Benefits of Becoming a Plumber

Are you thinking about what you want to do in life? Going to a trade school is a very good idea after high school or if you think you need a career change. There’s so many benefits about going into the trades, and we highly recommend the plumbing industry!

Inexpensive Education

You can go to a community college or a vocational school to train to be a plumber, therefore avoiding the burden of massive student loan debts, especially pertinent in light of the current $1.73 trillion in student loan debt. There are also numerous apprenticeships that would allow you to work and earn money while learning hands on at the same time.

You make a good living

Most plumbers live comfortably. The average salary for a plumber, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is over $50,620 annually compared to the national median income of $36,200. ​

The more experience you have, certifications, and skill you have all play into your salary. 

Job Security

You will never lose your job due to a lack of need. People will always need a plumber, no matter the state of the economic environment.

You’ll never get bored

Each job site is a different scenario and a different way to fix things. You will never get tired of doing the same thing because no two jobs will be the exact same.

There's always opportunity to reach higher positions.

After an apprenticeships, if you stick with it, you can be successful. You will be licensed, can open your own business, the opportunity is endless.

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

How to maintain healthy plumbing in your new home?

One of the things you have to do after the relocation is to maintain healthy plumbing in your new home. You might pay attention in the first few months or even for a year. However, after some time, people tend to relax and forget to follow best practices. That's when your plumbing starts to have problems. Luckily, we are here to show you how to take care of your plumbing system and make it last longer.

Regularly check your sewer pipe

Sewer pipe leakage is one of the more dangerous plumbing problems. It is also a severe health hazard. If you notice any unusual smell or if your grass around the house turns into mud or has discolored green patches, you need to call the plumber as soon as possible.

Detect leaking pipes on time

It is also crucial to learn how to detect hidden leaks around the house. Even the tiniest leak can turn into a huge issue if not fixed immediately. It is best to take a visible inspection and ensure there are no damp spots on your walls. Also, check any changes in your water bill or water pressure. Additionally, inspect the water meter to see if you are spending more water than usual. You can also resort to some clever hacks like using food color to see if the water flows in the correct direction.

Monitor water pressure to diagnose potential leaking pipes is an excellent way to maintain healthy plumbing in your new home.

Install smart leaking detection system

A smart leaking system is a bit more expensive, but it does all the work for you. This is a good idea if you are moving into a new house and it will be one of the things that will make moving less stressful. Perhaps not in the most direct way, but you will feel relaxed during the relocation process, knowing that your plumbing is monitored by this system 24/7. The system will monitor even the slightest change in how your plumbing works and report it immediately.

Fix any problem as soon as it appears

Do not be lazy when it comes to fixing plumbing issues. If you notice something, repair it immediately, no matter how small the problem is. It is a good practice, and you will train yourself to fix any issues as soon as they appear. Doing this will prevent more significant problems, and you will save yourself from plenty of hassle in the future.

Do annual plumbing maintenance

You need to call a professional plumber at least once a year to inspect the entire plumbing in your house. This is an expense, but it is also a necessity. The best way to do this is to call a few days ahead to schedule a visit. That will give you plenty of time to clear out some space for the plumber and move stuff around the house to make the pipes easily accessible. This is especially important if you are doing a larger plumbing project. If you need to move your furniture or some appliances, let the guys from US Moving Experts handle it for you. Professional movers will move all of the stuff that's in the way of any potential repairs safely, keep it in a storage unit, and return it to your home after the maintenance and repairs are over.

Installing a smart water meter is an excellent way to detect any issues with your plumbing on time.

Winterize plumbing on time

Do not forget to winterize your plumbing before the winter arrives. This is an efficient and helpful practice to follow. Frozen pipes are a common thing during winter, especially if you live in a house. If a frozen pipe breaks, it will create a mess.

Shut off all outside valves to prevent the pipes from freezing. Also, wrap exposed pipes with old blankets you don’t use anymore. It is also a good idea to try and defrost the pipes as soon as the weather allows you. These small steps will mean a lot in the long run.

Take care of your garbage disposal

When it comes to plumbing inside your kitchen, people often make a mistake by throwing everything in the garbage disposal. Even though it can shred most of the things you throw in, you may still accidentally damage it. Furthermore, you can cause clogs inside the pipes if you are not careful.

This also happens if people do not use drain covers in the sink or the shower. You will quickly clog your plumbing without even noticing. Apply these practices to increase the longevity of your plumbing and reduce the number of smaller issues over the year.

