5 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Air Ducts

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Air ducts are generally the last item on a homeowner's mind regarding HVAC system maintenance. Without air ducts, your HVAC equipment would be unable to transport air from room to room throughout your house.

Although they are often overlooked (due to their generally concealed location), your air ducts need care, upkeep, repairs, and even replacement occasionally. However, how can you determine when it is time to replace them? After all, you hardly ever see the dreaded things. 

1. Inadequate Design/Installation

Ductwork must be constructed and strategically installed to guarantee maximum cooling performance throughout your house and to sustain the life of your HVAC equipment longer. A new duct installation should be done if your home's ducting was inadequately planned or constructed. Poor ductwork makes it impossible to obtain a practical design and a pleasant house. This is a significant source of energy loss in homes around the country.

2. Insufficient Airflow

Airflow is critical to a thriving operating HVAC system, and believe it or not, and your ductwork plays a vital role in cooling your living areas effectively. When your ductwork is broken, outdated, dirty, or blocked in any manner, the result is likely to be excessive energy costs and discomfort in your house. If you find that the airflow through your HVAC system is dwindling or straining, it may be time for a replacement.

3. The Age of Ductwork

As is the case with most household equipment, HVAC systems do have a useful life. By 15 years of service, serious difficulties are likely to manifest. Older air ducts may have serious challenges, such as gaps. In certain instances, whole parts may even collapse.

It's prudent to consider replacing more than decade-old ducts. This way, you'll avoid difficulties and may continue to enjoy the conveniences of home.

All of these indicators suggest that your ducting requires repair. Even if you are a do-it-yourselfer, you should avoid attempting to replace them. Contact a duct repair specialist to replace the system.

4. Infestation by Pests

Observing insects or rodents within your HVAC ducts indicates that your ductwork has holes or leaks. Bugs and rodents may enter the ducts via the perforations, establishing various colonies and causing further damage, such as obstructing the HVAC ducts.

Additionally, pest infestations may flood your ductwork with hazardous substances such as urine and excrement, resulting in a damaged duct system, inefficient air circulation, and decreased indoor air quality.

Nobody likes foul odors entering their house. If you detect an offensive odor but cannot locate the cause, you may want to update your air ducts.

Mold may grow in your home due to temperature differences between the inside and outside of your HVAC system's broken ducts. This implies that mold has the potential to grow throughout your ductwork and your house. When mold grows in your ductwork, the odor of mold and mildew will permeate your whole home. As a result, you may detect an unpleasant odor.

5. HVAC Operation Is Excessively Noisy

While your HVAC system is meant to generate noise while operating, the noise level should not be excessive. If you continually hear rattling noises or if your HVAC ductwork vibrates while heating or cooling your home, you should get the ducts inspected.

Remember that your home's ductwork is linked through plastic or fiberglass couplings. When these joints get injured, rattling or whistling noises occur.

If the ductwork has holes, you will hear loud sounds when the air travels through the ducts. Avoid ignoring this noise since it will only become worse.

Conclusion

Homeowners want to provide their families with a healthy, safe living environment. In most houses, a duct system is sufficient to provide enough comfort. It provides your house with either warm or cold air as required. If feasible, you want it to blow just in inhabited rooms in your home to save energy.

While adequately maintained ducts serve your house successfully, they might succumb to wear and tear over time. You must get familiar with some telltale indicators of broken or worn ductwork. If homeowners do not know what to look for, they may not notice any physical faults. However, there are several indicators that you should inspect your ducts.

 Guest Contributor: Maggie Bloom                       

Locked Out? Consider These Things Before Calling A Locksmith

Locking yourself out of your car or house is very annoying. You might feel like this can only happen to you,  or that it will never happen to you. The truth is, as careful as we might be, these kinds of things happen more than we'd like to admit. A locksmith service can help you out of this predicament and get you back inside your home or car quickly and easily. However, there are a few things you should consider before calling a locksmith.

What Type Of Service Do You Need?

There are different kinds of locksmith services out there, which means you will want to find one that can do the kind of work you need. Some companies only work on cars, while others just do household locks. However, the most reputable locksmiths can do it all and that would probably be the best option for you. According to experts from Brandon Lock and Key, a professional locksmith can have you back into your home within 30 minutes. A car will take a bit longer because of the location of the lock, but it should only take about an hour at most for a trained technician. In case you need a more specific service such as rekeying all the locks in your house, you will want to find a company specializing in residential work as opposed to automotive or industrial. 

