Some Often-Neglected Chores

Are you doing all your chores around your home? Are you sure? Even if you are committed to regularly cleaning and maintaining your home, you might actually be overlooking some chores that you should be doing. Read on to learn about some of them.

Clean Your Appliances

Perhaps you wipe down the top of your stove and give your refrigerator a good cleaning every so often, but you might be forgetting aspects of your appliances. You should, for example, be cleaning behind your refrigerator and vacuuming out the coils to get rid of the buildup of hair and dust. You should also clean out your dishwasher, microwave and garbage disposal now and then. Don’t forget to give your washer and dryer a good scrubbing periodically, too.

Dust Your Baseboards

Do you ever dust your baseboards? You might be amazed at how much dust you’ll find on them. Take time every month or so to run over them with a damp cloth, and don’t neglect the door stops either.

Power Wash Your Siding

Stand back from your house for a moment, and take a good look at your siding. It may not need painting, but it can get very dirty. If it is, then give it a good power washing Manorville NY. You can rent a power washing machine or hire a company to do the work for you, but your house will look much nicer.

Scrub Your Windows

If you haven’t washed your windows for a while, now is the time to do so. You should also scrub around the frames, wipe down the window sills, clean screens and wash blinds, curtains or drapes. When you’ve finished indoors, move outdoors, and repeat.

Look Up

Finally, don’t forget to look up. The tops of your door frames need attention, and your ceiling fans and light fixtures could use a good cleaning, too. While you’re up there, wipe down the tops of your kitchen cabinets.

Even if you’ve been neglecting these chores for a while, now is the time to catch up and make your home shine.

Surface and Deep Carpet Cleaning

Carpet cleaning is essential for anyone who has carpets in their home or business. Here, you will learn about surface and deep carpet cleaning.

Carpet Surface Cleaning

Regularly vacuuming your carpet helps to lengthen its life. However, vacuuming may only remove surface particles from your carpet—complement regular vacuuming with annual deep cleanings, such as carpet cleaning South Jersey.

Carpets capture air particles, dust, pet dander, allergens, dirt, and grime that settle on your floors throughout the day. If your carpet is not vacuumed regularly, these particles may go down deep into the fibers of your carpet and get lodged through regular use.

Suppose you cannot find the time to vacuum your carpet regularly using a traditional vacuum cleaner. In that case, purchase a robotic vacuum and set it to run on a regular schedule. The robotic vacuum will perform the chore for you.

Carpet Deep Cleaning

If you have purchased a new carpet, to maintain its warranty, you may be required to deep clean your carpet professionally once every twelve to eighteen months and keep the receipts as proof of maintenance.

Deep cleaning your carpet lengthens its life, freshens the fibers, and removes lodged particles from your carpet, leaving it cleaner and brighter. Deep cleaning comes in various forms. Three popular methods include carpet shampooing, steam cleaning, and dry carpet cleaning.

In carpet shampooing, the vacuum applies a mixture of cleaning solution and water to the carpet and lathers using brushes. The remaining moisture is then sucked into the vacuum, and the carpet is left to air dry.

In steam cleaning, pressured boiling water is used as steam with no chemicals. The vacuum applies the steam to the carpet using brushes and agitators. The resulting moisture is then sucked into the vacuum.

In dry carpet cleaning, water is not used. The vacuum applies a dry compound and brushes it into the carpet. The compound attracts and dissolves particles and is then sucked into the vacuum.

4 Tips To Maintain Rain Gutters

Rain gutters make a world of difference to any home, especially if you’ve never had them. Gutters channel rainwater away from your house as it runs off your roof, keeping you dry. However, these home additions only work if you take care of them, so here are four tips to properly maintain your rain gutters.

1. Remove Debris Continuously

Rain gutters are highly effective at moving water, but only if the flow isn’t obstructed. This means you must continuously remove any blockage that builds up. Another alternative is to install gutter guards Clackamas. Guards allow water to filter into the gutter while keeping out leaves, bugs, twigs and other debris.

2. Inspect Downspouts

Every gutter has what’s called a downspout. A downspout is a vertical piece attached to the gutter where the water exits from. Be sure to regularly inspect this downspout to make sure it doesn’t become detached, and that it’s long enough to ensure water is released far from the house.

3. Seal Holes and Tears

Over time, an older gutter can develop rust spots leading to holes and tears. A leaky gutter is useless and causes water to pool up around your foundation. If you find a hole in your gutter, make sure you patch it as soon as possible or replace the gutter altogether.

