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• Zero Waste: How to Get the Most From the Products You Buy

  
  

  No one likes to waste their money, especially wealthy people. They didn’t get rich by foolishly throwing their money away. Some of the most affluent people in the world are also among the most frugal. Conversely, some of the biggest spenders of luxury and semi-luxury items are the people who can least afford them. For the sake of fashion and popularity, many people are walking around with the latest iPhone when a midrange Android for a third the price would serve them just as well if not better. 

  Zero waste is not just a useful mantra for saving money. It is also the focus of saving the ecosystem which is precariously balanced on a blade’s edge. It is hard to predict what kind of planet our grandchildren will inherit because we have a mix of eco-conscious and eco-hostile people setting policies that will affect us for decades to come. We can only hope that the future is more promising than the present. These are some of the more obvious areas where waste carries a huge cost. Here are a few other ways reducing waste increases our quality of life:

  Reuse

  One of the ways we waste both money and planetary resources is by using things just once and then throwing them away. How many paper towels do you use to clean up the average spill? When you are done, what do you usually do with those paper towels? If you are like most people, it is a good handful, then you throw them away. 

  The good news is that you can buy bamboo paper towels that are reusable up to 85 times. That’s amazing. Frankly, it is hard to imagine even wanting to reuse a paper towel. Just thinking about the awful mess that is now covering the towel makes you feel like it is a lost cause. In fact, all you have to do is toss it in the wash just like a filthy garment and it comes out of the dryer looking, feeling, and smelling like new. Imagine only having to buy 2 rolls of paper towels a year. That’s the power of reusability. Both your wallet and the planet will thank you.

  Good to the Last Drop

  How many products do you buy and can’t completely deplete because it is all but impossible to get the last of it out of the jar, bottle, or tube in a useful way? You will be happy to know that toothpaste no longer needs to be one of them. By ditching toothpaste tubes for toothpaste tablets, you can use all of it without wasting a single drop.

  You just take out a single tablet from an easy to dispense jar and chew. From there, just brush your teeth with a wet toothbrush like always and enjoy the minty, clean feeling you get from the foaming action and cleansing ingredients. You can bet those ingredients are all natural and safe. One of the best things about this product is that you don’t have to throw any portion of it away. It is usable to the last tablet. Even if you have become a master of getting the most from a tube, you have to be something of a toothpaste ninja. Now you can leave all that behind. Because toothpaste tablets are so easy and convenient, you will probably find yourself brushing even more. 

  Restore It

  If you have a couch and you drink red wine, then you likely already know a few of the top tips for cleaning red wine from a fabric couch. But what happens if you, with the help of your pet, manage to get a tear in that fabric? Don’t throw it out. Repair it. Tossing out rather than restoring old tech is killing the planet in an even more dramatic fashion than furniture. We tend to keep furniture for a long time. But computers have many harmful elements in them and when they start to get slow, we just buy a new one because they are so cheap. By repairing and restoring, we could keep computers active well over 5 years. 

  All waste is bad whether it is a waste of time, money, or effort. Let’s save all of the above by reusing, using all of what we buy, and restoring what we can. 

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Peter Kaminski

• What are the Two Types of Touch Screen?

  

  When you first start to look into touch screens, you’re probably thinking, ‘It has a screen, and I can interact with it through touch. It’s a touch screen!’ 

  For most users, there’s no need to put more thought into it. Many consumers will buy a touch screen device simply because it’s beautiful and functional, without considering different touch screen types.

  Business owners, however, should know a little more before investing in touch screen technology. After all—you don’t want to splurge on an enormous new touch screen display for your shop front, only to find out it doesn’t offer the functions your business needs.

  You may have noticed that some touch screens work with a finger, stylus, or any other vaguely finger-shaped input device you can think of—while other screens won’t accept input at all unless you use your finger (and make sure it’s not wet!).

  Different devices accept different kinds of input because there are several kinds of touch screen, each with unique limitations. The two main types of touch screen are capacitive touch screens and resistive touch screens.

