7 Tips for Working Safely on a Roof

If you live in a house, you know that your roof needs to be repaired every handful of years or even more often in case it sustains damage during a rough storm. Depending on the extent of the damage, it’s sometimes best to hire a local roofing professional, but there are some minor problems you could take care of yourself. However, working on a roof is dangerous, which means you need to make sure you always stay safe. Here are seven tips that should help you complete the job and avoid any injuries.

Check the weather forecast

It’s extremely dangerous to perform repair works on your for in weather conditions such as ice, snow or strong winds. Rain is also tricky, since the roof becomes very slippery. On the other hand, the hot summer sun can soften the shingles and leave them susceptible to further damage. Extremely warm weather can also lead to heart-related illnesses that can be worse than falling. So, if, possible, choose a cool and calm day to work on the roof.

Prepare the workspace

You need to wear the right attire; gather all the supplies you need and tape off the area. Your shoes have to be appropriate, and you need to wear a tool belt to help you keep track of your tools. If you prepare well, you won’t have to go on and off the room multiple times, which will also lower the chances of an accident. Finally, taping off the area will make passers-by aware you’re working above them and they’ll be able to avoid getting too close to your house. Also, never forget to call out before you toss anything over the edge.

Ladder stability

Needless to say, you should first check if your ladder is safe and in good condition for safe use. Next, you should stabilize it in the area you’ll be using it. Set it up on solid footing and remember that your ladder should be set against a sturdy backing. The bottom of the ladder should stick out about one foot away from the house for every 4 feet of elevation, while the top should be raised to extend a minimum of 3 feet above the edge of the roof, so that you can have a firm grip as you dismount the ladder.

Fall restraint mechanism

You should never perform any works without a fall restrain mechanism. Such mechanisms come in a wide range of forms, such as anchors, tracks and lifelines. By restraining the worker from getting too close to the edge, falls become much less of a worry. Particularly useful are use temporary roof anchors, which can be removed and the socket covered with an end cap when not in use, making them aesthetically pleasing. These systems are suitable for single users, trained to use a harness and lanyard and can be used in fall restraint and fall arrest.

Fall protection method

If you’ve implemented the previous tips, you should be able to avoid falling off your roof. On the other hand, you might want to provide extra security by including a system specifically manufactured to offer even more protection. A secondary net, for example, will help you work more freely and there are other fall arrest kits for roofers you can use.

Use guardrails

If the area you need to work on is large, you should definitely think about using guardrails, since they are excellent at protecting falls. Another benefit is that they are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

Fall arrest systems

These can be the least preferred option because they intend to stop a fall after it’s already happening. They also require training and practice in order to be used properly. However, they are most helpful when you need to reach a repair on a roof edge. All in all, adding even one method of fall protection into your work environment will greatly increase your level of safety overall.

So, if you have the right equipment and know how to use it properly and safely, you may fix your roof on your own. If you lack either the necessary skills or equipment, you should definitely leave it to professionals.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

Stop Using 10 DIY Home Plumbing Hacks — These Can Cost a Lot of Money Loss

When you come across a critical plumbing problem, how do you try to resolve it? By contacting a plumber, or you try to implement a DIY plumbing solution to overcome it? Well, in the first place, you shouldn’t consider applying any plumbing remedies that you randomly found over the internet. Because most of these plumbing hacks are not verified and can lead to severe plumbing issues, which can be difficult to get rid of. You might even end up replacing the pre-installed plumbing units for using an inappropriate solution. 

Due to inadequate cleaning and maintenance, dust, grime, and mold start to get accumulated in the plumbing system over time. And, this is the primary reason why leakages in the plumbing units are most likely to be noticed. Sometimes, detecting a minor plumbing problem becomes difficult, especially when you intervene in the matter without having adequate knowledge or experience. 

So, we would highly recommend scheduling an appointment with the plumbers to acknowledge the root cause of the problem. Moreover, when it comes to providing the ultimate solution, only a professional can help you out. 

A high-functioning water and drainage system is one of the essential requirements of the homeowners. So, instead of spending money on unwanted repair expenses, make sure you have hired a veteran plumber — it won’t break your bank. Here, we are debunking some of the most common plumbing myths that cause several unanticipated problems.

1.Without a Plunger, the Toilet Bowl Can’t Be Unclogged

Yes! You have already heard about this plumbing myth, right? Undoubtedly, plungers are considered to be one of the most effective plumbing tools that aid in de-clogging the toilet bowls. But, when it comes to eliminating severely clogged items, a plunger won’t be helpful. 

In certain circumstances, start finding plunger alternatives are required. Consider adding a claw tool, and it’s one of the best bathroom accessories that carefully extracts the heavier objects that have accidentally fallen in the toilet bowl. 

Additionally, few other unclogging methods can provide inevitable results to the homeowners. Here, we are compiling a list of plunger alternatives that can dislodge the blockages easily

• The mixture of water and dishwashing liquid or soap

• Vinegar and baking soda solution

• Drain Snake

• Create water pressure using plastic bottles

• Squirt Gun Toilet Drainer

• Epsom Salt

• Wire Hanger

• A Toilet Brush

• And, a bucket of warm water can break up the clogged items efficiently.

Still unable to unclog the blockage of the toilet bowl? Then, don’t delay in reaching out to an experienced plumber Dubai for an immediate solution. 