4. Secure Sagging Gutters

Occasionally a gutter will become disconnected from the side of your house, allowing water to bypass it and run down your siding. To fix this problem, you’ll need to get on your ladder or call a reliable gutter company. Having your gutter inspected and securely refastened is the best protection against excess moisture.

Whether you’ve recently installed a rain gutter or have had one for years, regular maintenance is a must. By keeping gutters clean and secure, you’ll protect your home from costly damage.

4 Benefits of Boltless Shelving Systems

Storage is a concept that has confounded people for ages. People collect things over time, inherit things, buy in bulk and do lots of other things that take up the space around them. Businesses have inventory, materials, tools and supplies. Picture all of those things occupying space on floors and countertops and creating a general clutter. Now picture those spaces with shelving systems installed. Boltless shelves are a type of shelving system that offers users many benefits.

1. They’re Easy To Install

As the name suggests, boltless shelving systems are easy to install. They require no tools and everything you need is in the box they came in. Some models feature double rivet angle beams in lieu of crossbars. Sometimes, the pieces fit inside one another snugly, with notches built-in upon which the boltless shelves sit. Some have clips that are installed that users place at the preferred distance between shelves, offering storage option flexibility.

2. They Help To Maximize Space

Arguably, the most salient benefit to boltless shelves is the amount of space that they can free up for you. Boltless shelving systems can fit most anywhere because sizes range from small to expansive. Most will have four or five shelves, 12-18 inches deep, and separated vertically by 18-24 inches.

3. They’re Strong

A heavy-duty boltless system can hold up to 700 pounds or more. Steel units are capable of holding between 500 and 2,000 pounds per shelf. Even a small system that one person can move around is usually rated for several hundred pounds.

4. They’re Cost-Effective

Effectively, because they come with fewer parts, they cost less. Boltless systems are widely available and part of their popularity is due to their cost-effectiveness.

Boltless shelving systems work well in the garage, the warehouse or the storage room. They are valuable in myriad settings, from personal to professional spaces.

Quick and Easy Ways To Tidy Your Office

Having a home office is a great way to get work done outside of your workplace. If you work from home, you may rely on your home office. Keeping your office tidy and organized is a great way to streamline your productivity and keep stress levels down. By incorporating the following items into your home office, you can improve your performance.

Cable Management Systems

Having messy cables is a fast way to make your office look sloppy. When you have wires lying everywhere, your office will pose a tripping hazard to anyone that enters. In addition to making your workspace hard to walk through, poor wire management makes your office look cluttered. With a cable management system, you can clear up your floor and instantly help your home office look tidier.

Desk Organizers

Once you have your cables out of the way, it’s time to look at your desk. If you’re like most people, your desk gets cluttered and messy when you get busy. The more stuff you have on your desk, the harder it gets to focus and remain productive. By getting a desk organizer like a filing system, you can ensure that stray papers have a place to go. These desk organizers will keep your clutter down and your productivity high.

Lighting and Comfort Solutions

Finally, adding lighting and decor to your office can make it more comfortable to work in. If you have windows in your office, retractable blinds can give you access to much-needed vitamin D during your workday. If you don’t have access to the outdoors, adding a daylight lamp can bring some sunlight to you. In addition to lighting, adding decor like plants or comfortable chairs can help your office feel more welcoming. If you’re comfortable in your office, you’re more likely to work hard and stay on task.

Overall, keeping your home office organized will help you stay productive and efficient in your work.

Signs Your Foundation Needs Repairs How to Spot the Warning Signs

Your foundation is the base on which everything else rests. It’s what keeps the walls of your home standing. Without a solid foundation, everything else—from the electrical and plumbing fixtures to the flooring and countertop—is at risk. A cracked foundation can result in a variety of problems, from minor squeaks and creaks to major structural failure. Fortunately, most foundation problems are relatively easy to diagnose, and fixing them is usually a fairly straightforward process. If you see any of the following signs, your house may be in need of some repairs:

If your foundation is in need of repairs, it’s a good idea to hire a professional to tackle the job. A foundation repair contractor can inspect your home for any foundation problems beforehand, and then make any necessary repairs once they’re complete. Because foundations are such an important part of a home’s structure, they’re also a great place to start when you’re thinking about getting your house upgraded. Here are a few ways you can tell your foundation needs repairs:

You frequently hear noises coming from the walls or floors beneath your home

As we mentioned above, a cracked foundation can lead to a variety of problems. One of them is abnormal noise from the walls or floors beneath your home. If you constantly hear creaks, groans, or popping sounds coming from your walls or floors, it could be a sign that your foundation needs repairs.

