The Benefits of Using Automated Valves

Automation assists with activities and processes without requiring employees to physically participate in their implementation, reducing manual labour. Valve automation is very useful for managing flow in piping systems that require precise control or fail-safe emergency shutoff. A closer look at the advantages of using automated valves reveals their overall industrial influence, improved output control, and higher manufacturing and production efficiency. Let’s have a closer look at those.  

Automated Valve Actuators and Their Impact

Automated valve actuators have an impact on a variety of manufacturing and processing operations, including hazardous materials, oil and gas, chemicals, food and beverage, and others. Manual operating valves entails a number of dangers:

●      The operation of manual valves takes a long time and requires a lot of effort.

●      Manual operation raises the possibility of human error and may result in higher operational costs due to waste from destroyed products. 

Using Automated Valves to Increase Output

The use of automated valves to improve output control helps to reduce expenses associated with product waste. Automated valves do not require the presence of an operator, allowing them to continuously monitor and modify flow across a system. 

They can continue to operate even during outages when paired with battery backup systems that provide an emergency power supply, or at the very least securely stop the present process until the utility is restored. 

Using Automated Valve Actuators to Improve Safety

In locations where severe temperatures, pressure levels, unpleasant odors, flammable components, or other variables have the potential to cause serious accidents, actuator valves aid to control constant operating levels and maintain safety. Automated valve actuators return to fail-safe settings in an emergency, avoiding accidents, environmental risks, machinery or structural damage, and other disastrous effects.

This type of valve also enables remote access to valves that would otherwise be comparably difficult or impossible to reach safely and physically return to a safe position.

Valve and Control Automation Provides a Safer Work Environment

Valve automation improves employee safety while also ensuring compliance with industrial laws. Automated valve and control systems are used in systems that deal with temperature extremes, high pressure, and other components that could result in serious accidents. 

Furthermore, in the event of an emergency, automatic valves and equipment revert to their fail-safe settings. This reduces the risk of environmental dangers, accidents, and additional property damage. 

Accessibility to other valves that are difficult to reach is made possible by automated valves. They then physically place them in a more secure location.

Operational Costs are Reduced by Automated Valves

Valves and equipment that are automated can help to reduce waste. This is due to the fact that there are no measuring inaccuracies caused by human error.

Using a variety of automated valves in your system will reduce the amount of personnel required to operate it. This results in a huge reduction in labor costs. It also cuts down on the time it takes to create a specific level of output. You can use the extra time to start a new product line or make enhancements to existing ones.

More Efficient System 

Manually operated valves require regular human intervention in order to function properly. As a result, the system is almost always turned off and on. Running this takes a lot of energy and fuel.

Automated valves, on the other hand, maximize flow efficiency. 

Concluding Thoughts

Automated valves are used in a variety of production operations. They have a high level of precision when it comes to managing flow in systems. As previously stated, they prevent a number of potentially dangerous scenarios that could result in workplace injuries.

Furthermore, they require less labor because only one or two engineers are required to control the entire system. Hence, make sure to consider this solution, along with automatic solenoid valves for your upcoming operations to increase productivity and reduce cost. 

Guest Contributor: Kate Anderson

Common Plumbing Issues in Fixer-Upper Homes

There are two reasons why you might want to buy an old house. Either you fell in love with its charm, character, and nostalgic value, or you're in the business of flipping homes. And although buying such an old place does come with its own set of benefits, it could also bring you plenty of problems. Plumbing, certainly, is one of those. So to make sure you're prepared, let's take a look at the common plumbing issues in fixer-upper homes.

It goes without saying that these old homes do look the part. Back then, people went the extra mile to make their houses look and feel special. They used materials that we consider too expensive by today's standards to make ornaments, and it's not rare that you see that these stood the test of time. With all the patina, they look even better than when they were new.

Owning such a nice-looking home makes you feel special, so people decide to do it without giving it much thought. But that's the last thing you want to do. If you don't do all the plumbing checks before moving into a new home, you may be in for heaps of trouble.

Let's see why.

Old Pipe Materials

If the home you're looking at is more than 30 years old, the chances are that the pipes are made from an outdated material. There are three possible types of materials old-house owners will be dealing with:

●      Lead

●      Galvanised Steel

●      Polybutylene

Lead Pipes

Lead pipes are the ones you want to be the most cautious about. Obviously, they're bad for your health and that of your loved ones, but they weren't banned until 1986. So, if your new house predates this year, you might want to check the type of your piping.