  This article will discuss the differences between the two types and highlight how businesses might use them.

  Resistive touch screens

  Resistive touch screens are the simplest type of touch screen available on the market today. A resistive screen comprises two pliable plastic sheets separated by a narrow gap. When a user interacts with the screen and presses in on the top sheet, it closes the gap, causing the two sheets to come into contact. This interaction completes the electrical circuit.

  Resistive touch screens are pressure sensitive—this means that the pressure you place upon the screen will determine whether or not it detects your input. Some screens are more sensitive than others. While one screen may not register a quick swipe across the screen, others may react to even the slightest touch.

  Because resistive touch screens react to physical input, it doesn’t matter whether you use a finger, stylus, pencil, or another blunt-ended object. You’ll find resistive touch screens used for shopping centre kiosk displays, ATMs, and handheld video game devices.

  Capacitive touch screens

  The other primary type of touch screen is the capacitive touch screen. Rather than detecting pressure, these screens work because of the human body’s electrical properties. When your finger comes into contact with the device, it changes the screens’ electrostatic field. 

  Because capacitive touch screens rely on conductivity, interacting with them via a gloved hand, pencil, or basic stylus won’t work. It’s also why you might notice inconsistencies when using your smartphone or tablet with slightly wet hands.

  Capacitive touch screens feature a durable glass surface, making them better options for businesses that favour longevity. If you are installing interactive digital screens outdoors, a capacitive screen is the better choice.

  Conclusion

  The two main types of touch screen are resistive and capacitive. Resistive screens are the more versatile choice, while capacitive screens boast greater durability. The kind of screen you choose will depend on your business’s unique needs and priorities.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Ross Mayfield

• Top 10 Qualities of a Good Plumber

  
  

  In this article, you will read about ten essential qualities that every plumber should have. When you invite a plumber to your house, you might want to choose the best specialist. But how to make sure that they are a real professional whom you can trust? You will find the check-list of the things we at 5 Star plumbing consider must-haves for every pro plumber.

  1. Practice

  The majority of plumbing tasks are rather hard to do. That is why a major experience is needed. To fix the leakage, flood results, or cracks in pipes, a specialist should know exactly what and when to do. Usually, such situations should be resolved immediately, and there is no time for thinking. All actions should be trained and become automatic. That is one of the things that makes a plumber professional;

  2. Certification

  However, it is not possible to find out how experienced a plumber is when calling him for the first time. But one thing which you can always demand is certification. Licensing is a document that verifies the knowledge and experience of a plumber. It is absolutely normal to ask a specialist to provide this kind of proof. What is more important, only plumbers who have a valid certification provides a warranty in case something will be damaged during their work;

  3. Positive Reviews

  When searching for a plumber on some websites, do not forget to have a look at the reviews section. If a specialist has a lot of comments and his rating is high, it means that they are reliable. It is not essential for all reviews to be positive. At least you will know what exactly has gone wrong and make a decision whether this situation disturbs you or not;

  4. Willingness to Communicate and Politeness 

  The communication with a plumber should be smooth and easy. A good specialist will make everything possible to answer all your questions in a polite way and will not use many confusing notions. It is a bad sign if a plumber seems rude while chatting or making a phone call. Pay attention to the fact that it should be easy for you to understand what they are talking about and what the reason for the problem is. Otherwise, it will be impossible for you to control the situation;

  5. Full Equipment

  A good plumber usually has everything he might need when coming to the client's house. It can be challenging to understand which instruments exactly will be needed, but an experienced specialist can guess by a short description in a text message or a phone call. Such a plumber will not make you wait for him to borrow some additional instruments that they have forgotten to take with them—in contrast, having solved a wide range of problems, a specialist should know what to take with you. 

