Top 10 Tips For Designing And Building A Great Deck

Top 10 Tips For Designing And Building A Great Deck

Designing and building a deck is not an easy thing, as most people would think. It requires a lot of research on the side of the deck builder and a personal touch from the homeowner to design and build a perfect outdoor space.

There are several things that you need to consider to ensure to install a perfect deck. Things like the materials, site, and size are very crucial when it comes to designing and installing these outdoor spaces. In this handy guide presented by Decksforlife.ca – professional deck builder, we have put together the top 10 tips for designing and building a great deck.

1. Location

Apart from providing a great outdoor space, decks also add to the exterior aesthetics to your home decor. That’s why location is crucial when designing and building. You should have it installed in an inviting position. One of the key elements that affect its site is your landscaping. Your main entrance into the compound is another factor that determines the perfect location of your deck. If you can figure the perfect location, seek the services of an exterior designer.

2. Establish What You Need The Deck For

The primary use of the deck should determine the choice of design. Otherwise, you might end up installing something that does not serve the main purpose. There are two common types of decks in the market. One of them is for entertainment purpose. These are decks design for homeowners who want an outdoor space where they can have fun with friends and family. The second design is for people who want an outdoor space for reading and enjoying outdoors. These two types require different designs. The decor is hugely dependent on what the space will be used for. For outdoor entertaining, festoon lighting strewn across the top creates a warm inviting ambiance. If you are looking to create a back yard bar, you could illuminate the place with a quirky neon bar sign. Check out Customneon.com for inspiration.

3. Foundation

You need to be very thoughtful when installing the foundation. The condition in your region should determine the choice of the foundation. For example, if you live in a cold region, then frost heave should be the biggest concern. So you will need to go about 4 to 5 feet below the ground for a form solid foundation. If you are in a place where termite infestation is common, then you need to treat the foundation and use structural material that offers high resistance to termite attacks. These are crucial factors that will determine the lifespan and quality of your deck.

4. Material

The other thing that you need to put into consideration is materials. There are many decking materials in the market that you can select. However, there are various factors that can determine your choice. Some of the common materials include composite, PVC, exotic hardwood, pressure-treated lumber, aluminum and cedar, and redwood. All of them offer different benefits, and that’s why they are popular with homeowners. What matters is your budget. If you want to build an inexpensive deck, then try pressure-treated lumber. Exotic hardwoods are the best, but most expensive decks.

5. Size

How big or small do you want the deck to be? This is an essential factor since it determines the overall cost of the installation. The size should handle the expected traffic. If you live alone, then you need a small outdoor space that can accommodate two or three visitors from time to time. But if you have family, then you need to design a relatively larger space that can accommodate everyone. Your house size is a crucial factor when it comes to determining the size.

6. Shape

The shape is of the deck will greatly determine its appeal. So you must design a shape that adds some aesthetics to your exterior décor. Most people prefer rectangular decks, but you can always make it look nice by adding some curves, angles, and so on. A certified and experienced deck builder can help you get the right shape, including some of the latest designs in the market.

7. Have A Proper View

As one of the exterior décor, the deck should be put in a place where the view is not blocked. So you need to check the location for blockages, especially from the main entrance to the home’s yard. If the location is a bit concealed, then you need to come up with solutions that put the deck in a more inviting space. In case there is a bulky railing blocking the view, you can have it lowered. A professional deck installer should help you fix a few problems.

8. Gaps between Boards

Leaving gaps between boards is an important tip for designing and building a deck. The gaps help to improve the drainage, especially during the wet months. Otherwise, you might have a problem managing moisture, and more do the mold, which thrives in moist conditions. However, these gaps should not be too small because they will allow dirt and debris to accumulate. Therefore, leaving big gaps that you can sweep works the best.

9. Proper Drainage

Since most decks are joined to the house, you need to factor in drainage when designing. The fact that it is an outdoor space that may not be roofed means that it will collect water when it rains or when cleaning. So you need to design proper drainage to avoid wetting your house. The rule of the thumb is that when draining these outdoor structures, factor at least a 2% slope away from other structures. Such a slope will be enough to drain away all water, including rainwater.

10. Overheads and planters

Last but not least is the decoration aspect. The deck is not about the floor only but also the decorations that add more comfort and fun. Overheads and planters are some of the ideal decorations that work for all decks. Depending on the kind of weather in your region, you can install a roof or umbrellas for the overheads. Bringing potted or hanging plants is also one of the key tips for designing and building decks.

To designing and building a perfect deck requires proper planning by considering a range of factors. You need to discuss everything with your deck builder and give your thought to have your dream deck installed. If you take into consideration the listed 10 factors, you’ll design and build a perfect deck. However, you must hire a qualified and experienced deck builder to get value for money.

Things You Need in Your Kitchen for 2025

Things You Need in Your Kitchen for 2025

Without a doubt, besides the living room, the kitchen is an area where people usually spend most of their time while home. This is where one cooks all the meals and where family members gather to eat together. It is also a room where parents can drink their morning coffee in peace while the kids are playing in their room or getting ready for school. Sometimes, it is an area where moms escape to have some time alone.

