A Growing Family's Guide to Bathroom Expansion

It's not hard to imagine a growing family outgrows your bathroom. You'll need to decide whether to remodel or expand your current bathroom. Keep in mind that every family is different, so what might be the option of the bathroom expansion for one family may not be the best for another. So read on to learn more about developing your bathroom and how it can benefit your growing family.

There are many things to consider when you have a growing family and need to expand your bathroom. But don't worry, we're here to help! Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your expansion:

1. How much space do you need? Think about how many people will be using the bathroom at one time and what activities will take place there. Will everyone be able to move around comfortably? If not, you may want to consider expanding the bathroom's footprint.

2. What kind of layout do you want? Once you've decided on the size of the expansion, it's time to start thinking about the design. For example, if you're adding a sink, do you want it to be in the same area as the existing sink? Or would you prefer it to be in a separate room?

3. What type of fixtures do you want? When expanding your bathroom, you'll also need to decide on the kind of fixtures you want. Do you want all-new fixtures, or would you be okay with reusing some existing ones? If you're planning on adding a shower, what type of showerhead do you want?

4. How much storage do you need? Another important consideration is how much storage space you need. If you have a growing family, you'll need more space for towels, toiletries, and other items. You may want to consider adding additional cabinets or shelves.

5. What type of lighting do you want? Lighting is another crucial aspect of any bathroom expansion. Do you want to add additional overhead lighting? Or would you prefer task lighting near the sink and mirror?

6. What's your budget? Of course, one of the most important considerations is your budget. How much are you willing to spend on the expansion? Remember that there are many ways to save money when expanding your bathroom, so don't be afraid to shop for the best deals.

By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your bathroom expansion goes smoothly and meets all of your family's needs.

The benefits of expanding your bathroom

It's no secret that bathrooms can be one of the most used rooms in your home, especially if you have a family. With all of the activity that takes place there, it's essential to have a space that is comfortable and functional. One way to achieve this is by expanding your bathroom.

There are many benefits to expanding your bathroom, including:

1. More space: One of the main benefits of expanding your bathroom is that it gives you more space to work with. This is especially important if you have a growing family. With additional space, you can add more features or storage or make the room more comfortable for everyone.

2. Improved layout: Another benefit of expanding your bathroom is that you can improve the design. This means you can rearrange things to make the space more efficient and functional. For example, you might want to add a second sink if you have a large family.

3. More storage: If you're expanding your bathroom, you'll also have the opportunity to add more storage. This is essential for families who need to store towels, toiletries, and other items. You can add additional cabinets or shelves to help keep your bathroom organized.

4. Better lighting: When you expand your bathroom, you also have the opportunity to improve the lighting. This is important for both function and aesthetics. For example, you can add additional overhead lighting or task lighting near the sink and mirror.

5. Increased value: Finally, expanding your bathroom can also increase the value of your home. This is especially true if you do it right and add features that appeal to buyers. A well-designed and functional bathroom is a valuable asset in any home.

If you're considering expanding your bathroom, keep these benefits in mind. It's a great way to improve the function and value of your home.

Hire a contractor and start the bathroom renovation process!

When you have a growing family, your home starts to feel a little cramped. You might start considering a move to a bigger house but before you do, think about all the potential your current home has! One way to gain some extra space is by expanding your bathroom.

Starting a bathroom expansion project may seem daunting if you're not well-versed in construction. But don't worry, we're here to help! This article will walk you through hiring a contractor and getting started on your bathroom expansion.

First, you'll need to find a reputable contractor who can handle the job. Ask friends or family for recommendations or look for online reviews. Once you've found a few candidates, set up interviews and ask for quotes. Ask about the contractor's experience with similar projects, availability, and timeline for the job.

Once you've found the right contractor, it's time to start planning! First, you'll need to decide on the new layout of your bathroom and what kind of fixtures and materials you want to use. If you're not sure where to start, your contractor should be able to give you some ideas and help you make decisions that fit your budget.

Now comes the fun part: construction! Your contractor will get to work turning your vision into reality. Depending on the project's scope, this phase can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Once the construction is finished, it's time to enjoy your new and improved bathroom! Whether adding a luxe spa-like retreat or simply expanding your existing space, an expanded bathroom will be a welcome addition to your home. You'll never have to worry about fighting over bathroom time again!

Guest Contributor: John Mark Caballes

A Simple Guide On Designing An Amazing Living Room

Redesigning your living room can be a daunting task. It’s the room where you and your family spend the most time, so you want to make sure it’s just right. But with a little planning and some creative ideas, you can have the living room of your dreams in no time.

