How to Prepare Your Home for a Major Remodel

Whether you're comfortable with your own skills or have decided to hire a contractor to remodel your home or other building space, preparing yourself and your belongings for the upcoming changes should be your main priority.

Remodeling your home is an exciting time for most homeowners, but it can become overwhelming once the chaos of disruption becomes evident. It isn't the best idea to start your renovations without planning for dusty stairs, a busy hallway, or misplaced items. In addition to choosing the right contractor and knowing what you want, preparing for the remodel can make the process easier and more positive.

Some well-kept secrets to making your major remodeling entirely stress-free may not exist, but there are ways to ease the process, making your new space ready for instant use. 

Create a Budget

There's no denying that remodeling is expensive and time-consuming. What happens if your contractor discovers unforeseen complications that require extra work, or you re-define design plans halfway through construction resulting in additional costs? Unless you're cautious, your renovations might leave you with an unexpected bill, rendering you unable to finish the process. 

Ensure the entire project scope and budget are discussed in advance - with a little wiggle room for additional expenses if needed. Keeping remodeling and construction costs in check involves limiting changes and, if possible, buying smaller materials yourself. 

Find Somewhere to Store Your Things

Now that you have cleared out your house of items and furniture, you need to consider storage options. If you have a family member or friend willing to house your things until the remodeling is finished, that's great. If you can store your stuff out of the way in your attic- even better. 

If you're remodeling your entire house, or neither of the above options is viable, then finding a storage unit is your best bet. And usually, this is the safest and most practical option too. Almost all storage facilities offer a range of self-storage lockers and unit sizes to choose from. This means all your valuable assets and personal belongings are kept safe, secure, and, most importantly, clean.

Declutter as Much as Possible

Prepare for the renovations by clearing the area of as many things as possible. If you're doing a new floor or bathroom, debris and dust will get pretty much everywhere, and you don't want to deal with excessive cleaning after you are ready to settle back in. 

If a whole room is being remodeled, you’ll need to remove any of your belongings from the area. Not only does this make things easier for you in the long run, but this also shows courtesy to the builders, who will appreciate not having to maneuver around your crystal collection or silky ottoman. To ensure your things aren't damaged, pack away food and china from cabinets, disconnect electrical items, and relocate items from the floor space. 

Prepare for the Excess Dirt 

During the process, there will be a lot of dirt and dust. And it can get everywhere. If you're having an upstairs bedroom remodeled, prepare to find dust gathered on the downstairs bookcase on the opposite side of the house. 

Regarding cleaning, some may decide to hold out against cleaning if work is to continue for the next few weeks. Dust will more than likely return the next day or gather again during the night, so you don't want to waste your time recleaning. On the other hand, others may find it difficult to ignore the mess and get the hoover out as soon as possible. 

The good news is that you can minimize the mess with a few simple steps. Corner off the remodeling area by hanging plastic sheets from the ceiling to help protect the walls in the rest of your house from gathering dust. It's a good idea to lay down drop sheets along your stairs or carpeted areas. Spilled wine or muddy footsteps are difficult enough to remove, let alone dirt and grime ingrained in the entirety of your plush carpets. 

Think of your remodeling preparation like this. Before painting your house, anyone will know the preparations are difficult and tedious. But, after you have peeled and stuck the masking tape along with the ceiling and skirting boards, you have perfectly straight paint lines meaning you've done the job right. 

Renovations should follow this method of forethought as well. So it's crucial to make the proper preparations suitable for your needs. Taking time to prepare for the likely construction site-like environment that your home will become will save you time and stress in the long run so that you can fully enjoy your new and improved home when it's all done.

Key Advantages Of Owning a Solar Fridge Compared To a Traditional One

It's no secret that solar power is becoming more and more popular each year. With the cost of solar panels coming down, it's becoming a more affordable option for homeowners. But did you know that you can also use solar power to run your fridge? Solar fridges have many advantages over traditional fridges, and this blog post will discuss some of the key benefits they can bring.

