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• 6 Vital Things to Know Before Starting A Home Improvement Project

  
  

  Do you want to improve or renovate your house but don’t know how to do it? Well, you aren’t alone, as many people want to improve their homes for one or another reason. But rushing into a home improvement process without having a clue of what to expect can cause you much more harm than good. 

  Because you might meet certain unforeseen circumstances in this process, which brings a lot of disappointments. Your budget can get disrupted if you don’t plan out things earlier. So, to avoid all these twists and turns, take a look at some important points you should know to make your home improvement process smoother.

  • Rent a Storage Unit

  When doing a home improvement project, you know that it can be messy and stressful. There's the planning stage, the actual construction work, and then the cleanup afterward. But one way you can make the process a little less hectic is by renting a self-storage unit.

  A self-storage unit can be used to store all of the materials and tools you'll need for your project and any extra furniture or belongings you need to clear out of the way. This will free up space in your home so you can focus on the task at hand and also give you a place to keep your belongings safe and sound during the construction process.

  So if you're planning a home improvement project, be sure to rent a self-storage unit to make the process a little less stressful. For instance, if you reside in Olympia, you can check out Olympia storage units to keep your belongings organized during the home improvement process.

  • Set Realistic Schedule

  Making a schedule is a great way to ensure that all of the necessary tasks are completed promptly and efficiently. By sitting down and mapping out your plan, you can avoid any potential roadblocks and make the most of your time and resources.

  First, take a look at the scope of your project and break it down into smaller tasks. This will help you estimate the amount of time each task will take. Next, factor in time for breaks and interruptions. Don't forget to also account for unexpected delays, such as bad weather or unforeseen problems.

  Once you have a realistic schedule, be sure to add some flexibility to your timeline. This will help you stay on track even if there are some setbacks along the way. You can save time and money by being realistic and flexible with your schedule.

  • Plan Your Budget

  Home improvement projects can quickly get out of hand if you don't plan ahead and set a budget for yourself. That’s why it’s important to have a budget before making home improvements. According to a report, homeowners spent an average of $7,560 on home improvements. But you can spend even less by doing a few simple steps.

  First, you'll need to decide what improvements you want to make. This will give you an idea of what to expect. Next, check out the value of your home. If you're making improvements that will increase the value of your home, you'll need to factor that into your budget. Finally, you'll need to set aside some money for unexpected costs. This is especially important if you're planning on doing any major renovations.

  • Choose the Right Contractor

  The contractor you hired for your home improvement project can make a big difference. Because making improvements in a home is a big undertaking. So you'll have to do your research to find a contractor who is experienced, reliable, and has a good reputation.

  First, you will have to research the contractor's credentials and make sure they are licensed and insured. Then look out for a contractor who is experienced in the type of work you need to be done. Don’t forget to ask around for recommendations and read online reviews before making your final decision.

  Once you have narrowed down your list of potential contractors, you will want to get bids from each one. Be sure to ask for a detailed quote that includes the cost of labor and materials and the contractor's fee. Also, make sure you understand the payment schedule and the terms of the contract before you sign anything.

  • Know Your Goals

  When embarking on a home improvement project, it is important to have a clear understanding of your goals. What are your goals in completing the project? Do you want to increase the value of your home, make it more energy-efficient, or simply make it more comfortable to live in?

  Answering these questions will help you to set realistic expectations for the project. It will also help you determine the best way to achieve your goals. For example, if you're looking to increase the value of your home, you'll want to focus on projects that will make it more desirable to potential buyers.

  • Inspect the Work Regularly

  While home improvement projects can be a great way to add value to your home, they can also be a source of frustration if not done properly. So, remember to inspect the work during the project to ensure that everything is up to your standards. This will ensure that the work is up to your standards and that the job is done correctly. There are a few things you should look for when inspecting the work:

  • Check that the workmanship is up to par.
  • Be sure that the job is done according to the plans.
  • Take pictures of the work as it progresses to inspect the work better.

  If you see any problems, be sure to address them with the contractor right away. By doing regular inspections, you can be sure that your home improvement project is proceeding smoothly and efficiently.

  Before embarking on a home improvement journey, it is critical to be aware of some vital things. Without them, the project could easily become a nightmare. So, make sure to go through the article to get an overview of some of the most important things to know before starting a home improvement project. With this information in hand, you can confidently start your project and enjoy the process.

  partnered post • image from Pexels

• 9 Budget-Friendly Ways to Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal

  

  You could be a homeowner interested in selling your home at the best price. You might even be a homeowner looking to make a few notable changes to increase the long-term value of your home. Whatever you or your reason may be, incorporating a few upgrades to the exterior of your home can dramatically boost its value and overall appearance.