The first step is to decide what you want your new living room to look like. Do you want it to be more traditional or more modern? Cozier or more spacious? Once you know what style you want, start gathering inspiration from magazines, websites, and other people’s homes.

Next, sketch out some ideas on paper and get feedback from friends and family. They may have some great suggestions that you never would have thought of on your own. And don’t be afraid to experiment – trying new things is half the fun of redesigning a room!

Here are 6 tips to get you started on designing an amazing living room:

1. Consider new drapes or curtains

First, consider the style of your room. Are you going for a modern or traditional look? Curtains can be a great way to add personality and style to a room.

Second, think about the size of your windows. Curtains that are too short or too long can look awkward and out of place. Make sure to measure the windows before you go shopping for curtains. According to experts from www.curtarra.com, if you want to give your home an enchanting personality, then choose custom curtains that’ll enhance your ambiance. Third, consider the type of fabric you want. Silk curtains can be expensive, but they can add a luxurious touch to a room. Cotton or linen curtains are more affordable and can be just as effective in creating the desired look.

Finally, make sure to choose curtains that will block out the light when needed. Black-out curtains are perfect for bedrooms or rooms where you want to sleep during the day. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect curtains for your living room!

2. Get new furniture

New furniture can completely change the look of a room. If your living room is looking a little dated, try getting some new pieces that are more in line with the current trends. You don’t have to replace all of your old furniture – just a few key pieces can make a big difference.

If you’re not sure what kind of furniture to get, look for pieces that are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. A storage ottoman can be used as a coffee table or as extra seating when you have guests over. A futon can be used as a sofa during the day and turned into a bed at night. And a daybed can be used as both a sofa and a guest bed. With versatile furniture, you’ll get more use out of it and your living room will look great!

3. Change up the lighting

Lighting can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of a room. If your living room is looking a little dark and dreary, try adding some new light fixtures. Table lamps, floor lamps, and even string lights can brighten up a room and make it look more inviting.

If you’re not sure what kind of lighting to get, ask for help from a lighting expert. They can help you choose the right fixtures and placement for your living room. With the right lighting, your living room will look amazing!

4. Add some greenery

Plants are a great way to add life to a room. They can help purify the air and they can also make a space feel more relaxed and inviting. If you’re not sure what kind of plants to get, ask for help from a local nursery or garden center. They can help you choose plants that are easy to care for and will thrive in your living room.

5. Get new accessories

Accessories are a great way to add personality to a room. Throw pillows, blankets, wall art, and candles can all make a living room look more stylish and inviting. And don’t forget about rugs! A rug can help define a space and make it feel cozier.

When choosing accessories, make sure to choose items that you love. This way, you’ll enjoy looking at them every day and your living room will feel like your own personal oasis.

Designing a living room can be a lot of fun. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to create a space that’s perfect for relaxing and entertaining. So get creative and have some fun with it! Who knows, you may even start enjoying spending time in your living room more than ever before.

Home Maintenance Tips: The Importance Of Gutter Cleaning

Maintaining your home is an important task that requires a lot of time and effort. But it's worth it in the end, as a well-maintained home will last longer and function better. There are several things you need to do on a regular basis to keep your home in good condition.

Your gutters are one of the most important parts of your home, yet they are often overlooked. Gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from water damage by directing water away from your foundation. They also help to keep your roof in good condition by preventing water from pooling on it.

Unfortunately, gutters can become clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris. This can cause them to back up and overflow, resulting in water damage to your home. In extreme cases, it can even lead to roof collapse.

That's why it's so important to keep your gutters clean and in good working order. Here are some easy tips on how to do just that:

1) Figure out a safe way to reach them first

Use a ladder. This is the most common way to reach your gutters, and it's also the most dangerous. Make sure you use a sturdy ladder and don't stand on the top rung. Also, be careful not to slip or fall. You can find out more through this website, or do your own research online. Keep in mind that you'll need a ladder that's long enough to reach your gutters without putting you in an unsafe position.

Use an extension pole. If you don't feel comfortable using a ladder, you can use an extension pole instead. This is a long pole with a curved end that allows you to reach your gutters without getting up on a ladder.

Hire a professional gutter cleaner. If you don't feel comfortable cleaning your gutters yourself, you can always hire a professional gutter cleaner. They have the experience and equipment necessary to clean your gutters quickly and safely.