More energy-efficient

Solar fridges are much more energy-efficient than traditional fridges. They use less power to run, which means you'll save money on your electricity bills. Solar fridges also tend to last longer than traditional fridges, so you won't have to replace them as often. Keep in mind that on average, traditional refrigerators consume about three times as much energy as solar fridges. This means that throughout their lifetime, solar fridges will save you a lot of money.

Cost-effective

As previously mentioned, solar fridges are more energy-efficient than traditional fridges, which means that they're also cheaper to operate in the long run. While they may cost more upfront, solar fridges will save you money on your energy bills each month. Generally, you will have to spend about $100 more on a solar fridge than you would on a traditional one. However, throughout its lifetime, a solar fridge will save you an average of $600 in energy costs.

Quieter

Solar fridges are also much quieter than traditional refrigerators. They don't produce any noise, so you won't have to deal with the sound of your fridge running in the background. This is because solar fridges use a different type of compressor than traditional fridges, which makes them much quieter. This compressor operates by using a magnetic field, which is much quieter than the compressor in a traditional fridge that uses a piston. The truth is, some solar fridge models are so quiet that you might not even know they're running, which will prove to be extremely beneficial if you have an infant in the house.

Reduce your carbon footprint

Another advantage of solar fridges is that they can help you reduce your carbon footprint. Solar power is a renewable resource, so using it to run your fridge doesn't contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Switching to a solar fridge can help you offset the emissions from your other appliances and help you live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Additionally, solar fridges don't use any Freon or other harmful chemicals, so you won't have to worry about disposing of them properly. This means that you can feel good about using a solar fridge, knowing that it's not harming the environment.

Things to keep in mind

• Think about the size

In choosing a solar fridge, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, you need to make sure that the fridge you choose is big enough to meet your needs. For instance, if you have a large family, you'll need a fridge that's large enough to accommodate all of your food. Additionally, you need to make sure that the fridge will fit in the space you have available. Solar fridges come in a variety of sizes, so there's sure to be one that's perfect for your home.

• Consider the fridge type

Second, you need to make sure that the fridge you choose is designed for use in your area. Solar fridges are available for both indoor and outdoor use, so you need to make sure that you choose the right one for your needs. Indoor solar fridges are designed to be used in homes, while outdoor solar fridges are designed for use in RVs or campers. Make sure to choose the right type of fridge for your needs so that you can get the most out of it.

• Pick the right features

Finally, you need to make sure that you pick a solar fridge that has the features you need. For instance, if you're looking for an energy-efficient fridge, make sure to choose one that's designed to be as efficient as possible. Some solar fridges even come with special features like LED lights and automatic defrosting. You also need to make sure that the fridge you choose has a warranty. This way, if anything goes wrong with your fridge, you'll be covered.

There are many advantages to owning a solar fridge, and this blog post has only discussed a few of them. If you're looking for a more energy-efficient and cost-effective option for your home, then a solar fridge is the way to go. Not to mention, you'll be doing your part to help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. So, what are you waiting for? Switch to a solar fridge today.

How To Add Pops Of Color To Your Space

Decorating your space is exciting. From adding distinguishing pieces and personal touches to truly making it your own, the entire process can be exhilarating. However, it can also come with its fair share of challenges.

One aspect many people struggle with is color and how to appropriately balance it within a design. For instance, an overwhelming amount of the same neutral shade can be unwelcoming, while too much darkness can make the area seem smaller than desired. To help, here are a few words of advice on livening up your space by accentuating color.

Accent Furniture

A tried-and-true method of catching the eye is with distinctive furniture. When a room is neutral, a warm tone is perfect for bringing in more life, while cool tones can have more of a relaxing effect. Achieve whichever mood you’re going for with a single, saturated statement piece in the room’s center or somewhere it is sure to grab attention.

Accent furniture such as this could be a deep blue armchair in the living room, a vivid green headboard in the bedroom or even painted wood tables and chairs in the dining area. You could opt for a contrasting color or incorporate it seamlessly by coordinating with the room’s neutral elements, textural or otherwise.

Fabrics

Speaking of textures, an easy way to bring color into your space is by adding textiles, or fabrics. A straightforward approach is with a patterned area rug, but it can also be done with window treatments, decorative throw pillows and even bedding. Such fabrics can soften the room or add dimension when elongated or layered on top of contrasting tints.

