6 Reasons Why You Need To Renovate Your Home

Home renovations take a lot of time, effort, and money so it’s no wonder that people may feel reluctant to push through with such a challenging task. Despite these problems, homeowners are determined to save up and make time to renovate their abodes — no matter how daunting it seems. After all, houses are prone to aging and would require a few fixes here and there to ensure they are fit for accommodation.

If you’re still unsure whether you want to renovate your home or leave it as it is, here’s a list of reasons on why you should do so:

Ensuring your home’s structural integrity

A house is bound to have some issues over the years. You can ignore and put some of those problems aside for a while, but that could lead to even more problems in the long run. Leaks, electrical problems, or even a simple crack on the foundation are all detrimental to anyone living inside the house and might even lead to the total loss of the home. Older homes can contain asbestos, which is something homeowners should be aware of. That’s why it’s important to resolve these concerns as early as possible to avoid any catastrophe.

Increasing the value of the house

Renovating your home is a must if you’re planning to boost its value and sell it. Both new and experienced buyers have standards when they purchase a new property, so it’s up to the seller to make changes to meet those qualities. Ensuring your abode is in livable condition should be the top priority before putting it on the market. You can do so by updating your home’s wiring system (which also improves its safety) and ensuring that basic amenities such as the plumbing, HVAC systems, and wall structures are well-maintained and will work properly before selling the house.

Staying in style

Trends and styles change overtime, and that stays true even for home designs. That’s why there’s no doubt that home renovations can make your house look fashionable. The best part of overhauling your house interior or exterior is that it doesn’t have to be overtop and costly. One way to make your home look up to date is by adding timeless features in and around it. You can also repaint it using neutral colors, a classic choice that allows you to easily spruce up your home without spending too much. Doing so also helps you add some personality to your living space and make it feel more comfortable.

Lowering your electricity bills

Updating your home’s amenities not only improves their efficiency, but it will also help you lower your energy consumption. Installing high quality insulation, adding another layer of glaze on doors and windows, putting a heat pump, and switching to renewable energy are some renovation ideas you can undertake if you’re looking to save electricity and turn your home into a more eco-friendly accommodation. These changes can also help raise the value of your property and make it more appealing to potential buyers. While the initial expenses of these upgrades are a little more costly compared to other home renovations, maintenance will be more bearable.

Improving your quality of life

To make a home more comfortable, you must ensure that it is functional. That means using every space as efficiently as possible to make your everyday life easier. You can do so by observing the current layout of your home, determining your usual movements, narrowing down how you can navigate your home more comfortably, and getting down to work to make that realization into reality. Home remodeling could be as simple as adding new light fixtures or as demanding as overhauling an entire room. Either way, the end goal should be making changes that will increase the cozy atmosphere of your home.

It’s easier than selling and moving

As house prices continue to soar and renovations feel like a chore, selling your home seems like a tempting option. However, those are the same problems you may face if you decide to purchase a new property. That’s why it’s better to refurbish your existing property instead of moving away. You can make the necessary changes you need to make your house feel more like a home without having to pack up and move to another place. You’ll also have a better idea of what needs fixing and how to do so, compared to settling into a new place that may have unknown problems.

There are different levels and difficulties that come with home renovations. It could be as taxing and expensive as tearing sections of the house to expand its overall space or as simple as moving pieces of furniture around to organize your home office. Either way, remodeling your abode offers many benefits that will enhance your living situation and allow you to enjoy your home like never before.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to fix all the damages and issues of your home at once. Focusing on one problem at a time will help you make better decisions and ensure that your renovation project is successful.

Guest Contributor: Kat Sarmiento

10 Inspiring Floor Tile Designs to Transform Your Space

You can outshine if your guests see a classic pattern under their feet. Floor tiles can abruptly uplift the entire interior of your house. Dull and non-trendy tiles can overshadow your house, no matter how much you have spent on your house interior. The right tile design can bring your house into the limelight. 

Many people think of it as a game-changer. Therefore, they put considerable effort into finding the best tiles for their home. It presents an undeniable cool factor to your house interior. Hence, choose wisely those trendy and classical tiles for your house. 

Inspiring and Exotic Floor Tile Designs

For ages, floor tiles have glazed your floor to give an edgy statement. These tiles come in various designs and quality. Hence, you can find inspiring floor tile designs in the international or local marketplace. 

Neutral Design

Many people yearn to have sophisticated and neutral designs. Hence, they want a subtle look to match their ethereal interior. These neutral designs incorporate hexagonal patterns. Moreover, this geometrical pattern gains an elevation with offset triangles. Hence, this sophisticated design gets the perfect balance of texture, color, and styling. 

This way, you can make your entrance more impactful by adjusting them in your doorway. Hence, it is a perfect amalgam of exotic design and superior-quality material. 

Art Deco Inspired Design

These tiles lay the perfect foundation for glazing your bathroom’s walls and floor. It displays minty green marble wall tiles that will fit well with the ornaments and ceramics. Their matte finishes have everything to fall in love with these bathroom tiles. 