2) Remove the debris from your gutters

Use a garden trowel or your hands. If there's not too much debris in your gutters, you can remove it by hand. Use a garden trowel to scoop out the leaves, twigs, and other debris. Be careful not to scratch or damage your gutters in the process.

Use a garden hose. If there's a lot of debris in your gutters, you can use a garden hose to flush it out. First, remove as much of the debris as you can by hand or with a garden trowel. Then, turn on your garden hose and direct the water into your gutters. The water will wash away the remaining debris.

3) Inspect your gutters for damage

Once you've removed all the debris from your gutters, take a close look at them to see if there's any damage. Look for cracks, leaks, or holes. If you find any damage, you'll need to repair or replace your gutters as soon as possible.

For example, if you find a small crack, you can use gutter sealant to repair it. However, if the damage is more extensive, you'll need to replace the entire section of the gutter.

4) Prevent future clogs

Once you've cleaned and repaired your gutters, you'll want to take steps to prevent them from getting clogged again. Here are some things you can do:

Install gutter guards. Gutter guards are devices that fit over your gutters and prevent leaves and other debris from getting in. They come in a variety of styles, so you'll need to choose the one that's right for your home.

Keep trees trimmed. If you have trees near your home, make sure to keep them trimmed. This will prevent their leaves from clogging your gutters.

Clean your gutters regularly. The best way to prevent your gutters from becoming clogged is to clean them on a regular basis. Twice a year is usually sufficient, but you may need to do it more often if you have a lot of trees near your home.

Gutters play an important role in preventing water damage to your home. Not only do they divert rainwater away from your foundation, but they also help keep the roof in good condition. It's therefore essential to keep them clean and in good working order. In this article, we've provided some easy tips on how to do just that. Follow these tips and you'll be able to avoid costly water damage repairs down the road. Plus, you'll be able to rest easy knowing that your home is well-protected against the elements.

Proven Ways to Improve Your Comfort Level During Long Summer Heats

The dog days of summer can be a real drag. The weather is hot and sticky, and there’s nothing to do but stay inside with the air conditioning on full blast. But what if you could make the most of the summer heat? What if you could enjoy the indoors and outdoors without feeling like you’re about to melt? Here are some tips on how to beat the heat and make your summer more comfortable.

1) Install an air conditioning system

Installing an air conditioning system is the best way to stay cool during summer days. Not only will it keep you comfortable indoors, but it will also keep your home’s temperature cool. If you don’t have central air, consider installing a window unit or portable ac. As the professionals from https://superiorhvacstl.com/wentzville/ note, heat makes even the most basic of tasks feel impossible, and generally, it just ruins what is meant to be the most enjoyable time of the year. That's why air conditioners are such a popular solution for people all over the world during the hotter months.

2) Drink plenty of fluids

It’s important to stay hydrated during the summer, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Water is always the best choice, but you can also drink fruit juices and sports drinks. Just avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can actually dehydrate you.

Additionally, avoid sugary drinks, as they can make you feel more tired in the heat. Something like sparkling water with a slice of lemon can be a refreshing and hydrating alternative. When drinking water, aim to drink small amounts regularly throughout the day rather than large amounts all at once. And if you’re going to be outside for a prolonged period of time, make sure to take a water bottle with you.

3) Wear light, loose-fitting clothing

If you’re going to be outside in the heat, it’s important to wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Dark colors absorb heat, so it’s best to stick with lighter colors like white and beige. Cotton is also a good choice of fabric as it’s breathable and won’t make you sweat as much.

In addition, wide-brimmed hats can help protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. And if you’re going to be outside for an extended period of time, make sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Be sure to protect yourself from UV rays, as they can cause skin cancer. Plus, no one wants a sunburn.

4) Take a cool shower or bath

If you’re feeling overheated, take a cool shower or bath. This will help lower your body temperature and make you feel more comfortable. Just be sure not to stay in the water for too long as it can actually dehydrate you.

For example, if you have a garden hose, you can spray yourself with cool water to help lower your body temperature. This is especially refreshing on hot days when there’s no air conditioning.

5) Stay in the shade

If you’re going to be outside, it’s best to stay in the shade as much as possible. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so it’s best to avoid being in direct sunlight during these hours. If you must be in the sun, make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat.

Additionally, keep in mind that the temperature is usually cooler near bodies of water. So, if you’re looking for a place to cool off, head to the beach, lake, or pool.

6) Use fans

If you don’t have an air conditioner, fans are a good alternative. You can use them to circulate the air and help cool you down. Just be sure to place them in front of an open window so they can pull in cooler air from outside.