You’re noticing cracks in the walls or ceiling

Cracks in the foundation walls are a clear sign that your foundation needs repairs. If you’re seeing cracks in the walls or ceiling, your home may be experiencing settlement. Settlement occurs when the soil beneath your home settles at a faster rate than the walls and foundation can expand. If a crack appears in the wrong place, it can lead to a catastrophic failure such as a leaky foundation or an entire house collapse. If you notice cracks in the walls or ceiling, contact a foundation repair company as soon as possible.

You’re noticing squeaks and groans coming from floors

If you’re noticing squeaks and groans coming from floors, you shouldn’t ignore them. In fact, you should address the problem immediately. Most squeaks and groans on their own are harmless, but repeated occurrences could be an indication of a larger problem. If your house is creaking and groaning, it could be a sign that your floor is caving in. A caving floor can be a result of a cracked foundation, but it can also be the result of improper drainage in the area beneath your home. In either case, caving floors are a hazard that should be fixed as soon as possible.

If you’re seeing signs of settling in your foundation, your home may be in need of repairs

If you’re seeing signs of settling in your foundation, it could be a result of a number of issues. The first—and most obvious—is that your foundation is cracked. Once a foundation cracks, it has a very little barrier between it and the earth beneath it. This means that moisture from the soil underneath can seep into the foundation, causing it to settle. If you see signs of settlement in your foundation, it’s best to address the problem as soon as possible. Another possibility is that your home is not properly supporting its load. If your house is not able to support its own weight, it will begin to push up against the foundation, causing it to crack. To avoid this, your home should be able to support at least its own weight plus 10 percent.

Conclusion

If you see any of the signs listed above, your house may be in need of some repairs. A contractor can inspect your home for any foundation problems beforehand, and then make any necessary repairs once they’re complete. Because foundations are such an important part of a home’s structure, they’re also a great place to start when you’re thinking about getting your house upgraded.

Ways To Improve Air Quality in Your Home

Your home is your sanctuary, and you should be able to breathe easily in your own house. But for that to be true, you need to think about you air quality. There are many ways in which you can improve the air quality in your home. Read on to learn about some of them.

Clean Up Your Place

One of the best ways to improve the air quality in your home is to make sure that your home is always clean. Dust surfaces frequently, and vacuum carpets regularly. Don’t forget to vacuum under furniture, too.Wash your bedding each week, and shake rugs, throws and cushions outdoors to eliminate dust. Don’t neglect your air filters either. You’ll want to check your AC air filter periodically and clean or change it as needed. Clean out your air ducts, too, and the filters on your household appliances.

Get Rid of Mold

Mold can cause your home’s air quality to drop radically, and it can hide within your walls where you can’t see it. If your home has ever had leaks or water damage or if you even suspect you might have a mold issue, then get a mold inspection Portland. You can then hire professionals to clean up the mold so that you can breathe more easily.

Control Air Purity

You can also make an effort to control air purity in your home by installing an air purifier. These devices remove pollutants and allergens from the air using either a HEPA filter or an ionizer. Do some research to learn about air purifiers and to decide which one would work best for you.

Balance Humidity

Finally, balance the humidity in your home. During the winter months, the air can dry out, causing more dust. Use a humidifier to bring in some moisture. But during the humid summer months, your home can get sticky and uncomfortable, so try a dehumidifier.

You may have to experiment a bit, but with some effort, you can improve the air quality in your home.

ADU Guide – What To Know For 2022

If you are looking to build an ADU in Los Angeles, here are some things to consider. You’ll learn how much it costs to construct one, what the requirements are, and how to install double-paned windows. Also, learn the rules and regulations for building an ADU in Los Angeles. You’ll also learn how to save energy with double-paned glass. Listed below are some important facts and figures for your next project, you can definitely find more insights about this through Los Angeles ADU Guide – What To Know For 2022 | United Dwelling. Feel free to skim through the page!

 

Costs of an ADU in Los Angeles

The costs of an ADU in Los Angeles can vary widely depending on its size, design, and location. The costs of a permit can include a plan check fee and a final permit fee, which can range from $800 to $1,800. Permit fees can also increase exponentially depending on the size of the project and its valuation. For more information on ADU permit costs, contact an ADU company. The cost of ADU construction in Los Angeles can range from $60000 to $300000. The cost varies widely depending on the type of ADU, the size, and the general finishes of the space. An average ADU costs around $300,000.