Moreover, the minty green color gives a refreshing look. You can contrast these tiles with dual-chrome tiles. 

Motifs Design

It is an inspiring design for those who want vibrant colors and designs. These motif-designed tiles feature everything that one desires for the home interior. Moreover, these colorful patterns cast a hypnotizing effect on the viewers. 

Manufacturers lay them straight to prevent any chaotic effect. This way, it looks intricate and classy. Moreover, it helps you to give a new feel to our room or kitchen. 

Modern Architectural Design

These tiles bring a classical grid pattern with a modern touch. The grid style is a traditional one that a person can find in historical monuments. However, the designers have brought it with a new touch. They have filled those conventional designs with tints of modernism. 

The grid pattern tiles will look more attractive if one wants to add contrasting furniture. With country-chic furniture, you can highlight your classical grid pattern tiles. 

Blue Mediterranean Tiles

Probably the outdoor space is the least concern area for an interior designer. However, it is a place where people spend most of their time. Hence, the outdoor space serves as a potential space. This way, it should be refreshing and cozy. 

What makes the outdoor region more interesting is these blue Mediterranean tiles. It presents a perfect fit for your outdoors and cheers up your mood. These concentric-shaped patterns in blue will always be a region of interest for your guests. 

Many people prefer exotic tiles from Italy, Spain, and Germany. However, many still use local tiles for embellishing their floor. Hence, it is not a pain point for many people to buy some of the best tiles. 

You can visit different tile shops that have exotic products. One of the remarkable stores from where you can fetch incredible collections of tiles is Tilebar, a tile store. You can find some of the best tiles from that store. This way, you can get attractive tiles by visiting renowned stores, such as Tilebar. 

Herringbone Pattern Tiles

Many people prefer patterns for their floor tiles designs. The herringbone pattern tile is a classical tile that reflects repeated patterns. All over its intricate surface, you can find angled V-shape patterns. At an alternating 45-degree angle, these tiles generate a sophisticated V-shape pattern. This style is a treat to watch. 

Hence, it is a perfect way to embellish your floor with a minimalistic approach. These tiles come in a pastel color that imparts a sophisticated and decent look to the floor. 

Bathroom Playful Tiles

People often prefer dull and pastel colors for their bathroom tiles. However, a little pink pop-up will definitely not hurt anyone. This unexpected pop of pink will be your following style statement. This way, you can create a consistent tile pattern for your bathroom walls and floor. 

Girls often prefer pink for the bathroom, which glaze all over from floor to ceiling. Hence, you can envelop your bathroom with these tiles if you are a pink lover. 

Bond Design

If your aesthetic sense doesn’t go well with grid or straight line tiles, you can choose bond design tiles. These tiles give a different outlook with distinct visual variations. These running bond design tiles are easy to lay. Hence, this variation can bring contemporary tiles under your feet. 

Offbeat Tiles

You can have offbeat design tiles if you prefer offbeat music. These offbeat tiles create a mosaic or splash pattern on your floor. Moreover, it will present a cutting-edge aesthetic for your floor. Moreover, it will look attractive and satisfying to most of your guests. 

Multi-dimensional Tiles

You can create a 3D effect with these multi-dimensional tiles. It can be a perfect fit for your bathroom styling. Additionally, these multi-dimensional tiles will create an optical illusion. Hence, you become more engrossed in its pattern. These trendy tiles look best on a grayscale.

These stylish and modern tiles work best for small spaces, such as bathrooms or reading nooks. 

Patterns Within Patterns Design

These are mostly dining room tiles that present wide dimensions of patterns. Their graphics and angular tilts offer the most attractive look in your house interior. It misses the clarity at first glance. Eventually, your guests can start recognizing the patterns with a closer look. 

Here, you can discover various patterns with intricate merging. Hence, grab these tiles to amuse your guests with their pattern within pattern style. 

Conclusion

The interior design of your house gets a finishing touch by having exotic tile designs. Therefore, grab the perfect match for your house. This way, you can amuse your guests and visitors by illustrating the best tiles in the market. 

Guest Contributor: Dan Martin

A Closer Look at the Most Common Pool Problems and How to Fix Them

Owning a pool is a huge investment. Not only do you have to pay for the initial installation, but you also have to maintain it on an ongoing basis. One of the most common issues that pool owners face is water clarity. If your water isn't clear, it can be difficult to enjoy swimming in your pool. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the most common pool problems and how to fix them!

A Dirty Pool

One of the most common pool problems is a dirty pool. If your pool is dirty, it can be difficult to enjoy swimming in it. There are several methods you can use to clean your pool. You can either use a pool vacuum or you can hire a professional to do it for you. You can also utilize an automatic pool cleaner to help with the cleaning process.

If you have a pool, it is important to make sure that you are taking care of it. There are a lot of different problems that can occur, but if you are proactive about fixing them, you will be able to enjoy your pool for years to come! Most professionals go for the Dolphin automatic swimming pool cleaner as it is known for its quality. You can also find a lot of information on the internet about how to troubleshoot and fix different pool problems. With a little bit of effort, you will be able to keep your pool in great shape!