Galvanized Steel

Although not as risky to use as lead, galvanized steel is a lot more common material to come by. It's been extensively used since the 1960s when it replaced lead as the primary material, and that's why so many older houses have such piping.

However, it was later found that this type of steel is corrosive. So, the water you drink may have some rust in it. Not a pleasant thing to think about, we know.

To solve the problem, you'll have to re-pipe the whole house. It's a big and expensive job that you want to do before you move in. So, be sure to add that check to the cost of the house.

Old pipes are one of the most common plumbing issues in fixer-upper homes.

Pipe Bellies

It's a well-known fact that houses can move and shift over time. It's normal, and if there's no structural damage, we discard this problem. However, we rarely think about how this might have affected the pipes under the house.

Most commonly, the pipes shift downwards, and they create a negative slope. This slope is often referred to as the belly, and it restricts the water flow. As a result — you get no water pressure.

Luckily, this is one of those problems that you can solve even after moving in. It will take an expert crew at least a full day to finish it, but you can use that time to fix everything else that needs to be fixed. When you buy an old house, there are always plenty of minor things you need to repair.

Failing Sewer Lines

If you think about it, it's funny how no one thinks about sewer lines until they fail. Unfortunately, these are one of the common plumbing issues in fixer-upper homes. They were built without dishwashers, garbage disposals, or even modern toilets in mind. Hence, they're more prone to failing. 

On top of that, tree roots or your house shifting can make a mess of your sewage system. In this scenario, the dirty water seeps into the ground or gets pushed up back through the pipes right into your home. 

The best way to combat this problem is to install a brand new trenchless sewer line replacement. You won't have to dig the old pipe out, so a pro shouldn't need longer than a day to complete the project.

A clogged sewer line doesn't look or smell nice.

Outdated Fixtures and Connections

An old saying teaches us that nothing lasts forever, and this is especially true for plumbing. When you buy an old home, it's safe to assume that everything from your fixtures, over fittings, to your supply line connections is aging. Of course, all of these things can cause issues in your beautiful historic house. 

If the damage is not severe, you'll see things like broken knobs, leaks, and restricted water flow. And truth be told, you can get away with failing plumbing for a certain period. But you must be careful not to overdo it. If you push it too far, that rusty valve will give up at the worst possible moment. That's how things always are. 

Some of the problems, like a leaky faucet, you'll be able to tackle yourself if you're handy with tools. However, we advise you to call an expert if you need to install a new water heater, for instance. Those kinds of tasks are better left to the pros. 

Bad Repairs

Think of your old house as a vintage car. If it has years behind it, it had its share of plumbing repairs without question. But the question you should be asking is who carried them out. 

If any of the previous owners tried to do some serious DIY work, there are no guarantees that their repairs will hold. For all you know, there might be a big problem waiting to happen any minute. So, how can you prevent it?

You want all your repairs to be carried out by trained professionals.

Get Yourself an Inspection

We get that you can't get over the charm that old house has. There's something about it that is speaking to you, and you feel that it's your dream home. But don't get ahead of yourself. Contact a professional plumber and schedule an inspection before you buy the place.

This way, you can be sure that you won't be in over your head once you get it. And now that you know about the common plumbing issues in fixer-upper homes, we're sure that you want to check it. 

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

4 Indicators That Your Heat Pump Is In Need Of Repair

You never know what the future can bring, but that doesn’t mean that you have to venture forward completely oblivious. Trends change, that’s for sure, and it’s virtually impossible to predict what will be popular the following season, but there are some general guidelines we can follow which will help us stay on track. From statement plants to fairy lights, we give you a brief list of the hottest outdoor design trends for 2022.

Focus on porches

For years now, the focus has been on your backyard where you grew your plants, let your children play, and installed decks. For those who like changes, 2022 brings exciting new trends: it looks like front yards are getting decked out as well. You will be free to give your front porch more love by adding composite decking. If you include half a dozen of beautifully decorated flower pots and a small bistro set, you will be able to create a comfortable addition to your home, which will be visible to anyone passing by.  

Comfortable seating

While indoor seating areas seem to be getting more elegant and luxurious by the season, with outdoor seating, the focus has always been more on functionality than on design. Well, in 2022, we will see some changes for the better, as outdoor seating becomes more modern and stylish without losing any of its functionality or comfort. The pieces should still be portable and multifunctional as you will have to move them around much more than you do the indoor furniture. For those who don’t have enough space, the best solution is to pick folding chairs and tables which can be set up and moved easily when needed.