Fees and Payment Options

Some companies will charge an hourly rate, whereas others will quote flat rates for specific jobs. The company should be able to tell you what kind of job they think your lock needs and give you an estimate on how much it will cost. It is highly recommended you get a written estimate and not just a verbal one. If the company charges hourly, you should know when they start charging. If there is an emergency or hard-to-open lock, for example, some companies will charge extra, so you'll want to be aware of this beforehand. You should also make sure you know what type of payment they accept before calling them because many do not accept credit cards. This is a very important aspect to consider when locking yourself out, as it may be difficult to retrieve cash in a hurry.

The Reputation Of The Locksmith

Even though you might be in a hurry and the first number you come across might be right around the corner, you should never call the first locksmith you find. If this is the first time you are hiring a locksmith service, then it would be best to check their reputation before making a decision about which one to choose. Chances are good that if they have been in business for a while, people will talk and leave reviews on websites like Google and Yelp. You can also ask your friends and family which company they use and how they liked them. This will help you make an informed decision when you call up a locksmith service after being locked out of your house or car. If you are not in a hurry, you can even consider calling two or three locksmiths, compare their prices and services, then choose the one that fits your needs best.

Be Alert For Scams

Despite your best efforts to do research and find a reputable company, you should always be alert for scams. There are several ways people can attempt to scam you when hiring a locksmith service. One of the more common is convincing you they need payment up front even though they don't. If this happens, call another company immediately because otherwise, the first one will likely never show up or suddenly have an emergency that prevents them from completing the job. Another thing to be aware of are services that offer considerably inexpensive rates. While it might seem like a great find, often when the technician gets there they suddenly bump up the price because something came up. Therefore, you should always ask for a quote in advance and make sure you understand the payment options before hiring any company.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

While many people spend money on insurance for their cars, they may not realize that companies like AAA or other car-related insurance providers can help you out in this situation. You will need to check with your policy before calling them because there are some restrictions, but it is important to know what kind of coverage you have. If the lock needs to be replaced but is still under warranty, most insurance companies will cover parts of the bill if it is for an emergency. Since this qualifies as an emergency, you should call them and see what your options are.

Locksmiths can save the day when these kinds of things happen. However, some things are best kept in mind before you have them show up at your doorstep to help you out of this sticky situation. By following these tips, you will be able to find the right locksmith service for your needs and budget so that you can save yourself a headache.

6 Tips to Avoid Water Damage to Your House

Home maintenance can be a daunting task, especially when you have to deal with plumbing fixtures. Even a small leak can lead to a lot of damage and money spent on expensive repairs, so it is good to learn how to avoid it. Water damage often has no visible signs at first but continues below the surface or behind walls. This makes it very hard to predict. However, there are many things you can do without calling professionals to protect your house against all kinds of water-related disasters. Here are six useful tips that will help you avoid water damage in your home:

Do Not Ignore The Warning Signs Of Water Damage

Water damage is a serious problem that can lead to mold growth, structural damages, and health issues. If you notice any warning signs of water damage in your house, it is best to call a professional restoration company as soon as possible. Water infiltration can be noticed from early signs such as warped wood floors or buckling walls. Other signs include musty odors or visible signs of water penetration. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call professionals to inspect your house and find the source of the problem. They will provide you with a quote for their work beforehand so that you won't have any nasty surprises after they leave. You might even be able to take some money off the final bill if you manage to fix the problem before they arrive.

Check The Foundation Regularly

Water seeping into the basement or foundation of your house can cause major problems. Mold growth, structural damages, and health issues are just some examples of what may happen if there is water penetration in the foundation of your house. Do not delay a check-up or inspection of your foundation. You can do a simple test by taking a broom straw and putting it into the crack in the foundation, then putting some water on top of this area. If the straw is wet when you remove it, there is an issue with your house's foundation that needs to be resolved immediately.

Make Sure That Your Roof Is In Good Condition

If you are experiencing missing or damaged shingles, it is time to make roof repairs. If you ignore these problems, there is a high chance of leakage which can lead to water damage in your house. Once the first drop of water gets into the system, it will cause more and more damage if not addressed immediately. Call professionals to inspect your roof and make the necessary changes. Sometimes, it is better to replace old roofs than to try and fix them. Even if you aren't experiencing any problems, you should still inspect your roof and gutters regularly. Regular roof maintenance will keep your house healthy and avoid major problems in the future.

Check All Gutters And Downspouts Regularly

A lot of water can accumulate near your house, especially during spring and summer. All that extra water needs to be drained properly to avoid major problems. Check gutters regularly to make sure they are not clogged with fallen leaves or other debris. It is better to clean them weekly instead of waiting for the problem to get worse. The gutter should be strong enough to carry water away from your house and toward the drain pipes. This will prevent any seepage into your foundation or basement. If you notice any problems with gutters, fix them immediately before it gets too late.