What’s more, these touches don’t have to break the bank. A single, attention-getting article can be enough to inject color and personality without calling for a complete decorative overhaul. Consider experimenting with patterned designs, floral motifs, solid hues or even an assortment of each for a bold yet dazzling look to love.

Wall Décor

Do your walls feel bare, but you don’t want to paint an accent wall? That’s okay! Uninspiring spaces can be easily dressed up with color through artwork, photography and other wall décor. Using the wall as a backdrop, sizable works of art can command attention with height and vivaciousness, or go with the flow using complementary characteristics at eye level.

Instead of going with a large, solitary piece, you can get the same effect by grouping framed pictures together. While each photo or image is different, a group with colorful matting and bright frames can fill the wall in one harmonious collection. Consider going bold with a mixed-media gallery or collage of vibrant prints to artistically take center stage.

Accessories

Although accessories may be small in stature, they can make a huge impression. Whether it’s ornately framed mirrors strategically placed to reflect light or a pair of vivid lamp shades, these elements are perfect for adding invigorating tints and personality. Such cohesive pairs or balanced groupings of like-colored accessories can be impactful without overpowering the space.

Plant life is also capable of doing wonders, despite any pre-existing design. Adding a lovely touch of greenery in a vibrant pot brings a natural component and bright hue. What’s more, these house plants or floral arrangements can be temporary and portable. Such variability allows you to change the look whenever you see fit.
Be You, Unapologetically

Choosing the right focal points and in the right shades doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. Similarly, because interior design trends are constantly in flux, matching the minimalistic and monochromatic fashions of today won’t necessarily work tomorrow. What’s important to keep in mind while incorporating pops of color is to maintain the space’s unique meaning to you.

Author Bio: Nicole Franco is the owner of Nicole Franco Interior Design, a full-service interior design firm. She has over 20 years of experience in the industry and focuses on building collaborative partnerships with her clients and contractors to create heart-felt designs.

Need To Hire A Plumber? Here’s How To Choose One

It can be extremely inconvenient to have to cook and do the dishes in the kitchen only to be met with a clogged sink. Plumbing problems are the most common in a home, owing to the constant and regular use of plumbing equipment. As a result, a plumber's services are always in demand, whether for routine maintenance or an emergency call.

Plumbers offer a wide range of services including replacement, installation, and inspection of items such as a bathroom, toilet, and kitchen sinks, dishwashers, faucets, pipes, tubs, showers, water heaters, and so on. These items have a life span and must be replaced from time to time. The best part is that they always give you signals when they need to be changed unless you caused the damage unintentionally. Some of these indicators include a foul odor, stains near pipes and fixtures, unusual noise, and leaks, among others. It is recommended that you contact a plumber as soon as you notice these signs to avoid spending more money on renovations and repairs when negligence causes further damage to your building.

There are many plumbers around, and as with any other profession, there are both experts and amateurs. The following are some tips for hiring a plumber.

1. Check License and Insurance

Before a plumber is allowed to provide services, he or she must first obtain a license from the state. Be sure to ask any plumber you want to hire for their license, and if you are working with a company, conduct thorough research online to determine whether or not the business holds a valid license. In addition to ensuring that a plumber or plumbing company is licensed, you should also make sure that they are insured. This will prevent you from having to take responsibility in the event that an accident occurs while they are providing their services in your home.

2. Ask Around Your Area

It is best to look for a plumber in the area, as a local will be quick and easy to reach in an emergency. You can get referrals from neighbors, family, and friends who have used similar services in the past here in New Jersey. People prefer to investigate companies that provide plumbing services. With a credible company, you can ascertain that they’ll send a plumber sewell nj locals depend on to provide the best service. Dealing with a company rather than a plumber directly ensures professionalism on the plumber's part, which is ideal for the job.

3. Consider Equipment

If you want to avoid working with a plumber who expects you to supply the necessary tools for the job, you should look for one who brings their own equipment to the job site. Confirm that the materials they supply are of high quality and that they offer a warranty on them. It will prevent you from falling into the hands of workmen who make use of materials that are not up to standard.