Statement plants

People love planting and watching the plants grow with their help, but having a garden full of small plants means that you will have to spend a lot of time outside, plucking, weeding, composting and making sure your plants are healthy. If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands for gardening, you will love the new trend: statement plants. Sundance (Mexican orange blossom) and ornamental onions will look striking and wonderful in your garden, and you can remove any plants you don’t like or want anymore. If you have old trees which give you headaches and backaches every fall, call professional tree removal services and get a ‘blank slate’ you can decorate any way you like.

Adopted indoor trends

These past several seasons, interior design has been focused on bringing together trends which no one thought about combining: rustic with modern, luxurious with industrial, vintage and contemporary… Next year, this trend will leave our homes and spread to our gardens too and you will find yourself balancing the old and the new. Don’t wave off your distressed flooring just yet – add sleek metallic hardware instead or even granite countertops and you will transform your outdated yard into a modern one with ease.

Soft lights

Spending time sitting in the pitch dark outside might not seem like a good idea, but if you add some soft lights, you will set the mood and create a wonderful space you will enjoy. You can make it simple and install several solar post caps to your deck, but solar lights aren’t the only available option. If you don’t want to replace the lights every now and then, you can always pick rechargeable lights which will allow you to save a bit of money, but if you want to create a fairy tale-ish environment, feel free to choose fairy lights. If you’re looking to set the mood for a romantic night, you can always light several candles in mason jars (just make sure you put them out before you go to sleep).

Outdoor spaces are becoming more similar to indoor ones with each new season. Homeowners and designers have seen the potential these spaces have to offer and people are focusing on creating comfortable, interesting, and stylish spaces which serve as an extension of their homes. Modern ideas and new trends bring innovations which allow you to add a more personal touch to your outdoor area, and you will be able to create a space which will make you both happy and proud.

 Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Plumber

Over 28% of the repair issues homeowners in the United States deal with annually are related to their plumbing systems. Most people take a functional plumbing system for granted and fail to realize just how complex this part of their home is. When faced with serious plumbing problems, you need to realize the importance of calling in professionals.

The lack of plumbing repair experience most homeowners have will make it impossible for them to diagnose and fix the problems they encounter. Instead of making matters worse due to this lack of experience, you need to hire a licensed plumber. Below are some reasons why hiring a licensed plumber is beneficial for homeowners.

A Licensed Plumber Has Previous Experience

A residential plumbing system has a variety of different components. When faced with a common problem like a clogged drain or low water pressure, most homeowners don’t know how to diagnose these issues. The longer these problems are allowed to linger, the more damage they will ultimately cause. This is why you need to call in a licensed plumber with experience.

Before hiring a plumber, you need to find out more about how long they have been in the business. Ideally, you want to find professionals that have invested in continuing education for plumbing contractors. A plumber that takes furthering their education seriously will be capable of getting to the bottom of your plumbing issues in a hurry. By doing some thorough online research, you can narrow down the list of plumbers in your local area in no time.

The Right Tools To Get The Job Done

Common residential plumbing problems like clogged drains, full septic tanks and pipe leaks are difficult to fix. If a homeowner tries to fix these common problems with subpar tools, they will make a bad situation much worse. Instead of increasing the cost of repairing these issues by attempting a DIY fix on your own, you need to realize the value of hiring a professional plumber.

An experienced plumber will have all of the tools needed to fix the problems you are facing. Not only they will have the right tools for the job, but they will also possess the knowledge to use them properly.

Long-Term Repair Solutions

If you know very little about how your plumbing system operates, your chances of fixing the problem correctly are very small. If you experience problems with clogged drains, you will probably make the mistake of buying a bottle of chemical drain cleaner. While this is a good short-term solution, it will not fix the underlying issue causing your drains to clog. These chemicals can also negatively impact how your septic tank functions, which is why you should avoid using them.

Determining the right long-term solutions for your residential plumbing problems is only possible with the help of a knowledgeable plumber. With their help, you can determine how to fix the plumbing repair issues you are experiencing for good.

Advice For Preventing Common Residential Plumbing Problems

Another benefit that comes with hiring a licensed plumber is that they can provide you with guidance on how to prevent common plumbing problems. Making mistakes like pouring grease in your kitchen sink can damage your plumbing system. A plumber can help you avoid these mistakes by giving you sound advice.

As you can see, there are a number of benefits that come with hiring a licensed plumber. With some time and online research, you can find a plumber to perform the repairs you need for a reasonable price. The money paid to these professionals will be worth it considering the problems they can help you avoid.

Guest Contributor: Ashley Lipman

280 Turkeys for 280 Families!

We purchased 280 Turkeys for 280 families.