Green Water

One of the most common pool problems is green water. This is caused by algae growth in the water and can make your pool look unappealing. The good news is that there are ways to get rid of algae and keep it from coming back. You can use a chemical treatment, shock the pool, or use a UV light to kill the algae.

If you have green water, the first thing you should do is test the pH levels. Algae thrive in pools with high pH levels, so it's important to make sure that your pool's pH is balanced. You can use a pool test kit to test the pH levels and add chemicals to adjust the level if necessary.

Once you've balanced the pH levels, you can start treating the algae. The most common way to do this is with a chemical treatment. There are a variety of chemicals that you can use, so be sure to ask your pool professional which one is right for your pool.

You can also shock the pool to kill the algae. This involves adding a large amount of chlorine to the water all at once. Be sure to follow the directions on the shock product that you're using and be careful not to overdo it, as too much chlorine can be harmful to swimmers.

Dirty Filter

One of the most common pool problems is a dirty or clogged filter. A dirty filter can cause all sorts of problems, from cloudy water to green algae. Fortunately, it's easy to clean or replace your filter. Just make sure you do it according to the manufacturer's instructions. If your pool is still having problems after you've cleaned the filter, it's time to call in a professional. They can help you figure out what's wrong and get your pool back in tip-top shape.

Leaking Vinyl Liner

Vinyl liner pools are the most popular type of above-ground pool and for good reason. They're affordable, relatively easy to install, and require less maintenance than other types of pools. However, vinyl liner pools do have one major downside: they're prone to leaks.

There are a few different reasons why your vinyl liner pool might be leaking. The most common is that the liner has developed a hole or tear. This can happen due to age, wear and tear, or even improper installation. If you think your liner might be leaking, the first thing you should do is inspect it for holes or tears.

If you find a hole or tear in your liner, the good news is that it can be repaired. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common is to use a patch kit. Patch kits come with everything you need to repair your liner, and they're relatively easy to use.

Another common reason for leaks in vinyl liner pools is improper installation of the liner. If the liner isn't installed correctly, it can cause wrinkles or folds that will eventually lead to leaks. This is why it's so important to hire a professional to install your liner.

If you're having trouble finding the source of your leak, there are a few other things you can try. One is to add water to the pool and then mark the water level with a chalk line. If the water level falls, there is a leak.

Another option is to use a pool dye tablet. These tablets are designed to color the water, making it easier to spot leaks. Simply drop one into your pool and watch for any changes in the water's color. If you're still having trouble finding the source of your leak, you can always call a professional. Pool repair companies have the tools and expertise to quickly find and fix leaks.

A Worn O-Ring

One of the most common pool problems is a worn O-ring. This small rubber ring is located in the pump and helps to create a seal between the impeller and the volute. If this seal is not working properly, it can cause water to leak out of the pump, which can lead to low water levels and eventually damage to the pump. To fix this problem, simply replace the O-ring with a new one. This is a relatively easy and inexpensive repair that can be done by most pool owners.

These are some of the most common pool problems and how to fix them. If you're having trouble with your pool, be sure to call a professional. They can help you diagnose the problem and get your pool back up and running in no time.

5 Ways to Upgrade and Reorganize Your Bedroom to Improve Quality Sleep

A bedroom is where you go to relax after a long tiring day. In fact, one-third of our lives is spent sleeping. However, when it comes to renovating a bedroom, most people focus on its physical appeal. From the furniture and cupboards to cushions and bed sheets, everything is picked based on how it looks.

But did you know that having a bedroom that allows comfortable and healthy sleeping is equally important? According to research, poor sleep has been shown to negatively impact hormone levels, physical performance, and cognitive function. 

Your bedroom may look pretty during the day, but it might have a different effect at night. That is why renovating your bedroom for a good night's sleep is vital. Keep reading to learn the most important yet affordable home improvement projects when considering your bedroom space!

1. Improve the natural lighting

Our bodies consist of an internal clock known as the Circadian rhythm. It impacts our hormones, body, and brain, keeping us alert and letting the body know when it's time to sleep. 

The circadian rhythm functions well when exposed to natural sunlight or bright light during the day. This increases both the quality and duration of the night's sleep as well as daily energy.

Exposure to bright daylight throughout the day has proved effective for people with insomnia. Research suggests that older people exposed to natural light for two hours during the day slept for two hours longer and had 80 percent higher sleep efficiency.

That is why if you do not have windows and doors that keep the room illuminated during the day, it's time to replace them. Investing in one of the following windows and door installation may be a good idea:

• Picture windows

• Casement Windows

• Sliding windows

• Bay and bow windows

• Glass doors

2. Focus on decluttering

While you cannot see your bedroom clutter while asleep, it still might affect how well you sleep. A disorganized space can cause stress and keep you from relaxing. The mess in your bedroom may make you feel like you have more "loose ends" than you have, which can cause anxiety and make it difficult to calm your thoughts before bed.