Because of this, we are going to dedicate the entire article to this very important room in the house. We are going to give you some tips about remodeling and all give you a list of things that every kitchen has to possess. We created this article in collaboration with Micheal Keaton from washer-dryer-repair-service.com who suggested some of the ideas in the article!

Let’s start with building this room from scratch. You might be moving into a new home, and you do not like the layout of the current kitchen and you want to change everything or you might even be building the entire house. Whatever the reason may be, as you can assume, this is quite a complex task. There are so many different things that you have to think about and plan in advance, so the chances are that you are going to need some help.

When it comes to Kitchen Remodeling, if you have never done this before, our advice is to hire professionals. They will help you to learn more about the entire process and also give you a list of things that can be done in your house, and the list of those that are unfortunately impossible due to the space available and even your budget.

Since kitchen cabinets are at the core of every kitchen remodel, Walcraft Cabinetry is just such one of those professional outfits who can help. They will provide free kitchen design help and very affordable cabinets as well.

Whether you want to create, you should ensure that you have enough counter space. Talk with the designer and tell them to use every little piece of the available space and turn it into a counter service. Believe us you are going to need it. First of all, no one likes to work in a kitchen that is cluttered, where you would have to clear everything before making a meal. That is why having range ductless range hoods will free up space and you can read this review for more information about them.

Secondly, there are some appliances like a coffee maker, a blender or a stand mixer, which you are going to use on a daily basis, so they should be located somewhere, where you can easily reach them. Also, don’t forget about other small tools that you are going to use, as agreed by kitchenhome.co.uk.

In addition, don’t forget about the fridge, stove, dishwasher and other appliances that are essential. As you know all of these come in different sizes, which is why it is important to measure the space exactly when drawing up the plan. You cannot just go and buy all of these because they might not fit in the kitchen perfectly.

According to “iFix Appliances“, when you employ a professional, it is always a good idea to describe to them your ideas in great detail. If you are open to it, they are going to try to improve yours and present you with some ideas of their own. The most important thing is to build something that you are going to like, but also something that is going to be completely functional.

The next step, when all the construction is over and everything is cleaned up, is to equip the kitchen. We have already mentioned some large appliances, so we are going to move on.

First of all, you need pots and pans and baking trays, and so on. You have to cook the food in something, right? If you are moving, you probably already have some of these dishes, so all you might want to do is to upgrade your collection a bit. On the other hand, if you have to purchase all of these, our advice is to start small. Buy a couple of each because you should choose the high-quality ones and those can be quite expensive. Plus, you might get carried away and purchase some that you will never use which will not only take the valuable space but you will spend money for nothing.

Additionally, another thing that every kitchen has to have is a set of knives. You should find a set that is made of stainless steel which means that they are extremely durable and that can easily be sharpened. As you know, there are different kinds of these, and that fact is that sooner or later you are going to use each one of them. When on the hunt for this set, do a little research just to learn what is available and to find something that is within your price range.

Furthermore, you need some mixing bowls. When it comes to these, there are so many options available. We are not only talking about the size, but also about materials. Some of them are made of plastic, but glass ones have become extremely popular. Not only are they more durable, but they can also be easily washed in a dishwasher and they can also be used in an oven and microwave.

Also, don’t forget to get cooking utensils. You need spoons, tongs, whisks, spatulas, a ladle, and so on. When it comes to buying these, you should get a few of each that are made of different materials and that are in a different size. The most popular choices are wooden and plastic ones in different lengths. What’s more, don’t forget to get a colander because you are going to use it more than you think – from draining pasta to rising rice and washing veggies.

Measuring cups and spoons are also something that you must have. Every recipe that you try calls for the exact amount of all ingredients. Yes, some people do not follow these instructions at all and just add everything randomly. On the other, there are those who cannot make a tasty meal or cake without following the instructions in great detail. If you are one of these, then this is a tool that you are definitely going to need. Again, you should go with the set that is made of metal, simply because it is going to last you for a longer period of time, and it can also be washed in a dishwasher.

We should not forget the mighty blenders! These multi-functional kitchen devices are awesome for numerous recipes! You can prepare healthy smoothies, different types of drinks, and you can chop almost every type of nuts or vegetables/fruits for your soups or cakes, all that with this device. Every home should have a blender! If you want to learn more about types of blenders and benefits of having one, visit Alicecooperstown.com.

Finally, do not forget about some small tools such as a vegetable peeler, can opener, meat thermostat and of course, cutting board.

To sum up, as you can see, there are numerous things that you have to think about when remodeling this area, so it might seem like a daunting task. The secret of success is in planning and organizing everything in meticulous detail.