Let’s give the Walmart in Joliet and their wonderful crew a HUGE shoutout and THANK YOU for all their help. They went above and beyond to help us out.

We will be able to help 280 families this Thanksgiving!!

We also want to thank our plumber Cullen Camasta for once again putting us in contact with the right people.

Thank you: Malon Green, Manager Angela Berg, Brittney Zamudio, APM Stephanie Hernandez, Manager Mary Ott, and Head of Security Dan Perez

Chris and Dominic Bartolini from Bartolini’s Restaurant & Catering, single handed saved Thanksgiving for us and 280 families, by helping us store all these turkeys.

They generously provided their MASSIVE freezer for all the turkeys for St. Christopher Catholic Church and Seton Elizabeth Catholic Church!!

We can’t thank them enough!!!!!

May God bless their family and continue blessing their outstanding restaurant!!!

Thanksgiving is about “Giving”!!!

Every year, we donate turkeys for all the wonderful families that need assistance at St. Christopher Church.

It’s truly an honor to work with Sister Laurinda

Happy Thanksgiving!

We just delivered 200 turkeys to Saint Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church/Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School in Orland Hills, plus all the turkeys everyone donated today…. Almost 400 turkeys combined for families in need.

Thank you to everyone that helped out/volunteered their time and effort.

A giant THANK YOU to all our customers, because of you, we’re able to purchase all these turkeys to donate to families in need.

A special THANK YOU to Chris and Dominic Bartolini for letting us store all our turkeys in their freezer at Bartolinis Restaurant and Catering

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Saint Elizabeth Seton Church - Orland Hills

Here’s a few shots from today’s Thanksgiving Turkey Delivery for families in need. Thank you to everyone that helped out!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

4 Indicators That Your Heat Pump Is In Need Of Repair

When it comes to heat pump repairs, our team knows what to look for if you need a TLC to polish your system. This article describes the signs you need to watch out for when it's time to repair.

Integrity Air is the ideal HVAC company for heat pump repairs. We and elsewhere in the Looking For heat pump repair san Diego help homeowners and businesses with HVAC repair, maintenance, and installation. You have the tools, skills, and experience you need to properly repair your heat pump and keep your space warm and comfortable.

You may not be familiar with the inner workings of a heat pump, repair options, and common signs that the system requires the attention of a qualified professional. Read on to learn the details of your heat pump and find out the top signs that it's time for a professional repair.

What is a heat pump?

Before we dive into the five signs that need repair, let's start by understanding what a heat pump is and how it works. The heat pump is part of the HVAC system installed outside the house. It can provide heating and cool for your home.

In winter, the system draws heat into the house and exhausts cold air outside. In summer, the system is reversed and cold air is drawn into the house, and heat is expelled outside.

The heat pump is electrically powered and uses refrigerant to keep the system running. This system is ideal for homeowners who need air conditioning but don't want to worry about individual units. These integrated systems are environmentally friendly as they do not burn fossil fuels like ovens.

Heat pump repair: 5 signs to watch out for

There are a few signs that point to when it's time to fix, but they usually tell customers to watch out for five key signs. If you notice any of the following signs, immediately contact the Portland team to arrange for a heat pump repair.

1-Aging system

HVAC systems are not meant to last forever. Each year, during months of unusual weather, the system pumps water for days or weeks. Over time, the system inevitably loses efficiency or stops functioning properly. In particular, the heat pump can only be used for about 15 years. If you have moved into your home or are unfamiliar with the obsolete parts of your heat pump, contact our team to estimate its lifespan and evaluate its efficiency.

2- Excessive noise

If your heat pump makes strange and unusual noises, squeaks, twists, or clicks, have a professional have it checked as soon as possible. It is normal for your HVAC system to make noise, but it should not make any new or shocking noise.

3- Reduce the calorific power

If it is confirmed that the total heat output of the heat pump has decreased, it can be repaired shortly. Heat loss usually indicates that the heat pump is inefficient due to aging or component failure. HVAC technicians can determine why a heat pump is not working properly and whether it needs to be repaired or replaced.

4 - High electricity bills

When you find out that your heat pump is not working properly, you will notice that your energy bills go up. Your heat pump works harder to heat the house, so your monthly bill usually reflects that. Rising energy costs, along with reduced heat output, usually indicate that heat pump repairs are needed as soon as possible.

5- Cycling shorts 

A worn-out heat pump is difficult to maintain a full heating or cooling system. If your system remains on, off, or shuts down before the house reaches the desired temperature, a repair may fix the problem. If you notice that short cycles are a routine problem, contact an HVAC technician immediately.