Try to leave bills, work-related papers, and other documents in your office or anywhere else out of sight. Toss your dirty clothes in a closed hamper and out of the way. Keep garbage in a trashcan and dishes in the kitchen. By following these simple tips, you'll notice a huge difference in the quality of your sleep.

3. Add bedroom plants

The biophilic trend is becoming increasingly popular among people. It allows you to create harmony between your home and the outside world. Interacting with plants before going to bed has shown to be beneficial, particularly for people who live in isolated environments.

Having bedroom plants improve the quality of sleep by lowering the frequency of micro-awakening events (the number of times you wake up from deep sleep during the night)

Merely 15 minutes of interaction with plants before sleep can reduce stress and make you feel calm. Try to connect with them by watering, touching, or smelling them.

In addition, having houseplants also offer the following advantages:

• Help in meditating

• lower cortisol

• decrease sleep latency

4. Install modern window treatments for privacy and noise control

If you do not have the budget for new windows but feel like you experience issues with privacy or noisy neighbours, you may consider installing new window treatments such as quality blinds and shutters. They ideally serve as noise-cancelling units and even allow homeowners considerable control over incoming daylight.

Best motorized blinds can even be connected to your smartphone, so everything it takes to get complete darkness or ensure additional sunlight is one button on your cell phone. Moreover, these window treatments are quite affordable compared to a new window or door installation but still add considerable value to your overall comfort and house market price.

5. Use right bedding

Do you often wonder why you always sleep better in a hotel? It's because hotels use the best quality bedding and replace them frequently. The right bedding makes quite a difference when it comes to the quality of your sleep.

According to studies, a new mattress will improve sleep quality and relieve back pain more effectively than an older one. However, the ideal mattress will largely depend on your characteristics like body weight, typical sleeping position, and whether you prefer a soft or firm surface.

Some materials, such as cotton, wool, silk, bamboo, and linen, have "moisture-wicking" capabilities, allowing them to absorb extra moisture and keep you more comfortable. 

Whatever type of sheets you choose, make sure they are properly tucked under each corner of your mattress. This will aid in keeping the sheet in place as you move around in your bed at night.

Getting some sheet holders for beds will keep your bed sheets from falling off. These sheet holders are designed to clip onto the sides of each corner of your bed sheet to keep it in place. The holders go underneath the mattress and keep your sheet in place all night. Grounding sheets are designed to conduct the Earth's natural energy, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation during sleep.

In contrast, materials like polyester and synthetic satin can actually retain moisture and keep you warmer. You don't necessarily need bedding with the highest thread count, but it should be comfortable enough for you to get cozy. 

Your mattress, pillows, sheets, and blankets play an essential role in making your bedroom comfortable. Experts recommend upgrading your bedding at least every 5–8 years.

Final thoughts

If you are unable to fall asleep at night or get disturbed sleep, it may be time for you to make some changes to your bedroom. Allowing natural light in, blocking noise, decluttering, adding plants, and using the right beddings are some crucial ways to improve your sleep quality.

Guest Contributor: Roman Tymchenko

How To Choose The Right Water Tank For Your Home

Water plays a crucial role in your daily life. You need it to drink, clean your home, cook, and water your garden, among other things. The municipal council is the primary source of water for the majority of residents. However, there are situations where you can’t access such services due to various reasons, such as maintenance or accessibility. These situations warrant a need to store water in your home to meet your daily needs.

One of the many water storage solutions available is tanks. They’ve been in the market since time immemorial and haven’t changed much. The only aspect that’s changed is that many more companies are manufacturing water tanks, a move that’s made choosing and purchasing one challenging. However, as a homeowner looking to buy a water tank, you need not worry about settling for the right tank—this article will guide you. So, read on.

Factor In Your Water Needs

The tank options here and other similar stores come in various capacities, some holding more water than others. Here, your water needs should guide your choice. What are these needs?

One, identify your intended use. Is it for drinking, outdoor cleaning, farming, or as a backup in case of a lack of water supply?  For regular water use, e.g., cleaning, it’s best to settle for a large capacity water tank. It’ll hold more water and last longer to meet your needs. If you moderately experience water shortage, a medium-sized one would be ideal; on the one hand, a small-sized one would be best if you rarely experience water shortage. 

The other aspect is the number of people in your household. You want to have as much water as possible to meet everybody’s needs over an extended period without depleting your supply. A large capacity tank should suffice if you have a large household that largely depends on the tank water. The reverse applies if you have a small household. 

Check The Brand

As previously stated, many companies manufacture water tanks. Although the end products are the same, there’s a likelihood of disparity in quality since different manufacturers will adopt different production techniques. Therefore, you must be wary of the brand you buy from. But, how will you know the right one?

Consider researching the various water tank brands available. You can visit the companies’ websites and look at the review sections. What do previous and current clients say about these brands’ tanks?  Your main focus should be on comments regarding durability. Be sure to settle for one with more positive than negative reviews. Also, check a brand’s reputation; a reputable one is a company that’s known for quality water tanks and has been in business for a considerable period of time.