Air conditioners are also a good option for cooling down your home. If you don’t have central air, consider investing in a window unit or portable air conditioner. The possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing the right air conditioner for you and your home.

Summer days can be quite uncomfortable, especially when the heat is unrelenting. However, with a few simple tips, you can make the most of the summer weather while still remaining comfortable. Drink plenty of fluids, wear light clothing, stay in the shade, and use fans to circulate air – these are all easy ways to keep cool during hot summer days. If you find yourself feeling overheated, take a cold shower or bath to lower your body temperature. And finally, remember that it’s always cooler near bodies of water, so head to the beach or pool if you need a break from the heat.

Facade Makeovers That Add Value to Your Home

Your house facade is arguably one of the first things your guests or potential buyers will see when you invite them to your home. Therefore, there are many upgrades you can consider if you aim to make a good first impression.

Additionally, minor renovations and improvements can increase the value of your home. So, whether you want to sell your property or impress your guests, read on for tips on how to prepare for a facade makeover.

Use the right paint

A good colour scheme could make a world of difference to your home’s facade. As a result, you want to use a colour that is complementary to your home’s style and architecture. For example, a contemporary home may look best with dark and moody hues, while a more traditional property might be enhanced with softer shades.

If you're struggling to find the right choice, your local hardware store can give you advice on the best type of paint for your home’s facade. Once you’ve chosen the perfect colour, it’s time to get painting!

Add curb appeal

Another way to add value to your home is by increasing its curb appeal. This simple trick can be achieved by mowing your lawn, planting some flowers or even just power-washing your front porch.

You can also add some outdoor furniture or decorations to make your home more inviting. Remember, first impressions count, so take the time to spruce up your home’s exterior before your next big event.

Consider cladding or rendering

Cladding and rendering are common ways to update the look of your home’s facade. Cladding is usually done by covering your existing walls with new materials, such as bricks, wood or stone. Believe it or not, this minor upgrade can give your home a completely different look and feel.

On the other hand, rendering is more appropriate if you want to achieve a smooth, modern look. Of course, this involves applying a thin layer of plaster to your walls, which can then be painted any colour you like.

Both cladding and rendering can be expensive options, but they are definitely worth considering if you want to add value to your home. So, calculate the costs and see if any of these options would pay off in the long run.

Update your windows and doors

Have you ever noticed that old, outdated windows and doors can make a house look run-down? If your home’s facade is in need of a facelift, one of the first things you need to consider is replacing your windows and doors.

Luckily, there are many different styles to choose from, so take the time to research what would work best for your home. You may even want to consult with a professional to get the best advice.

Clean the gutters

Keeping your gutters and the rest of the roof clean is of utmost importance if you want to maintain a good-looking facade. Over time, gutters can become clogged with leaves and other debris, which can lead to water damage. 

So, be sure to clean your gutters regularly to avoid any issues. You may even want to invest in gutter guards to make the job easier.

Still, keep in mind that cleaning the gutters is tedious and even dangerous work. To ensure your safety, a local scissor lift rental is always an option. Not only is it an affordable alternative to hiring professional gutter cleaners, but it will also increase your safety while cleaning the gutters or fixing the roof.

Add lighting

If you think that lighting doesn't play a role in the overall look of the facade of your home, then you are mistaken. Adding some outdoor lighting is easy and affordable, and this type of home improvement is both convenient and aesthetically pleasing. You can choose from solar-powered lights, LED lights or even traditional lanterns.

Just be sure to position the lights in strategic places so that they highlight your home's best features. After all, you want to make sure that your home looks its best, day and night.

Fix the flaws

The best way to sell a house is by fixing its flaws, not hiding them. If you notice any cracks around the window or doors, it's essential to get them repaired. The same goes for any peeling paint or loose tiles.

It may seem like a lot of work, but fixing the flaws will make your home more valuable in the long run. So, take the time to inspect your home from top to bottom and make a list of all the repairs that need to be made.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the ways you can give your home’s facade a makeover. With a little bit of effort, you can easily increase the value of your property. So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your project today!

Mike is an Australian business consulting specialist. He’s working with companies that outsource their IT maintenance. He often writes about technology, business, and marketing and is a regular contributor to several websites.

Guest Contributor: Mike Parsons

Top 5 Tips For Hiring The Perfect Plumber

The plumbing industry is highly competitive, and there are many benefits to hiring the right plumber for your home. The best plumbers can offer you their services at a fair price and have plenty of positive reviews from previous customers. They will also be able to provide you with advice on how to maintain your plumbing.