2.Chemical Drain Cleaners are Ideal Disinfectant

Obviously, it is! But these sorts of cleaning products can be the potential reason behind the damage to the plumbing units. Moreover, chemical drain cleaners are not environment-friendly, and it releases harmful fumes which can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems. Though these disinfectants come at an affordable price, you have to spend a lot of money on repair, maintenance, and replacement after using them. 

Despite using drain cleaners, start applying the mixture of vinegar and baking soda; it’s one of the most effective home remedies. By using this solution, you can not only disinfect the disposal, but it also alleviates the unusual odor from the bathroom. 

3.Disposing Wet Wipes Won’t Cause a Problem

You might have unknowingly or knowingly disposed of flushable wipes down the toilet, but it's worth mentioning that you should immediately stop doing that. Because, due to wet wipe disposal, the drainage system gets blocked. Don’t forget to check the details of these products, which showcases the extent of their dissolution. 

Instead of throwing up paper towels, hygiene products, and other seemingly flushable products in the toilet bowl, simply place them in the garbage bin. Start practicing this habit from today to prevent unwanted plumbing problems. 

4.Everything can Go Down the Drains

Drain blockages take time to occur. There might be infallible problems that can lurk inside the drainage system, which sometimes become difficult to determine. Over time, wet wipes, inappropriate food items, and cat litter start to build up inside the drain pipes, leading to clogs and damage. And, these objects might seem to pass through the drain pipes easily, but in reality, it blocks the path of the pipes. So, we would highly suggest stopping believing in this plumbing myth to prevent the clog and keep the drains damage-free. 

5.Most Plumbing Fixes Don’t Require Professional Involvement

This statement is mostly made by those homeowners who have ended up calling plumbers to deal with the out-of-control plumbing situation. And, such a statement is completely false, so don’t fall for this specific plumbing myth. Without the intervention of a plumber, nowadays, it is impossible to either install, repair, or replace the required plumbing units. When it comes to resolving a plumbing issue, you can never solve it without the necessary tools and equipment. 

Over the years, an upsurge in booking plumbing services has been noticed across the country. Because these plumbers can easily tackle a wide range of tasks with their expertise and extensive plumbing skills. Always consult with a reliable and knowledgeable plumber before taking any further action. 

6.Placing a Brick inside the Toilet Tank can Conserve the Water

Water conservation is necessary, but that doesn't necessarily mean you have to apply improper techniques to achieve that. Moreover, there are plenty of ways by which you can prevent the unwanted wastage of water from the toilet tanks or faucets. But, putting a brick inside the toilet tank is not the best solution to save water. If the water pressure suddenly increases, it might break apart the brick and damage the tank’s internal components. So, don’t try this plumbing hack; it’s absolutely not suitable!

7.A Dripping Faucet Requires Less Attention

This is by far one of the most problematic home plumbing myths that you can come across. Due to faucet leakage, you can end up losing almost 10,000 liters of water a day. Based on the extent of the damage, you might even waste more gallons of water. So, in a nutshell, it can be stated that a leaky faucet requires immediate attention, so contact a professional plumber to fix the problem. Save water, money, and monthly utility bills by just taking proper action. 

8.Cleaning Plumbing Fixtures with Hand Soap won’t Damage it

Depending on the type of plumbing accessories you have, hand soap can damage those. These hand soaps contain chemicals that can adversely impact the plumbing materials. Do you have brass plumbing fixtures in the bathroom? Then, instead of using inappropriate cleaning products, consider cleaning them with lemon and baking soda. However, for toilet bowl cleaning, use the mixture of vinegar and baking soda; that’s an effective way to eliminate the odor and bacterial growth. Prevent unwanted bacterial infections by just following these cleaning rules.

9.Turn off the Tap Handle Tight — It’s Essential!

It may seem like one of the best practices avoiding the faucet from dripping continuously, but turning off the tap handle with excessive pressure can damage it. Moreover, when the faucet is already dripping, these sorts of plumbing myths will bring additional plumbing problems and increase repair costs. 

10.Water and Soap Mixture will make the Bathroom Fixtures Clean

Do you leave the soap bubbles at the sink after washing hands? Wait! Hold on! If you do so, then you should immediately stop doing that. The water and the soap mixture can corrode the bathroom fixtures. Simply consider rinsing out these substances within a minute to prevent such a critical plumbing problem. Increase the longevity of the bathroom fixtures by just taking further recommendations from an expert. 

Acknowledge, Learn and Adapt the Right Plumbing Strategy:

That’s not the end! There are a few more plumbing myths that can be life-threatening for homeowners. You might have heard that plumbing fixtures can sustain for years without any sort of maintenance. But, in reality, without plumbing unit maintenance, you can never avoid the major-minor issues. 

Furthermore, don’t put lemons on the disposal, though it creates a fresh aroma containing citric acid. And, we all know that citric acid can corrode the metal inside the disposal. So, stop using such plumbing remedies and stop degrading the condition of the plumbing system. 

Guest Contributor: Biler Charlie

How to Prevent Water Damage to My Ceiling from the Apartment Upstairs

One of the most common complaints from tenants is water damage due to leakages. It’s something you can’t run away from but only learn to handle. We can never tell when we’re going to experience a leak or predict where it will come from. However, you can always take certain precautions to prevent the occurrence of such damages. 

Besides knowing the preventive measures to take, you want to ensure that you’re familiar with all associated legal steps. You need to know what’s expected of you, should you experience water damages from an apartment upstairs. For example, you need such tips as what to do first, whom to report to, or whom to hold responsible, and so much more.