Ultimately, you want to buy a water tank that’ll serve you for many years without the need for repair or replacement.

Consider Storage Area

Once you purchase your water tank, you must find an ideal location. Due to most water tanks' size, this must be outdoors. The available space should determine the size of a water tank to get. 

An ideal location for a water tank is always at the end of your compound. You want as much space as possible to keep the tank from being an obstruction. However, if space is an issue, settle for a small-sized water tank. There are also underground tanks you can purchase. Suppose you aim to use the water tank to harvest rain.

You can strategically place the tank at the end of your gutters, but ensure you clean them to ensure cleanliness. 

It’s good to point out that a small-sized tank doesn’t necessarily mean it has a small capacity. It can have a small surface area, but have a bigger height to hold more water.

The other reason for considering your storage area is to know the water tank color to purchase. These tanks come in various colors, which impact the quality of your stored water. If your chosen location is exposed to the sun or if you live in an area with extremely high temperatures, your chosen tank should be light-colored. This type of water tank won’t absorb the sun’s heat, therefore, inhibiting the possibility of algae growth. On the other hand, consider a dark-colored water tank, like black, if the storage area is in a cool area. You want to retain the quality of your water for consumption to prevent diseases.

Conclusion

Choosing the right water tank for your home isn’t as daunting as you might think. With the right guidance, like what this article offers, the process would be completely seamless. Therefore, consider implementing the tips you got here, and you’ll be able to invest in the right water tank for your water storage needs. 

How Curb Appeal Can Add Value to Your Property

You've probably heard of situations where homeowners cannot sell their homes because the buyers keep turning away when they get there. Curb appeal is the buyer's first impression whenever he gets to the home you are trying to sell.

To many buyers, the front appearance matters a lot since it reflects what is installed on the inside. Curb appeal is significant since it determines the house's price and even adds some extra value to the house on sale. But how can you use curb appeal on your home to see its value increase?

Wash the Face of the House

Before you even think of painting the front face of your house, you must thoroughly wash it to remove the dirt or extra grunge that may interfere with the paint. It is not surprising that cleaning the house can add $10,000 or $15,000 to the initial cost of the house.

Using a bucket of soapy water and a long-bristled brush, you can easily reach out to different parts of the house and scrub off the dirt. You need to make sure that you remove all cobwebs from the home as you wipe the windows both on the inside and outside, leaving no spark of dirt.

The garage also matters a lot since it defines the face of the house; make sure you scrub garage doors until you get the white color that was initially there. You can use a solution of trisodium phosphate to scrub off some dirt you can't spray.

Give the Exterior a Decent Paint Job

The most usual advice you can get from real estate experts regarding adding value to your property is emulating the best paint job for the exterior of your house. The first impression for buyers is usually the splash of colors typically painted on the place, which may add extra value to your home.

However, carrying out the painting is also not easy as you think; you have to be prepared to spend a reasonable amount of time and money on the activity. For example, if you have a 3000 square feet house, then be ready to spend a minimum of $375 on the paint and a minimum of $1,500 on labor.

But again, when purchasing paint from a local store, you need to avoid making assumptions since it can lead to you being given the wrong painting. The best way is to get a scrapped part of the painting from your house and carry it to the store so that the seller can match it. Painting the place is crucial since a buyer can easily pull down the value of a poorly painted house.

Make Sure Your Roof is Fixed

The roof's condition matters a lot since it is also part of what the buyer will notice and determine the property's value. If your shingles are faded or even missing, then nothing will be impressive or value added to your property since a good shelter is vital in any property.

The good thing with roof repairs is that you can pay for them during the repair, or ideally, you can pay for them later at a much lower assessment. A new shingle roof goes for about $7,500, and if you purchase and install it on your top, you are more likely to get back the amount used in the repair plus an extra profit from the sale.

However, not all roofs are meant to be removed; some tops will look more elegant if you remove the dirt, algae, and lichens that have been growing on them for years. But carrying out the roof cleaning by yourself may be overwhelming, and you, therefore, need a professional who will aid in the cleaning.

Make Your Yard Neat

A good impression on your home can be brought about by a lawn that is well manicured, shrubs that are well pruned, and fresh mulch. To create this impression, you can replace the overgrown bushes with some leafy plants or even some colorful annuals.

You can use a reddish-brown or dark mulch to surround the trees and bushes in your yard to make it even more elegant. Be sure to seek the NexGen Lawns residential artificial turf, which will help you fix your lawn perfectly.

As you put an edge on the garden beds, make sure you uproot any form of weed from the garden as you plant some plants in pots or vessels. You should use lawn food and water to cover the grass on your lawn. Make sure you mow the grass regularly as you put seeds and sod in the exposed spots on your grass.

Conclusion

Curb appeal is crucial if you want to sell your house since the first impression a buyer receives determines whether they will still proceed with the deal of buying. Ideally, it will also help support the property's value since the buyer will have no reason to complain about it.