Transform your bathing experience with the best bathtubs

Transform your bathing experience with the best bathtubs

With so many different bathtubs available nowadays and lots of different styles, it is hard to know where to start; from a corner bathtub or a freestanding bath, one thing every bathroom should have is a relaxing experience.  For some, the bathroom is a haven, a place of peace, tranquillity, and luxury, and the right bathtub is the crucial piece of furniture to create that calming bathroom feel and spa-like experience. The perfect tub transports you where sore muscles melt away, your body can truly relax, your mood is lifted, and you can soak away any negative thoughts or feelings.

There are a few things to consider when purchasing your next tub:

Is space a problem? That will dictate the best types of tubs to pick from.

Are there any special installation considerations? For example, where do you want the tub placed? Will I need my taps moved? Will you need a drain moved? If you need jets, you will need that installed, and it can cost a bit more.

Is the weight an issue? Will you need your floor reinforced as a larger freestanding tub can hold a lot of water. Will you need a wooden or steel frame to support it?

Which material do you want? With so many products, you have to consider what is important to you, is it cost, whether it is durable, or how easy to wash it is? These will help determine which one to choose.

How long do I want to spend in the tub? Acrylic baths keep the water hot for longer.

No matter your personal style or budget, this guide will talk you through the different options when picking your next bath for your room.

Elegant free standing tubs

Free-standing tubs are often an interior design feature of a bathroom and become the focal point. The vintage cast iron and clawfoot tub is often the one that comes instantly to mind. This conjures visions of luxury and relaxation. In addition, these baths will usually increase the value of your home, so that is an added bonus when remodelling, and they are a good investment.

Many free-standing baths are just as luxurious but have more modern materials that can sometimes be lighter and easier to install. But, again, it is better for the larger bathrooms and those that space is not at a premium.

Deep soaking tub

SPXLL

The deep soaking bathtub is best for small bathrooms as it is often much shorter in length, but extra deep, as the name would suggest. If you are working with smaller areas, this may be the bathtub for you. You will not lie down in a more traditional position in the water, you will remain seated, but the depth means your weight is well distributed and makes for a comfortable experience.

Unique Wooden Tubs

If it is a design statement you are looking to make, then a wooden bathtub could be perfect for you. The wood material helps maintain the water temperature and is incredibly stylish. So if you want to unwind in the bath at the end of the night with a bonus of that rustic feel, then this will be the tub for you.

Double-sided Tubs

A double-ended bath is ideal for more than one person to enjoy bath time. If floor space is at a premium, then this may not be for you; however, if relaxing in your elegant bathroom to some soothing music with your loved one sounds good, then you should definitely purchase one.

There are many different big 2 person bathtubs from Bellabathrooms freestanding and wall-hung in a variety of shapes and sizes, but if you want to use less water and bathe more people at one time, you should look into these.

Shower Baths

A shower bath is practical if you have a smaller bathroom but great if you have a family. This tub comes in different shapes to accommodate the shower whilst saving on space.  A Modern bathroom that is multi-purpose often benefits from a dual-purpose tub and is the best of both worlds. P-Shaped and L-Shaped models are great for upgrading and give you extra spaces to accommodate showering.

Alcove Tub

Designed to be positioned beside a wall, this tub is a modern style that often works well whilst showering. A brilliant solution when a person deals with smaller areas and is usually made from lightweight materials that are easy to clean. A very functional and more modern take, which has grown immensely in popularity.

Whirpool baths

For that authentic bathing experience that takes you to the spa, a whirlpool bath with bubbles really helps you be at ease at the end of a long day removing all those aches and pains. It can feel like a massage which is so calming. They use jets that pump high-pressure water and air around the tub, and some come with different lighting to compliment the finish.  It is, however, harder to install and more expensive, so this needs to be considered.

Conclusion

Whatever tub you choose, it really is one of those household fixtures that can revamp your home and become a retreat where you can remove stress at the end of a hard day, light some candles and forget about worry.  With so many different kinds of material to choose from, there really is something to suit everyone’s needs.  Not only will it enhance your home, but it is a brilliant addition that adds elegance and comfort to the room.

Whether you are looking for something lightweight and opt for fibreglass or acrylic, or something more hard-wearing like cast iron or stone, there is such a variety of unique styles to be able to create your beautiful bathroom design for whichever allowance you have in mind.

Why Is My Composite Decking Going Green?

Why Is My Composite Decking Going Green?

Have you noticed some ugly green-colored stuff on your composite decking recently? It is, unfortunately, a prevalent issue that most homeowners face. Your composite decking is constantly exposed to moisture, which leads to the formation of the ugly green-colored stuff, often called moss or algae.

If left untreated, a green patio can cause structural problems in addition to looking unpleasant. What causes this to happen, and how can you avoid it on your deck? Let’s read the article further to know more.

What exactly is this “Green-Colored Stuff?”

The most frequent green substances seen on patios are mold, mildew, or algae. There are thousands of tiny pores that can only be seen with a microscope on the surface of a deck. These openings, also known as “pores,” constantly collect and release moisture depending on the surrounding environment.

When the surroundings are damp and moist, they absorb moisture. When it is dry, they expel it. When extra water is trapped inside the pores of composite decking for an extended period of time, it might turn green.

