quality windows

  When your windows are not up to par, they cannot effectively stop heat from transferring through the pane, so in summer, the heat will come in, and in the winter, the heat will escape. This will result in higher electricity bills as your heating and cooling system has to work harder to maintain a desired temperature inside the home. Older styles of single-paned glass aren't up to today's glass standards, and you'll likely be paying more than you could if you were to install better quality glass. Another reason why the quality of your windows is so important is that they keep your home safe from intruders. While better quality glass won't stop potential thieves altogether, it can deter them. If your glass or windows are broken or provide an easy point of access into your home, this makes your home more vulnerable to thieves as they are more likely to target your home than others with more secure and stronger fitting glass and windows.

  Different types of windows

  Windows don’t just come in a one size fits all type. There are many different types of windows. Here are some of the more common ones:

  • Fixed Pane Windows: Fixed pane windows look like traditional windows, featuring glass and a window frame, however, they do not open.
  • Sliding Windows: This is the most common type of window found in Australian homes. They are two panes positioned in horizontal frames next to each other. Usually, one window can slide to the other side to enable the window to open.
  • Single-Hung Windows: Single-hung windows are another common type of window and they have one pane positioned on top of the other. The lower pane can be lifted to let in air.
  • Double-Hung Windows: Double-hung windows are essentially the same as single-hung windows, the only difference is that you can move both windows.
  • Louvre Windows: Louvres consist of several sections of glass panels that can be adjusted individually to let in light and air.
  • Casement Windows: Casement windows open wide which is great if you want to let a lot of light and airflow into the space.

  How much can quality windows save you?

  By replacing your single-paned windows with high-quality glass, you can save yourself up to $600 a year on your electricity bills. Whilst they do cost more to install, you'll quickly recoup your investment with the long-term savings you will make over the years. This is better for the environment too. If your window frames are in otherwise good condition, you can replace the glass only which can save you some money when upgrading.

  Factors that can affect the price of new windows

  Many things can affect the price of your new windows, here are some of them:

  • How big the windows are
  • Whether you need a frame and glass replacement or pane alone
  • The type of glazing you choose
  • The style of windows
  • The type of framing material you choose (if required)
  • How many windows you are replacing

  How much do new windows cost?

  Here is a breakdown of the average costs of having new windows installed:

  Every glazier and glass company have different rates however, on average, you can expect to pay anything from $70 to $100 per hour for labour costs. Materials and supplies cost extra and will be determined based on the service you are having carried out. The better quality glass, fixings and frames you choose, the most costly it will be. The glazier may offer a slight discount if you are having a bulk number of windows installed at the one time.

  Windows at the cheaper end

  An entry point double glazed window starts at around $150 plus installation costs. This is typically for a small fixed window with basic framing.

  Windows at the higher end

  If you are choosing bigger windows that feature high-quality glass and framing, you can pay up to $1,300 per square metre.

  How much does glass alone cost?

  If you are happy with your framing and you are only looking to upgrade your glass, this can lower the overall cost.

  Here is a general guide to give you a basic idea of what you can expect to pay. Prices typically start from:

  • Float glass: $35-$40 per square metre.
  • Low iron glass: $145- $150 per square metre.
  • Double glazed glass: $200 – $220 per square metre.
  • Low emission glass: $210 – $230 per square metre.
  • Laminated glass: $300 – $330 per square metre.

  What to look out for when hiring someone to install your new windows 

  When choosing your Brisbane Window Installer, it’s important that they do a good job to ensure maximum efficiency and bang for your buck.

  It is always wise to check the credentials of any tradesperson you hire. They should be a qualified, licenced, and insured glazier. This can give you peace of mind that you will end up with a quality finish. All glaziers need to install glass to comply with the relevant Australian Safety Standards (AS1288 and AS2208), for both windows and doors.

  Before choosing a glazier, it is a good idea to ring around to ensure you are getting the best price.

  Installing new windows is beneficial in more ways than one

  New windows can be beneficial in more ways than one! They can help to keep your home more comfortable, reduce your energy bills and make your home more secure from potential theft. You don't only have to wait for your windows to be damaged before replacing them. The initial cost can save you money long-term, making them a worthwhile investment.

  If you have been wanting to get new windows for your home, contact the glass professionals here at True Blue Glass. We service all of South East Queensland and are happy to provide friendly advice on your glass replacement options.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Curtains by Joanne