In this piece, we’ve shared in detail a step-by-step process on how you can avoid water damages to your ceiling from an apartment upstairs.

What’s the First Thing to Do after Noticing Water Damage?

Once you’ve realized your ceiling has damages due to water leakage from an upstairs apartment, you should make an effort to inform the neighbor about the matter. Try to exercise patience and politeness because the fault may not even be theirs in the first place. You should request the upstairs apartment owner to check their house for a possible cause then take appropriate action. 

Possible Causes of Water Leakage in the Apartment Upstairs

The two main things that might cause water to leak are faulty appliances or negligence. Below are some of the notorious sources of water damage in apartments. 

Negligence

The negligence of the person staying upstairs is one of the critical causes of water leakage in our residences. The fact that you’re always careful doesn’t necessarily mean that your neighbor also acts in the same way. Therefore, you shouldn’t be surprised to learn that a bathtub or a sink that ran overnight is what has caused damage to your ceiling. The ceiling damage might also result from unmaintained toilets that are known to clog unprecedentedly. 

The clogging of the toilet can only be considered negligence if the neighbor had noticed it but failed to inform the sewer line maintenance team to work on it. However, if the owner of the apartment upstairs notified the person in charge, then the responsibility is transferred to the landlord or the manager. 

Damaged Fire Sprinklers or Water Pipes

Despite being vital safety mechanisms, fire sprinklers could become more dangerous than anything you know. Your upstairs neighbor could unknowingly be having two or more faulty fire sprinklers. Their piping system might also be having serious damages, and that’s how water ends up destroying your ceiling downstairs. 

How can You Prevent Water Damage to Your Ceiling?

Whether you stay in a simple apartment or high-end design, preventing water damages on your ceiling is very easy. You can do the following to help keep the problem away.

1. Keeping Water Pressure within the Normal Range

Water pipes burst primarily due to excessively high pumping pressure, according to a cheap assignment writing service. So the first safety measure is to ensure that the water pump operates within the recommended pressure range. Kindly remember that very low pressure would cause a shortage of water in the building. Keeping it somewhere between high and low will always give good results. It can be a good idea to work together with the property manager on achieving this objective as the chances are high that there’ll be prompt response. 

1. Replace all Faulty Fire Sprinklers and Water Pipes

Prevention is always the best weapon against any damage. You want to be inspecting any abnormalities with the sprinklers or pipes and then organizing replacements where necessary. With well-maintained appliances and water pipes, you’ll rarely experience any water-rated damages to your ceiling. 

1. Proper Ventilation of Water Tank and Pump Rooms

The high chlorine concentration in water can cause corrosion of the water pipes, and eventually, their damage. Therefore, what you want to ensure at all times is the proper ventilation of the room hosting the pump or tank. Doing so could be an excellent step towards protecting the pipes and preventing water damage. 

1. Mitigation of Water Hammering

Water hammering occurs when the pump stops abruptly. It may also occur when a valve along the piping system closes suddenly. Water hammer is a dangerous process as it generates vibrations that weaken the pipes. To ensure that this never happens again, you’ll have to install water hammer arrestors at strategic points along with the piping system. Mitigating the water hammering effect reduces the chances of water damage in your apartment by at least 50%. 

Who Pays for the Damage Caused?

Well, for damages to the apartment due to your negligence, you’ll have to contact your renters' insurance company to arrange for compensation. However, if the fault is on the landlord's side, then you’ll not be required to pay anything. For damages that happened due to your neighbor’s actions, they’ll have to figure out the way forward with the property manager or the landlord.

Why Should You Prevent Water Damage to the Ceiling?

Nothing else could match the importance of a well-maintained ceiling. For instance, it gives your loved ones an easy time studying and prevents damage to other home components. Being an essay writer I value a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere at home since it doubles as my workplace. Few things can be more daunting than your ceiling that starts to show signs of water damage. That’s why  I consider investing in this prevention means very important. Combining the impact of a and the absence of risky mildews, you can be assured of overall wellness at all times. 

About Leon Collier

Leon Collier is a blogger and academic writer from the UK who has vast experience working with Essay Writing Service UK and has contributed significantly to the excellent essay writing service UK reviews. He loves to take on every challenge thrown at him via the cheap assignment writing service UK and has the ability to deliver outstanding work regularly. When he’s not busy writing, he loves reading books and playing tabletop games with his friends. Follow him on Twitter @LeonCollier12.

Remembering the Difference Plumbers Can Make in People’s Lives

Plumbing can be a challenging job, especially when nothing seems to go right. Customers are complaining, the workload exceeds your expectations, and the phone keeps on ringing. If you’ve been there (or are now), you know exactly how it feels. You might feel like giving up and looking for another job or simply quitting and running to escape this mess. When that happens, you must stay strong and face these issues. Yes, plumbing can be difficult at times, but how long has it been since you’ve considered the difference that you make in people’s lives? Let me remind you. 

Why Plumbing is So Important

Not only is plumbing helping all people around you but it is also giving workers the satisfaction of a job well done. Here are some of the most important reasons why plumbing is so important, and why you should not quit your job. 

1. Plumbers are responsible for bringing safe and clean water into your home and all around it. Without plumbers, people would not have running water or clean water to drink or wash with, for that matter. This might seem an obvious idea but it’s definitely worth mentioning; sometimes, even water can be underrated. But it shouldn’t since it is vital to our survival.