Do not use your toilet as a garbage bin

Even though the toilet can swallow everything, you should not use it as a garbage bin. If you use lower toilets, you won't even see the clog coming. Backed-up water will flow out of the toilet seat and cause a flood in your bathroom. Furthermore, that can also cause a bad sewer odor in your home.

When unclogging the sink, do not use chemicals

Even though chemicals are a great way to clear clogs in the sink, they can also damage pipes. It is better to use a snake or a plunger instead. You might get your hands dirty, but it’s easier to wash your hands than to damage the pipes by accident.

The most common issue with the plumbing is a leaking sink. Fix it as soon as it happens.

Another thing to avoid doing is to pour cooking oil or grease inside the sink. It is yet another way to destroy your pipes from the inside.

That’s how to maintain healthy plumbing in your new home

Hopefully, now you understand how to maintain healthy plumbing in your new home. It takes some energy and effort to be on the constant lookout, but it pays off in the long run. The more you take care of your plumbing system, the longer it will serve you in your new home!

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

6 Important Roof Care and Maintenance Tips for Landlords and Property Managers

Roofs are probably some of the biggest investments in the field of commercial properties. This shouldn't be that big of a surprise since their sheer size and scope make the first line of defense against all elements and lend tremendous structural protection to a building.

Still, this unique position exposes a roof to a great deal of attrition, and if owners and landlords don't invest enough time into maintenance, they can face very substantial repair costs. Let us take a look then at a couple of tips that should help you to avoid these costs and keep the roof of your rental property in top-tier shape.

Make sure the roof is draining properly

Clogged draining systems are one of the major causes of expensive roof repairs. Numerous rental properties are surrounded by trees and similar greenery that raise the price of the said property. The problem with them is that debris can easily build up and prevent drainage from performing its duty which can cause anything from leaks to serious structural damage if the problem persists. So, as step one, be sure to regularly inspect and clean all the gutters, pipes, and skylights that may prevent water from effectively draining from the roof.

Perform regular roof inspections

As every landlord knows, dealing with rental property maintenance in a fast and efficient manner. But, in order to be able to do so, you need to identify the problem as early as possible. That is why you should perform thorough roof inspections at least once or twice per year to make sure everything is safe, preferably during spring and fall before the extreme weather conditions kick in. But, if you want to be 100% sure, you might want to take a closer look at the roof after every serious storm. Other things you want to pay attention to are pests like birds, rats, termites, squirrels.

Be thorough and apply all safety measures

This is especially important if you are running multistory commercial buildings where sloppy work can cause severe subsequent costs and workers are in constant threat of injury. These problems can be easily avoided if you hire the experienced labor to assess the situation and do the remodeling works. Also, be sure that everyone is safe while they are on the task. Renting professional construction equipment and hiring someone to perform anchor point installation will ensure that all construction activities run smooth, fast, and without any life-threatening obstacles.

Take care of landscaping

As we mentioned in one of the previous passages, we mentioned that trees, shrubs, and greenery could cause extensive damage to the roof. This is the reason why you should take some time to arrange the yard around the property in a way to prevent these sorts of problems. Therefore, make sure that all loose branches are trimmed on time, bushes pruned properly, and all these trees and plants are at a safe distance from the building. If possible, trees around the yard should not be taller than the highest point of the roof since they can prove to be the most hazardous during a heavy storm.

Understand the impact of the local climate

Different climates have a different impact on roof construction and, as a result, cause a whole different set of problems. For instance, houses that are built-in colder climates are much more susceptible to snow and ice, so you need to make efforts to prepare a roofing system for the winter. On the other hand, warmer climates, extreme temperatures, and harsh sun can cause shingles to crack and sealants to fail prematurely. Windy areas will require that you anchor the shingles with some stronger material.

Take into consideration the resident turnover

Roofs are the structures that see a lot of upgrades, refits, and similar interventions that are closely related to the resident turnover. We are talking about satellite dish antennas, HVAC systems, ADSL infrastructure that usually goes through the attic, as well as smaller interior design projects that nevertheless require the penetration of the roof construction. No matter how insignificant these interventions may seem, they can severely compromise the integrity of the roof construction, so you should ask tenants to perform them under supervision and inspect the building at each turnover.

In conclusion

These few tips are far from a complete story, but they should give you some general idea about the ways you should take care of the roofs of your rental properties and avoid major repairs in the future. Roof systems are, by far, one of the most important parts of any building, regardless of whether we are talking about weather protection or structural integrity. That is why you should put extra effort into keeping them in good shape, even if you need to make some upfront investments.