  Sadly, having a high-end-looking home can be tricky, especially if your decorating budget is limited. Fortunately, several effective ways exist to achieve the high-end look you desire, even on a tight budget. So, explore some simple solutions, ranging from a fresh coat of paint and a green landscape to hardwood floors and window treatments. Eventually, you’ll have increased your home’s curb appeal without breaking the bank.

  Let’s see some of the easiest and least expensive ways to increase your home’s curb appeal:

  1. Do a little clean-up outside

  Ensuring your home is as appealing from the outside as it is on the inside is a viable way to entice visitors. Spending time putting away children’s toys, removing junk, and pressure washing porches, sidewalks, and patios will significantly improve the curb appeal. Eliminating clutter, dirt, debris, and personal items you no longer find interest in will reflect well on passersby and those who wish to buy your home.

  Pro-Tip: If you reside in a city with vibrant streets filled with beautiful houses (such as Madison, WI), and your home requires a large amount of decluttering, we have news for you. By spending 0.009 seconds on Google, you can find some of the best storage options to store your belongings in safe and reliable facilities. So, look up ‘Madison WI storage units’ and enjoy peace of mind. 

  Furthermore, you’ll be surprised at how much an effective outdoor clean-up can do to make your home appear more welcoming at first glance.

  2. Try new paint

  Painting the entire house may not be within the budget, but even a gallon of paint can instantly transform your home. Choose a brilliant, captivating color for a splash of color or a neutral tone to make the door, trim, and shudders look fresh as new. 

  Also, repaint the porch or patio railing to get a new, well-maintained appearance. Indeed, new paint can incredibly boost the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor area.

  3. Maintain your lawn

  While we’re on the subject of house exteriors, it’s worth noting that lawn care is an essential aspect of enhancing curb appeal. Maintain your lawn by mowing it, pulling weeds, and raking leaves regularly. To avoid brown spots, keep it well-watered. 

  Lawn care will not become a massive project if you keep up with it. Do you live somewhere dry where grass has a hard time growing? Consider artificial turf or shrub beds as lawn alternatives.

  4. Improve the windows

  Not only is the main front door essential, but so are the windows. If you want to improve the look of the space on a budget, you should clean the exterior windows and doors. Aside from the windows, the particles of dust, spider webs, and dirt on window screens are a common sight that can be unappealing. So please ensure that you wipe them. Use a rag to remove the dust and a block of dish soap and warm water solution to clean the screen. 

  If you’ve been using the same windows for years, replace them with new ones. Nowadays, windows come in a wide range of styles and sizes, making it easy for you to get some on a budget.

  5. Include a seating area

  Rather than using the front porches for stockpiling, try turning them into a seating area. You can move some furniture from the back deck to the front or consider purchasing it from a thrift or vintage store. You can also make seats out of various pieces of wood. 

  A seating area improves the outer space and makes it more functional and enticing. There’s no need to splurge on new furniture when old ones can be painted to look completely new.

  6. Give the mailbox a makeover

  A mailbox significantly adds to a home’s curb appeal, and it is critical that your mailbox complements your home and reflects your character. So, when selecting a mailbox, ensure it complements the rest of your home’s decor. To improve the appearance, you can surround it with a flowering garden or paint the wooden post.

  7. Flowers, trees, or shrubs are essential

  Texture and color can be incorporated into your lawn by adding new shrubs, plants, or flowers. Foliage is an excellent way to impact a small budget significantly. Consult your local garden center to learn about the plants that thrive in your neighborhood, and then work with your established landscaping to bring your space to life. Flowers are also an excellent way to express yourself while improving the house’s curb appeal.

  8. Repair your roof

  The roof serves as the first line of defense against water damage. Likewise, a worn-out roof can detract buyers from your home’s overall appearance and selling value. So, examine your roof for cracked, peeling, or missing shingles, and repair any damaged patches. If you notice moss buildup on your roof or it is more than 20 years old, you should probably replace the shingles or invest in a new roof before listing your home.

  9. Improve or replace outdoor lighting

  Upgrading your existing driveway or porch lights with new energy-saving dawn-to-dusk LED light fixtures will give your home a fresh look. Likewise, giving old outdoor light fixtures a facelift is a simple and cost-effective way to update them. Remove the fixtures and repaint them or retouch them with a fresh coat of spray paint to match the color. Besides, inexpensive landscape lighting can create an inviting, friendly nighttime charm, and a well-lit home provides a feeling of security.