2. Without proper plumbing, people worldwide could be looking at bills that exceed their financial abilities. You can literally lose precious water and thus, money by not having your pipes checked. Plumbing has also reduced the amount of water used worldwide by a lot, in case you forgot.

3. In case of an emergency, plumbers are the first ones to be notified. Natural disasters and other phenomena can seriously damage the pipes; without finding a quick solution to the problem, these issues could expand. Plumbing can save people in case of an emergency.

4. Plumbing can also lower the probability of danger in your house. People can literally electrocute themselves if pipes are not proofed and they can support serious damage to their properties. Plus, they can get poisoned due to all the chemicals released in the atmosphere and injure themselves by slipping, tripping, and falling.

5. It’s crazy how much energy can plumbers help saving! Less water means less power, and less power means less electricity. That saves energy and helps people stay eco-friendly. In fact, you help people stay eco-friendly and keep their water usage sustainable.

Why You Should Get a Job in Plumbing 

If you’re about to graduate and don’t know where you’re headed, considering plumbing is a great option. As you can tell, there are many benefits to becoming a plumber. Now let’s look at how this job will help you succeed in the future. 

• You will have a stable job and security. You don’t have to worry about every single paycheck to make rent. Plumbers are paid quite well, especially if they’re really good. Consider a trade school for plumbing.

• Plumbing will bring you independence. If you don’t like working for people, this is your go-to. You can get hired as an independent contractor and work as much as you want. Signing a contract can be a bad decision, especially when your main focus is not on that specific job operation.

• As an essaywriter and student, I can tell you that student debt does not pay itself. That means you’ve got to work hard post-graduation to pay your loans. Getting a job as a plumber as a sidekick might be exactly what you need, so don’t throw away this opportunity.

• You will be really satisfied with your job if you decide to take on plumbing! As you saw earlier, plumbers are lifesavers. They are extremely helpful in major life situations and can quickly respond to an emergency.

• Plumbers get respect from their communities since they’re the ones to solve so many problems. Plus, you will be able to use your skills in so many places! For example, going camping as a plumber can be really satisfying. You can literally create water pipes for your fellow campers and share your skills with your friends.

• Speaking of which, plumbing will help you interact with other people and become more open-minded. As a plumber, you need to run errands and won’t be stuck in one place every day. You will be running from house to house, checking with your clients and ensuring that the job is done right. If you are a successful worker, you will get positive reviews and can expand your plumbing business even more.

Finally, probably the coolest thing about getting a job in plumbing is that you don’t have to pay any more plumbing bills for the rest of your life. You will be able to help yourself with whatever you need while your family can also enjoy this benefit! In any case, if you are a plumber, I hope you realize how big of a difference you make in people’s lives.

Justin Osborne is a essay writer, he loves to share his thoughts and opinions about education, writing and blogging with other people on different blogs and forums. Currently, he is working as a content marketer at essay writing service. 

Guest Contributor: Justin Osborne

9 Crucial Things to Know Before You Knock Down a Wall

There are lots of reasons to knock down a wall. You might be changing up your floor plan a bit. You might have decided you want an open layout. You might even be tempted by the visceral thrill of smashing something with a sledgehammer - creative destruction can be a beautiful thing.

We don’t want to stop you from disintegrating a wall with sheer physical force - that’s a joy we wouldn’t deprive anyone of. We do, however, want to help you stay as safe as possible. With that in mind, here are 9 things to keep in mind before you reduce the wall to rubble:

What’s in the wall?

My mama always said life is like a wall - you never know what you’re going to find inside. My mama is an interesting lady.

The point is, there are lots of things you might find inside your wall. Things you’d rather not slam a hammer through. Things like pipes carrying water under high pressure, or live wires. Either of those things are bad to smash on their own, but put them together and you’ve got a real problem on your hands.

If you don’t know what’s inside your wall, don’t risk hitting it with a hammer. Ask a contractor for help.

What’s on the wall?

Of all the dangers of DIY demolition, knocking down a load-bearing wall might be one of the scariest. 

Why? Because people might think they know what walls are load-bearing, and get it wrong. The results can be catastrophic - your home could literally start collapsing on top of you!

If you’re not 100% sure that a wall is load-bearing, get a contractor to help identify whether or not it is. Even if you think you’re 100% sure, it can’t hurt to get a second opinion - you really don’t want to knock a load-bearing wall down.

Should the wall you’re looking to knock down turn out to be load-bearing, call a professional to take it down for you. Taking out a load-bearing wall is not a DIY job.

What is permitted?

Before you start any home improvement project - even knocking down a wall - you should talk to your local government about what permits you might need.

We can’t give blanket advice on whether or not you’ll need a permit - the laws are different in each city. We can only recommend that you play it safe, and call before you demolish anything.

What’s your budget?

Knocking down a wall implies some level of renovation. You’re going to need to budget appropriately. Do you want new furniture? Do you need to change your flooring? These are all things you should think about before taking that first swing.

Even if all you want to do is knock down the wall and clean up afterwards, you’re going to have to invest some resources. If there’s any plumbing or electrical in it, you’re going to have to reroute it. Unless you know how to do everything yourself, you’ll need to hire someone to help. 

Budget twice, sledge once.

There’s no going back

Okay, that’s a bit of a dramatic exaggeration. You can go back, but it will involve rebuilding a wall that you just tore down. And we’re sure you’ve got better things to do.

Don’t tear down that wall unless you’re absolutely sure you want it gone.