The key is knowing what to look for and how to find the right person for your home or business. Here are five excellent tips for hiring the perfect plumber.

1. Check Their Website

The internet can be a valuable resource if you need a plumbing professional. Checking a company's website can give you a good sense of their values and what they would be able to bring to your project. A well-designed website that is easy to navigate shows that the company is professional and puts a premium on its online presence.

You should also see a clear description of their services. It will help you determine if they're a good fit for your needs. You can also tell from the customer testimonials if the plumbing company is reliable. Reading previous customer reviews can give insight into what it would be like to work with the company.

Lastly, a website listing of accreditations and associations can indicate that the company is reputable and has the qualifications to complete your project. Reviewing a plumber's website like  Dan's Plumbing homepage and similar service providers can help you find the right plumber for your needs.

2. Know Your Budget

When hiring a plumber, one of the essential things is communicating your budget. This helps you avoid any unexpected charges. Before you even start looking for a plumber, you must know what you can afford. It will help you narrow your options and avoid businesses out of your price range.

Once you've found a few potential plumbers, communicate your budget upfront. This will prompt them to give you an accurate estimate, so there won't be surprises later on. Lastly, getting estimates from at least three plumbers is always a good idea. Thus, you can be sure you're getting the best possible value for your money.

Plumbers typically charge by the hour, so asking about any minimum charges or other applicable fees is essential. Once you've identified a few potential candidates, schedule a consultation so you can get to know them better and discuss your project in detail. 

3. Verify Licenses

Hiring a licensed plumber is one of the best ways to ensure your plumbing needs will be handled professionally and competently. A licensed plumber has undergone extensive training and has the necessary skills and experience to handle all sorts of plumbing problems. 

In addition, a licensed plumber is required to adhere to strict industry standards and code of conduct. Also, if something does go wrong, you'll be protected by the plumber's insurance. 

When searching for a licensed plumber, there are a couple of things you can do. First, you can check with your local business bureau or consumer protection agency if any complaints have been lodged against the plumbers you're considering. Finally, you can verify the plumbers' licenses by checking with your state licensing board. 

4. Consider Accessibility

While a plumbing emergency can strike at any time, the reality is that most plumbing problems don't happen during regular working hours. That's why it's crucial to consider accessibility when hiring a plumber. 

After all, you don't want to wait hours for someone to show up, only to find out that they can't get to your home until the next day. Instead, look for a plumber who offers 24/7 emergency service. With this, you can rest assured that help is just a phone call away. 

Furthermore, it’s advisable to choose a local plumber, so they can be at your doorstep in no time. 

5. Look Out For Promotions And Discounts

You'll also want to look for a plumbing company that offers promotions and discounts. After all, there's no reason to pay more than you have to. Regarding promotions and discounts, be sure to ask about any specials the company is currently running. 

In addition, be sure to inquire about any loyalty programs or referral bonuses the company offers. By taking advantage of these promotions and discounts, you can save a considerable amount on your plumbing needs. 

Takeaway

When looking for an affordable plumber, there are a few things you can do. First, know what you can afford. Second, get multiple estimates and communicate your budget at the outset. Third, verify the licenses of the plumbers you are considering. Fourth, consider their responsiveness to a plumbing emergency. Finally, ask about promotions and discounts. By following these tips, you can be sure to find a dependable plumber who can meet your needs.

Why Is Siding Replacement Important?

A siding is an essential property fixture installed on your property's exterior. Also known as wall cladding, this home wrap is used to weatherproof and safeguard a structure. A siding can also improve your asset's aesthetics and value.

Several siding options are available on the market—vinyl, metal, wood, bricks, and fiber cement, to name a few. As with other construction materials, your home's siding can be subject to wear and tear, exposing your property to potential threats. That said, having a siding replacement in Springfield, Virginia, and similar firms near your area is crucial.

Some homeowners may not fully understand the importance of wall cladding re-installation. If you're one of them, consider these compelling reasons:

1. A Siding Offers Additional Protection

Wall cladding provides a layer of protection that seals your home and protects it from harsh elements. In Virginia, for instance, storms can become violent and tornadoes can wreak havoc on your home. If you're living in the area, it's important to have your siding intact to form a barrier against potential damage brought by extreme temperatures, strong winds, and hail.

A missing or damaged part can eventually cause the entire cladding to break down. As such, it loses its protective capabilities exposing your home to pests, water damage, and ultimately, more serious problems.