Invest In A Sump Pump For Your Basement

A sump pump is a great way to protect your basement from groundwater or flooding, which can cause even more serious problems such as mold growth or structural damage. Even if you don't have any problems with your basement, it is still a great investment. You can avoid unnecessary costs and keep your house protected at all times by installing sump pumps in the lowest part of your house. The pump will drain any water that accumulates there so that it won't cause damage to the foundation or the structure of your home.

Check Your Sink Pipes Often

It might seem like an easy thing to remember, but many people simply forget about checking their sink pipes for leakage until it's too late. This is especially true if there aren't any obvious signs of flood damage inside or outside the house. Remember to inspect all sink pipes for leakage or damage regularly. You can use the same test you did with the foundation crack by putting a thin broom straw into the drain and checking it later, just make sure there is some water on top of it this time! If you notice any leaks or problems with your sink pipes, it is best to call a plumber immediately.

Water damage is a serious problem that needs to be addressed right away, especially if there are some signs of water infiltration. The earlier you address the problem, the less expensive it will be for you in the long run. So make sure to keep these tips in mind and inspect your house regularly so you can have peace of mind knowing that your house is safe and secure.

The Cost of Vital House Renovations For a Better Architectural Structure and Functionality

There are many essential aspects of a house that homeowners should be aware of to maintain the value of their property. One of the most important yet often neglected is regular home renovations. Not only do they keep your home looking and functioning at its best, but they can also save you money in the long run by preventing more costly repairs later on.

A few simple steps can considerably reduce the cost of renovations, depending on what one is looking to achieve. To help you plan your budget, here are some common renovation costs for a typical house structure to get you started on how much it will cost to renovate your home according to its intended purpose.

Flooring

Replacing the flooring for existing rooms can also cost around 2,000 to 10,000 dollars. Flooring is easily one of the first things people think about doing when renovating their homes because they are constantly getting damaged by dirt and other external elements that could pose a hazard over time. 

The material used would determine how much you are willing to spend depending on what you are looking for. When shopping around for floorboards, you may want to refer to the cost guide replacing floorboards to ensure you get a good deal. Comparing prices makes it possible to make even small savings that can add up over time. The cost of wooden floors or tiles usually only varies according to size. For example, a specific type of tile may cost more per square meter than another. 

Roofing 

The cost of building the roof ranges from 1,000 - 6,000 dollars. This is due to different factors such as which part of the country are you are in and the materials being used. Roofing can use up more money depending on what type of shingle or tiles are being used. It offers better protection against any weather elements that might cause damages over time. Some materials can also be challenging to install, which significantly affects labor costs, leaving you with a hefty price tag at the end of the day.

Bathroom

The bathroom renovation costs can also cost a small fortune as you will be taking a closer look at the plumbing fixtures and the tiles being used. Upgrading to new models of toilets and sinks could have an average price tag from 1,000 - 4,000 dollars depending on the features that come with it. According to construction experts, installing new bathtubs or showers would cost around 10,000 dollars, but moving walls inside bathrooms could increase your prices by 8%.

Lighting Fixtures

Installing lighting fixtures inside a house can also cost an arm and a leg if you purchase new ones entirely, so it might be better to get refurbished models instead, which still provides excellent results at half the price. The average price range would cost somewhere from 300 to 3,000 dollars for different lamps and chandeliers. If you intend to install new electrical wiring within your home, that will take around 200-300 dollars each time, depending on the length of wire that needs to be laid.

Carpet

The average cost for installing carpets is usually around 2k-3k per room, which takes about 1 week for four people working 8 hours a day. This price also includes materials and labor, so factor in another 500 dollars if you purchase carpet yourself instead of getting contractors to do it. Lastly, installation costs could range from 500 dollars to several thousand depending on how complex it is or what type of flooring you are covering up with carpet.

Furnishings

Furnishing your house after renovation could cost around 1,000 to 8,000 dollars depending on what you need, including drapes/curtains, chairs, tables, and cabinets. For drapes alone, you can expect to spend about 50-100 dollars each depending on its material. At the same time, curtains can fall under the same price range, but this relies too much on their intricacy, so it is best to consult your contractor beforehand.

Exterior Areas

When renovating any exterior areas, such as the facade, it will have a price range from 5,00 -30,000 dollars depending on what material you are using and how they would be installed. Some types of cladding installation require more precise work, leading to higher costs for labor due to safety reasons. 