Heat pump repair plan Looking For heat pump repair san Diego

Now that you understand the 5 signs that your heat pump needs repair, contact the Top heat pump repair Orange County team immediately. We quickly find and fix problems with your system and make sure you and your loved ones feel comfortable in your home.

Our HVAC technicians have years of experience in the repair, maintenance, and adjustment of heat pumps. We know how important it is for your system to function properly and efficiently. That is why we always strive to have your heat pump repaired as quickly as possible. With careful attention to detail and exceptional customer service efforts, you can count on long-term repairs to your heat pump to keep your system running.

Author Bio:- Michael Cabral 

Michael is a marketing manager at EZ Heat and Air. He loves writing about innovative and hybrid HVAC installation tips. His articles help readers to have valuable insights into the importance of duct cleaning, water heater maintenance, and repair, optimum working of the thermostat, Mini-split and heat pump installation in Orange County. Read articles for more information on keeping your HVAC system in tip-top condition and leading a hassle-free life.

Methods for Detecting and Repairing Water Leaks for Homeowners

Check out our 5 tips on how to spot leaks so you can fix and stop the problem before it gets out of hand.

 1. Monitor the water meter

If you start to notice an increase in your water bill but know that your water use hasn't increased, this is a good sign of a leak. Pay close attention to your water meter to see if you notice any large fluctuations.

Outdoors, make sure there are no accidentally open water sources, such as garden hoses. Turn off all water, including internal water, before checking the meter.

Then look at the professional water slab leak repair and see if there is any movement. It depends on the type of meter you have, but many meters have a triangular face. It can also look like a small silver wheel that spins when the water is flowing.

If any of these types of dials turn when the water is turned off, a leak may occur. Another option is to read it and wait 1-2 hours.

Recheck the water meter readings to see if there are any changes. Here's how to spot leaks in most rooms of your home. Make sure that no water is used for 1 to 2 hours.

2. Check the faucet.

For many homeowners, the cause of leaks is the faucet. It is usually caused by a worn rubber gasket and is located under the grip.

Replacing gaskets is easy with the right tools. The water should be shut off under the sink or with the main shut-off valve.

Then remove the faucet handle to access the seal. Most home improvement centers and hardware stores sell replacement gaskets and the tools needed to fix this simple and common problem.

If you suspect an underground leak, call the nearest professional water slab leak repair utility company as soon as possible. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve issues.

3. How to detect a leak in the bathroom

Toilets are another common cause of leaks and are easy to overlook. A best slab water leak repair cost toilet wastes hundreds of gallons of water. It also means wasting a lot of money.

Remove the cap from the water tank and add a few drops of dye to the water tank. Colored shelves are another easy alternative and are available at many hardware stores.

Soak the dye in water and wait about 30 minutes without rinsing. If any color gets into the toilet from the tank, it can cause a best slab water leak repair cost.

Fortunately, these types of leaks can usually be fixed by replacing the baffle. The baffles wear out and break over time, allowing water to continue to flow from the reservoir to the bowl.

Another red flag related to the toilet? If you have to shake the handle to keep the toilet from moving, the flush lever and chain may be clogged. 

This problem can be solved by adjusting the nut securing the water tank mechanism. Alternatively, the handle may get stuck and you may need to replace the handle.

4. Perform a visual inspection.

A pipe leak in the ceiling or wall may not be realized slowly until late. These types of leaks can be stopped before they get out of hand with a simple visual inspection a water slab leak.

Look closely at the walls and ceilings in each room. If you notice any unusual stains or discoloration, you may have a hidden leak. The burst pipe wants to be repaired as soon as possible.

Beware of mold and weird inclines, bend ceilings, and walls. Water damage can stretch the material and eventually collapse.

This should not be overstated, but it is not dangerous to do a visual inspection now and then. Usually, people don't know that a serious leak has occurred until the ceiling completely collapses.

5. Beware of underground water leaks

Fixing exterior leaks can be very expensive, so it's important to know what you want. This can happen if one area of your garden looks smoother than another, or if you notice dark spots.

If there are areas around your home that seem damp even after a drought, this is a red flag. You can also take a look near driveways and streets to see if you notice abnormal water flow.

The water flow is not necessarily constant. Even seemingly unsuitable puddles of water can indicate a deep underground leak.

If you suspect an underground leak, call the nearest monk or utility company as soon as possible. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve issues.