4. Confirm Price

A skilled plumber ought to be able to provide you with appropriate quotations, and these quotations should be compared with those provided by other service providers offering the same service. By doing so, you will be able to steer clear of hiring a plumber who overcharges. Despite this, another option open to you is to look into the factors that contribute to the disparity in price.

You need to keep in mind that there are many different kinds of plumbing services. Be sure to keep an eye out for a plumber who possesses expertise in the particular field in which you require service and who is also familiar with the plumbing system in your home. Look through the plumber's previous work to ensure that you have hired the right person for the job.

Why Every Plumber Needs to Have a Backup Reservoir of Water

As a plumber, you know that having a reliable water source is essential to your job. But what happens when your primary water source fails? That's where having a backup reservoir of water comes in handy. A water reservoir holds a supply of water that can be used in an emergency, such as when your primary water source is unavailable or when there is a power outage.

Water reservoirs come in all shapes and sizes, from small tanks that can be stored under a sink to larger tanks that can be placed in the basement or garage. No matter what size reservoir you choose, it's important to have one on hand in case of an emergency. There are many benefits to having a water reservoir, including:

Convenient Storage

Water is an important resource for any plumber. It's necessary for cleaning, flushing toilets, and many other tasks. That's why every plumber needs to have a backup reservoir of water on hand. This can come in handy in case of a plumbing emergency.

Having a backup reservoir of water is also convenient. It means that you always have access to water, even if there's a problem with your main supply. This can be especially helpful if you're working on a plumbing project and must rinse your tools frequently.

There are many different ways to store water for emergencies or convenience. You can use a large 1000 gallon water tank in the basement or garage. Or, you can opt for a smaller tank that can be stored under the sink. Whatever option you choose, make sure it's easy to access so you can quickly grab it in an emergency.

Reliable Water Supply

A reliable water supply is crucial for any business, especially for plumbers. When your primary water source fails, you need to be able to rely on your backup reservoir to keep your business running. A water reservoir provides a reliable water supply that can be used in an emergency, which is essential for any plumber.

A water reservoir also comes in handy during power outages. When the power is out, you can't rely on your taps to provide water, so having a backup reservoir will ensure you have access to water when needed.

If you're looking for a reliable water source for your business, consider investing in a water reservoir. A water reservoir can provide peace of mind in an emergency and can help keep your business running during a power outage.

Improved Safety

Water is essential for most plumbing tasks, and plumbers need to have a backup reservoir of water in an emergency. This backup reservoir can help improve safety by providing a reliable water source for firefighters or other emergency responders in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Additionally, a backup reservoir can help keep plumbers safe by providing them with a water source to use in a fire or other emergency. This can help minimize the risk of injury or death in an emergency. As a plumber, safety is always a top priority. Having a water reservoir on hand can help improve safety in the event of an emergency and can help keep your business running during a power outage.

Reduced Costs

Water is one of the most important resources for any business and when it comes to plumbing, having a backup reservoir of water is essential. Not only does this help reduce costs by allowing for less downtime, but it can also help prevent any severe damage from happening in a plumbing emergency.

By having a backup reservoir of water, plumbers can minimize the amount of damage that can be caused by a broken pipe or other plumbing emergency and ensure that their business continues to run smoothly.

In addition, a water reservoir can also help reduce wear and tear on your plumbing system. By having a ready supply of water, plumbers can avoid having to constantly turn on and off the water to their customers' homes or businesses, which can save wear and tear on pipes and other components.

Improved Customer Service

When it comes to plumbing, one of the most important things you can do is have a backup water reservoir. This way, if something goes wrong and your main water source is unavailable, you can continue to provide service to your customers. Not only does this improve customer service, but it also helps keep your business running smoothly in a plumbing emergency.

A backup water reservoir is also important for plumbers working on large projects. When you're working on a big job, there's always the risk that something will go wrong, and you'll need to switch to your backup water supply. This can help to prevent any major delays in the project, and it can also help to ensure that your customers are happy with the results.

Improved Plumbing

Improved plumbing is one of the most important aspects of a functioning home. Not only does it provide potable water for drinking and cooking, but it also flushes away waste and keeps everything clean. It's essential that every homeowner has a good understanding of their home's plumbing system and how to take care of it.