About the author: Mike Johnston is an experienced blogger and editor with a background in creative writing and digital media. He’s a regular contributor to numerous online publications where he writes primarily about real estate, construction, home improvement, and interior design.

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas and Tips

The kitchen is probably one of the most used rooms in an average household. It’s the heart and soul of a place. Plenty of warm and delicious memories are made in our kitchens — weekend meal preps for those hectic weeks, bulk baking for those bake sales, preparing a meal for your family (or yourself), holidays that have come and gone with the anticipation of more holidays to come. It is a happy place and a room that you would want to reflect and radiate that happiness. 

And because of the constant use of heat and appliances, the constant shuffling to and fro when achieving culinary endeavors tends to wear on the surfaces of that happy room, or maybe you saw a model kitchen that you think would fit very well in your abode, you start to think of remodeling. Kitchen remodeling could be quite an endeavor. It can be tricky whether you are a tenant or a property owner. 

When you’re renting, you’ll need to consider the contract you agreed to and the limits of what you can do when you are remodeling. As an owner, you’ll need to consider which renovations add value to a rental property. These things, plus the space, budget, individual tastes, etc. are things that need to be taken into consideration when renovating your kitchen. 

Remodeling ideas and tips

1. Consider the space

You can’t exactly have a large, professional type kitchen with wide walkways and large storage spaces with a gigantic fridge if you live in a tiny studio apartment. You’ll need a kitchen that matches the size of the space available. You can still have the kitchen of your dreams as long as you use the space smartly. 

• Use the ceiling. You can use strong storage rods attached to your ceiling to store your pots and pans. Or your cups if you prefer. Just don’t store sharp objects up there, that’s just asking for trouble. 

• Glass doors. See-through glass gives the impression of a wider space. It’ll make your kitchen feel bigger than it is. 

• Lighting is everything. A dark kitchen will feel cramped. A well lit one will feel bright and airy. 

• Storage is important, too. Try having a pull-out pantry if you don’t have enough space for a full one. The pull-out will keep your essentials neatly and safely stored while keeping your kitchen clutter-free. 

• If you plan to show off the part of your dishware, try to use wall-mounted shelves. This way, you can display different designs of tea sets or spice jars and daily dishes without taking up valuable counter space. Consider using open-faced cabinets. This way, you can still have plenty of storage space for your dishware while also allowing guests to see your beautiful designs. By considering these options, you can easily find ways to show off your dishware while still keeping your small kitchen designs functional and stylish.

  2. Let’s talk appliances

Okay, so you want state-of-the-art, ultra modern appliances in your kitchen. Keep in mind that appliances will age and what is modern now will soon be old news, easily replaced by newer models. And if you are one of those people who worry about the environment, you might be looking for ways to reduce carbon footprint in your home. Seeing as one of the top consumers of electricity in the home is your refrigerator, taking into account the type of appliances to get when you remodel is an important step to getting the kitchen you so desire. 

You need to ask yourself:

• Does the appliance I want to buy fit with my needs? You don’t need a commercial grade stove with six burners if you’re only feeding yourself and the occasional guests. The same goes for the reverse, you can’t have a single burner if you’re cooking for a family of five and three of those are ravenous teenagers. 

• Will it fit my kitchen? The answer to this question is very important and will dictate whether you actually buy the appliance or not. If it’s too big, don’t get it. 

• Is this a good quality product? Read reviews before buying. You don’t want to buy something that looks good but is actually a hidden fire hazard. Do your research. It will help you save money in the long run. 

• Can I afford it? Speaking of money, remodeling can be expensive depending on how large the changes are. Create a budget and stick to it. And take into account the electricity it will consume. The higher the electricity consumption, the higher your bill will be at the end of the month. 

1. Stick to the layout

Every kitchen is fitted with pipes and gas lines and wires and outlets. The simplest way to renovate a kitchen is to do so while keeping to the original layout. Moving the pipes can extend your timeline and might cause you to overshoot your budget. Not to mention the possible problems that could arise from changing the location of your plumbing and wires. Sticking to the original layout will mean fewer debris for you to clean up afterwards. It will also mean fewer things to worry about during renovation. 

Conclusion

Kitchen renovations can be daunting, but they can also be fun. Whether you are doing it yourself or hiring renovators, keeping these three tips in mind will help you stick to your budget, create a good plan, and, at the end of it all, a kitchen you can be proud of.