  6. Constantly Available Services 

  Nowadays, some companies are ready to help you with an emergency problem 24 hours a day. It may be difficult to find a self-employed specialist who is ready to fix the leakage at two AM, but it is possible if you call a company that provides plumbing services. Anyway, this option is an advantage of a modern services sector;

  7. Good Physical Condition

  In addition, a plumber should keep fit. In some cases, it is crucial to be in your best physical condition to work under sinks or on the roof. Sometimes a plumber can be injured if they are not prepared enough; 

  8. Competency

  A well-informed plumber is the one who can reveal a reason for the problem easily. There are various situations, but a competent and experienced specialist always has ideas of what may be wrong. You can understand how knowledgeable a plumber is by asking for his certification and judging by the working process. If a simple task takes too long to be solved, it might be a sign that a plumber is not sure about his own actions. 

  9.  Trustworthy Specialist

  If you have picked up a professional plumber, you can rely on them. It means that they will be responsible not only for doing a great job but also for finishing it on time and in one day. On the contrary, it may be irritating if a plumber comes to your house not completely prepared for fixing a problem and does not have all the necessary instruments with them. In this case, repair work can be extended to the next few days, which is not the best news for every homeowner. 

  10. Ability to Make Decisions Quickly

  It is undeniable that some problems concerning plumbing systems must be solved immediately. Therefore, a professional plumber should be able to make a decision quickly. Usually, they are used to acting quickly. They are not just physically prepared to work in tight spaces and take an uncomfortable pose but also have good coordination and know how to make a conceived solution real.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Clement127

• The Best Houseplants For Busy People

  
  

  Most people are busy – they have work to get to, families to look after, and hundreds of other commitments to deal with. It can be hard to find time to do everything, especially the less important things, such as looking after plants.

  It should be noted that plants are a worthwhile addition to any home. They are very effective at purifying the air and can make you feel more positive about life in general. Having them in your home is a good thing, but you need to choose your plant wisely. That means using a high-quality supplier like Foli8. They won’t just help you to choose the right plants, they can guide you through looking after the plants and how easy some are. 

  Of course, it can help to know what you’re looking for. The following houseplants are great for your home if you’re busy and don’t have much time to look after them.

  Cactus

  Cacti are succulents. This means they are very good at retaining moisture in their leaves. They rarely need to be watered and they enjoy the bright sunshine. This means you can position them in a window or even outdoors on a balcony and leave them to grow.

   

  Aloe Vera

  This is another succulent, making it difficult to kill it. The plant is green with paler green and white dashes on the leaves. It does have sharp pints which you’ll want to be careful of. The plant likes direct sunlight and doesn’t need to be watered often.

  The best approach is to put a finger in the soil. If the soil is dry for the first couple of inches its time to add some more water 

  Air Plants

  There are many different types of air plants but they are all very easy to look after. They don’t need any soil. These plants absorb moisture and nutrients from the air. All you have to do is find a nice spot for them and spray the roots once a week to ensure they are moist. Other than that, these plants take care of themselves!

  Cheery Echeveria

  This is another succulent that is used to the desert. They also adore the sunlight and will be grateful for a position in a sun-drenched window. They must have good drainage to prevent water from sitting on their roots and causing root rot. As such, they’ll only need watering once a month, when the soil feels completely dry.

  Ivy

  Ivy is fast growing and trails everywhere, making it a popular option for many households. You don’t have to do much to look after this plant. Position them with indirect sunlight. They don’t like direct sun as it burns their leaves. But they do like indirect sunlight as opposed to dark and shady corners. 

  You’ll want to water them once a week and don’t saturate the soil, they generally prefer drier environments and need minimal care.

  Almost any plant can be killed if you never water it. But, the above plants take a lot of work to kill. That should help you to have the satisfaction of keeping them alive.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Dave Hosford

• 5 DIY Tips to Improve Your Front Yard Aesthetics

  
  

  With the smell of fresh strawberries swirling in the air and the sound of birds returning from their winter migration, summer is almost upon us. As you consider a change of wardrobes, it may also be a good idea to consider uplifting, cleaning, and improving your home’s curb appeal.