One of the most common problems with plumbing is a clogged drain. This can be caused by many things, such as hair, food particles, or foreign objects. If left untreated, a clogged drain can lead to more severe problems, such as water damage or a broken pipe.

One easy way to prevent clogged drains is to install a backup water reservoir. This can be as simple as a bucket or container kept near the sink. When the sink starts to fill up with water, the backup reservoir will overflow and help to flush the drain.

Another way to improve your plumbing is by installing a garbage disposal. Garbage disposal is a great way to eliminate food waste without worrying about clogged drains. It grinds up the food waste and sends it down the drain, helping keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

No matter what size or plumber you are, a backup water reservoir is essential. A water reservoir provides a reliable source of water in an emergency and can also be used to store water for future use. A water reservoir can ensure you have access to clean, safe water even when the primary water source is unavailable.

Electrical Signs For Your Business and 3 Most Common Problems With Them

This is going to be a brief guide on choosing and designing a sign for your business. There are many different kinds of signs to choose from, made from various materials. Once you have an idea of what you want, you should consider three things: the sign’s visibility, the taste of your target audience, and your company’s budget for signs. These factors will help to inform the design for your sign, maximize your reach, and minimize replacement and repair costs. Remember that the better quality of the sign, the more durable and long-lasting it is. Read on for more information on choosing your business sign.

Different Kinds of Signs

There are many ways you can go when choosing the type of sign you want for your business. From LED screens and pole and pylon signs to storefront and office lobby signs, the advertising opportunities are endless. You can look into more different kinds of signs, as well as the various materials. According to the professionals at HumbleSignCo.com, you can get signs made from PVC, acrylic, plastic, fiberglass, aluminum, wood, and even fabric. The more durable the sign, the more it is likely to cost. However, this is for good reason, as it will last your business the longest time and therefore is great value for money.

You can request a consultation and speak to an expert to discuss the design of your business signs. But before you do, remember to avoid these three common mistakes made by many businesses.

1. Visibility

A well-designed sign for your business will help to increase visibility and draw attention to your storefront, but it takes some time and effort to find the right kind of materials and the perfect display location on the premises. Make sure your sign is visible from the road and from a distance, with nothing obstructing the view where possible.

Moreover, it is worth remembering that script fonts might look pretty up close, but from a distance can be really hard to read. The use of contrasting colors is very useful for making signs visible and easy to read as well. A mistake many companies make is choosing fonts and colors purely based on their aesthetic, but that poses a visibility problem when viewed from afar.

2. Demographic

Another common mistake businesses can make with their signage is to forget their target demographic. You should always design your sign with your intended audience in mind. This will inform the design elements, such as colors, use of imagery, and font. For instance, if your target audience is young people, you might choose to use bold, bright colors and fun font, while a sign designed for an older demographic might be more subtle and understated, with more neutral colors.

Always keep in mind your target demographic, or you might end up with a confusing message, a poor representation of your company, or a sign that does not really appeal to any specific group of people.

3. Budget

Another problem some businesses face when choosing their sign is that they try to spend as little money as possible and end up with a product that is poor quality and underwhelming. Setting a reasonable budget for your sign will help you to narrow down which materials you want to use and the size of the sign. This will give you a better idea of what kind of sign you can afford. 

You will find that the cost for signs is generally based on a combination of key factors, such as the size, the quality and longevity of the materials, and the complexity of the design. For these reasons, it is worth expanding your budget to get the most out of your business sign as possible.  It is a solid investment and can provide many years of marketing for your company when done well.

This has been a brief guide to choosing and designing the perfect sign for your business. Depending on your budget, you can choose the size, complexity, and material for your sign, but remember that the higher the quality, the more use you can get out of your signage. You should always make sure your sign is visible from a distance and easy to read. Moreover, it should be designed with your target demographic in mind so it attracts the right audience. 

Finally, for the best value for money, make sure that your sign is durable. This will avoid having a cheap sign that breaks easily and needs to be repaired or replaced. Have fun designing your company’s sign and good luck!