Things are about to get messy

There’s going to be a lot of dust and debris - hopefully, that comes as no surprise. Move furniture out of the way, and cover everything within a wide radius with plastic sheets.
You may need a dumpster to take care of all that debris - check out this guide to dumpster rentals if you want to know more about how big a dumpster you’ll need and how much it might cost.

There are unexpected hazards

From lead paint to asbestos insulation, there are hazards that are tough to spot unless you know what you’re doing. You can find test kits for wall paint at home hardware stores. Asbestos is only very rarely found in walls, but if you have quite an old home, it should be looked into.

Making time

This is not a one or two-hour project. Between the permitting, the preparing, the actual work, and the clean-up afterwards, you’re looking at several days. Before you get started, be sure to make a schedule. 

Are you experienced?

If you don’t have the experience needed to knock down a wall, you’ll end up with a huge mess, at best, and a half-knocked down wall that you’ll need to call a contractor for help with anyway. At worst, you could seriously damage your property or injure yourself. Make an honest assessment of your level of experience. If you don’t think you’re up to the task, don’t try it!

With that, we’ve covered the most crucial things you should think about before you swing that hammer. Always be careful when doing home demolition. If you decide to take down the wall yourself, all we can say is - happy hammering!

Guest Contributor: Christie Simon

DIY Home Improvement Projects Before Moving

There’s no surprise that moving to a new house can be a stressful undertaking and the last thing you want to do is to add the home improvement projects in your to-do lists. However, tackling these things before you arrive at your new place actually makes a lot of sense. This is especially true if you also have to deal with all the relocation boxes and furniture during the big day. 

Thus in order to make your arrival less stressful, below are some DIY home improvement projects you can do before the big day:

Deep Clean

If you have spare time, you should also include in your home improvement projects the idea of deep cleaning. When you clean your new house before you relocate, you can ensure the house is free from dirt and dust when you start the unpacking process. 

Thus, make sure you have a cleaning plan in place to get this job done right. For example, you should have every bathroom and kitchen scrubbed, every cabinet and drawers cleaned, and many more. And while you’re preoccupied with your cleaning task, you can hire reliable movers and packers to handle the difficult aspects of the relocation. By doing this, you can make your entire moving process more seamless and successful. 

Improve Your Lighting

One of the easiest ways of upgrading your new home is to go for a yellow glow. This means changing your lighting fixtures from white bulbs to the yellow ones to create a better ambiance in your dwelling place. In doing so, you should make sure to utilize LED lights so they’ll last for a long time, thereby saving you money in the long run. 

Moreover, you may also consider installing dimmers in exchange for the light switches for great effects. For instance, if you want to adjust the brightness of each area depending on the time of day as well as your current mood, you can use the dimmers for this purpose. 

Bring Nature In

Another do-it-yourself home improvement project to consider is to add flowers and plants inside the new house. Typically,  even if you have simple potted plants in some areas of your dwelling place, they can add a good level of happiness and vitality and freshen the air. 

So, if you want to bring nature in once you relocate to your new home, you should start choosing the best houseplants that are somehow difficult to kill. In case you don’t want to be overwhelmed in taking care of real houseplants, you can go with faux-flowers or greenery. All you have to do is pick the quality ones to make them more attractive. 

Upgrade Your Existing Furniture Pieces

If you’re tired seeing your old furniture but you don’t want to spend more money to buy new ones, the best thing you can do is hack your existing furniture pieces and turn them into new ones. Thus, in order to get started with this exciting home improvement project, there are plenty of creative DIY ideas that intend to give new life to your old furniture. 

Whether it’s painting, using adhesives to decorate shapes and other designs, reupholstering, and many more, you can get the most out of these tasks to upgrade your old pieces of furniture. Moreover, in case you need help in moving these heavy items to your new home, hiring quality moving services long distance or locally can be a great solution. Instead of worrying about this task, you can have peace of mind knowing that a professional moving company are there to make the entire transition less stressful. 

Replace Outdated Fixtures

In addition to transforming your old furniture, replacing outdated fixtures can be a great DIY home improvement project. Typically, it’s amazing to think how a new fixture can do a lot of change for your new home. 

For example, you can decide to install a chandelier above your bed, swap your old fans with the more efficient and modern ones, and replace your plumbing fixtures. By doing all these things, you can certainly bring a significant home upgrade to your new house before and after the relocation. 

Add A  Fresh Coat Of Paint

Another DIY home upgrade project you can consider doing before your scheduled relocation date is painting the interior of your new home. It’s one of the simple and cheap tasks that can add color and life to an empty place. 

So, if you want to make this project more personalized, then you should start choosing the right paint color by playing around with your options. Once you’ve decided the one you prefer, then it’s time to get the ball rolling. Also, you should remember that whatever finish you pick, it can significantly change the whole appearance of your new place. 

The Bottom Line

Sometimes, upgrading your new home before the relocation doesn’t have to be huge or expensive. Even the smallest improvements in your area can have a significant impact on its overall appearance. Therefore, if you’re looking for the best ways to be hands-on in making changes in your place, keep these projects in mind and you’re good to go.

Guest Contributor: Mary Berger

Need Help with Your Sinkhole Insurance Claim?

Nothing can be more devastating than finding out a giant sinkhole in your front yard one fine morning. If you are living in Florida, it may be a common scenario for most of you. Due to this giant sinkhole, your property may go under substantial damage. For which you may require immediate financial assistance. You may have insured your property, but does your insurance cover sinkhole damage? If it does, how can you claim it effectively? These questions can easily overwhelm you. Worry not; we will try to clear your confusion in the following article.