  For the majority, home improvements like these are synonymous with outdoor DIY projects. You, too, can easily enhance your front yard’s beauty without employing landscape professionals that exist outside your budget. If you can spare some time and creativity, you can do wonders. Are you searching for inspiration to boost your front yard landscaping? Well, here we provide some helpful tips just for that reason. If you want your home to possess the best yard on the block, keep on reading. 

  Regardless of your landscaping needs, you can find plenty of ideas catering to those needs. For instance, if you have a green thumb, you can try planting evergreens or hydrangea bushes. Perhaps, if you’re more into regularly updating your porch, you can try putting up some vibrant buntings or plants to the railings. Moreover, there are options for all the DIY freaks, such as creating a stone pathway and adding a concrete birdbath that adds depth to your outdoor scenery. With the following additions, you can make your front and backyard equally stunning.

  Light It Up

  Besides being one of the most aesthetically-pleasant home improvements, lighting features also increase your yard’s safety as they provide visibility after dark. Some brilliant lighting options comprise string lights, solar lights, and LED lights. 

  If you want to take it a step further, consider adding accent lighting along your front yard’s pathways. It’s also a great idea to place lights in your greenery for illumination and an instant aesthetic makeover.

  Refresh Your Existing Landscape

  Look for and eliminate any overgrown, encroaching, and invasive plants or trees. Sometimes, you’ll also have to remove roots that may be clinging to your sidewalk and hindering your plumbing. If you don’t want to hire a tree-trimming service and want to approach this as a solo endeavor, then prefer purchasing the best secateurs for the job.

  Also, look after your hedges with weekly haircuts and proper hydration. You can either accomplish this job as a DIY project or employ a landscape designer/contractor’s services for guaranteed results.

  Check Your Mail (box)

  Review the degree of ease with which one can locate your mailbox. Suppose a petty thief is cruising by the neighborhood at night. In that case, if your mailbox is near your home’s front or in rough condition, it could be an easy target. Indeed, nobody wants their essential documents or bills in a thief’s hands because of such naivety.

  You can also review it from a design perspective. For example, a rustic, cast iron mailbox would blend more with a gothic structure than a modern design. Changing your mailbox is the quickest and easiest way to improve your front yard’s appeal.

  Revamp Your Outdoor Seating

  Generally, furniture add-ons are the easiest way to enhance your outdoor design while simultaneously improving your yard’s overall functionality. So, to breathe new life into your house’s design scheme, rethink your outdoor seating furniture. For instance, you can choose from cushions with vividly-colored patterns to gorgeous hand-painted furniture. 

  A bright, comfortable, and well-positioned seating space can be an appealing centerpiece for your yard. You’ll be surprised to see how such an area can draw everyone’s attention towards it.

  Plant Some Popping Bushes

  Most gardening connoisseurs consider rose brushes as the most classic addition to any home. In addition to their heavenly smell and appearance, the knockout rose bushes are easy to look after, i.e., without any hassle. Moreover, you can add evergreens for a pop of color to your outdoor space. For this purpose, you can choose from different species of conifers, including pine, blue spruce, red cedar, and hemlock.

  To Summarize

  The COVID-19 lockdown brings you a new opportunity every day for nurturing your productivity and creativity. However, undertaking front yard landscaping is an excellent idea to capitalize on these opportunities. Simple changes like a coat of fresh paint and adding some shrubbery to your outdoor space can elevate your curb appeal by magnitudes. This article discussed nifty tips to improve your front yard’s aesthetics. These included adding lighting fixtures, planting rose bushes or evergreens, revamping your outdoor furniture.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Alexandr Podvalny 

• ‌What to look for when hiring Australian construction contractors

  
  

  Part of the 21st-century world is construction projects. Whether it is a commercial or a simple home improvement project hiring a professional contractor is the way for most people, and we say why not? Professional construction contractors are not only experienced but also equipped to handle those projects. All you have to do is find one qualified to meet your expectations and hire them for the task. 