Mold, mildew, and algae thrive in humid environments like these. If the composite decking does not dry out, it may acquire a slimy layer and turn green. Get composite decking with superior weather protection and durability from Dinodecking.

What Causes Algae Growth?

Knowing what causes algae to grow on your deck, patio, and outdoor furniture will help you avoid it from developing further. Algae grows best in a dark, moist environment, although it does not proliferate quickly.

That means it’s pretty simple to keep your composite deck from becoming green with regular upkeep. Debris and moisture are the two most essential elements to consider.

Debris: As debris gathers on your deck, they block sunlight from reaching the deck’s surface, providing an ideal environment for algae, mold, and mildew to thrive. You must regularly blow or sweep regular debris from your deck daily.

Shade: Sweeping alone may not be enough if trees or your residence’s landscaping shadows your deck. To keep algae and moss at bay, you’ll need to undertake a yearly deep cleaning of your deck.

Humidity: Does water pool and sit on certain sections of your deck when it rains? Although most decks have ample room between boards for excess water to drain, your planks may be sealed or uneven. Sweep snow off your patio in the winter to keep it as dry as possible.

How To Prevent Composite Decking From Turning Green?

Increase the exposure to the sun.

You can make efforts to prevent your composite decking from turning green, starting by increasing the amount of sunlight it receives. Sunlight inhibits the growth of mold, mildew, and algae in several ways. It dries off extra moisture, and the ultraviolet (UV) rays kill the different fungi that may be making themselves comfortable on your patio.

You may not be able to change the direction of the sun, but you may clear overhanging branches and dense trees from your deck to allow more light in. Even if only half of your deck receives shade, the unexposed part may turn green while the other remains unaffected. In the end, direct sunshine is required to keep mold, mildew, and algae at bay on your deck.

Make Sure There’s Enough Runoff

Is water accumulating and pooling in certain parts of your deck rather than draining away? If that’s the case, it’ll likely become green. Mold, mildew, and algae grow in damp settings, as well as in darkness. When water pools on a patio, it creates an optimal environment for the bacteria to expound.

Runoff isn’t usually an issue with standard composite decking. Excess water will leak between the planks through the cracks and fissures. However, there are situations when this isn’t the case. It’s possible that the planks of your patio are sealed or that they were built unevenly. Regardless, you must ensure that your deck has adequate outflow; otherwise, mold, mildew, and algae may make a cozy home out of it.

Algae Removal from Composite Decking

Algae growth on composite decking can shorten your patio’s structural lifespan and reduce its resilience. Algae’s most chief disadvantage is that it spreads swiftly. As a result, you must take action to eliminate it as soon as possible.

Step 1: Gather your cleaning supplies

A soft brush, soap or deck cleanser, water, power washer, or water hose are all necessary tools for removing algae from your composite decking. It’s worth noting that you can use anything readily available. Also, when cleaning, make sure to use a soft brush because a harsh one will scratch the surface of your plastic wood decking.

Step 2: Combine the soap and water in a mixing bowl

Find a bucket and fill it halfway with one gallon of water. Pour the soap into the water and stir it well with your hand until it foams. When combining the soap with the water, make sure to wear a glove. Some experts also suggest adding a third of a cup of chlorine bleach to the solution to give your cleaning campaign a professional edge.

Step 3: Get Rid of the Algae

It is suggested that you try to remove the algae first before using the soapy water. Scrubbing it with a brush will do the trick. While this will not altogether remove the algae, it will make your job easier.

Step 4: Pour the solution

If the algae is all over your composite decking, you can use soapy water to rinse it down. If it’s just a tiny area, you can pour water on it. You should at least wait 10-15 minutes for it to seep into the algae you’re trying to get rid of.

Step 5: Scrub your composite decking

You can scrub your plastic wood decking with a gentle brush after waiting for approximately fifteen minutes. Scrub your composite decking boards in the direction of the grain. Scrub it thoroughly until there are no longer any traces of algae.

Conclusion

The green substance on your beautiful composite decking doesn’t only look ugly, but it can be dangerous too. You can slip while walking on it, and it may even compromise the structural integrity of your deck. You must remove algae, mold, or mildew from your patio as soon as it appears on it.

Why Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors Should Be The Only Contractor You Trust

Why Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors Should Be The Only Contractor You Trust

Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors has served the front range of Colorado since 2004. Metropolitan Group Inc is operated and owned by the King family, this is the exact same family that founded King Soopers back in 1947. Owned by Troy King, this company has an amazing track record for helping their customers. They carry an A+ rating with the BBB along with dozens of positive reviews on multiple websites from satisfied clients all over Colorado. By choosing Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors, you’re working with one of the most reputable contractors in the state with the experience and expertise to make the insurance claim process and any subsequent repairs effortless to go through.