Sinkhole Signs

As mentioned above, sinkholes are pretty common in Florida. They can either occur due to natural topography or for human activities. The topography of Florida consists of a thin layer of sand and clay covering limestone. Due to rain and circulating groundwater, the ground gets loose and forms cavities and crevices. Although sinkholes are very unpredictable, they may possess some signs in some cases. The signs being,

• The splintering of the ground

• Drying or dying of vegetation

• Excessive standing of the water

• Failing to close doors and windows properly

• Exposure of previously hidden tree roots

• Leaning of different structures fixated to the ground

• Cracking of any structure

• Unexplained loud noise

• Suspicious water stains

Reporting of Sinkhole Activity

Although no state agency is responsible for sinkhole inspections, many homeowners tend to call Florida Geological Survey to verify sinkhole activity. The FGS maintains a database, however, it doesn’t assist the homeowners to file a claim or get paid. Therefore, the home is already marked as a “sinkhole home,” and still no luck in claiming the insurance from the company.

Sinkhole Insurance Claims

Florida is one of the most vulnerable states when it comes to sinkholes. The fl sinkhole map can be a difficult decision to purchase your home in.

Similar to California with earthquakes, sinkholes are more likely to appear in states like Florida and Alabama, where there is a high water table, than anywhere else in the country.

Sinkholes can lead to ground collapse, which can cause catastrophic damage to your property. This is why Florida sinkhole claims are a rather common insurance policy that many Floridians opt for.

While your Florida insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the property damage caused by the sinkhole, our Licensed Public Adjusters keep YOUR interests in mind and uncover the full scope of the damage to your home or business. Their thorough inspection will uncover any additional damage that may not be outwardly apparent.

They will then negotiate directly with your insurance company until you get the settlement you deserve.

Filing a Sinkhole Claim

Give a call to your insurance company at the first sign of sinkhole generation. The company will send an adjuster to record and file their inspection of the area. It is a common practice to send a geologist or geotechnical engineer by the insurance company after the adjuster assessment. They provide their professional opinion if there’s a sinkhole present or not. After that, the company may request repair estimates and send the client a letter confirming or denying the claim.

Why is Sinkhole Damage Claims Denied?

When a sinkhole damage claim has been denied, there are three important questions that should be asked. They are,

• What type of testing was conducted?

• Has there been any drilling done before denying the claim?

• Has every information regarding the claim been investigated thoroughly?

There are some companies that may try to Ignore the standard procedure required under the law of Florida. Consulting a geotechnical engineer may be costly, and the insurance company may not be keen on spending money. Therefore, they may have performed a “drive-by” test and reported everything normal. If it’s the case with your insurance company, you can take drastic measures like going to court for your claim.

Sinkhole Insurance Law in Florida

Before 2007, the residents in Florida were required to purchase sinkhole insurance for structural damage and non-catastrophic events. However, despite the lobbying of the companies, a new law has been established which forced the insurance companies to include the cost of sinkhole coverage. Nowadays, the Floridians are only forced to buy catastrophic ground collapse insurance, which covers:

• The sudden crumbling of the ground

• Falling of ground cover visible to the eye

• Damaging of the foundation or the building

• Any incident that forces the residents to evacuate the insured property

However, there are still conflicts about the Florida sinkhole law that enables the insurance company to pay less or deny paying.  

Recent Approaches to Deny Sinkhole Damage Claims

In the past, the insurance companies used to deny sinkhole damage claims by denying any sinkhole activities. They may blame the earth’s movement or material shrinkage for the damage. However, now with the advancement of technology, one can easily determine if there is a sinkhole. So, the companies are now highly focused on the structural damage wordings. They may refer to any damage caused by sinkholes as “cosmetic” to deny the claim. The insurance company may either report this by a simple visual inspection or conducting comprehensive tests. Either way, after they declare that the damage is “cosmetic” rather than structural, they deny the claim to pay the homeowners. This possesses several problems like now your insurance company won’t pay for repairing the damage, and the house is already marked as a sinkhole house. Even if the homeowner wants to sell the house, he has to substantially pay for the repairing from his pocket.

Why Hire an Adjuster for your Sinkhole Claim?

The insurance company already has their own team of experts to assess and manage the sinkhole claims. Additionally, you may not be aware of all the nooks and croons of the insurance laws. However, an adjuster has the license to practice insurance law and is well aware of it. So. When you are facing a panel of experts, it’s always clever to form a team of your own to fight better. Here, at Ask an Adjuster, we have helped a lot of homeowners and built a reputation. When our adjusters are handling your claim, you are assured of having the best benefits with minimal hassle. 

Ask an Adjuster Claims Adjusting Works for YOU!

Ask An Adjuster Licensed Public Adjusters work for you, NOT your insurance company. Call Ask An Adjuster Claims Adjusting BEFORE you call your insurance company. We will represent you during the entire insurance claim process. Our sinkhole insurance adjusters in Florida will do a thorough inspection, find any and all damages, and report those damages to your insurance company. They will then communicate directly with your insurance company on your behalf.

Even if you have already filed a claim, we can still help you. We may be able to find additional damage that your insurance adjuster overlooked. Call us for a FREE, no-obligation inspection.

Guest Contributor: Arnold Bloom

Bathroom Renovation Ideas for 2021

Bathroom renovations come in all shapes and sizes, from a full remodel to some small upgrades. Furthermore, there is no need for you to break the bank if you want to spruce up the bathroom a little bit. If you’ve decided that 2021 is the year for you to finally update your bathroom, keep on reading for some ideas.