  While it all seems like a walkover, in theory, hiring a contractor is much more complex when it comes to practicality. There are guides to follow, tips to employ, and things to look out for. Because your construction project is only as good as the person you hire to oversee it, it is crucial to evaluate some things beforehand. In Australia, it is essential to look at the following before asking a contractor to oversee your construction project.

  Experience

  Handing over your construction project to an amateur is never the way to go. With experience comes skill and knowledge, which is invaluable if you want your project to succeed. A resume detailing the contractor's professional expertise is something you should request when vetting the different contractors. 

  Contracting license and permits

  Different countries have different requirements when hiring a contractor to work for you, and Australia is no different. From licenses and construction permits, always ensure you are doing things by the book. Does your contractor have all licences and permits required in your area? Australia has construction policies that require professional contractors to have permits to work in an area. Always check whether your contractor has them and, most importantly, those needed for your locality. Permits act as assurance for the quality of their work and your protection in case of any litigation issues.

  Insurance

  A safe and secure working environment is crucial in construction sites; however, it would be ignorant to be oblivious to accidents. Accidents do happen even; after all, they are called 'accidents' for a reason. So, how secure is your contractor? An insurance plan is something every contractor should have, but not all do. Before you can commit to a professional relationship with your contractor, always ensure they are covered; this way, they are not only secure when accidents happen, but you are also protected from any legal action.

  Warranty offered

  Contracting contracts vary from one contractor to another. What one contractor's warranties as part of their services may not always be the same for another. Before agreeing to anything binding, always look at what warranties the contractor offers. What part of your project do they cover? Ensure you are all on the same page about what they will do before construction begins. 

  The bidding rate

  While it is always advised to avoid using the price as a guide for choosing your contractor, there is no denying it impacts the hiring. You should hire someone within your budget to handle your project. You can employ numerous Australian construction services, but filtering through them all can be a challenge. The bidding rate should help you narrow down your options, so always check for it. It will also ensure you are fully aware of the financial expenses before the contract starts. 

  References

  Any good contractor will have no problem providing references to back up their credibility and work. The references a contractor has will shed light on their professional reputation and what it is like to work with them. References are like feedback from previous employers or clients to give you insight into whether hiring them would be best for your interests. 

  The following are features to look out for when hiring construction contractors. Thanks to online searches, many construction contractors are only a click away. However, it is always important to know what you are getting into before hiring them. These are only some pointers to help you gauge potential contractors and narrow your list to the best one to work on your construction project. Happy hiring! 

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Heritage Vancouver

• Most Common Signs That Your Well Pump Is Going Bad

  

  Having a well on your property is a great way to ensure you have a virtually free water supply for life. Of course, you’ll need high-quality mine dewatering pumps to lift the water out of the well and to your filtration station. It can then be pumped into your home and used as and when you need it.

  In most cases, this is a reliable and economically viable system. However, if your well pump fails you won’t have any water and will need to take quick action to resolve the issue.

  The good news is that you can generally avoid this issue by having your well pump serviced annually and by being aware of the most common signs that your well pump is going bad.

  Water Pressure Fluctuations

  This is the most common sign there is an issue with your water system. Pressure fluctuations can be from blockages in your system but this is rare. In most cases blockages reduce the pressure but do so slowly and steadily, the pressure doesn’t fluctuate.

  However, your well pump controls the pressure the water is delivered into your home. If the pressure is fluctuating it's likely to be because the pump is failing. The sooner you get it looked at the better.

  Strange Noises In the pipes

  Strange noises in your pipes can be air trapped in them. While this can be from a leak in your pipes it is likely to be a result of the water pump starting to fail.

  The pump uses a bladder of air, if this develops a leak then the air escapes into the pressure tank. This then causes the pump to stop and start, creating the clicking noise in your pipes and reducing the lifespan of your water pump. The faster it’s repaired the better.

  Increase In Electric Bills

  If your electricity bill is fairly constant and it suddenly starts to rise you need to have your well pump checked. When your pump has issues it will start to use more electricity and cause your bill to start increasing.