A Simple Guide That Will Teach You How To Successfully Get Rid Of Mold

Mold can be a very serious problem if it appears in any part of your house. It usually develops in damp rooms and can be very dangerous for your health, so it is no wonder you want to get rid of it as soon as possible. To remove the mold completely or to reduce it to a minimum, the interior of your house and facade should be clean and dry. Yet, if you cannot avoid moisture, then there are several alternative solutions to remove the mold and clean your home successfully.

Seek Professional Help

If you are unfamiliar with problems with mold and you don’t know how to clean it properly, seek help from a professional. The problems with mold can easily become extensive, so try to solve them on time. To that end, a mold removal company can help your home or office be free and safe from mold. Knowing that mold can cause serious health issues, the quality service should solve the problem fast and efficiently. Mold removal can be a difficult and responsible task because people are exposed to strong chemicals, so you need to leave it to those more experienced than yourself.

Mold Can Be Removed with Bleach

Bleach can kill almost any type of mold, leaving the surface clean and resistant to future mold development. Although it is efficient, bleach produces harmful and sharp fumes, so make sure that the room is well ventilated before you start. Also, you should buy a pair of cleaning gloves and a mask to protect your arms and face. 

Mix the bleach and water and apply it to non-porous surfaces with mold, either by using a spray or a sponge and brush. You don’t have to wash the surface after this procedure unless it is used for food preparation or it is a surface that kids and pets touch. The bleach is strong, but it prevents the development of mold for a long time. 

Vinegar Can Help You

Vinegar has certain advantages because it is a mild acid, which means it is safe for use and it’s not toxic like bleach. To remove mold with the help of vinegar, use white distilled vinegar, which you can buy in every supermarket. Pour a bit of vinegar into a spray bottle, spray the vinegar on a moldy surface, and let it rest for an hour. 

After that time, wash the surface with water and let it dry. Don’t worry about the smell, because it will disappear in a few hours. You can repeat this procedure every few days just to make sure that the surface will be mold-free in the future. This method is practical and cheap, and it successfully removes the mold.

Remove the Mold with Hydrogen

Hydrogen removes the mold because it is an antifungal agent and it has antiviral and antibacterial effects. It is a good alternative to bleach, safe for use, and does not destroy the environment. You can buy hydrogen in any pharmacy. It is very cheap and efficiently removes mold from various surfaces. The hydrogen can also help you to remove the stains that the mold leaves, so you will be surprised by the results. Spray the moldy surface with it, let it rest for ten minutes while hydrogen kills the mold, and then wipe the surface. This is a fast way of removing the mold, and the results are visible on the spot.

Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is known as a natural and safe household cleaner, which you can use for mold removal as well. Unlike other mold removers that contain strong chemicals, baking soda is harmless and mild for the family and pets. In addition to removing mold, baking soda mixed with various essential oils also removes different smells, so you can use it to get rid of the odors that mold leaves in your house. 

It also absorbs moisture, which helps prevent the appearance of mold. You can combine vinegar and soda while cleaning; add water and a few drops of lemon juice. Mix all the ingredients, shake the bottle to dissolve the soda, and spray the surface. Use the sponge or brush to remove the mold and rinse the surface with water to clean any residue. With this simple tip, you will prevent the appearance of mold.

Buy Anti-Mold Paint

When you clean the mold with some of these means, the final blow against it is anti-mold paint. This paint is used to protect you from condensation by creating a strong waterproof layer that prevents moisture and mold. The anti-mold paint is easily maintained by simply wiping with a damp cloth and with liquid detergents. You can apply it in two layers, and it is recommended for bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and all rooms where humidity is high or temperature changes are common.

The mold's appearance is not a pleasant scene, and many people have serious problems with their health because of it. It seems dirty and messy, and people often think that they can not get rid of it. Still, with these simple tips, you can save your house or office from unpleasant looks and odors and, at the same time, save yourself from redundant work. To avoid long-term damage, thoroughly clean all areas where mold may appear.

6 Effective Ways to Keep Your House Cool During the Summer

Summertime can bring in lots of hot, humid, heavy air into the house, but there are ways to fight back in maintaining a cool, relaxing home. Most of these tips won't cost you much and can work together to deliver a comfortable environment when those temperatures start rising, and you know they will. Check out these experts' recommendations, and be prepared for an amazingly cool summer inside your home.