  Conclusion

  Your house exterior is just as crucial as the inside appearance of your home. Ignoring the exterior will make your home appear dull, unkempt, and disorganized from the outside, regardless of how lovely the interior decoration is. So, don’t wait around for someone to tell you how untidy or lousy your home looks from a distance; use these tips to your advantage. With the ways mentioned above, you can make your home look elegant and fantastic on a budget. 

  partnered post • image from Pexels

• 6 Tips for Remodeling Your Bathroom

  
  

  Bathroom remodeling is one of the few renovations that will significantly increase your home’s value. However, remodeling the bathroom can be daunting because you must balance functionality, practicality, and beauty. A bathroom renovation is also time-consuming and costs money. If you are considering taking on a bathroom redo project, here are six tips for an efficient, cost-effective, and incident-free remodeling process. 

  1. Set a budget

  Transforming your bathroom into your desired style is expensive, and the expenses can add up quickly without a budget. For this reason, it is crucial to conduct extensive research on the local custom building expenses, create a reasonable budget and stick to it. To develop a realistic budget, be sure to consider:

  • The amount you are willing to invest
  • Whether you will sell your home within a few years
  • The parts of the bathroom that are most crucial to you
  • Whether you intend to change the plumbed-in material location

  Consider consulting your contractor during the budget-making process to ensure your budget caters to all expenses, including the labor costs and materials. Visit this website to get skilled and reliable contractors who will give you a transparent and well-crafted estimate that indicates the cost of each stage of your remodeling project.

  2. Pick the type of bathroom

  Bathrooms come in various shapes, layouts, and sizes, so before starting your remodeling project, you should evaluate your options to invest in a bathroom type tailored to your needs and pick appropriate finishes. Below are the common types of bathrooms: 

  • Standard bathrooms: These bathrooms feature a shower, bath, or both, toilet, and sink, and are designed to cater to the entire family.
  • A powder room or a half bath: This is a bathing space that only contains a sink and a toilet. 
  • Wet baths: A wet bath is a full bathroom in which the shower is not in separate cubicles or behind the curtain.

  3. Choose suitable flooring

  Most people opt for solid wood floors as they add character to the bathing area. However, wood is not an ideal bathroom flooring due to the steam and water in these spaces. Be sure to prioritize bathroom floor materials like luxury vinyl plank, vinyl tiles, and porcelain and ceramic tiles that can withstand the rigorous daily use of your bathroom. 

  4. Do not overlook bathroom ventilation

  A bathroom is vulnerable to dampness, so you should ensure sufficient ventilation. This does not only protect your family from health complications. It also prevents mold growth which could stain your bathroom or cause costly damage. You could ventilate your bathroom using windows and window vents. Alternatively, invest in exhaust fans to ensure adequate airflow in your bathing space.

  5. Add more storage space

  If you have a small bathroom, adding storage space can enable you to maximize your bathing area’s use and comfort. Consider adding towel hooks and racks, mirror cabinets, in-built linen closets, and floating shelves on your walls to create more space. 

  6. Prioritize bathroom lighting

  Is your bathroom light very dim or concentrated in a single spot? Are the light fittings outdated? Swap the obsolete lighting with new fixtures to increase visibility in vital areas such as the shower and wet areas. Be sure to avoid harsh, blinding lights to minimize accidents. For late-night relaxing baths, consider installing a dimmer switch to incorporate mood.

  Endnote

  Creating your dream bathroom does not have to be expensive and stressful. Set a reasonable budget, choose the right bathroom type and flooring, add ventilation and storage and invest in new lighting to create a bathroom that puts a smile on your face every time you look at it. And never overlook making sure even the invisible fittings are high quality – for example, the shower diverter valve and related plumbing are just as important as visible and stylistic choices!

  partnered post • image from Pixabay

• 6 Ways to Prep Your House for Selling

  

  Upgrade the Exterior

  When a prospective buyer looks at pictures of your house online, they might miss the small details like wear and tear on the exterior. To prevent them from being disappointed when they arrive in person, make the necessary changes on the home’s exterior to give it a fresh new look. You may need to install new roofing and siding depending on how aged they look. This could be expensive, so find ways to cut renovation costs. Negotiate with multiple companies to ensure you get the best work for the most affordable price. If you can’t afford to make both upgrades, you could choose to only upgrade one, or pressure wash the siding and roof to remove unwanted stains. Now when you go to take photos of your home, it’ll look clean and stand out from the rest of the homes on the market. 

  If a complete exterior makeover is too expensive, the next best step is to repaint it. Having a fresh coat of paint will not only look much better in the pictures, but it’ll make your house look newer than the neighboring houses. Some garage doors have their own designs that shouldn’t be painted over, but if possible, re-painting your garage door could make all the difference in the appearance of your home. Some older garage doors are very loud, so consider installing a new garage door system. If the door itself still looks great, you can find replacement motors that make less noise.