Troy King fully understands that when your home receives damage from a storm or natural disaster that it can be a very frustrating process. Troy has decades of experience and has streamlined the repair process to deliver a stress-free repair while keeping their customers well informed every step of the way. They developed a program at Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors that makes every step of the insurance claim easy to understand. In many cases, an insurance claim is due to a weather-related disaster or an act of god. Troy understands the stress this can bring and carefully organizes your repairs to get your home restored as quickly as possible without the homeowner even needing to be present.

With decades of contractor experience under their belts and a Licensed Insurance Adjuster on staff, they are more than capable of standing up to the insurance industry on your behalf during the entire insurance claim process. They will be by your side to ensure that your home is properly repaired to a pre-storm (or better) condition.

Troy and his son Daniel King are specialists in roofing, siding, gutters, windows, and painting. They are one of the very few companies that have a licensed insurance adjuster on staff to ensure your home is always protected. Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors has decades of hands-on knowledge and expertise to properly repair your home without needing to hire multiple contractors to get the job done.

Don’t make a hasty decision of working with another contractor in the Denver area, consider that Metropolitan Group Home Exteriors has dozens of positive reviews from the many satisfied customers that they have serviced through the entire Colorado front range. You have the piece of mind knowing that one of the most skilled contractors in Colorado is restoring your home with a goal in mind of getting it to a better than the pre-storm condition.

The quality of work that they provide is guaranteed and in most cases finished in one day. Their mindset is to work with your insurance company to resolve your insurance claim while organizing all of your repairs so that you don’t have to lift a finger. Troy and Daniel pride themselves on having the best team in Colorado to repair your home even during the worst storm scenario.

Upgrades to Consider When Building Your Dream Home

Upgrades to Consider When Building Your Dream Home

If you get the opportunity to build your dream home from the ground up, this is your chance to dream big and think about all the elements that will bring your vision to life. Budget is always a consideration so, yes, your plans will have to fit within your financial limits, but listing out all your wants will help you determine what your needs are, and how to appropriate your funds. The idea stage is your opportunity to think through what you need this home to do for you in terms of function and also how you and your family can grow into the home and have it still work for your needs. Even if you never plan to sell it, there will inevitably come a time where the home will be back on the market and although it is your dream home, you are going to want to invest in choices that are timeless and will appeal to the masses once that time comes.

Permanent Elements

Things like paint, décor, and flooring can be manipulated over time if over the years you find what you originally loved is no longer your preference. But permanent elements like pools, and structural designs are likely not going to be things you redo beyond the original development, including a home lift in your plans is something that can do so much for your home in terms of both function and value. If you are designing a dwelling that is multi-level, and large, going to this site here to check out Lifton Home Lifts allows you help ease the transition from space to space.

Additionally, as you age, adding a home lift system creates the opportunity for you to enjoy and stay in your home into the years where stairs are more difficult. There is a luxury element to having a lift inside your home as well. And when we are talking dream homes, luxury and exclusivity are key words that are associated with that.

Hobbies and Activities

Put some thought into your hobbies and social activities, and how those can be incorporated into your dream space. Indoor spaces like game rooms, home theaters, and wine cellars, can help you indulge your favorite activities in an upgraded fashion. Or if outdoor living is important to you, options like outdoor kitchens, and pools are extremely popular additions to dream home builds. Regardless of your specific hobbies and passions, it is likely that they can in some way be incorporated into your design.

A great element to these extra spaces is that since they are generally on the wants end of the spectrum, and not the needs end, they can be manipulated to fit the budget. Changing up the materials used, or even a swap out like a dry bar instead of a wet bar, can save thousands of dollars to that you can still incorporate the feature into your home without compromising your budget. Remember, before your commit to any upgrade of this nature to consider what works best for not only your family, but your demographic and area. It is not uncommon for homeowners to consult local real estate agents when designing their spaces for their input on how some of these features will affect resale.

Future Focused

Dream home implies forever home, so spend the extra time to think about how this house can transcend the times and have adaptability as the world around it changes and improves. Energy-efficient homes are becoming increasingly trendy, and this is a trend that will likely never go out of style. Picking appliances and materials for your home that are kind to the environment is going to reduce your personal footprint on the planet and can also result in lower bills each month. Enlist the help of an energy inspector and you can explore the different options available. When building a new home, this is a great opportunity to make the big choices now that will create lasting efficiencies in your home. Choices like types of windows and amount of insulation are good examples of ways to improve your home that can last for decades.

Technology is another way to set your home up to be able to compete with the homes, and all the latest and greatest as far as gadgets and smart home capabilities. A smart thermostat is a relatively inexpensive way to upgrade you home and make it more user friendly by syncing everything up to your own smartphone. High tech doorbells with cameras and smart lock systems for all points of entry are also ways to get your home operating on one system and elevate it from a technological standpoint. Window shades, appliances, lightbulbs, and smoke detectors are all examples of home must-haves that can be modernized and lend themselves to making your home a smart home. These upgrades will likely eventually become the standard so starting ahead of the curve gives you a chance to have an edge on older homes and will also prove to be money saving features.