 

Requirements for building an ADU in Los Angeles

If you’re considering building an ADU, you’ll be pleased to learn that you’re not alone. In Los Angeles, a new second dwelling law called AB 68 is taking effect in January. It clarifies a variety of issues related to second dwellings and creates a uniform set of standards. The new ordinance has also changed the rules on ADUs in Los Angeles, which prevents them from clustering together but allows single family homes to build them.

The city’s ADU rules include a minimum living area of 150 square feet and a maximum floor area of 430 square feet. If the ADU is attached to a single-family house, it can be no smaller than 150 square feet. It must meet efficiency kitchen and bathroom requirements, but no more. The Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety has more information on the regulations regarding ADUs.

 

Costs of constructing an ADU in an existing garage

While there are a number of steps to follow in constructing an ADU, the overall process typically costs around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on the size of the ADU. This includes a building permit from the City of Los Angeles, fire department verification, and engineering review. Additionally, the project requires a large amount of planning and coordination. If you are looking to rent out your ADU in the near future, it is important to understand how much money you will spend during the construction phase.

Depending on your needs, there are several ways to create an ADU on your property. Often, an ADU is attached to a garage. Whether it’s detached or attached depends on the size and type of garage you have. For more information, contact a professional design firm and get a quote from them. If you’re unsure of how much you need to invest, you can also take out a construction loan.

 

Costs of installing double-paned glass in an ADU

Adding a second living unit to a residential property in Los Angeles is now legal. Los Angeles city regulations have changed slightly and now allow the addition of two separate living units, including an ADU. These are allowed on multifamily properties with different guidelines. While there is no requirement for additional parking, the main house must have off-street parking. In addition, there are no parking requirements for an ADU, so it’s best to find parking close to your new addition.

The City of Los Angeles requires an ADU building permit, fire department verification, and engineering review. These fees cover site preparation, but don’t include the cost of building pads or foundation footings. You’ll also have to pay for hauling away the spoils. In the end, the costs of installing double-paned glass in an ADU in Los Angeles for 2022 can be quite affordable if you’re willing to do the work.

Reasons to Consider Hiring a Home Cleaner

Do you have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow you to keep up with the cleanliness of your home? If you have been debating whether you should hire a maid or an in-house cleaner, you should know that it is an excellent way to manage your time more efficiently. It can also be affordable for those homeowners who may not have too big of a budget. Hiring Houston home cleaners or another company can serve as a huge lifesaver for you.

Reasons to Hire a Home Cleaner

Working Full-Time

After working a full-time schedule, cleaning your home is probably the last thing you want to do, since your energy is depleted and you don’t have much availability. While you may not need a housekeeper to come in and clean your house on a daily basis, you may benefit from having someone clean your home once or twice a month. That will give you some additional time to participate in other activities. 

Busy Family Life

It is not easy to find time for date nights and family outings when you spend the majority of your time cooking, cleaning, and tending to your children. If you already have a busy schedule, it will get even harder to keep the house in order and, as a result, it can take a toll on your health and marriage. 

Entertainment

If you enjoy having family gatherings and entertaining company, the last thing you’d probably want to do is add cleaning to your to-do list. You can easily save time and energy by hiring a cleaning company to come to clean your home prior to and after the event. Even if you are just having company over for dinner, knowing that your house is clean and everything is taken care of takes the burden off of you.

4 Reasons To Add a Gate to Your Property

Whether you live in an urban setting or in the country, adding a gate to your property will be beneficial and increase the value of your home. Here are some reasons to add a gate to your property.

1. Increased Convenience and Security for You

Having a gate installed by rainbow gates for sale Houston TX protects your privacy. No one can come to your door unless you let them in. It also protects your property from burglars and vandals. Those who want to rob someone’s home are looking for a place where they can park close to the door, take what they want and then load their automobile quickly to get away without being seen. A gate will prevent that.

2. Increased Protection for Your Children and Your Pets

One thing you don’t want is a child or a beloved pet running onto a road, especially in the face of oncoming traffic. Having a gated property keeps children and animals in the yard where they belong. It also protects your children from potential kidnappers pulling up alongside your property.

3. An Effective Barrier for Your Garden

Nothing is more annoying than planting and tending a garden only to discover that deer and other wildlife are feasting on your vegetables. Having a gated yard will protect your property from nuisance wildlife, including coyotes and bobcats.

4. Increased Property Value

When it’s time to put your home on the market, having an enclosed front yard with a gate will increase the selling price of your home, enabling you to recover your investment. Should you choose to rent out your home, you’ll find that tenants are willing to pay a higher rent for the added security of having a gated yard.

The next time you’re looking to improve your property, think of adding a gate for security and value as well as peace of mind.