  Spruce Up the Landscaping

  The exterior of your home will look much better when complemented by a beautiful landscape. Sprucing up the garden with some lively colors will make your home more inviting when people stop for the open house. If there’s not much in your yard currently, you should consider hiring a landscaping company to add some bushes, flowers, and fresh mulch. This could be a project to do on your own if you have the time, but a landscaping company would be able to do it professionally and quickly so you don’t have to worry about having everything ready in time for house showings.

  Be Prepared to Move Out

  If you’re feeling unsure about all that moving out entails, read our essential guide to the moving process for a few ideas. As far as preparing your current property for sale, you’ll want to move as much as you can out of the house to give it a larger, spacious feel. If you’re still working out the details of moving, be cognizant of the costs. On top of the cost of your new house, you’ll have to pay for a moving truck, moving service, and potential damage to any items during travel. It’s best to pay for moving out of pocket if you have the money, but if you’re tight on cash you could take out a personal loan to cover the expenses. Just make sure you consider these extra costs in addition to your other monthly expenses so you don’t spread yourself too thin. 

  Modernize Outdated Looks

  You might’ve grown accustomed to a certain style in your home, which might not resonate with buyers. Even if you’ve moved out all of your furniture, there are still some style choices you can modernize. The most noticeable change you could make would be to repaint sections of the house. Typically, garish colors like bright pink or orange walls are a bit extreme for most buyers. Pick more neutral, yet inviting colors like beige, or variations of white to give the space a brighter look. Change up the color of baseboards and other trim sections around the house. If these are looking battered and scratched up from the years, they can be replaced without breaking the bank. You could even install them yourself if you have the tools to measure and cut the wood. 

  Another part of the house that could be outdated is the appliances. If the fridge, washing machine, stove, and other essentials are in working order you can get away with leaving them as-is. However, if any of them are older and causing problems, you may need to replace them. At the very least, make sure you have the warranties ready to give to the next owner. 

  Hire a Great Photographer

  The first impression buyers will have is looking at pictures of your home on their computer screen. Hiring a photographer ensures that you’re getting the best angles and lighting to help your listing stand out from the others. If you have a high quality standalone camera or have a great one built into your phone, you could have a go at it on your own. However, professional photographers have experience with knowing exactly what photos to take in and around the house. The cost of a photographer compared to the overall cost of buying a new house is minimal, so it’s up to you how much you want to spend. 

  Get an Inspection

  Depending on where you live and the real estate agents involved, getting an inspection is absolutely necessary. Even if it’s legal to forgo an inspection, the buyer’s real estate agent will most likely want to significantly reduce the asking price to account for potential problems with the house. If you want to make moving stress-free, get an inspection to avoid any issues. You want to walk away from your old home satisfied with the selling price so you can feel more financially confident moving into your new home.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Tony Mariotti

• Landscaping Ideas for Your Backyard

  
  

  Designing a backyard can seem like a big job, especially working with a large area. Luckily, it's easy to handle if you have a good plan. As a part of your home, the backyard requires the same attention and care as any other part of your house. Treat it as the foundation for all of your future outdoor spaces before you get started on any major renovations. Before working on it, you need to have a clear vision of your ideal outdoor space. Do you want modern or traditional? Do you want a space for entertaining or a place to relax and unwind?

  So if you are struggling with what to do with your backyard, here are some easy and inexpensive landscaping ideas to get you started:

  Start with a Fresh Canvas

  Take a good look at your backyard. What do you like about it? Is it the flowers blooming in the spring? The shady trees that provide relief from the summer sun? The colorful leaves in the fall? That algae-riddled koi pond?

  Once you know what to keep and let go of, the possibilities begin to take shape. Now is the time to get rid of what you don't like. Sometimes the best way to get started is with a clean slate. It might be time to start from scratch if your backyard is full of old, faded furniture and overgrown plants. You can find some fantastic deals on patio furniture and plants at your local home improvement store or online. You can transition from a weathered concrete planter to a luxurious marble planter, from a rusted bistro set to a beautiful wicker patio set.

  If you're feeling ambitious, you can even replace your old concrete patio with a new stone patio or deck. It will give you a new outdoor space to work with and make your backyard stand out.

  Think Multi-Purpose

  When landscaping your backyard, it's essential to think about how you want to use the space. Do you want to unwind at home? Do you want a place to entertain your friends and family? Do you want a space for your children to tumble or play? 

  Once you know how you want to use your backyard, you can start to design it accordingly. If you want a relaxing place, you might want to add a hammock or an outdoor daybed. Adding a fire pit or a built-in outdoor kitchen is perfect for a friend and family gathering spot.