Author Bio:- Karl Brown

Karl, a marketing manager at EZ Leak Detection, loves to write about plumbing and HVAC services to make the life of the reader easier. Leakages in your property can be dangerous but not all the leaks are easily accessible. He has given extensive information about water leak and slab leak and tips to detect them quickly along with quick solutions to prevent you from inconveniences and health hazards. 

Leakage problems and malfunction of appliances demand comprehensive solutions. Also, regular maintenance is not the thing to be missed for leading life with zero hassles. Read our recent post related to leakage detection and repair, alerts for HVAC shutdown and how to repair it, and installation of AC and water heater in San Diego.

Winter Upgrades That Add Value to Your Home

You want to protect your home as the weather starts to get colder. Making upgrades will also allow your house to stand out when you decide to sell. Here are five winter updates that can improve your property's value. 

1. Seal Your Windows and Doors 

Cold air can enter through small openings or gaps, leading to drafts and increasing your energy bills. Use weatherstripping or caulk to fill in the cracks. You also want to check your window panes and replace any loose or missing pieces. Sealing leaks can also reduce noise and prevent dust from entering your home. 

Along with sealing your windows, upgrade to energy-efficient casements. These can provide energy savings and increase resale value. In fact, a vinyl window replacement has a return value of 73.4%. Also, upgrade to a more durable entryway material, such as steel. Adding fresh paint or a decorative door knob can also increase its visual appeal. 

2. Install a Smart Thermostat

You want your house to feel nice and cozy as the temperature drops. A programmable thermostat will learn your preferences and adjust accordingly. It can also save energy by turning it off when you leave the house. Plus, you can easily control it through your smartphone and save money on your heating and cooling bills.

3. Add Insulation

Insulation can keep your home warm in the winter and reduce monthly expenses. Be sure to insulate your attic, walls, basements and crawl spaces. Start with the floor when insulating your attic, as you will need to pull it up and add a new layer on top. 

You have a few different options when it comes to materials. Loose-fill insulation works best for attics with irregular joist spacing. If your room is standard and has sufficient headroom, batts are best.

It’s vital to insulate your garage as well because it can increase your garage door's durability and energy savings. You can recoup 74% of the cost of a new garage door when you sell. Fiberglass insulation is commonly used because it is affordable and easy to place. 

4. Update Your Kitchen

Kitchens are one of the first things buyers look at in a new home. Even a minor upgrade can have a return on investment (ROI) of 81.1%. Consider installing new countertops. Granite and marble are popular choices due to their durability and elegant look, but these are more expensive than other options. If you're on a budget, laminate or ceramic tile are good alternatives.

You may also want to replace any outdated cabinetry. You can repaint or replace the hardware to save money. Consider stainless steel knobs to add a modern look. 

 Here are some more updates you can make to your kitchen:

 ●      Add hardwood floors

●      Update your lighting

●      Buy energy-efficient appliances 

●      Add a tile backsplash

●      Repaint the walls 

5. Upgrade Your Bathroom 

The bathroom is one of the most popular renovation projects, and an upgrade can have a 52.8% ROI. Focus on function first by installing new flooring, toilet and fixtures. Then you can add more modern accessories, like a freestanding tub. Also, most homeowners like the master bedroom to have an ensuite, so consider connecting these two spaces. 

Ways to Increase Your Home's Value

Winter is a perfect time to update your home. Improving energy efficiency and freshening up spaces can increase resale value. Try some of these renovations to make your home an appealing haven this winter.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

Remodeling Ideas When Moving into a New Home

Buying a home is not the end of things you have to do before you move in. A lot of people decide to buy properties that cry for renovation so they can make it their own. Even if the place looks freshly renovated, you may still have to do a tweak here and there to personalize it. The following remodeling ideas are the basics you may have to cover when moving into a new home, but the extent of works depends solely on you. 

1.   Upgrade the insulation

Insulation is a big deal when it comes to keeping your home warm during winter and cool in the summer. Not to mention that electricity and heating bills can be quite high when insulation is outdated or nonexistent. Change a furnace filter while at it, and make sure that pipes are also insulated to prevent them from freezing and bursting. 

Attic, basement, and garage need insulation as well since they can spread cold to the rest of the house, as well as lead to mold on the walls. 

2.   Remodel the exterior

Before you start any works, hire a constructional engineer to inspect the integrity of your home. The best-case scenario is your new home needs new paint and filling in a crack here and there on the façade. However, you may have to deal with serious issues, like broken slates, holes, rotten woodwork, and clogged gutters.