Guest Contributor: Hannah Boothe

Read This Before Moving Into an Old House

You’ve fallen in love with the beautiful period home you’re thinking about buying the moment you laid your eyes on it. The property is unique, has features you won’t find in modern homes, and will serve as an amazing talking point for anybody visiting.

But it’s an old house.

No matter how good the house looks, there may be problems lurking beneath the surface that you need to watch out for. Read this article to find out what they are before moving into an old house.

Problem No. 1 – Foundation Issues

Foundation problems are common in older properties. These problems can range from minor cracks to issues with the foundation’s support footings, which are extremely costly to fix. Even an old property in good condition is subject to foundational wear and tear. Add seismic activity, encroaching tree roots, and extremely wet soil and you have a possible laundry list of issues to contend with.

Hiring a structural engineer to examine the house before purchasing is a must. Also, keep an eye out for signs that the property is unbalanced, such as cracks in walls, uneven floors, and windows and doors that don’t close properly.

Problem No. 2 – Plumbing Challenges

Lead pipes are one of your biggest issues when it comes to old houses. Many older properties used water piping made of lead. As those pipes undergo wear and tear, they gradually break down. The result may be that you end up with particles of lead in your water.

That’s a major problem, especially if you have children. Lead in your drinking water can cause lead poisoning, which leads to an array of issues including developmental delays, fatigue, seizures, and weight loss. Replacing older lead pipework with more modern and safe pipes is a key priority. If you’d like to know what options are available, you can find them here: https://anytimeplumbing.net/santa-cruz/

Beyond issues related to lead, the pipes in older houses may have worn down to the point where you experience issues related to low water pressure. You should also look for leaks around your faucets and slow water drainage in bathtubs and sinks, both of which suggest the pipework has issues. Contact a licensed plumber to conduct a thorough evaluation of the property before moving in.

Problem No. 3 – Bat Infestations

The attic may be one of the many reasons you bought the house. That attic has so much potential to become a converted extra room. Or it could just act as an ideal storage location for all the bits and pieces you struggle to find a place for in the house’s other rooms.

You love the attic.

The problem is that bats probably love it too.

Older houses have plenty of nooks and crevices for bats to enter. If they find a way into your attic, you have a problem because it is illegal to kill bats in the United States. They’re an endangered and protected species.

So, what can you do about bat infestations?

First, you must wait until the end of summer. The bats may leave your property of their own accord during this period, allowing you to seal up their entry point so they can’t return.

You’ll also need to deal with bat waste.

This is extremely toxic to humans, meaning you’ll need to call a professional service to get rid of it. If you’re unsure if your old house has bats, look for the waste. It’s similar to mouse droppings, only a little longer. If you find any, do not disturb it. Call a professional and follow their advice for getting rid of bats.

Problem No. 4 – Hazardous Materials

Building on the point about lead in water pipes mentioned earlier, older houses were built before modern construction standards were put in place. Unfortunately, this often means that builders used materials that we now know are hazardous to our health, such as lead and asbestos.

You’ll often find lead in paint applied before 1978 and in plumbing systems created before the mid-1980s. Asbestos was often used in roofing, insulation, exterior shingles, and fireplaces until the 1970s. We’ve already discussed the dangers of lead poisoning. Asbestos is just as dangerous, with the material being the primary cause of mesothelioma. This is a form of cancer that has an extremely high mortality rate.

Have your home thoroughly inspected for these and other hazardous materials, such as radon, before moving in. If the inspection demonstrates these materials are in the property, consult a professional to get rid of them. Unfortunately, this is a costly process, with asbestos removal alone costing thousands of dollars both for the removal and the inevitable remodeling that comes after.

Problem No. 5 – Energy Inefficiency

Your old home may have gorgeous windows and stunning doors that are aesthetic centerpieces for the property. Unfortunately, many of these features do not meet modern energy efficiency standards. That’s not an issue during summer, when the weather is warm enough for you to not notice drafts and energy leakage (except for the higher cost of cooling you’ll incur). But during the winter, inefficient fixtures can cause serious problems with your energy bills, which are exacerbated by the rising costs of fossil fuels in many parts of the United States.

The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to replace the old windows and doors that cause these inefficiencies. Weatherstripping allows you to seal small gaps in doors and windows, helping you save energy in the process. You may consider using storm windows over your standard windowpanes, as these extra panes of glass add further weather and wind protection. Insulating the walls should also be a priority, especially if you live in a cold region.

Confront the Problems

The joy of moving into an old house can rapidly fade if you discover any of the problems discussed above. In many cases, these problems can cost thousands of dollars to fix and may require remodeling work.

Ensure you have the property thoroughly inspected before your purchase so you know the scale of the issues you may face. It’s a good idea to have two inspections carried out by different inspectors, thus ensuring that you don’t have to deal with a costly issue later because one inspector didn’t catch it. Most of these problems are fixable as long as you have the budget and know what you’re looking for.

Five Summer Home Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

Summer and maintenance are basically synonymous. If you want your home to last throughout the season, you must give it the loving care it deserves. It might sound obvious, but many homeowners ignore regular maintenance during warmer weather. This article will provide five tips on what you need to do to keep your home functional this summer.