Facade replacement can also cost around 10,000 per linear meter, with painting around 2-3k per square meter. Adding an extension or building a garage could cost anywhere from 50,000 - 200,000 dollars depending on its size and the additional structural materials used. It only includes the construction fees with no extra charges included.

These are just some rough estimates based on different renovation projects, not including any other charges that might crop up during the process. You could also get discounts and other offers depending on who your contractor is, so it would be advisable to shop around for one that's giving you a bang for your buck to get the best deals. Renovating is an experience that requires patience, so do not rush into anything without doing your research first, as this could lead to more trouble in the long run.

Will Getting Furnace Cleaning Make it New Again? | Abbotsford Duct Cleaning

Maintaining your furnace's cleanliness during the warmer months is essential for keeping your house warm and comfortable. All of the dust and dirt that gathers on the components within your blower compartment affects the whole system and may cause unsafe conditions.

Generally speaking, a furnace should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected once a year, depending on the model. Non-stop cleaning will not only keep your HVAC system running efficiently and for a more extended time, but it will also prevent your ducts from becoming clogged and dispersing dust and debris throughout your house.

Before we provide you with an answer to your inquiry, let's take you closer to some of the benefits of cleaning your furnace. 

 The Benefits of Furnace Cleaning 

1. It will perform well.

Better furnace performance is one of the most significant advantages of yearly furnace cleaning. Due to a clogged filter, a lower volume of air flows across the heat exchanger, causing your furnace to operate in longer cycles and causing it to use more energy. 

Dirt coating the heat exchanger, an essential and costly part of furnaces, acts as an insulator, preventing the air flowing over from absorbing enough heat, increasing the time the furnace is required to function. 

It is possible that when the furnace boiler and ducts are cleaned, the furnace will operate at a faster pace and will not have to run as long to generate heat for your house. 

2. It will operate quietly. 

An unmaintained furnace may shake more and become more rackety than you expected if not serviced regularly. Your furnace is typically one of the noisiest types of equipment in your house. The rumbling and heavy noises of the furnace heating up will be heard regularly. 

During the operation of your furnace, screws come loose, panels break easily, and noises intensify. Not only will the lessening of disturbance be significant to your ears, but you will also benefit from preventing critical issues that may arise when a furnace vibrates or rattles excessively.

 3. Early detection of issues.

Prevention is essential, and with regular repair and maintenance, you can expect your furnace to survive for many years.

Imagine you have a defect in your heat exchanger. Not only may this cause difficulties with carbon monoxide, but it may also need to replace the whole machine. This and other issues may be detected early on with our professional specialist's help of furnace cleaning near you.

Performing a visual and physical check of your furnace is one of the most important steps you can take to remove any indicators of minor issues that most people will overlook. 

During an HVAC inspection, a technician may find that a fan is stuck or a furnace component fails. It is possible to avoid worse difficulties in the future if you keep hold of these minor issues.

Why should you get it cleaned regularly?

A new furnace is more expensive than keeping it up to date. Based on the furnace type you choose, any necessary maintenance work, your geographic location, and the installation cost, the cost might be much higher. Due to the increasing price of conducting business and the knowledge required to install HVAC equipment, furnace installation fees may be much more than the expense of the furnace. So, you should get it cleaned since the cost of HVAC cleaning isn't too heavy for your budget. 

So, what's the verdict? Will getting furnace cleaning make it new again? 

The answer is a resounding 'maybe.' Furnace cleaning will definitely improve your system's efficiency and eliminate any built-up dirt or grime. Still, it won't necessarily restore your furnace to its former glory.  

But, the failure to clean your furnace regularly may result in various problems. These issues can sometimes negatively impact your indoor environmental quality, risk your family's health, and even cause your unit to break down and look old if left unattended for an extended period. By regularly inspecting your furnace and air filters, you may catch most of these issues before they become severe.

Have your cleaning schedule with us! 

Contact Abbotsford Duct Cleaning today if you need furnace duct cleaning or just want to be preventative and maintain the air quality in your house as quickly as possible. 

The services we provide are meant to clean your furnace ducts and vents and enhance the overall air quality of your home as a part of the cleaning process. In addition, we are constantly striving to keep our pricing fair so that you may get the most for your money possible. 

To know more about what services we can offer for you, feel free to contact us today — we guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Guest Contributor: Michael Mabansag

Central Air Conditioner: 4 Signs You Should Know if it Needs Repair or Replacement

If you're like most AC users, you probably don't give your central air conditioner much thought until it's too late to save it. And by then, it's likely too warm and humid to accomplish much inside your house or business. 

Ignoring the defects with your air conditioning unit, on the other hand, might lead to even more severe problems down the line, including a total system failure.