1. Closing The Blinds/Curtains

Did you know that approximately 30% of unwanted heat comes through your windows? If you receive direct sunlight during the day, close your blinds and/or curtains, especially during peak sunlight hours. It will help keep your rooms cooler and prevent extra warmth from getting in.

The more opaque your curtains or blinds are the better the cooling results will be for your home.

You may also consider purchasing solar curtains, which are designed to block the sun and powerful UV rays with their special, thermally reflective backing.

2. Applying Heat Reducing Films

Here's another inexpensive suggestion from energy experts. You could try putting on reflective, heat-reducing window films to regulate the temperature, and yes, they also work quite well. Some brands feature window films that can reduce up to 78% of the sun's heat coming through your windows. The films can help keep your home bright and comfortable all day long and still, preserve your view outdoors. In addition, window films can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays.

To get the maximum performance out of window films, shop around for films that offer a warranty against bubbling, cracking, and fading.

3. Installing Ceiling Fans

When air is moving, you feel cooler, and if you have ceiling fans already, they can be useful during those hot, hazy, and humid summer days and nights, but it all has to do with the fan blades.

For instance, to add coolness to a room, the blades should be set to spin counterclockwise. When your ceiling fan is rapidly spinning in this direction, it causes a downdraft and creates a wonderful breeze by drawing the cooler air upwards.

To achieve the effect, use the ceiling fan switch or the push-button control on the fan remote, or use voice commands with your smart fans.

4. Installing A Mini-Split

Efficient, economical, and zoning flexibility are just three benefits of having a mini-split air conditioning system installed in your home. The modern air cooling device is a great combination of a built-in unit and a wall unit. It provides a whisper-quiet operation. Its compact size is another welcome feature since it won't detract from your home decor.

Let's be honest. A.C. is the ultimate cooling concept for residential or commercial space. It can be designed to fit in any structure, and if you're wondering who invented air conditioning, it was none other than Willis Carrier, an American engineer. Carrier introduced his first electrical air conditioning unit in 1902. Amen to that.

5. Planting Shade Trees/Foliage

You can beat the heat inside your home when you plant shade trees. For example, deciduous trees are those that lose their leaves.

The tree pros recommend planting big deciduous trees on three sides of your home, including east, west, and northwest to usher in soothing shade from the hot summer sun. This simple strategy of planting trees can lower summer A.C. costs by up to 35%.

6. Grilling Outdoors More Often

Using your oven during summer can increase the rising temperature throughout the home. The last thing you need is more heat indoors, so consider getting a grill or using the one you have more often to prepare meals outdoors.

If you really can't part with using the oven, then, try this tip from experienced cooks. The secret is slow-roasting, which means taking the temperature down to 300 degrees or lower. It'll take longer for foods to cook, but the slow-roasting method will keep your kitchen a lot cooler.

Closing Thoughts

Those hot, humid, unforgiving days and nights of summer can be highly uncomfortable when you're trying to escape the heat inside your home. Follow these excellent tips by the experts, and get your coolness on!

Guest Contributor: Tracie Johnson

How to Attract Renters

Data show that more than one-third of households in the United States are headed by renters. This means that you likely have a large pool of potential renters for your investment property. However, you still need to put in the work to attract candidates. The following are several areas to focus on as you prepare to rent your property.  

Listing  

The first step in attracting renters is writing an effective property description. Always include the number of bedrooms and bathrooms as well as the location and price. If there are any special features, describe those as well. Add pictures and other important details, including the pet policy, additional fees, and neighborhood amenities. 

Be detailed, but not overly so. Make sure all details are relevant and help potential renters better understand the property. Look over the listing before you post to ensure it’s not overwhelming.  

You can add information that you may not have included in the listing to a shareable PDF. This document allows interested parties to learn more about the property. A free PDF editor tool lets you customize the document without having to print and scan it.  

Outside 

After the listing, the outside of the property is the first thing that potential tenants see. For this reason, curb appeal is very important. If the property looks rundown or poorly cared for, some renters won’t even look at the inside. Do a thorough cleanup so that everything is tidy. Rake leaves, pull weeds, and gather up trash. Cut the grass if necessary. Pressure washes the driveway and anything else that looks dingy. Trim shrubbery, and remove dead limbs from trees. Clean the gutters and windows. 