  And if you're landscaping for your kids, add fun elements like a sandbox or a treehouse. Storage benches are also great for hiding away outdoor toys.

  Plant a Fruit and Vegetable Garden

  Let's get organic! You can skip your endless trips to the grocery store (and save some money) by planting your fruit and vegetable garden. Decide what fruits and vegetables you want to grow. Will it be the crowd-cheering tomatoes or the family-favorite zucchini? Maybe you want to try something new, like goji berries or dragon fruit.

  Designing your beds, preparing the soil, and planting seeds or seedlings can be a fun weekend project for the whole family. And there's nothing more satisfying than watching your garden grow and then being able to enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor.

  A Pool is All You Need

  When the sun mercilessly bakes your skin, and the only relief is a cold glass of lemonade, all you can think about is taking a refreshing dip in the pool. If you're lucky enough to have a pool, take advantage of it! If not, now might be the time to invest in one.

  A pool is a great addition to any backyard. It provides a place to cool off on hot summer days, it can be a beautiful focal point, and it can even increase the value of your home. Adding a few simple landscaping features to your pool area can make it stand out. Add potted plants, a few lounge chairs, and a poolside bar.

  The Pergola Magic

  Have you admired the classic backyard setting of country villas with their elegantly draped fabrics and inviting shade? You can achieve that same look in your backyard with a pergola. A pergola is a garden structure with an open roof of evenly spaced beams. You can find pergolas made of wood, metal, or even PVC. They're relatively easy to assemble and can be customized to fit your backyard space.

  Glam up your pergola by adding some fabric drapes or hanging plants. You can even string some fairy lights across the beams for a magical touch.

  Find Room for Colors

  There's nothing like adding some color to your backyard with the sweet-smelling, vibrant peonies, the delicate lavender, and the beautiful sunflowers. The natural hues of the trees, grass, and flowers can add some life to your space.

  And don't forget about adding some color in other ways, too. Consider painting your fence or garden shed, adding some brightly colored outdoor furniture, or even hanging some colorful lanterns. The idea is to draw the eye and add some interest to your backyard. So have fun with it! If you've the time and green thumb, you could even try growing a colorful flower garden.

  The Chic Modern Patio

  The modern patio is all about clean lines and minimalism. Think sleek outdoor furniture, a simple color scheme, and a few well-placed plants. Shades of subtle gray, white, and black can make your patio pop, and don't forget about the flooring! A modern patio typically features concrete or stone flooring. But if you want something different, you could try using large format tiles or even outdoor carpet.

  You’ll want to revitalize the space by incorporating lamp posts, bollards, and string lights. For plants, try using large pots or raised beds. And don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and textures.

  Conclusion

  There is no limit to what your genius mind stirs up for your backyard landscape. After all, it is your paradise where you can enjoy quality time with family and friends or spend some quiet time. Moreover, you can teleport your backyard to any destination in the world with a few simple changes. So whether you want a classic English garden, a modern patio, or a tropical oasis, the choice is yours.

  partnered post • image by Max Vakhtbovych / Pexels

• 4 Ways to Prevent Basement Flooding

  
  

  Flooding and unexpected water levels are some of the biggest concerns among homeowners, particularly those with basements. These areas are usually susceptible to flooding during a heavy rainstorm, or the spring defrost. If your basement is not adequately covered, you might end up dealing with water damage or even expensive repairs. Fortunately, you can take a few steps to help reduce or prevent the risk of flooding. Here are some ways to prevent your basement from water and avoid flooding.

  1. Seal your basement

  One of the best ways to flood-proof your home is to seal the basement. Sealing your basement can help keep water away and guard your home against moisture damage, which can foster flood protection. You may seal up your basement using a commercial sealant or waterproofing layer.

  Cover any noticeable openings and cracks in your basement walls and floor, and add fresh covering around the basement doors, windows, and hatchways. However, if your basement walls leak in water, you might need to call a basement waterproofing company like Direct Waterproofing.

  2. Clean and maintain your gutters and downspouts

  If your home has gutters and downspouts systems, ensure they drain water properly away from your home. Clogged or blocked gutters can result in water overflowing and down the wall of your property, eventually getting into the basement. Clean gutters and properly positioned downspouts will allow the free flow of rain or storm water, preventing it from flooding against your home walls.

  Your downspouts should pour water at least three feet from the foundation, but you may need to use a downspout extension or trough to attain this distance. Ensure you direct the water towards the graded lawn to prevent it from flowing back to your outside walls.