Air Conditioning System

Checking your AC system is an integral part of your summer maintenance. It helps you sleep in peace and makes the summer heat tolerable. When you need ac tune-up, consider this checklist:

1. Check the filter in your air conditioner. If it's dirty, replace it with a new one or clean and dry the current one.

2. Ensure the drain pan under your unit is clean and free of debris, like dead leaves and pine needles.

3. Remove any pop-up vents from the top of your AC unit and clean them. Rinse thoroughly with water before replacing them on top of your unit.

Inspect the Roof

Inspecting the roof is a good idea to ensure it is in good condition and ready for the upcoming season. Before you can start working on the roof, you need to inspect it to see if there are any problems or leaks. This will help you determine what needs to be fixed before you start working on it. It’s also a good idea to invest in heavy duty tarps in the event you do have a leak to prevent water damage.

Wash the Outside of Your Home

Keeping your home clean is a great way to reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality. One of the easiest things you can do for your home this summer is to wash the outside of your house. This simple task will help you eliminate dust, mold, and other allergens that can make you sick.

You can also change the window screens on each window in your home as part of your summer maintenance routine. These screens protect you and your family from insects and keep out harmful UV rays.

Clean the Gutters

Cleaning gutters is an easy way to keep your home's exterior beautiful and safe. It also helps prevent damage and leaves you with a more aesthetically pleasing yard. Before cleaning your gutters, inspect them and ensure no leaves or other debris are clogging them up. Also, look at your downspouts and make sure they are clear. If you notice any debris in your gutters, use a hose with a brush attachment to clear it out. You can also use a broom or other tool to remove leaves or twigs stuck in the corners of your gutters.

Test the Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors detect the presence of smoke and notify you by sounding an alarm and a flashing light. They help detect fires in your home and keep you and your family safe. It is essential to test smoke detectors because as the weather heats, the chances of a fire increase.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance is crucial to the longevity of any home, but it's something that many homeowners forget about until something goes wrong. There are plenty of ways to avoid costly repairs; you just need to keep track of common issues so you can make improvements before they become an issue. We hope we've given you some good tips and pointers on doing just that so your home will be in top shape when summer hits.

Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson

Tub vs. Shower: Which is Better for Your Home?

If you're in the middle of a bathroom remodel or you are looking for a new house, you may have come to a halt because of the tub vs. shower dilemma. You might have tried asking your friends which is better. But, most people will just tell you which one is subjectively better for them. Let's discuss some of the pros and cons of getting either of those. This way, you will hopefully more easily come to a solution to the tub vs. shower dilemma that is right for you.

We will mostly be covering the benefits of choosing either of these options. But, just like with anything in life, we can't skip over the setbacks of having a tub or shower. Keep in mind that we will be discussing this with the assumption that you are not in a position to have both of these options.

Long-term investment

There is one thing you should always think about when doing something new with your home (including solving the tub vs. shower dilemma). That is whether it will increase or decrease the resale value of your home.

Most people on the market today see a tub as a show of luxury, so if you are in it for the long run, your best bet would be to go for one. However, this mostly applies to houses. If you are living in an apartment, having a tub can come off as forced and out of place. Most single-family homes will benefit from having a bathtub in at least one of the bathrooms. This is because it is easier for parents to wash their small children and babies in them.

Along with other ways to make a sale, finding the right solution to the tub vs. shower dilemma for your home will greatly increase its resale value.

You can always change your mind

When faced with the tub vs. shower dilemma, it is important to stay calm. If you're taking a couple of days to make the final decision and it's pushing back your bathroom remodel schedule, you shouldn't panic. Just remember that when it comes to this, most decisions are not actually final. Even if you end up making the wrong one, for instance, you get a tub and realize it isn't for you, you can always go back and swap out the tub for a shower. A bathroom remodel can be done whenever you want to and have the means to do it. There are, however, some things you should consider when renovating a bathroom.

Bathroom with both a tub and shower to help with the tub vs. shower decision

Another important thing to make sure of is that the fixture you choose is connected so that you can replace it if you change your mind later. This can best be done by having open and constant conversations with your plumber.

Keep water-saving methods in mind

Tubs generally call for a lot of water. If you are the type of person who likes to be frugal with their water, the obvious choice is a shower. But you shouldn't give up on a tub just yet. You should instead try asking your plumber whether he can incorporate some other ways to save water into your home. This way, you can stay on the same amount of water you would usually be spending while also allowing for a tub to be added.

Of course, this method calls for a lot of extra expenses upfront, seeing as you have to install a bunch of these water-saving fixtures. So for anyone who is still reluctant, the best solution to the tub vs. shower dilemma is a shower, after all. And if you are fine with spending a little more water for the comfort that a soak in the tub offers, you know what to do.

Tub vs. shower, which is more hygienic?

The most obvious answer to this question is that a shower definitely cleans your body better. It distributes water evenly all around your body. It mixes with the soap on your skin better as well. Doing this can easily break apart all the oils, sweat, and dirt that have collected on your skin throughout the day and/or night. A cold shower in the morning can also help you wake up more easily.