Guest Contributor: Kat Sarmiento

Everything You Need to Know About Home Extensions Before You Start the Demolition

Is your home getting a little too small for your growing family or small business? You can build up, go down into the ground or create something that extends out the back—no matter what you choose, adding an extension to your house can efficiently solve your space problems. However, where do you start with your home extension? Here are a few things you need to know about this building project so that it ends up providing great home improvement benefits.

Don’t start without permissions

In most cases, but definitely depending on the size, shape and scale of your project, you will need to apply for planning permissions when extending your home. For instance, in Australia, you need council approval and building certification. Every local council is different, so it’s best to work with a designer who is willing to push the bounders and get you the most for the permits you receive. You can find a lot of information on designs on your council website and see which styles are permitted to ensure your neighborhood is complimented by architecture and not destroyed by it.

Time it well

In general, it’s best to plan for a summer build. Firstly, the weather is more stable and you will get fewer storms. Secondly, if you’re planning to stay in your house while the extension is being built, you will have more opportunities to spend time outside and escape the mess. Thirdly, if you’re doing a kitchen addition/remodel, you can easily rely on preparing food outside when the weather is nice. Also, make sure you finish your project before Christmas, especially in the States. Most builders close down for weeks, and if you’re missing any materials, you won’t be able to get them until January.

Team up with experts

No matter how big your extension is, an architect will give your project that designer look, thanks to their expertise and experience. In places like Australia, all homeowners rely on architects when it comes to any building aspect—feasibility studies, design, tendering, project management, etc. Another thing people do is hire companies specializing in home renovations in Australia and ask them to provide everything from the design phase to final looks. Since renovations and extensions require a different set of skills than building from scratch, it’s best to find a company that focuses on these tasks particularly.

You will need a budget

Even the smallest extensions can break your bank if you don’t budget well. In general, you need to set aside $1500-$2700 per square meter, plus an extra 10-20% for emergencies. You can also issue your designer drawings to a calculator and get a more accurate cost. Keep in mind that your budget doesn’t only include building costs, but also architect and consultant fees and permits as well. Be realistic with your budget and you will manage to make your dreams into a reality.

Make sure your addition boosts the value

If you decide to sell one day, you’ll be glad that your extension boosts the value of your home. Every extension needs to make economic sense and add value that’s greater than the costs of the extension. Check out properties in your location and see how much they are worth, but be aware of the ceiling value and adjust your building plans accordingly.

Don’t get preoccupied with the size

There’s more to your project than square meters. You also need to think about what your extension is adding to the house beside the size. Bigger is not always better, and you will often find many creative ways to boost the square footage or create an illusion of a bigger space without investing in large extensions. Through clever design, anything is possible.

Aim for continuity

Your extension should look like it’s a part of the original building. While you might want to experiment, it’s best to take into account the architectural integrity of the house, street and neighborhood, as well as your personal preferences. If you add a very contemporary extension to your old heritage home, it can really ruin the curb appeal of the entire street. Blending old with new is very important if you don’t want to end up living in an abomination.

Be creative

On the other hand, try to be creative. You can extend your house upwards (loft), outwards (addition) or downwards (basement), all of which can stand out in the best possible way and give your property a lot of character. You can add an interesting design element that will set your extension apart—a shape of the extension, a hidden glazing panel, etc. Residential architecture can be very interesting, so don’t be scared to push the boundaries together with your architect.

Building home extensions is stressful, especially if you don’t have any previous experience, but if you follow these tips before you start any demolition, you will pull through and end up with a dream house for your family.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

Signs Your Home May Have a Leaking Sewer Pipe

Of the many potential plumbing issues homeowners can face, sewer pipe trouble is considered one of the most costly. Often, homeowners won’t have a clue they have an undetected plumbing problem until they get their water bill. 

A massive spike in the water bill can be a clear indication of a sewer leak. If you suspect you have a sewer problem, it is recommended that you work with professionals and have a sewer camera inspection carried out as soon as possible.

Other telltale signs of sewer leaks you should look out for include:

Colored Water

Water from your faucet should be clear. If you have a sewer leak, water can turn yellow, brown, or green. However, colored water is not always an indication of an undetected sewage issue. Colored water can also be caused by rust in your plumbing system or a leaking pipe. Green water can also point to a corroding copper pipe. 

Sagging or Wet Floor

Another sign that can indicate a hidden water leak is a damp spot on your carpet. Water can seep upward when there are sewer leaks in the slab foundation of your home. Hidden leaks and concrete slab foundations often go hand-in-hand. 