Besides obvious physical gaps or missing panels, warping and rotting are two telltale signs of damaged wall cladding. So are cracked, discolored, and loose boards. The presence of bubbles can also signify water seepage, and a replacement must be arranged as soon as possible.

2. You Risk Having Water Damage Without It

Water seeping into your walls can negatively impact your home's structural integrity. Water and moisture can enter your interior walls by penetrating through the damaged wall siding, leading to more serious issues.

You won't likely notice this problem unless your walls have substantial damage. Take heed of the signs of water damage to avoid mold and mildew formation. These nasty microorganisms not only reduce your property's lifespan. It can also increase the risks of allergy attacks and other respiratory issues.

Water damage can lead to significant structural fixes that cost thousands of dollars, a few times more than what you're supposed to pay for a wall cladding replacement.

3. Your Energy Bills May Shoot Up

A well-functioning siding can help seal your home, providing great insulation. With this, your property's heat flow and exchange become more manageable, boosting the functions of your indoor heating and cooling systems. According to the United States Department of Energy findings, a properly insulated home can reduce power bills by 20%.

Without a reliable siding replacement, heated air from the outside can easily seep into your living spaces while cold air can easily leak outside and vice versa. Your air conditioner will work doubly hard to keep you cool when it's too hot. The same can be said for your furnace during the winter season. That said, damaged wall cladding will cause a spike in your electricity bills.

4. Your Repainting Costs Could Increase

Maintenance works must be done periodically on your home's exterior and interior sections to preserve or upgrade its aesthetic features and strengthen its protective properties. If you notice that your interior walls have cracked or peeled paint, it can signify that your siding needs immediate replacement.

The same can be said for your exterior wall paint. A good quality painting job should last at least five years. If your walls need a new coat and you've just repainted them, a damaged siding might be the culprit, so check for the signs mentioned above or ask for assistance from wall cladding specialists.

5. It Boosts Your Home's Resale Value

Besides increasing your property's cooling and heating system efficiency, a professional siding replacement can increase your home's resale value and enhance your home's curb appeal. To the uninitiated, the latter refers to a property's visual appearance when viewed from the outside.

As such, it's one of the strategies used by sellers to attract potential buyers. This siding replacement advantage is great news for homeowners planning to sell their property on the market.

According to the latest cost versus value analysis for home improvements nationwide, sellers can recoup 68.3% of their total siding replacement costs, making it to the fourth spot of property upgrades with the highest returns.

Final Thoughts

While a siding replacement could entail considerable costs, it's an investment that homeowners must make to maintain a safe, secure, and comfortable home. Wall cladding replacement protects your home against harsh weather and elements. It can also help reduce your maintenance and electricity bills while increasing your property value. With these benefits, you should never have to wait one more day to have them replaced.

Importance of an Annual Boiler Service Before Winter Hits

A certain survey conducted in 2019 showed that 20% of people had boilers that had not been serviced in the last 12 months. 18% of those surveyed said that servicing was unnecessary unless the boiler broke down. While having your boiler serviced looks like an unnecessary expense, it is very important. Today, we are going to show you the top 6 reasons why you should have your boiler serviced every year.

Reasons Why You Should Have Your Boiler Serviced Every Year

1. Keeps Your Home Safe

It may be difficult to notice some boiler problems that can worsen and cause fires, gas leaks, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. The good news is that an annual inspection can help identify such problems and keep your home safe. These problems will be fixed when they are identified during boiler servicing.

Also, remember that carbon monoxide is deadly and can only be identified by a Carbon Monoxide detector. As such, it is good to ensure that there is a detector installed near your boiler to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Corgi Home Plan protect the public and uphold the highest professional standards across the heating industry.

2. Lowers Your Energy Costs

If you don’t have your boiler serviced, it will start losing efficiency hence increasing your gas bill. An annual service will keep your boiler in tip-top condition and prevent heating fuel wastage hence lowering your energy costs.

3. Helps You Avoid Costly Repairs

A boiler service is cheaper than repairing or replacing your boiler. So, if you want to save money, it is good to consider having your boiler serviced every 12 months. Keep in mind that regular maintenance work will make your heating system more reliable and reduces the chances of requiring a costly repair.

4. It Will Keep Your Guarantee Valid

A new boiler’s guarantee will only be valid if it is often serviced every 12 months. Otherwise, the guarantee will be invalidated. Most manufacturers require that a Gas Safe engineer inspects a boiler every year for repairs to be covered by a guarantee.