  You can contact highly-rated operators at Reliant Energy Houston to help you figure out what is causing the bill to increase so you can stop spending more than needed on your electricity bill.

  If you can’t find any other reason for your electricity bill to increase you should suspect the well pump and have it checked out.

  Fluctuations in Shower Temperature

  A well pump usually has a balancing mechanism that controls the flow of water even if you have more than one faucet open. However, if the pump is starting to fail then it will be incapable of balancing the water effectively.

  In short, if you’re taking a shower and someone pulls the flush the water is going to get very hot.

  Spitting Taps

  If your taps start to spit then they have air in them. This can be a result of a leak in your pipes but it more likely to be due to an issue with your water pump.

  Final Thoughts 

  The key to preventing these issues is to have your well pump serviced annually. This will ensure problems are detected and can be solved at your convenience. That’s better than being burned in the shower or not having any running water.

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Michael Dales

• The Ultimate Dining Room Decorating Guide

  
  

  If you own your own home at some point you’re going to want to decorate it. This is one of the most effective ways of placing your own mark on a property and ensuring you have a comfortable space you can relax in.

  The good news is that it’s not as hard as you may think to create a stunning-looking dining room. You simply need to take it one step at a time. 

  Start With the Walls

  If your walls are in good condition the easiest thing to do is paint them. Of course, if they are pitted and tired you’re going to need the filler and perhaps rely on wallpaper to create the perfect effect.

  It’s best to go with a neutral or pastel color. These can be easily complemented by the soft furnishings, allowing you to effectively redecorate without repainting.

  Flooring

  The decision regarding the best floor for your dining room is personal. Many people like the clean lines of wood while others prefer the softness of carpet. Whichever you go with you need to keep it fairly neutral. Again, it’s the soft furnishings that add the color and set the tone of the room. These are the easiest to replace when needed.

  Consider Pests

  The dining room is highly attractive to pests because you’re likely to have food waste on the floor. Of course, regular vacuuming will help to prevent this. But, you can also use an electronic pest control device to kill the pests when they arrive or persuade them to go elsewhere.

  It’s an important part of the decorating process as you want to be able to relax and enjoy your room.

  Use Rugs To define Space

  Rugs can be used on any type of floor. They are a great way of bringing your desired color into the room and can be easily changed if you wish to change the color scheme. 

  Rugs can also help to define the pathway around the room. They define where to walk and where to avoid. Try it, you’ll see the difference it makes.

  Round Tables Are A Good Idea

  Round tables are lacking a head or afoot. This makes them a great symbol of equality and they’ll make it easier for everyone to talk to each other. In short, they’ll make your dining room feel more fun and encourage interaction between people.

  Light It Up

  Romantic lights have their place. However, when you’re dealing with a dining room you want to be able to see what you’re eating. That means plenty of light over the table.

  Try adding lights directed at the table and softer lights into the corners of the room. It will allow you to see what you’re eating while creating a pleasant ambiance in the room.

  Finishing Touches

  The best way to make sure your dining room looks fantastic is to choose the finishing touches. That’s the cushions on the chairs, the curtains, and even the color of the candles. 

  It’s the soft furnishings that give your dining room a personal but still stunning feel. 

  partnered post • cc-licensed image by Dawn Peterson

• Five Ways to Get Rodents Out of the House

  
  

  It doesn’t matter where you live, no one likes rodents in the house. Whether you’re in New York City or a rural area where there are a lot of animals around, finding any rodents in the house is annoying for everyone. Luckily there are things you can do to get rid of your rodent problem and work towards keeping them away from you. Read below to find a few tips for rodent proofing your house.

  Eliminate Possible Entry

  One of the most important things you can do to stop this issue is to eliminate the possible entry points for them. It is an effective way to stop infestations from expanding. Look around your house to find the places that rodents can enter. You’ll need to be diligent because mice and rats can squeeze themselves into small openings. If you can fit something like a pencil into the opening, a rodent can likely get through it too.