The exterior may also include a garden, backyard, porch, patio, and even a pool so be prepared to deal with them, too. Thankfully, the yard is usually landscaped to impress the buyers before entering the house, and you may only have to worry about what flowers to grow.   

3.   Renew the floors

There are two ways you can go about this: fix the old floors or install completely new ones. It all depends on what kind of interior design you are aiming for, and the shape of the old floors. Bear in mind that if you are buying an old house, chances are it has hardwood floors that would be a shame to demolish. 

On the other hand, if you have to install all new floors, see that you choose the most quality materials you can afford, so they last longer. Concrete and stone floors are especially trendy since they keep the temperature in the house always pleasant, regardless of the season. Moreover, if you don’t mind spending a little extra, install underfloor heating, especially if you leave in colder regions.   

4.   Paint all the rooms

Paint and wall decoration are the final touches that will turn your new home into your personal space. Create an accent wall that will stand out with its design or color to make the room more interesting. If you choose pastel or neutral tones, splash color, or colorful motif here and there for the allure. 

Don’t be afraid to use wallpapers or decorative stickers since those can make a new home more warm and cozy. Decorative paint techniques, like stenciling and sponging, are another creative way to refresh the appearance of the interior. Of course, always consider the colors of furniture and other accessories to stay within a tasteful décor.  

5.    Bring in more light

Natural light plays a huge part in interior design, but also your well-being. If you are allowed to based on regulations, add more windows and open up your walls to the outside. When this is not possible, you can add skylight windows instead to make the home brighter. 

Transom window above the front doors or any other entry can make the house more radiant, as well. However, if you can’t make such extreme changes to your home, a few mirrors around the house and opposite windows will reflect enough light to make your home airy.  

6.   Tear down walls

Rarely do people do nothing after buying a new home. While tearing down walls is a big endeavor, it's a necessary one to create the interior design you desire. This will require short-term forklift hire and construction dumpster to remove heavy demolition waste. Afterward, you can create a new arrangement of rooms and proceed to other renovations and decorating. 

Keep in mind that some walls may have important electrical and pipe installations which can prevent them from being demolished. If this is the case, it’s best to hire an architect to come up with a solution that won’t damage vital systems in your home.

7.   Renovate the bathrooms

Even if the bathroom is in decent shape, you don’t know what’s beneath all that polish. Renovating a bathroom is pricey, but will save you from tons of trouble – aesthetically and functionally. If pipes are old, chances are they may leak and cause water damage throughout the house, so replacing them is a good idea. While at it, you can add another bathroom for the kids or guests. 

In case the previous owners renovated the bathroom recently, as well as pipes and drainage, you can make it your own. Change of tiles, shower instead of a bathtub, modern sinks, and better lighting are only some of the things new homeowners like to do when remodeling a bathroom.   

Final words

Remodeling before moving into a new home may be tedious, but necessary. Regardless of how old owners treated the property, you still need to make it yours and these ideas will help you get started. 

Guest Contributor: Ron Wolf

5 REASONS FOR SLAB LEAKS AND WHAT TO DO IF THEY OCCUR

Slab leaks occur where soils are unstable. Homes that are engineered on concrete slabs or used pier and beam construction will cause cracks in the basement walls and pressure of shifting soils breaking. Sometimes the joints in the plumbing system get leaked or the pipes start cracking due to different reasons below a slab, then you have got a slab leak.

 Depending on the extent of the leak, you'll come across serious water harm to flooring, walls, furniture, appliances, and more. And, as you'll imagine, fixing a Slab  leak below plenty of concrete is not an easy job, and it’s positively not a DIY plumbing job.

So, what potentially causes slab leaks, and what to do if the leak occurs? Here are the top five major reasons why slab leaks occur -

PLUMBING MATERIAL:-

Slab leaks can cause failure in a home’s plumbing system. The failure could be a result of a fault in installation, water lines that got weak due to the long time periods, or the main reason - the shifting of soil below the slab. 

First, let’s discuss the materials of which the pipes are made, which often determines the age of the plumbing system. The materials could be the problem frequently. Cast iron pipes are a very durable material and won’t burn – which can be important in case of fire breakouts. Galvanized steel pipes are strong but susceptible to worn-outs. They tend to clog more frequently. Plastic pipes are erosion-resistant and can be used above or below the ground. Plastic does not cause any kind of corrosion and is easy to work with.