Finishing Touches

The little things that will give your home its unique personality should not be overlooked. Things like furniture, wall color, and window treatments will all reflect your personal style and when you are designing your dream home it should reflect you and your tastes. The four walls of your home will house all your memories, traditions, and family gatherings and you will want to consider all those happy emotions as you pick out the overall design theme of your home. A cohesive theme will help you to streamline all your ideas and develop a space that makes good design sense but does not feel sterile or staged.

If time is on your side take advantage of it while you select the finishing touches that you will add to your home. Being able to compare aesthetic choices and having the chance to change your mind should your tastes or budget demand means there is a lower likelihood that you will be unhappy with what you decided on had you been forced into a hasty choice. Give yourself permission to go slow in this process, this is your dream home and enjoying the moments will enrich your overall experience.

6 Helpful Kitchen Hood Cleaning Tips To Try in 2024

6 Helpful Kitchen Hood Cleaning Tips To Try in 2024

Keeping everything in your kitchen spotlessly clean can be a daunting task, yet it’s an unavoidable necessity. Unfortunately, many people forget about kitchen hood maintenance for too long, which leaves them with a smelly mess that can be quite difficult to get rid of.

That’s why we recommend starting a cleaning routine as soon as possible! Here’s a couple of tips to get things started!

1. Get it scheduled!

In most cases, you don’t really need to clean your range hood that often. However, if you’re deep frying and doing some heavy cooking daily, you might want to consider cleaning it more frequently. It all depends on your specific kitchen habits, so make sure to clean accordingly to your own needs. You’ll notice when your hood needs cleaning by noticing a foul smell coming from the vents. Our advice is to get it all cleaned before any signs of accumulated grease, dust, and bacteria (that produce the smell in the first place) appear. Basically, keep a cleaning schedule and designate certain days on your monthly calendar for deep-cleaning your hood and its vents and filters.

As soon as it becomes a set routine, it will become much easier to handle! If you just keep doing it randomly, you’re more likely to forget about it and create some unnecessary problems for yourself.

2. Use HOT water!

As you’ll be dealing with greasy surfaces, cold or lukewarm water simply won’t be able to do the trick. When it comes to grease, there’s only one rule: the hotter the better! Get it boiled if you have to, just keep it as hot as you can for the best possible results!

Once you have your boiling water, we recommend getting some dish soap and baking soda. Your filters should be soaked in this hot solution for about half an hour if you want it to be effective. Only after the excess grease is removed, you can start scrubbing your filters clean!

Overall, if you try to use lukewarm water, you won’t be able to get far. Your filters won’t be free of all the accumulated grease and all of your efforts will be for nothing. No matter how strong the dish soap you’re using is, without the help of boiling water you won’t be able to remove the grease. So don’t believe the suppliers when they tell you their cleaning products remove grease by having some mysterious magical properties!

3. Get high-quality cleaning products

The dish soap you’ll be using has to be of good quality if you want to succeed in cleaning the hood properly. You can also find some specialized anti-grease products that can help you clean everything thoroughly. However, DIY-ing your own cleaning solution with some dish soap and a bit of baking soda is completely viable. You don’t have to buy overpriced cleaning products just to get your hood functional again. Still, don’t go for the cheapest product around as these can do you more harm than good.

If you’re not sure what brand of products to use we recommend reading up on some online reviews before making your choice. Also, you can always ask an industry professional for some advice to maximize your cleaning results.

4. Simply hire a professional company

While kitchen hood maintenance and care aren’t the most complicated things in the world, those activities could take up a lot of your time and energy if you want to do it efficiently. That’s why many people simply leave it to the hands of professionals.

Range hood cleaning services such as the Atlanta-based www.hoodcleaningservicesatlanta.com can help you achieve the best results as quickly as possible. In this way, you won’t be forced to sacrifice your precious time and energy on such a mundane task, which is a huge plus.

Other than that though, professional cleaners can give you some valuable advice for keeping your hood healthy. They’ll be able to help you with creating and managing your cleaning schedule in no time!

Make sure to do your research to find a high-quality cleaning service in your local area. Look at their online ratings and customer testimonials to get a better picture. Even better, get a recommendation from your friends or colleagues if they’re using a similar service.

5. Never forget about the vent

The vent that connects your hood to the outside can sometimes get clogged with grease. When that happens, your hood may lose its functionality, so be careful to check it while you’re cleaning your filters.

If there’s grease built up in the vent, you may want to contact a professional. Cleaning it by yourself is usually not the best way to go about it, since you’re probably lacking in expertise and proper equipment.

Whatever the case, if you notice there’s tons of grease accumulated in your vent, clean it as soon as possible, as it can present a serious fire hazard. A professional cleaner will be able to help you prevent such issues from happening in the future, so consider hiring one.

6. Clean the outside too

Lastly, you should always keep the exterior as clean as possible. The splatter from cooking particles can make a huge mess and potentially ruin how your hood looks. In the long run, it can also be potentially damaging to the hood materials as well, so make sure to clean at least once a week.