  You should seal cracks in the foundation and openings in the wall where utility pipes and vents are. You should avoid using plastic, wood, rubber, or anything else rodents can gnaw through. Furthermore, weather stripping for your doors and window gaps create a seal against the threshold so small rodents can’t get under the door.

  Use Traps

  While it may seem cruel, it is important to use traps to get rodents out of your house and prevent a further infestation. If you already have rodents in the house, traps will provide a way for you to get the ones that have infested your home already.

  It can take a lot of traps to get one rodent, you should use plenty to trap them. Some people use a dozen traps to get one mouse. In addition to utilizing wooden traps, utilize bait traps, multiple-capture live ones, and traps that use glue in conjunction with the traditional ones. If you already have a rodent infestation, you should take advantage of all your options to get rid of them because it won’t be easy.

  It is also crucial to make sure that your traps are placed in the right spots. Put them perpendicular to the walls, with traps facing the baseboard. You should also be sure to use the right bait, which are sealed plastic packets containing meal or pellets. With these measures, you’ll be able to trap and get rid of the rodents.

  Keep your House Clean

  If you already have an infestation, cleaning your house won’t get rid of the rodents but it will keep them away. When you get rid of the rodents, cleaning your home will prevent a new infestation. A few crumbs will keep rodents around. Make sure to vacuum and wipe down counters. You should store food in glass jars or airtight containers. Make sure to secure your garbage. Avoid plastic bags because rodents will bite right through them. Reducing clutter and cleaning up after dinner are a few things that will help. You should even keep up on your laundry. In tandem, these methods will help keep rodents away.

  Pay Attention to the Outside of your Home

  You might not think of it, but you should pay attention to the outside of your home. Removing debris and weeds will help because rodents can hide in them. You can line your home’s foundation with heavy gravel to prevent mice and rats from nesting and burrowing there. When you remove debris around the property, the easier it will be to spot signs of rodent activity and stop them from getting inside.

  Get a Cat

  A last resort can be to get a cat. Felines love hunting rodents. With a house cat, you have your own little hunter. They can be a great way to keep rats out of the house and to kill them when they do come in. It may sound strange, but if you have run out of options getting a cat could help solve your rodent issue.

  Rodents are never easy to get rid of. Once you have an infestation, there is probably more than one living inside the foundation of your home. They can get through small openings from the outside. When you take care to trap the ones inside your home, clean the house inside and out, and take other preventative measures, you will be able to establish a concerted effort to eliminate the problem for good.

   partnered post • cc-licensed image by Jason Saul

• The Most Common Winter Maintenance Problems and How to Solve Them

  

  Article by Rose Morrison: Rose is a home improvement and construction industry writer and the managing editor of Renovated. Follow her Twitter to read more of her content. CC-licensed photo by James Mann.

  It’s cold and snowy outside, and you can’t wait to snuggle up with some tea and a book. But suddenly, your heater shuts off — and when you head to your basement to see what happened, you notice a leaky pipe and mold growth. These are just some winter maintenance problems homeowners face every year.

  Here’s a look at several seasonal concerns, along with some actionable solutions.

  1. Split Window Caulk

  It’s 30 degrees during the day, but 15 degrees when you go to bed. This temperature change can cause caulk to separate from windows. As a result, your indoor heat leaves through the cracks and gaps — and chilly outdoor air finds a way inside.

  This problem has a simple fix:

  1. Pick up the right caulk for the project. If you need to fix caulk on either side of the window, you’ll need both exterior and interior caulk. Research beforehand to make the best choice.
  2. Remove the old caulk with a putty knife.
  3. Use a leak-free caulk gun to run caulk down the border in segments. Drag the bead down halfway before you readjust your aim. This trick results in a straighter line.
  4. Wet your finger to smooth 6-inch sections at a time.

  If you need other tips, you can check out specific guides to help you caulk correctly.