  3. Install a sump pump

  You may need to invest some money in prevention to avoid spending a lot on repairs. Installing an automatic sump pump can help keep water from heavy rainfall away and prevent basement flooding. Sump pumps act as a large floor drain, drawing any water out of your basement or the surrounding foundation and diverting it to a safe place.

  Automatic sump pumps will start up automatically should the first one goes off, enhancing efficiency. For instance, a battery-powered sump pump kicks on if the power goes out, making the first one futile.  

  4. Inspect and repair walls and foundation cracks

  Cracks in your home's foundation can make your basement vulnerable to water leaks. To prevent water damage and basement flooding, regularly inspect the exterior of your foundation, floors, and basement walls. If you notice any cracks in the basement walls or foundation, get them fixed immediately since these cracks can become bigger, leading to basement flooding.

  You can fix the cracks yourself, but you must ensure you have the right tools to get a permanent solution. However, if the foundation is beyond your skill or leaking persists, call a professional for help.

  endnote

  Being a proactive homeowner is the best way to protect your home from significant damage, including flooding, fire damage, or mold growth. As with any other room in your house, you should regularly inspect your basement foundation, floor, and walls. This will help you catch minor fixable issues before they cause flooding in your basement. 

  partnered post • image from Pexels

• Red flags to look out for when buying furniture

  

  Buying furniture is as much about comfort as it is about the design. Of course, you want it to fit in with your decor and the rest of the room, but you will also want it to be usable and hard-wearing. 

  Furniture can be a good investment if you know what to look for. Here, then, are some of the red flags to keep an eye out for for when you are in the market for furniture. 

  The maker of the furniture

  When considering buying any furniture, take a look at the maker first and do your research if you are unsure. Companies such as the Modern Furniture Company, a leading Bontempi furniture supplier in the UK, are known for luxury pieces. 

  It doesn’t matter if the piece is new or used, you can still get a history of the furniture maker and see if they have a reputation for quality. This may mean a little research on your part, but in the long run, it will be worth it. 

  What is the suspension like?

  You can tell a lot about the quality of furniture by the suspension used to make it. Some types are of lower quality than others or are unsuitable for the purpose they are being used. 

  • Webbing uses lengths of material that are woven together. While this can be durable, it is also prone to stretching or ripping if there is too much weight. Webbing can be ok for small pieces such as chairs and barstools but will stretch and sag on larger pieces. 
  • Sinuous springs are curved pieces of wire that stretch from one side to the other. They are prone to bending and snapping, so are only useful for chair backs. It is cheap to use and fit so you should consider that it is a poorly built piece of furniture. 
  • 8-way hand-tied uses big springs that are tied together with twine. This is a comfortable suspension that can be used in sofas and armchairs. It is also strong and hard-wearing so will last a long time. 
  • Pocket coil is the ultimate in suspension. It is used in sofas, chairs and mattresses and uses hundreds of small coils that are all in their own pocket and then sewn together to form one piece. The pocket coil is supportive and comfortable across the whole surface. 

  Lightweight can be bad

  Although some high-quality furniture will use light metals and other materials, this is usually the exception. Lighter furniture generally means that the materials used are less supportive and not so hard-wearing. 

  Whether it is chairs, cushions, or any other type of furniture, you need to check the weight first. If it has a weight to it, then the chances are that high-quality materials were used to create it. 

  The lighter the furniture is, the more it may deform or deteriorate over time compared to high-quality items made from strong materials. 

  When leather isn’t leather

  Many companies will claim that their furniture has leather, but it isn’t the same as real leather. What is often called ‘bonded leather’ is actually leather pulp that is flattened and fixed to a polyurethane backing. 

  You can often tell if something is real leather or fake because fake leather has a uniformity to its patterning while real leather doesn’t. You can also find a distinctive smell in real leather that cannot be copied with fake leather. Lastly, real leather will have a coarse suede feel to it. If the back has a fabric feel, then it is fake. 

  If you are looking for real leather, then look for terms such as full-grain or top-grain to show it’s real. If you see 100% leather everywhere your body touches, this means that the sides and back are likely bonded leather. 

  You need a solid frame

  Luxury sofas and chairs are built on a sturdy frame that is designed to withstand all the rigours of use. This is done using the best hardwoods along with blocking at the corners and tight-fitting joins using double doweling. 

  It can be hard to spot a sofa or chair with a weak frame, but there is one sign that will show you. Apart from the weight (luxury furniture will be heavy), you can also lift one of the front feet. You want the opposite foot to rise slightly after the one you are holding. This shows minimal flexing. If it takes a while or doesn’t lift at all, then it's flexing too much. 