5. Prevents Winter Breakdowns

If you have your boiler serviced before the coldest months, you will not have to worry about any issues with your heating system during winter. I am sure that you will agree with me that there is nothing worse than turning on your heating during the coldest months only to realize that your heating system is experiencing some problems. When this happens, your house will be freezing and your family members will be grumpy because they are feeling cold. Servicing your boiler every 12 months can help you avoid such a situation.

6. Keeps Your Business Legal If You Are a Landlord

As a landlord, you are required by law to get an annual gas safety certificate from a Gas Safe engineer. This certificate shows that all boilers, gas appliances, pipework, and flues in your rented property have been inspected, repaired, and well maintained.

Guest Contributor: Arslan Hassan

How to Handle a Difficult Employee at a Construction Site?

Working in the construction industry means meeting challenges on a regular basis. Managing your workforce is often the most difficult of them all. Now, people in the construction industry are some of the toughest, hardest-working, wittiest people that you’ll ever meet. They can also be quite stubborn and argumentative. Here are a couple of things you need to do when you encounter a worker who you would describe as particularly difficult.

Now, with the push to help more people become homeowners, the solidity of the construction industry becomes even more important. With that in mind and without further ado, here are a couple of tips to help you keep things together at a construction site.

Never Reward Poor Behavior

When someone displays bad behavior, the worst thing you can do is turn a blind eye. You see, everything that goes on at the construction site is a public matter. By turning a blind eye to their bad behavior, you’ll encourage this behavior from others, as well.

Even those who are not prone to acting out might get discouraged. Sure, this is not outright schadenfreude, it’s also setting an example. There’s nothing that discourages hard workers and team players more than seeing the opposite behavior go unpunished.

Still, your answer needs to be proportionate to their misbehavior. Being too harsh may seem like the best way to deter future problems, as well, but it will also portray you as a tyrannical leader. This is something that you definitely want to avoid.

Stay Within Your Legal Rights

Mobbing is a huge problem in the business world, especially in construction, seeing as how it’s, for the most part, seen as a testosterone-infused industry. So, being constantly on the line with your construction lawyers might be a good idea. You need to understand what you’re allowed to ask of them and which orders are pushing it too far.

Undergoing some sensitivity training is something that a lot of people do only after they’re mandated to do so by already making a mistake. However, this should not be the case. Taking some sensitivity training in advance can help you get the gist of how to act to avoid legal issues in these disputes.

Keep in mind that it’s not always about what you say but how you say it, as well. This is why it’s so important that you learn how to predict a backlash without having to cause it, in the first place.

Reduce Idle Time

People with a task are less likely to cause trouble. This is true in construction, especially due to the added peer pressure. You see, one person needs to fetch the material that the other person is about to use. If that person slows down the process, the other person can’t work either. Moreover, as the saying goes “idle hands are the devil’s workshop”.

The most dangerous thing about engaging in a dispute with an employee is the idea that the rest of the crew will take their side. They don’t have to be open about it but if they seem like the sensible ones, you’re the irrational party. Soon, they’ll adopt this view on you and use it on multiple occasions.

Construction workers are hard-working people and when they see someone slacking, they’re automatically taking their opposition. This means that, no matter how sound their argument sounds, if they’re being lazy while everyone else is hard at work, they will never be able to rouse the site.

Take their Perspective

If the meeting is taking place in private and they file a complaint, ask them for some time to think it through. Now, this can sound a bit dismissive so give them an exact timeline by which they’ll get the response. This is a rational thing to do and it will buy you time to take their perspective and try to figure out whether you’re in the wrong.

Emotional intelligence is incredibly important when it comes to working with people and you definitely need to practice it more. Even if they are wrong, you need to find out why they hold this stance, in the first place. This way, you’ll be able to tell if they’re being difficult or if they’re just wrong (which can happen to anyone, really).

This also helps you appear as someone who values the opinions of their employees. Just think about it, even if you do dismiss their claim, they’ll still walk away with the impression that you gave it a serious thought. This is vastly different from just dismissing them outright without listening to the word they have to say.

In Conclusion

Arguments in the workplace are a normal occurrence but there’s a difference between a person who disagrees with you on something specific and someone who’s just looking for a reason to start a fight. So, when dealing with a difficult employee, your first task is to figure out whether they’re really being difficult or if this is a standalone issue. Then, you need to check what’s the morally and legally right thing for you to do in this situation. Seeing as how each argument is different, you want to customize your approach (and your arguments) and build the kind of leadership style that can help you in different circumstances.