Install new tiles

In case you have a few cracked tiles in your bathroom, you should be thinking about replacing them. Not only are cracks unsightly but they can also create structural problems if water seeps into them and penetrates the subfloor. Moreover, you can also opt for this project if you simply don’t like the current color scheme of the bathroom. When picking the new tiles, there are several things to keep in mind. First, you need to find the right shade. Then, consider the size of the tiles. Finally, decide on the pattern you will use. There are many options available, from black and white chevron tiles on the floor to navy blue wall tiles in a diamond pattern.

Replace your shower with a bathtub

Maybe you want to tackle a bigger project. In that scenario, consider replacing your shower with a tub or vice versa. For example, if you have the space for a bathtub and you’d like to have a relaxing bubble bath every once in a while, this is a great move. You can choose from a wide array of bathtubs that are available on the market, whether you want a freestanding clawfoot one or an alcove one. On the other hand, if your bathroom feels cramped and you don’t really use the tub that often, opting for a walk-in shower will provide your family with all the extra space you might need for storage. Lastly, you also have the option of combining the two approaches. For example, adding a glass panel next to your tub is probably the most affordable alternative here.

Opt for floating elements

Something else you can think about if you have a small bathroom is getting floating elements. By mounting them on the wall, you will be freeing up some floor space which can help create the illusion of a bigger bathroom. For instance, you can get a new floating vanity or a floating toilet. Fortunately, these elements are available in a variety of styles so whether you want a high gloss white vanity or one that has a more natural look, you will be able to complete your bathroom with no issues.

Swap out the faucets

Swapping out the faucets is a small and more affordable project that can make a big difference. If you’re handy, this is something that you can do in a few hours. If your showerhead currently feels subpar, get a new model. Perhaps a rainfall showerhead is exactly what you need. Then, you can swap out the faucet in the bathroom for a low-flow model or even look into sensor-activated ones that will ensure you are not wasting any water. With so many bathroom brands on the market, you have amazing options at your disposal. In terms of color, everything from matte black and brushed gold to chrome and brass is available.

Get new hardware pieces

Besides new faucets and showerheads, you can also replace all the other hardware pieces in the bathroom. While there might not be too many of them, having them match your color scheme can really tie everything together. So, towel racks, toilet paper holders, vanity handles, soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and similar items should also be swapped with updated versions.

Improve the lighting

While on the topic of hardware, you should not overlook the lighting situation in your bathroom. Is there enough light to put on your makeup or shave in the morning? Can the lights be dimmed when you want a relaxing bath? Keep all of these things in mind when thinking about the lighting fixtures. For starters, you want bright task lights around the mirrors. Then, you can install a dimmer switch that will allow you to control the brightness of your overhead lighting fixtures. Moreover, if you want to make a statement, you should invest in a focal fixture like a chandelier or a pendant that will make the space more elegant.

Add radiant floor heating

If you’re working with a bigger budget, you can even consider installing a radiant floor heating system. No matter if you choose an electric or water-based system, you will ensure there are no cold spots in your bathroom, which will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plus, this means that you will save on space as no radiators will be taking up the walls. Of course, this is best done while you’re also replacing the floor tiles.

Invest in smart technology

Smart home technology is taking over the world. If you’ve already invested in some smart home elements like security and entertainment, you can also make your bathroom more connected to the whole home. For example, a smart toilet is more hygienic than the average toilet as it has many automated and hands-free features. Additionally, the seat can be pre-warmed. Moreover, you can also control the lights with an app, play relaxing music by simply saying a voice command, or start a bath by telling a virtual assistant to do so.

Regardless of the budget you are working with, there is a variety of ways how you can revamp your bathroom in 2021. The options abound from replacing hardware items and installing new lighting fixtures to changing tiles and adding a bathtub, so put your thinking cap on, make a plan and start renovating.

Guest Contributor: Theodora Evans

How to Solve the Most Common Garage Issues and Malfunctions

Have you been experiencing some problems with your garage? You probably spend time there every day, whether parking your car, working on projects or even having a party. When something goes wrong with a highly used area of your home, it can be an inconvenience. 

Here’s how to solve the most common garage issues and malfunctions so you can get yours back to working order.

Issue 1: Clutter

Most homeowners would agree that a cluttered garage is common. Garages are a space for extra storage, but when they’re overstuffed, you’re probably not making the most of it. 

When you use a garage to the best of its abilities, you’ll have a lot more room to spare. Here’s how to bust the clutter:

• Add cabinets: Cabinets or other upright storage shelves are great in garages. They can hide your tools and other items while keeping everything neat and tidy.

• Store items on the wall: A few hooks will allow you to store items by hanging them on the wall. Rakes, shovels and other tools can easily lay flat and add more space.

• Install overhead racks: Overhead racks are ideal for items you don’t use as often. They’re out of sight and out of mind until you need them.

Go through all the items in your garage, throw out or recycle what you don’t use, and use label boxes and storage containers. Then use these storage tips to keep the mess at bay.

Issue 2: Poor Insulation

Poor insulation defeats the purpose of having a garage, which is to store things to keep them out of harsh weather conditions. 

Insulate your garage walls first. If there’s an attic above it, insulate that as well. Any insulation will work fine here. An insulated garage will save energy, and you’ll be able to keep items safe from the weather. 