Typically, pipes run through the concrete where they are kept hidden. If the leak is undetected for an extended period, you can end up with a damaged foundation.

Unexplained Odors

One of the very first signs that point to a sewer leak is unexplained odor. Most homeowners with a sewer leak would notice the smell of sulfur or eggs. The unpleasant smell is often attributed to gas that's released from an undetected plumbing leak. 

On the other hand, an eggy smell will not always indicate a plumbing problem or leak. At times, it can be traced to gas leaks from homes that use natural gas as a heating fuel. Either way, it is recommended that you have your pipes checked right away if you notice any unusual smell.

Slow Drain

If you notice your shower drains slowing down, the possible problem might be a hairball. Soap, hair, and other particles can also clog your drain and create sewer leaks. If the slow drain is in your kitchen, the problem can be caused by grease clogging the drain.

When every drain at home starts to move slowly, it can be an indication of a more severe issue like a sewer leak. If unsure, it would be best to seek help from professionals so the problem can be identified and fixed right away.

Old-Looking Pipes

Undoubtedly, visual inspection is one of the quickest and easiest ways to spot a possible sewer problem. Ideally, you should check for possible problems at least twice a year—before turning on the air conditioning and as soon as the temperatures drop.

Coupled with a frozen pipe, a sewer leak can turn into a plumbing disaster. Check the hidden area under your drain and look for possible joint leaks in your sewer system. Discoloration can also point to a possible leak. 

Water Pressure Drops Off

Contrary to popular belief, if you notice a low water pressure when running the dishwasher, taking a shower, or doing the laundry, it's not always a sign of an undetected plumbing problem. It is possible that your municipal water supply might be the culprit. 

If your water takes some time to drain and water pressure at every tap is low, there's a huge possibility you have a sewer leak. In some cases, a hidden mainline puncture might not leak into your home. Instead, it can flood your neighbor's property and keeps the problem hidden much longer.

Excess Water Pooling Outside

After a rain shower, a puddle or two can form. If you notice a puddle when it has not rained, it can indicate a problem with the drain system or an undetected sewer leak. Also, if you notice a sudden elevation change, it can be a sign of another issue like a collapsed sewer pipe. 

Also, if you notice the pipes backing up or a small pool forming, even if it's not raining, you're likely dealing with a hidden leak. It is recommended that you have your pipes checked to find the source of the leak and have it fixed.

Discoloration on the Walls

While unfortunate to note, most sewer leaks can stay undetected for months causing water to slowly seep throughout your home. A slow drip can also stay hidden for long periods if concealed behind your ceiling or wall.

Colored spots and dark rings that appear on the walls are not only unsightly, they can also indicate a leak that's hidden under the surface. Another clear sign of a sewer leak is bubbling or peeling paint or wallpaper. 

Final Thoughts

Sewer leaks can be very costly if left undetected for a long time. That said, if you notice any of the telltale signs above, get in touch with a professional so any issues can be resolved right away before they cause more damage.

8 Fall Decor Curb Appeals

We all know curb appeal is important, everyone strives to have a nice looking front lawn. What happens when Fall rolls around and it’s time to decorate? It’s absolutely possible to have a gorgeous fall set up that will more than likely boost your curb appeal! Having people stop and admire your work is definitely the goal. Here are some inspiration pictures that are sure to leave you with a gorgeous front lawn.

Simple, but cute! The welcome sign can be seen from the street, and fits in perfectly with the oranges of the leaves and pumpkins. The little tree is a nice touch too!

Are you looking for bigger decorations that are easily visible? Big plants and pumpkins are your go-to! Staggering them going up the stairs is sure to add dimension and variety, and looks gorgeous!

This is a cute way to display your address for guests to see! Make sure it’s placed tall enough to be visible from the street.

If you want to jump right into mixing fall with halloween, this is the perfect little corner set up! Add a variety of jack-o-lanterns, along with some different styled pumpkins to add uniqueness!

Do you have a long walk up to your doorstep? Throw in pumpkins to create a trail on the way up with different shades of fall-colored flowers!

Do you have a little nook corner space on your front porch for sitting? This is the perfect opportunity to surround the seats with fall-related decorations! You can even throw in some fall throw pillows if that’s something you’re interested in. Nothing like getting cozy on your front porch in the September breeze with pumpkins surrounding you!