However, this is not to say that baths in a tub are dirty and have no practical use. Taking a bath helps gently exfoliate your skin over a longer period of time. It opens your pores for better and deeper cleaning. It also helps relax your muscles and stimulate your nervous system. And, as long as you're careful, you can also always take a quick shower by standing upright in a tub.

If you change your mind about the tub vs. shower dilemma, leave room for future changes

Getting informed about different types of baths and ways to take a shower is a good idea too. For instance, there are certain salts and additives you can put in your bath to increase its health benefits.

What do you want?

The final and most important step of figuring out the solution for the tub vs. shower dilemma is realizing what it is that you want. Finding the right fit for your needs is the best way to look at and approach this issue. Experts from storage companies such as Zippy Shell of Greater Philadelphia say that a lot of people tend to listen only to recommendations from friends and loved ones without thinking about what they want during a remodel. Then they ended up having to spend even more money on renting a storage unit to keep the tub/shower fixture which they decided they didn't want after two months.

The solution to the tub vs. shower dilemma is different for everyone

Choosing one of these is not the end, though. You have to also make sure that the installation process goes smoothly. There are also many types of tubs and showers, which you also have to decide on. Our advice for this is to make sure you hire a handyman or plumber to help you. It's always easier to make sure your bathroom remodel goes to plan when you have a pair of experienced hands on your side.

You should always take a shower, even by standing in a tub for hygienic purposes.

Getting informed about different types of baths and ways to take a shower is a good idea too. For instance, there are certain salts and additives you can put in your bath to increase its health benefits.

What do you want?

The final and most important step of figuring out the solution for the tub vs. shower dilemma is realizing what it is that you want. Finding the right fit for your needs is the best way to look at and approach this issue. Experts from storage companies such as Zippy Shell of Greater Philadelphia say that a lot of people tend to listen only to recommendations from friends and loved ones without thinking about what they want during a remodel. Then they ended up having to spend even more money on renting a storage unit to keep the tub/shower fixture which they decided they didn't want after two months.

The solution to the tub vs. shower dilemma is different for everyone

Choosing one of these is not the end, though. You have to also make sure that the installation process goes smoothly. There are also many types of tubs and showers, which you also have to decide on. Our advice for this is to make sure you hire a handyman or plumber to help you. It's always easier to make sure your bathroom remodel goes to plan when you have a pair of experienced hands on your side.

Something that is a pro in the tub vs. shower dilemma for you is a con for someone else.

Remember that you are the one who will be using this bathroom for the next few years of your life. What is right for you might be awful for someone else you know. Finding the solution to the tub vs. shower dilemma is a different path for everyone.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

4 Of The Most Common Flooding Danger Zones In Your Home

Flooding can be disastrous and stressful, so to avoid any issues, it is important to pinpoint the areas that are susceptible to flooding in our homes. By identifying these areas you can take the proper steps to avoid flooding, and act proactively rather than reactively.

Here are some common areas of flooding that you should be aware of in your home.

1. Roofs

Roofs are what keep our homes dry, so when they fail in torrential rain, this can lead to big problems and pricey repairs. Unlike a boiler flood, which you will notice almost immediately, roof leaks can cause extensive damage before you even realize they are there. One way to alleviate this problem is to employ professional waterproofing services to ensure your roof is in tip-top shape and won't let any water in. Roof leaks can be devastatingly expensive, so avoid them at all costs by making sure your roof is in the best possible shape.

2. Boilers/Hot Water Tanks

Hot water tanks are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to accidental flooding. If your boiler has a malfunction, this can lead to gallons of water being released into your home, causing damage and frustration. One way to avoid this issue is with regular maintenance, to ensure your systems maintain their integrity and don't lead to flooding. While you can never know if a disaster is about to strike, you can take the necessary precautions so that if something does end up flooding your basement appliance room, it will do as minimal damage as possible.

3. Dishwashers

Dishwashers are wonderful appliances that make our lives easier, but they can lead to water leaking and flooding if not properly used and maintained. Food backing up in the lines can lead to drainage issues, and water supply lines can lead to flooding in the kitchen if there is a rupture. Taking care of your dishwasher, cleaning it out once a month, and making sure that you don't put lots of food inside it will allow your drain lines to stay clear, and alleviate the chances of coming into a flooded kitchen.

4. Basement Drains

Older homes have drains on the basement floors that can lead to sewer backups and substantial flooding. While these drains make cleaning a breeze, they also increase the danger of flooding. Basements are always the biggest danger zone in any home. With pipes and lines running through them, as well as windows that allow in rainwater, if there is a flood (be it a natural flood or an appliance malfunction) basements will normally bear the brunt of the damage, as water flows into the lowest spots in your home.

Knowing that these areas can cause problems, it is important to maintain them properly in your current home or have them fully inspected before you buy a new home. The first step to prevention is awareness, so make sure that you are well aware of the danger zones in your home so you can take the proper preventative measure to reduce your risk of flooding and water damage.