Issue 3: Faulty Garage Door

Garage doors serve as the largest entryway to your home, so you want to be sure it’s operating correctly and safely. Here are a few signs it’s time to inspect your garage door: 

• It suddenly slams shut.

• There are straining sounds coming from the springs.

• It feels heavier when you try to open it.

• You feel a draft coming in from the bottom of the door.

Replacing the torsion springs will fix most of these issues. For the last sign, you should apply new weatherstripping. 

Issue 4: Damaged Floor

Do you notice cracks all along your garage floor? If so, you might consider finishing it. Cars drive over it, and there is heavy foot traffic in some areas. Sometimes, the floors crumble, chip and have an unpleasant look. 

If all you have here is a cement layer, you might want to consider a garage floor finish. You can add a layer of epoxy or even heavy-duty floor mats. If you use your garage for entertainment, you can add carpet or an indoor flooring option. 

Issue 5: Inadequate Lighting

If you work in your garage, poor lighting can be more than just an inconvenience: It can pose a safety hazard. Garages are full of tools and other dangerous equipment, so it’s necessary to see where you’re going. 

The solution is simple — add more light or replace the ones you have. Fluorescent lights and LEDs work great in garages because they provide ample light, save energy and last a long time. If you would rather have natural light, add more windows. 

Issue 6: Nonfunctioning Garage Door Opener

When leaving your garage or coming home to it, you want to be able to open the garage door with the touch of a button. In colder weather or rain, the last thing you want to do is get out of your car to open the garage door manually. 

If your opener isn’t working, the first thing you should do is replace the batteries. If that doesn’t fix it, check your entry for any obstructions. Examine the track alignment or the torsion springs to correct the problem.

Make Your Garage Fully Functional 

These solutions to the most common garage issues should have you back up and running in no time and provide you with a fully functional space.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison

How To Do A Spring Closet Clean-out

Spring cleaning is something that many people talk about, but few actually take the time to do. Some may refer to it when talking about the garage or basement, but one area that most people overlook is the closet. If it doesn’t get cleaned seasonally, clothes and accessories may turn into an unorganized mess. Some items might not fit anymore or may have gone out of style; some shoes might be worn out, or accessories get tangled and damaged. As the weather gets warmer, it may be time to spring clean that closet.

During those hectic mornings or exhausted late nights, it can be a drag to put things where they belong. This may leave you with last winter’s forgotten coats or only the left shoe of a pair in the wrong place. Straightening the closet after seasons of disregard could take a full day or more. However, with a bit of patience and determination, you can feel accomplished about your organized closet.

In your spring closet clean-out , know that Maid in Hoboken is a house cleaning and disinfecting services provider that will help you and give you that great satisfaction for an organized closet.

Guide to Spring Cleaning

It’s one thing to deep clean the kitchen and freshen up the bathroom on a daily or weekly basis; it’s quite another to tackle four season’s worth of outfits that are hanging in your closet. Deciding what to keep, what to toss and what to donate can be a daunting process, especially if memories and happy feelings are tied to the certain pieces. It may take some time but having a spring-cleaning session at least once a year could help keep the clutter and cobwebs away. Here are some tips to ease the process:

1. Get prepared. Don’t think that you can clean the whole closet in two hours — unless you’re tackling section by section. If the goal is to clean the entire closet, set aside a weekend to finish the job. Have bags ready for donation, containers for extra organization and a workout outfit ready so you can break a sweat.

2. Start purging. Take inventory of each item you own and ask the important questions. Has it been worn in the past six months to a year? Does it still fit? Is it stained or tattered? Don’t feel obligated to keep an item because of sentimental value or a “just-in-case” event. If it doesn’t serve a purpose, get rid of it.

3. Clean the traditional way. Once you’ve decided on the clothes that will stay, pull everything off the shelves. Dust the surfaces, empty old boxes, vacuum the floor and wipe down any shelves that may have a layer of dust. This can also help you find any forgotten items that might have gotten stuck in the corners and crevices.

4. Use the hang and fold methods. Hang pieces that wrinkle easily, such as blouses, dress shirts, dresses, slacks, gowns and jackets. Fold other pieces that can be stored in bulk, such as jeans, t-shirts, sweatpants, undergarments and socks. If an item isn’t going to be worn anytime soon because of the weather, put it in storage.

5. Add storage systems. Depending on the size of the closet, bins and boxes can provide designated spaces for items that may not fit in a drawer or on clothing rod. Hanging space is sometimes precious in small closets, so hooks, cubbies and shelves could be a smart and savvy addition to the area.

6. Maintain your organizational system. It’s counterproductive to create the closet of your dreams only for it to get messy a few weeks later. Get rid of items along the way to prevent the accumulation of unused or forgotten pieces. Replace or repair broken heels, torn sleeves and loose threads so the clutter doesn’t accumulate.

As tempting as it may be to engage in retail therapy, too much shopping can be detrimental on your newly purged closet. Keep track of the items you need — such as new denim or a solid pair of shoes — to prevent the spring cleaning from being a bust. It’s normal for a closet to become a bit disordered and disheveled over time, but don’t underestimate the endorphins that can come from a clean space, giving you more room for new items that make you happy.

AUTHOR BIO: Tom Happ is President of Closet Works — based in Elmhurst, Illinois — which for 32 years has served Chicagoland with customized closet and storage solutions. With more than 100 employees, each solution is designed, fabricated and Installed to optimize the storage for every room within the home.