Another cute way to display your mailbox and address to visitors!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

Vintage Decor Ideas You Can Pull Off on a Budget

The vintage decor style has had a big comeback which means that, if you’re a fan, you can now easily find a ton of old accessories, decorations and furniture pieces with that old but timeless and classy look. These items are typically expensive, but you can still find some on a budget or create something by yourself.

There’s no need to spend a fortune to redecorate your home in a vintage style. All you need is some time and imagination to add something special to every room.

With the budget-friendly vintage decorating ideas listed below, all you will need is some resourcefulness, creativity and time!

Search for Old Furniture

If you are going for vintage interior decor, start by choosing the right furniture. Vintage furniture is commonly older and a bit worn out, but the best thing is that it’s often quite cheap. For instance, you can find it at antique shops, yard sales, flea markets and auctions. Admittedly, you will need to be patient and do a lot of searching and digging before you find the perfect piece for your home. Shopping for vintage furniture can easily turn out to be one great and exciting adventure that may eventually reward you with a fabulous vintage décor piece!  

Repurpose Old Things

No vintage home decor is complete without some vintage accessories. The quickest and easiest way to get them is to look at what you already have and get creative! For example, you can create a feature wall and hang up your old plates.

Similarly, you can practically do the same with any vintage item you have as long as you find a cute way to display it. In this way, you give them a decorative purpose and an entirely new meaning.

Distress the Paint on Existing Furniture

Distressing the paint will turn even new furniture into a piece with a vintage vibe. It’s also an easy DIY project – just take some sandpaper and rub it over the furniture edges. Whether the paint job is old or new, the final look will be vintage-looking!

A word of wisdom before you start - this will only look good on furniture that can be conceived as older. It will never work on cheap, ultra-modern pieces. So, you should consider old tables, cabinets, desks, and other already-vintage-looking items. You can end up having stylish pieces with added gravity of age.

Antique and Collectibles with Vintage Touch

Vintage decor relies on the use of objects from previous centuries that are considered out-dated, but have been saved for their beauty or sentimental value.There are many different collectibles that can be used for decor in your house. They usually come from a specific decade, or even an earlier period of time when the object was popular like in the middle ages or medieval. Collectibles, such as antique glassware, miniature statues and firearm replicas such as flintlock pistols are all excellent choices for ornamentation. They can be used as vignettes, mounted on walls with frames, or placed in bookshelves.

Accessorize at Will

Accessories have always been an important part of decoration. Even more maybe, as these details have the power to infuse life in a boring interior. Tasteful accessories rank very high on the list of vintage decor ideas, primarily due to being cheap and easy to implement.

Keep your eyes open for vintage pottery, glassware, lace and even living plants such as gorgeous everlasting rose in a jar– that is certainly something that will be reminiscent of old times and vintage castles and it’ll last up to a year!

Hang Vintage Mirrors

Mirrors are an excellent tool to use to make a room seem brighter and larger, but they also bring the charm and elegance of past times. Hanging up an oversized massive mirror with an elaborate golden frame will create a powerful effect recalling the grandeur of the Roaring ’20s.

For visual effect, you should try and find a mirror smoky with age and a frame that is faded. If you feel it needs a more aged look, don’t be afraid to paint it yourself and possibly distress it to give it the perfect aged-looking hue.

Create Shelves out of Old Suitcases

If you love DIY projects, this idea will be ideal – it involves turning old suitcases into shelves. It will require you to visit some more flea markets and antique shops, but once you have the amount you need, you can create unique shelving that will be visually effective and provide additional storage for your old books and vintage decorations.  

Add a Touch of Warmth with a Soft Rug

Warmth is what distinguishes a house from a home. One of the main vintage decor features is a warm and welcoming interior. The quickest and easiest way to do this is by using a soft rug with rich texture and colours. The great thing about rugs is that regardless of their size, they can be easily fitted in almost any sized room and they work well with antique wooden furniture pieces.

There are always lots of different ways to improve your home but if you are fond of vintage decors, the possibilities are practically endless. Hopefully, the vintage decor ideas listed here will inspire you to redesign your home on a budget and create a warm and inviting vintage feel.   

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

Want to Get Rid of House Centipedes? Here’s How to Find and Remove them

Even though they’re usually harmless, nobody wants to have centipedes at their house. But, it might often be a bit complicated to get rid of them. However, you need not worry as there are still some ways you can deal with them. And, for that, you need to find them first. Now, that will surely require quite some effort on your part. 