  2. Backed-Up Drains and Gutters

  Did you clear your home’s drains and gutters in the fall? If not, you should do so immediately. Conditions like rain, snow, and ice accumulate throughout the winter. These elements build up in drains and gutters — and eventually cause leaks and further damage.

  Try a few steps to prevent backed-up drains and gutters:

  1. Purchase a small tool like a handheld shovel.
  2. Set tarps on the ground to collect debris.
  3. Use a sturdy ladder to climb up to the gutters.
  4. Remove the dirt and leaves.
  5. Spray the gutters and drains with a hose to flush out any remnants.

  This afternoon project will prevent harmful ice dams that could cause roof leaks and deterioration.

  3. Damaged Walkways and Driveways

  From November to March, you probably head outside daily to clear your walkways and driveway. This process might not seem harmful, but you can damage concrete and asphalt surfaces with certain actions. It’s time to change your habits to prevent cracks and chips around your property.

  First, you should always choose de-icing products that don’t include chemicals. These ingredients will deteriorate surfaces. Use a rubber guard on your shovel, too. Repair any damage come springtime to keep walkways and driveways intact for next winter.

  4. Heating System Failures

  No one wants to handle a broken furnace in the winter. This accident typically requires a professional fix, but you might be able to replace some parts depending on your skill and comfort level. Try to identify the specific issue before you call an expert. Be sure to service your system every year, too.

  If you use proper care, you should be able to help your system last for several years.

  5. Mold Growth

  It’s damp outside, which means you can expect some mold growth in your house. That’s because condensation accumulates when cold and hot air meet — and snow and rain only add to it. If you don’t prioritize air circulation, you can end up with mold-related health issues.

  This solution will require you to take several steps:

  1. Identify mold in places like your attic, basement, cabinets, and siding. It’s most common to find traces near water, so look near pipes and windows. Keep an eye — and a nose — out for various types, too.
  2. Wear gloves and goggles for the removal process.
  3. Use either diluted bleach or hydrogen peroxide to scrub the mold.
  4. Address whatever caused the mold. Do you need a dehumidifier? Buy one. This way, you can permanently eradicate the mold.

  Maintain a dry home with a moderate temperature to discourage mold growth.

  6. Roof Leaks

  If your roof has missing shingles, you might have to deal with leaks. As snow and ice melt, you’ll see water accumulate in your attic and walls. It’s essential to tackle roof leaks as soon as possible so you can limit any damage.

  Locate the leak before you do anything else. This issue might require a simple sealant application, but you may need to replace several roof shingles or tiles, too. It’s typically best to consult a professional so you don’t make any mistakes.

  Remember to repair roof fixes that occur in other seasons so you don’t run into issues come wintertime.

  7. Clogged Dryer Vents

  There’s a big chance you’re using your dryer more often. Everyone loves warm laundry in the winter. However, you need to be aware that your additional usage could be detrimental. If your vents become too clogged, you could experience a dryer fire like 3,000 Americans do every year.

  It only takes a few steps to prevent dryer fires:

  1. Locate the duct system behind your dryer.
  2. Disconnect your dryer from the wall.
  3. Clean everything in that space.
  4. Use a special vent kit to clear out the dust and debris.
  5. Reconnect your dryer.

  Be sure to clean your dryer vent at least once a year.

  8. Broken and Busted Pipes

  Freezing weather means damage to pipes. If you want to avoid broken and busted pipes, you need to ensure water doesn’t freeze inside them. This catastrophe will be less likely to happen when you:

  • Insulate your pipes with foam pipe insulation.
  • Keep faucets at a slow drip while you’re away from home.
  • Keep doors and windows closed in rooms with pipes.
  • Leave your heat on even when you’re not home.

  As a result, you should be able to avoid burst pipes throughout the winter.

  Avoid These Typical Cold Weather Issues at Home

  Don’t let the cold ruin your wallet. It’s sometimes inevitable for caulk to split and mold to grow, but you can use a few quick fixes to get everything back in working order. Be sure to prioritize preventive maintenance, too.