Wiping it with a wet cloth and a bit of a dish detergent should be enough to finish the job. It will also only take you a couple of minutes to get it done, so there’s no real reason to skip this task!

The bottom line

Cleaning your kitchen hood from time to time is of the utmost importance. The frequency on which you should do it mostly depends on your cooking habits. Make sure to clean it once a month, at least. Clean your filters with some hot water and a bar of high-quality dish soap, and remember to always check your vents for built-up grease. Consider hiring a professional service if you want to get the best possible results.

7 Most Common Problems Found During a Home Inspection

7 Most Common Problems Found During a Home Inspection

Whether the property is a recently built estate or requires a bit of fixing-upping, it is important to maintain the integrity of that house for years to come. This is why home inspection agents are a justifiable, and necessary, expense. Home inspections typically reveal many problems; here are several of the most common.

1. Grade Drainage

When grade slopes or drains lead towards the back of the home, don’t be surprised if a home inspector finds wet crawlspaces or cracking. This “water wicking” has the potential to mold and rot the walls as well as the framing members. When floors are visibly out of level, the cost to correct this problem may be steep and is a huge problem among home-buyers.

2. Foundation Cracks

Foundations are prone to natural cracks over time. However, doors or windows that stick and don’t open/close easily are just one of the other signs that there is a problem with the foundation. Without a solid foundation, the rest of the home is out of order and may cause significant problems that are more than wet crawlspaces or uneven floors. An easy (but temporary) is to fill any foundation cracks with silicone caulk.

3. Basement

Do you have a basement? Home inspectors, if they have industry-standard home inspection training, are diligent in their pursuit of spotting flaws. If your basement has visible water stains, an obvious (and obnoxious) stench of mildew, they will notice. These problems are usually caused by water running throughout the house instead of being channelled away by gutters.

4. Structural

Problems in the foundation (such as we’ve previously talked about) are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to common problems. Structural problems in the home include those found in the yard, such as sidewalk cracks or visible tree roots popping through the property.

5. Roof Materials

Every year the foundation of homes age, so do roofs (and the material they’re made of). As roofs age, the damage from water intrusion may mean expensive repairs of future replacement. Whether your roof is made from asphalt shingles, wood shakes, terra cotta tile, or concrete slate, these materials are all susceptible to damage if not properly up kept.

6. Ventilation

Roof soffits that are blocked are just one of the leading problems of ventilation. Poor ventilation in the bathroom or kitchen fans (outside) are just a few areas that require renovation. This means installing extra roof vents (if applicable) and making sure that the attic if there is one, is not insufferably hot. The same applies to bathrooms without ventilation.

7. Electrical

Any licensed electrician will tell you that electrical wiring problems cause a massive amount of house fires. In your life, think about the number of older homes you saw with extension cords running between rooms. This easily overloads the electrical system. Of course, any home (of any age) with exposed wires can be physically damaged and wreak havoc.

Conclusion

This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are undoubtedly many more problems to cover and tackle. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, these problems are some of the most common ones that home inspectors will find. A small part of these problems can be prevented by upkeeping the integrity of the home, but in most cases may require dipping into your bank account. Home inspections are designed to reveal the flaws and potential hazards of homes and are an absolute necessity to maintain the safety of those within the premises. Do not ignore home inspections.

Commonly Asked Questions When Moving

Commonly Asked Questions When Moving

Arriving at the decision to move means you have asked yourself and answered a lot of questions. Choosing the new place you want to move to is primary, but it involves many other queries like how close it is to a school or how it will affect your work. The questions do not stop coming until you have actually settled into your new home. There are still many details you have to sort out before and during moving day. From how many hands will be needed and choosing between local or interstate movers. For that, Green Van Lines‘s team suggests listing all your requisites and then start looking for those that will help you the most.

Here are some of the most common questions people ask, and you yourself should be asking when moving.

Do I hire movers or get a Budget Truck Rental and do it myself?

There are multiple number of things to consider if you are on the fence between hiring movers and doing it yourself. First is your budget. Will you be able to afford to hire full-service movers, or do you need to save whatever you can? Getting a new place often entails a lot of expenses, and you might want to save every little bit. Next is how much stuff you need to move. If you have the time and enough help to make you feel confident about doing it yourself, then renting would be a good option.

  • When is the best time to move?

It is generally better to move during the summer, from January to February, when rain is at the minimum. But this can be the busiest time for movers and the most expensive time to hire them or to get a Budget Truck Rental. To offset the higher cost of moving during this season, avoid the weekend if your schedule would allow it.

  • What size of moving truck should I rent or hire?

It is better to have some extra room in your truck than fall short a bit, then needing an extra trip to haul your belongings. To make sure you rent the right-sized truck, read the company’s size guideline. Or better yet, ask a moving or truck rental company representative for some advice on truck sizing. For more details, visit Wridgways.

  • What packing supplies would I need?

You will need enough sturdy boxes to put loose items in. Bubble wraps and packing tape should be used to secure these boxes and protect fragile objects. Install padding for furniture. You can use blankets or pillows as a cushion. Most of these can be bought from the warehouse or online shop.