Apart from that, you’d also want to prevent further centipede infestation in your house. In case you’re wondering how to do all of that, you’ve come to the right place. So, keep reading to know how you can find, remove, and prevent home centipede infestations. 

Where can you Find Centipedes in your Home?

The first stage in the process is finding the centipedes in your home. There are certain areas where you have more chances of finding them. But, you might often find it inconvenient to look for them on your own. Especially so, if you have a busy schedule daily. In such cases, you must hand over the job to a competent pest control Dubai service provider. 

Here are some areas that you must inspect while looking for home centipedes:

1. Basement

Your basement probably has a damp environment. In case you didn’t know, that makes it a perfect place for centipedes to live and grow. So, if you’re wondering where to start, you can do so with your basement. Check thoroughly at all corners and make sure not to leave out any areas. 

2. Bathroom

As mentioned before, centipedes find damp or moist areas a suitable habitat. So, apart from other places, you must also inspect your bathroom. Maybe that’s where the centipedes you saw around your house are coming from. Further, check all the areas of your bathroom thoroughly for any sign of centipede infestation. 

3. Kitchen

The kitchen is yet another area of your house that offers a suitable environment for centipedes, especially the moist areas, such as below the sink. Apart from that, you must inspect any other area that’s moist and dark. Apart from these two qualities, centipedes also look for safety. So, check the corners and other areas that might provide a safe place for them. 

4. Closets

Apart from other areas, you must not forget to inspect your closets as well. After all, they provide centipedes with the kind of humidity they like. Especially, so when it’s winter. So, they can be a target of centipede infestations as well. 

5. Potted plants

Do you have potted plants at your home? If yes, then you must inspect them as well. Though, certain types of centipedes are indeed good for your plants. But, many others are harmful to them. So, you’d want to find and get rid of them as soon as possible. 

6. Trash cans

Do you have open trash cans in any part of the house? If yes, then it acts as a perfect habitat for centipedes. After all, it often has a level of moisture inside it that attracts them. So, you might find a centipede infestation in your trash can if you inspect it. 

How do you Eliminate House Centipedes?

Once you’ve found a centipede infestation in your home, you must make no unnecessary delays. So, you must get to the task of eliminating them as soon as possible. Here are some of the ways you can achieve that:

1. Kill them right away

Do you spot centipedes around your house? Then, you must consider killing them as soon as you find them. After all, that’s the best way to eliminate them from your home. Now, if there’s an infestation, there might be a large number of centipedes in your home. In such cases, you probably won’t get the time to find and kill all of them. So, you’d need to apply some other tricks as well or seek professional assistance. 

2. Eliminate all other pests

One of the ways to eliminate centipedes is by taking away their food. So, what do they feed on? In case you’re wondering, they eat other pests. Thus, if you kill them as well, you can hope to free your home from centipedes soon. Further, you can simply use various products available in the market for this purpose. 

3. Place traps around your house

Apart from other things, you must also set up traps to catch and eliminate centipedes. This would be quite an effective way to deal with them. Especially so, if you combine it with the other methods listed here. Also, now you know where centipedes might live in your house. And, it should give you a good idea of where to place the traps. 

However, this trick mostly works in catching smaller centipedes. So, you might need to look for other ways to deal with the bigger ones. 

4. Spray insecticides

This is one of the most important steps that you must not skip. After all, it’s one of the most effective ones as well. You can simply use a professional insecticide to kill all the centipedes in your home. This will help you eliminate them within a couple of days. But, for that, you need to spray the pesticide on the right spots, which isn’t so difficult. 

Other products that you can use

Looking for suitable products other than insecticides for this task? In that case, there are many effective alternatives that you can try. And, these include boric acid, diatomaceous earth, and peppermint oil. All of them can kill the centipedes in your home. 

How do you Prevent Further Centipede Infestations in Your Home?

You can ensure that your house remains free of centipede infestations by various methods. Here are some of the most effective ones among them:

1. Fix all plumbing issues

Since most environments favour centipedes, you have to remove them from your home as well. Now, plumbing issues are a leading cause of moisture in your home. So, repair them as soon as possible to prevent that. Also, you must keep areas that are prone to centipede infestation as dry as possible. 

2. Clean your house regularly

This method never fails to keep your house safe from issues such as centipede infestations. So, it’s quite an important preventive measure that you must follow. You must clean every corner of your home. Especially the ones that can favour centipede infestations. 