  Conclusion

  Looking for quality furniture is worth the additional time it will take. You will want to know that you are buying something that will probably last for many years – and these tips can help you ensure exactly that.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Jordanhill School

• 5 home DIY projects you can attempt on the June bank holiday

  
  

  When the bank holidays come around, many people decide that is the best time to get creative and start their latest DIY project. Although not all of them go smoothly, it is a kind of tradition that has built up over time. 

  If you are in the mood for a project but can't decide, here are five DIY projects that you might try over the course of the June bank holiday. 

  • Give your kitchen cupboards a makeover

  If your kitchen cupboards have seen better days, then the bank holiday could be the perfect opportunity to give them a revamp that will make them look modern and beautiful.  All you need is some primer, paint or sticky-backed plastic, and some glue such as that available from Adkwik.

  Make sure that the surfaces of your cupboards are properly prepared before you begin painting. You can go along with the current theme of the kitchen, or change it up and redecorate the rest later. 

  • Show the garden some love

  Chances are you might not have done too much in the garden over the winter. The leaves and overgrown weeds will need your attention along with cleaning the outside furniture ready for the summer BBQ. 

  Don’t do too much at one time, spread it out over a couple of days so that you don’t feel too exhausted. This is also a good time to look at adding more plants or changing existing ones for something new. 

  • Declutter one room

  If you or someone you live with is a bit of a hoarder, then you can quickly find yourself surrounded by piles of unwanted things. To help free some space, why not spend the bank holiday decluttering one room in your house? 

  It doesn’t matter which room it is, but you will feel so much better once the room is cleared. You can then think about which room you can do next time. 

  • Regrout your tiles

  Grouting can get dirty and dry out over time, leaving gaps or unsightly lines on your tiles. The process of regrouting isn’t as bad as it sounds. You just need to first use a grout rake to get out all of the old grouting, and a brush to make it clean. 

  You can then either use ready-made grout or make it up yourself and use a grout float to smooth it over the tiles. It can take a few days to a couple of weeks to fully dry out, but you can clean up the tiles when you have finished to give a good final result. 

  • Make some presents

  Whether it's for a birthday or starting early for Christmas, making your own gifts is a lovely thing to do. It shows you care and has the advantage of allowing you to create a unique gift that will remind the recipient of you. 

  What gifts you decide to make depends on your own creativity, but whatever it is, remember where you put them so that they don’t get lost before the big day. 

  Conclusion

  Starting a project over the June bank holiday will leave you with a sense of achievement and pride in your creativity – so why not give one of the above home DIY ideas a go?

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Charlotte Holmes

• 5 Popular Summer Blooms to Make Your Home Pop

  
  

  Whether you’re trying to sell your home quickly or you simply want to upgrade your home’s exterior, upgrading your home’s curb appeal is a smart investment in its value and livability. And there’s not much that’ll make your home pop more than planting some colorful, eye-catching blooms that brighten your summer. 

  Take a look at these five popular summer-blooming flowers and consider adding them to your home’s garden and landscaping. They’ll brighten up your property beautifully. Flowers are also a great way to stage your home’s exterior, raising that curb appeal and helping you sell your home yourself more quickly. 

  1. Zinnias

  Available in bright and cheery hues of red, pink, orange, yellow, purple, and more, the humble zinnia is an annual with a strong shape and profile, as well as intense hues to elevate your garden into a lush oasis. Because it’s an annual, you’ll have to plant them again in a year, but their stunning beauty is worth the extra effort. 

  As a bonus, zinnias attract bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies to your garden. They’re also a great choice for vibrant arrangements of cut flowers. Just remember to start cutting with the center blooms first. That way you can enjoy their beauty while still encouraging the plant to sprout more blooms. 

  2. Bougainvillea 

  These bright, vivid blooms may first launch into full blossom in spring, but they’ll often last well into summer. Once in full bloom, they love to climb and burst forth into intense shades of red and fuchsia in large, lush clusters. Put them near trellises or fences to give them somewhere to go. They look great and grow well in large containers, too, making them one of the most flexible summer flowering plants around. 

  On the other hand, they don’t tend to do well outside their ideal climate, which typically sees low temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Bougainvillea plants love the warm summer sun! 

  3. Sunflowers

  If you’re working in a sunny spot and looking to make a big statement with your summer blooms, why not plant sunflowers? These beautiful, cheerful blooms make a huge impact on your yard and garden and they’ll never fail to bring a smile to the face of anyone lucky enough to spot them. Best of all, they’re fairly easy to grow and low-maintenance, making them an ideal choice for beginning gardeners. You will, however, need to keep an eye out for damage done by squirrels and birds seeking out those tasty seeds. 