Guest Contributor: Frank Robertson

Boost Good Hygiene with These Tips in Your Bathroom

            Everybody wants to have a clean and hygienic bathroom, but rarely do people take the required steps to make this a reality. Cleaning is not the only way of improving bathroom hygiene. If you want to do this, you need to change a lot of habits and implement changes in the bathroom. This is why, today, we will talk about the best ways of boosting hygiene in your bathroom. Let’s get right into it.

1. Declutter

            The first step towards a cleaner bathroom is making sure you don’t feel swamped the moment you enter the bathroom. If you have any toiletries, hair products, make-up, and other products lying around but you don’t use on a daily basis, store them or get rid of them! Good hygiene will always include having a decluttered space where you won’t feel the air weighing you down, and it is the best place to start with hygiene improvement!

2. Try Suspending

            Let’s not kid ourselves, we often avoid cleaning duty like the plague, and most of us do it only when we absolutely have to. Rarely enjoyable, it requires a lot of effort in order to achieve the desired results. Especially in hard-to-get places, it feels like you can never fully clean the corners between the floor and walls. This is why there is a life hack to this; it’s called suspending. By suspending the toilet, furniture, and sink, you are effectively removing all of the hard-to-get floor corners that are causing you so many headaches. A similar method can be applied to the shower. If you opt for a shower tray instead of a bathtub, you are effectively removing a lot of occupied space. Although an even more hygienic solution to this would be a floor-integrated shower.

            However, the effectiveness of this strategy heavily relies on your drainage system. The best systems that allow you to have an uninterrupted shower are when the water drains behind the wall via a built-in installation system or a system that prevents the build-up of filth and bacteria by draining the water through a small collector. These helpful changes minimize the amount of cleaning needed to maintain the hygiene in your bathroom and make your bathroom cozier, but they do not eliminate the need for cleaning entirely. Cleaning will still have to be done (although maybe in a few decades it won’t, we will see). It’s not all bad since studies have shown that cleaning makes you happier and it relieves anxiety and stress. This should be more than enough of a reason for everyone to upgrade their cleaning game. If not for the hygiene, then for the reduced stress.

3. Replace the Old and Worn-Out Rugs and Towels

            This is something that everyone can afford to improve. They don’t need to be any expensive cashmere towels. Just clean; new ones will do. Just throw out the old worn-out, and used towels that you don’t even feel like you want to wash your face on. First of all, start by cleaning up the tiles and any grout. After that, put down fresh rugs that will always give you a comfortable and serene feeling when getting in/out of the shower.

            If you have been using an old and worn-out towel for a long time, the odds are that you have forgotten the beautiful feeling of a fresh towel touching your face. Taking it a step further would be getting a towel warmer so that you will always have a warm towel on the ready (this can be a lifesaver during winter).

4. Make the Bathroom a (Sanitary) Heaven

            It is vital to maintain sanitation inside of the bathroom (and the house) for multiple health reasons. A bathroom is a place where you come to clean yourself; it becomes a bit harder to clean yourself in a place that isn’t clean itself, isn’t it? Thankfully, as technology has progressed, it has become a lot easier to maintain sanitation in the bathroom. Most shower trays nowadays require almost no maintenance. Applying special enamel to bathroom surfaces to ensure complete smoothness prevents any type of dirt and bacteria build-up. Flush plates and toilet seat covers also add a layer of sanitation. A good addition to the bathroom is that you can opt for a bidet attachment, as it is an elegant addition to the bathroom and comes off as both hygienic and sanitary.

5. Make Sure Your Bathroom Always Stays Dry

            In order to avoid mould, nasty smells, and an overall nasty aura that a broken down and wet bathroom gives, you have to always keep it dry. This does not come off as a particularly difficult task, as you only really need to pay attention when getting out of the shower and washing your hands over the sink so that water doesn’t go everywhere. If you like having artwork hung up in your bathroom to give it more style, the water can also affect its appeal, which is not a good thing. In some cases, even after drying up the bathroom, you will still see water appearing. In that case, it’s time to call a plumber. Do not take matters into your own hands, as you risk making the problem even worse. For fixing your bidet toilet you need to hire a professional.

6. Always Shut the Toilet Lid Before Flushing

            Usually, not a lot of people think about shutting the toilet lid before they flush. This is because we don’t really realize how much bacteria goes up in the air after we flush. Experiments conducted by HealthDay News have shown that after about 100 flushes in a time span of around 3 hours there has been a substantial increase in the measured aerosol levels, with around ten thousand droplets being generated during every flush. This leads to a massive amount of airborne pathogens being released into the room. Next time, take this into consideration before you flush.

Guest Contributor: Frank Robertson