3. Keep the humidity under control

Don’t want centipedes in your home? Then, you must do something about the humidity apart from other things. Otherwise, it’ll always attract centipedes into your home. So, you need to keep the humidity in check. And, for that, you can simply use a dehumidifier or your air conditioner. 

4. Close all holes in the walls

There might be holes and gaps in many places on your walls. Unless you close them, centipedes can simply walk in anytime. So, fill them up as soon as possible to prevent that. This step is quite an essential one in keeping centipedes out of your home.  

Are the above steps enough?

We have included pretty much all the stages in removing and preventing centipede infestations in homes. Hopefully, they will provide you with the desired results. Provided that, if you follow each step appropriately, you usually won’t require any professional help. But, in case you still do, contact a reputable control service as soon as possible. 

Guest Contributor: Biler Charlie

The Side Effects Of A Slab Leak And How It Affects Your Plumbing

The slab leak is one plumbing issue that has the potential to cause most of the damage. This finding is substantiated from the number of plumbing issues, and their severity reported annually by the homeowners of America. A slab leak is a problem that opens up a number of other issues, eventually causing nothing but lots of damage. 

Generally, a household looks to find a slab leak repair in Carlsbad only when the situation gets beyond the point of control. However, this is dangerous. If you ask why, hold on as we are going to discuss the side effects of a slab leak and how the entire plumbing system gets affected by it.    

Side Effects Of Slab Leak

A slab leak is a bigger than usual issue. If we say it is just another plumbing problem, it won’t be justifying the potential of damage that it carries. Here are some of the key damages that it can cause: 

• Foundation Of Home: The slab leak has a good potential to damage the very foundation of your home. You would say that we are kidding, right? No, not at all. The leak, apart from penetrating water, can cause pressure in walls and flooring that results in cracks and faults. Further, it can affect the steel and concrete that has been used in the house and on the back of which the structure stands. The houses that were made of concrete slabs and are a few decades old can face more problems than others in such cases.

• Health Effects: If you didn’t think that a slab leak can cause health issues, then here is a wake-up call for you. Yes, your health and your family’s health can be affected as a side effect of the slab leak problem. Excessive leakage of water can cause the accumulation of water in your home, which can result in the breeding of molds and mosquitoes. Not only these the damp walls and ceilings caused by the leakage can also cause breathing and respiratory diseases as well.

• Debt Burden: Yes, you read it right! The debt burden is another side effect of the leaking slabs. Let us explain to you. Water damage due to slab leaks is not covered even if you have insurance for the home. What this means is that you have to spend out of pocket for the damage caused. However, this heavy expenditure that you need to undertake will put you in a situation of debt if you do not have savings at your end.

How It Affects Plumbing? 

The plumbing system is affected in more than one way with the slab leak. Some of the major effects are:

• Clogging: Internal water leakage in the slab can lead to the accumulation of water around the area. This would further cause damping of the area leading to venting out of the water.

• Cracks And Faults: The leakage can trigger cracks and faults and this, in turn, causes the water to sweep inside and affect the walls and flooring of the house. The entrance of water in flooring can damage the floor structure internally, making it weak enough to break down.

• Bursts: It has been seen that slab leakage can trigger the bursting of pipes as well. This is generally caused due to the increase in the water leaked around the pipes. This water puts pressure on the pipe’s wall. This along with the internal water flow pressure can result in cracks and vents in pipes triggering a burst in them.

• Short Circuit: If the leak happens around the floor, ceiling, or sidewalls, then it affects the foundation of the entire system. We know that pipes of plumbing systems and the wiring of electric systems run behind our walls and floors. A slab leak that causes damage to the plumbing system can extend that damage to the electric system and can give birth to a large-scale short circuit. Such a deadly incident is good enough to shake the whole foundation of the house.

Fixing The Issue

Now, the question comes how to fix it. Since we have seen the magnitude of the effect and damage, it’s obvious you would like to avoid that. Here what we would advise is to detect and repair the leakage of the slab early. General signs like water leakage, increased water bill, wet spots, etc., can provide you with insights into the issue. If you catch these signs, you can check the leakage well in time, preventing the damage. 

In case you think the detection is beyond your capacity, then call a plumber and get a plumbing tune-up. You can always check this site if you need slab leak repair in Carlsbad or any other related help about plumbing issues. However, even if you are able to detect the problem of a slab leak, it is advised to call a professional. The reason is simple: they can provide you a clear assessment of the extent of the damage. Further, they can provide a quick fix solution that your home remedy can’t offer.

Guest Contributor: Laura