  The original sun worshippers, do best in full sunlight so that their bright daisy-like faces can follow the sun’s path throughout the day. With a peak blooming period of anywhere between eight and twelve weeks, they’ll be around for you to enjoy for a huge chunk of the summer. Remember that sunflowers tend to grow fairly tall—most standard varieties can easily reach ten feet or more!—so look for a place in the rear of your garden or yard if possible, so that they don’t obstruct your view of smaller blooms and ground cover plants. 

  4.  Hydrangeas

  A lush bloom that’s not afraid to take up space, hydrangeas can show up either pink or blue (or lavender). The difference? Believe it or not, it’s the soil’s pH levels! When the plant’s soil is more acidic, the blooms tend towards shades of blue and pale purple. If the soil is more alkaline, however, the blooms tend to be pink. 

  You can find lots of different varieties to choose from if you like the overall look and shape of hydrangeas. If you’re new to growing hydrangeas, consider the Endless Summer variety. It does well in a range of light exposures, from full sun to light shade. Bonus: they produce a very pleasing scent that can heighten your enjoyment of these lovely flowers. 

  5. Larkspur

  Also known as delphinium, larkspur produces tall, stately plants with brilliantly colored cone-shaped blooms. These perennials prefer full sun and slightly cooler summer climates. Given those optimal conditions, larkspur can reach three to four feet in height. That means they’ll tower over the floor of your garden bed, so keep that in mind when planning out your garden. Also, due to that height and the general structure of the plants, they tend to appreciate some supportive structures to help them stand up straight. 

  Larkspur is a perennial, and as such, they’ll come back year after year with proper conditions and good care. If you cut those first blooms early, you can even get a second blooming to grace your garden before the summer’s over. 

  partnered post by Annie Sisk • cc-licensed image

• How Do You Beat The Summer Heat?

  

  The long-awaited summer is finally here. The weather is beautiful, the days are longer, and there’s so much to do. However, there’s the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke. You'll have to find ways to beat the heat and stay cool all summer long.

  Escaping the heat with everyday responsibilities is a challenge but don't worry; you're covered. Here are tips on how to beat the heat this summer:

  Make Your Indoors Comfortable

  Staying indoors becomes your only option when it's too hot out there. However, that doesn't mean you have to be miserable. There are plenty of ways to make your indoors comfortable to enjoy your summer without stepping outside.

  First, keep your windows and curtains closed during the day to prevent the heat from coming in. If you have a ceiling fan, make sure it's running counterclockwise to push the hot air up and out. You can also use a portable or oscillating fan to circulate the air.

  Another way to keep cool is by using a humidifier. It adds moisture to the air, which will make it feel cooler. Most importantly, use an air conditioner. It's a sure way to keep the indoor temperatures low. Before it gets too hot, book an inspection and a tune-up service. If the unit is not working properly, look for AC repair in Anderson service or your locality.

  Wear the Right Clothing

  The type of clothing you wear can also make a difference in how you feel. When it's hot, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothes. Natural fabrics such as linen, cotton, and silk are your best bet as they are breathable and will keep you cool. 

  Avoid synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester as they trap heat. If you have to be outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat or a scarf to protect your head and face from the sun. Darker colored clothes absorb more heat. Stick to light colors.

  Use Sunscreen

  When outdoors, always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. It will protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply every two hours or more often if you're sweating a lot. If going for a swim, choose a waterproof sunscreen. Wear clothes with a UPF rating to provide additional protection.

  Limit Your Time in the Sun

  One of the best ways to prevent heat-related illnesses is to limit time in the sun. If you have to be outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible. Take frequent breaks and go indoors when you start to feel too hot. Most importantly, avoid being in the sun during the peak hours, which are usually between 10 am and 4 pm. Run errands and do outdoor activities early in the morning or later when it's cooler.

  Drink Lots of Fluids

  When it's hot, your body perspires more to cool itself down. You'll lose fluids and electrolytes, which need a replacement. The best fluids to drink are water and electrolyte drinks.

  Avoid sugary drinks, alcoholic beverages, and caffeine, as they can make you feel more dehydrated. Take at least eight glasses of water a day and more if you're sweating a lot. When outdoors, always carry a bottle of water with you.

  In addition, beat the heat by using ice. Fill a basin with cold water and ice cubes, and soak your feet for a few minutes. You can also put a damp cloth in the freezer for a few minutes and then apply it to your skin, cooling you down quickly.

  Beat the Heat

  Taking steps to stay cool and hydrated prevents heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, limit your time in the sun, and take cool baths or showers. You'll enjoy the summer much more when you beat the heat.

  partnered post • client image from Pexels