  • How do I load a moving truck?

Disassemble what you can to maximise the space inside your Budget Truck Rental. Then start loading the biggest and heaviest appliances first towards the front part of the truck, close to the cab. If you have a mattress, place it upright against one side of the truck, then load items with drawers flush against it to make sure the drawers do not open while the truck is moving. Sofas should go to the opposite side. Roll up carpets and rugs then position vertically along with the couch and headboards. Next, load heavy boxes on the available space in the middle. Make sure they are at the bottom as you load the smaller, lighter boxes on top of them.

If possible, secure each item with a strap as you load it to make sure they do not fall down in transit. And try to distribute weight as evenly as possible to make the truck easier to handle.

Moving involves a lot of hard work, and on top of that, a lot of problem-solving to be done. But if you prepare sufficiently by finding the answers to the right questions, you could make moving a smooth transition, and you can look forward to living a new life in your new home.

How Many Types of Hot Water Systems Are There?

How Many Types of Hot Water Systems Are There?

There’s more than one way to heat water.

Of course, you probably knew that. What you don’t know is how many there are or which hot water system is the best choice for you. Before you decide which product to select, it is essential to learn more about the technical properties.

Also, check important features like efficiency, energy consumption, safety, average life expectancy, and more. Besides that, if you are planning to install a water heater in your home, you should hire an expert in case that you are not familiar with that process. If you need plumbing and gas services, check out nationalplumbingandgas.com.au.

Here are some of the most common options available in Australia.

Electric Heaters

By far, the most common type of hot water heater in Australia is the electric system. It is easy to install, simple to use, and the upfront costs are relatively low.

However, the running costs are relatively high. Over time, you’ll end up paying out what you saved on the installation costs and more.

One of the best ways to lower your running costs is to limit the time it runs to off-peak hours when the electricity tariff is lower. Of course, you’ll need a large tank to hold water so that you don’t run out throughout the day.

The main advantages are cheap and simple installation, convenience when it comes to usability, effectiveness, and compact size. On the other side, some models might require a longer time to fill the tank with hot water, it requires electricity, and it might significantly increase your bills.

There are two most versions of electric heaters, conventional and tankless models. The advantage of using the standard one is that it will fill the tank with water and heat it, so you don’t need to worry about the supply. However, the main problem is that it will constantly use the power to maintain the temperature.

On the other side, tankless is a great option if you live in a smaller family or alone. It will instantly heat the water, and there is no need to keep it in the tank. The downsides are limited supply and higher cost.

Gas Heaters

Gas heaters are rising in popularity as natural gas lines are being run through more neighborhoods in Australia. Natural gas is less expensive than electricity, plus it can heat up the same amount of water much faster. Rates also don’t vary throughout the day so you can let it run and heat water whenever you need it.

One thing to consider is that gas is still a fossil fuel. The price is low for now, but that may change in the future as people push toward using renewable energy sources instead.

Installation is relatively quick but the cost is higher than for installing an electric heater. It can be even more effective than the electric version. Also, you can use as much hot water as you need since there are no limitations. On the other hand, it can be quite expensive when it comes to installation. Besides that, it is crucial to hire someone with proper knowledge and experience since making a mistake while installing gas system can lead to serious problems.

Solar Panel Heaters

For really cheap running costs, look to solar panels. Energy is so cheap it is basically free when you have a large enough solar panel system to heat your water.

However, the upfronts cost present a big barrier to entry. You can offset some of these costs by taking advantage of various tax breaks and other government incentives, but you’ll still pay something out of pocket.

You’ll also have to have a secondary heat source or a large holding tank to accommodate days without sunshine. It became a trend that more people are becoming aware of the importance of ecology and finding reliable and self-sustaining methods that will produce electricity without making an impact on nature.

Depending on the size of the panels, it can be very expensive. However, when you make a long-term calculation, this is a much more cost-efficient option. It is especially good to have this in Australia since the weather there is perfect to get out the most out of solar panels.

Heat Pump

A heat pump is basically a more efficient type of electric system. It uses small amounts of electricity to extract heat from the air, which is then used to heat the water.

Because the system uses so much less electricity, the running costs are extremely low. It also heats the water quickly, making it ideal for large households.

You will need to install a good ventilation system to provide proper ambient for the heat pump to operate. It is perfect for an area with fewer sunny days, or in combination with solar panels. You will save a lot of money over time since you can avoid gas and standard electric models.

Your Perfect Hot Water System

Find out what type of hot water system works best for you by talking to the experts. Doing your own research is great, but advice from the experts is invaluable when it comes to making your choice.

You should consider various factors to be sure that you are making the right choice. For example, if the price of electricity is very high in your area, there is no reason to choose electric models especially if you can use gas instead, or some other alternative.

Also, it is always a good idea to choose solar panels since it can provide long-term benefits, and you want leave any impact on the environment. However, the problem is if you live in a area with lots of clouds and rainy days since this system won’t be so effective.