 SOIL SHIFTING:-

While the materials used and the way they're put in under-the-slab plumbing may result in leaking of the slabs, the most important cause is the shifting of expansive soils on which homes are engineered. The monetary impact alone is large. Geology.com says that during a typical year of expansive soils, expansive soils contain minerals that absorb water, which causes them to expand. because the soil moves to result in bending and weakening of the plumbing pipes and connections.

A slow slab leak keeps swinging water into the bottom to a lower place in a home, which creates even a lot of soil growth that ultimately will result in substantial harm. The buildup of hydraulic pressure to a lower place in a slab is going to be free somewhere. Upward pressure eventually finds its weakness or crack within the block. In some cases, wet spots develop in hardwood floors and carpeting; within the worst cases, the ground erupts sort of like a geyser, flooding the house.

EARTHQUAKES

The vibration within the ground from earthquakes will have devastating effects on the pipes within the concrete block below your home. Although slab leaks are hard to reach because the pipes below start to deteriorate in quality, the vibrations from earthquakes cause the joints situated between the pipes to become loose. Additionally, the movement of the bottom will cause cracks and holes to make in pipes. 

If you hear noises that correspond to running water in your menage, this can be proof of a block leak. On the other hand, a hot spot on the ground in your home is an indicator of a leak during a pipe. Once a leak forms in your slab foundation, you will begin to note mold on the floors, walls, or ceiling in your home.

HIGHLY ACIDIC WATER

Depending on your town or suburb, the H2O is often extraordinarily acidic. The common hydrogen ion concentration level of H2O ranges from one hydrogen ion concentration to four hydrogen ion concentrations. If the water in your space is simply too acidic, the pipes to a lower place your block foundation can slowly begin to degrade and crack over the years. To combat this issue, an outsized variety of householders like to invest in an exceeding softener to eliminate minerals like metal and Ca within the water. Though investing in softener will increase the running time of the pipes, there are situations wherever it will injure the pipes in your home.

The standard hydrogen ion concentration level of soapy water varies from nine hydrogen ion concentrations to fourteen hydrogen ion concentrations. If the water in your native suburb has an excessive quantity of base, the pipes to a lower place your slab foundation can bit by bit begin to disintegrate and leak. 

HIGH WATER PRESSURE

High water pressure will cause the pipes below your slab foundation to crack or collapse. Normal signals of high water pressure embody rattling noises once the water is activated and dripping taps. To verify if the water pressure in your unit is just too high, purchase a water pressure gauge. This sort of gauge is designed to live the pounds per sq in (PSI) in your water lines.

The average water pressure rating varies from forty to eighty pounds per sq in reckoning depending on your town or suburban area. If your water pressure is higher or lower, the pipes below your floors will become broken and cause a block leak.

SOLUTIONS - 

l  Avoid digging altogether and change the routing of the pipes on the ground. The plumber will decide where new pipes will be installed, it can be in walls, through the attic, closets, and other structures that will conceal and protect them. In some cases, a little c working of the woods can add new features, for example, crown molding. 

l  The shortest distance to the supply of the matter could also be straight down through the concrete block, however, that conjunction could also be the foremost tumultuous and costliest. Due to this, we tend to get across the slab. Breaking through the slab has some serious disadvantages for householders. Foremost is that you simply have to be compelled to live in other places where the work is being done – the water is shut off, the noise from jackhammers and saws is noisy, and also the dirt within the air needs you to hide everything. 

l  Digging a tunnel is the least invasive means to create the repair. To repair a leak during this means, you need to begin by pinpointing the leak within the same means that you simply do after you are jack-hammering through the block.

CONCLUSION 

You will realize several plumbers have a “one-size-fits-all” approach once it involves slab leak repairs. As you'll be able to see, there are pros and cons of every methodology of repairing a slab leak. Most of the time, a reroute is the best choice that gives the foremost worth. 

So, if you want to approach plumbing professional to fix your slab leaking or if you’re looking for slab leak repair services near you, you can click the following link to find best slab leak repair services. 

However, the circumstances and your preferences can verify if one in all the opposite choices is that the higher. 

Author Bio :- Aimee Grace

Aimee is a marketing manager at EZ Plumbing & Restoration. She is very passionate in writing about discrete plumbing services and leakage detection as well as repair solutions.  Her vision is to educate people about the consequences of water and slab leaks at home or office and what they should do to repair them to avoid further water damage as well as property damage. 

Innovations have paved a way for smart devices to lead a convenient life. Plumbing industry is no different but only few people know about various tools used to fix the leakages. Stay tuned with the recent articles to know all about how to find water damage, slab leak, clogging, and ways to repair them, installation of new HVAC appliances in San Diego.