Make any necessary repairs. Consider adding a fresh coat of paint. Colorful flowers and bold address numbers can add a special touch. Overall, you want the exterior to appear clean and welcoming.  

Inside 

The inside is where most tenants will spend the majority of their time, so it is particularly important that this area be in great shape. There are many projects you can undertake to ensure your property is in its best condition. Repair any problems, including leaks, electrical issues, and malfunctioning appliances. Paint or touch up walls. Repair or replace old linoleum or vinyl floors, and polish hardwoods. Remodeling the kitchen and bathrooms may be a wise investment, particularly if these rooms are worn or outdated. Kevin Szabo Jr. Plumbing & Sewer can help! 

Clean everything, including carpets. Remove buildup in bathrooms and kitchens. Make sure all cobwebs are removed. Clean the inside of the windows. Deep clean any appliances that are included in the rental. 

Relationship 

Attracting tenants is just the first step. It’s important to build good relationships with your tenants and make sure they are happy for their entire tenancy. Be a good landlord by staying professional and repairing problems promptly. Address any concerns the renter has. Keep communication lines open and respond within 24 hours. Read up on tenants' rights and meet all legal requirements. Make sure the structure is safe and has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Be understanding and empathetic without letting anyone take advantage of you.  

Becoming a landlord is a big undertaking. Take steps to make everything go as smoothly as possible for you and your tenants. Keep the property in top condition and write a compelling description to attract potential renters. 

Guest Contributor: Rhonda Underhill

Keeping Your Commercial Space Well-Maintained: 4 Useful Ideas

You don't need to have a commercial space designed by a professional just to make it look good. A lot of spaces that are actually very well designed don't look that good simply because they haven't been maintained properly. Just keeping your commercial property nice and clean can improve the way it looks, feels, and even functions.

This is very important if you want to make the right impression on customers and clients and also give your employees the best environment in which to work. Here are some ideas to help you keep your commercial space looking great.

1. Protective Paint

One of the first things you notice on the exterior of any structure is the paint or any other material used to decorate the exterior. Before you get the exterior painted, it's a good idea to look into the different kinds of exterior paint to see what will suit your needs best. The right kind of paint will offer better protection against the elements, it will last longer, and it will be much easier to clean. If you want to save yourself the trouble of having to repaint every couple of years, consider getting ceramic or marble tiles for the exterior. These are virtually maintenance-free and they maintain their look for decades.

2. Regular Cleaning

No matter what kind of material you use, you need to keep it clean. This is especially important for businesses that are in a locality with a lot of dust or that have processes that will generate a lot of debris in the commercial space. In certain situations hiring professional and trained cleaners is a necessity to keep your space well-maintained. For instance, if you need to pressure wash an area or you need someone to clean the windows on a very tall building, your best option is to consult with professionals. Doing this on your own won’t be as effective and it can be quite risky.

3. Vinyl Flooring

Flooring is one area that experiences quite a bit of wear and tear in any kind of building. Not only does it deteriorate over time, but it is also a challenge to keep it clean. Vinyl floors are great for commercial spaces because they are extremely resistant to all kinds of dirt, debris, and stains, they are waterproof, and they are very easy to clean. If they break or chip, they are also quite cost-effective to replace. When considering a flooring upgrade, look into vinyl tiles for a stress-free experience.

4. Air Quality

Most businesses don't pay attention to the quality of the air they have. This is extremely important, especially in situations where there is a centralized heating and cooling system. Since there is an influx of many different people, and the space is exposed to a lot of different risks, it is critical that businesses have a good air filter and air purifier in place. This is now even more important in the aftermath of a pandemic. This one solution alone will help keep your space that much cleaner and safer.

Keeping your business premises clean is all about addressing the specific challenges that your business faces. If your business involves the use of large quantities of water, then getting waterproof solutions will be paramount. If your business is exposed to a lot of smoke then air quality will be a priority. Look into the different challenges your business faces and try to get solutions that will directly manage those problems.