When was the last time your central air conditioner was serviced? You should consider having your unit maintained if it has been a long time since it was last done or if you are unsure when it was last serviced. 

Central air conditioners are an everyday need in both homes and workplaces. Breaking down can be a huge inconvenience when they do so. You should be aware of the following four signs if you're uncertain if your central air conditioner needs repair or replacement:

1. When your air conditioner is operating, it makes strange noises.

When your air conditioner generates unusual sounds is one of the most common signs that you may want AC repair. There's an issue with it if it's causing noise other than a whizzing noise, which indicates that it has encountered a difficulty of some sort.

If you're hearing rattling sounds, they may be coming from a loose part of your machine. But, there is a possibility that something has been trapped in your condenser unit. On the other hand, shrieking or screeching sounds usually result from a damaged or loosened belt.

The inability to resolve these issues as soon as they arise might damage the air conditioner unit in the near run. As soon as you detect a strange sound coming from your system, contact our AC company for an air conditioning repair near you. 

We'd fix it immediately to prevent a total shutdown of your air conditioning system, as well as the inconvenience and expenses associated with being without air conditioning. 

2. You've noticed signs of leaks coming from your unit.

One more indicator that you need air conditioner repair is if you see fluid leaking from your condenser unit. This fluid is referred to as refrigerant, and it's essential for the proper operation of the air conditioner. If it starts to leak, the air conditioner will soon stop producing cold air totally.

Mold may grow in your furniture, walls, and carpets due to leaking water, risking the individuals' health who live in the property. After the central air conditioner has been fixed or replaced, mold and moisture may develop up around it, resulting in significant repair expenses for the property.

3. Your air conditioning system is blowing warm air 

The purpose of purchasing an air conditioning unit is not only to allow it to sit about and look elegant. Sustaining your family's comfort throughout the hot and humid summer season must be a specific duty of an air conditioner. 

The presence of warm air coming from your air conditioner is the most obvious indicator that it needs to be repaired immediately.

A room cannot be made chilly by an air conditioner unless it's blowing cooled air into the room. Curious about the source of this issue? The condenser is the most common cause of problems. It's possible that your air conditioner isn't generating cold air due to a refrigerant shortage or a defective evaporator coil, which is the problem.

4. It has increased your energy bill.

Unexpectedly high energy bills without any additional consumption are another sign that your air conditioning system needs to be replaced or repaired. Many factors might contribute to this issue, such as a faulty thermostat switch, leaks in your HVAC system's ductwork, or the fact that your air conditioning unit is coming to the end of its effective life span.

If your electricity costs continue to rise, but the rates charged by your electric provider remain the same, it may be time to repair rather than replace your air conditioner. 

Purchasing a new energy-efficient air conditioning unit to replace an older, inefficient system may be more expensive upfront. But if you anticipate remaining in your house for at least another seven to ten years, the benefits from your new unit would more than accounting for the high operating costs.

We'd like to keep it cool! 

As required, you should replace your air conditioner unit if it has been in use for more than ten years. No matter how good it is, any air conditioning unit that is more than 15 years old must be replaced. If you're uncertain whether or not your AC needs repair, there are four key signs to look out for: high energy bills, frequent repairs, strange noises, and hot spots in your home. 

Don't hesitate to call Abbotsford Refrigeration & Air Conditioning if you see any of these signs and would like to schedule an initial assessment. Depending on your needs, we can assist you in determining whether repair or replacement is the best decision for your residential or commercial AC. We have professional HVAC contractors who would be glad to offer a hand to AC units installation and an air conditioning repair.

Guest Contributor: Michael Mabansag

Green Building Tips for Building Your New Home

Nearly 40% of energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is due to the construction of buildings throughout the world. CO2 emissions also have an impact on natural habits globally. Each of us can reduce our carbon footprint. We can significantly reduce our carbon footprints when building new homes, keep reading to find out how! 

Use Sustainable Materials to Build Your New Home

As you build your home, choosing materials that are sustainable will help you to achieve the green home you are aiming for and can be the foundation of your new build. Even the home’s plumbing can be done in an eco-friendly way. Typically, a simple new build of a two-bed cottage style home would generate approximately 80 tons of CO2 emissions. Renewable materials such as straw bale, hemp, or timber helps to remove carbon from the atmosphere; they “sequester” CO2 throughout their lifetime and can store carbon. 

“Carbon sequestration” refers to the process of long-term storing and removing carbon from the atmosphere. The goal is to reduce climate change globally. Sustainable forestry practices increase the ability of the forests to sequester carbon on their own. This improves soil and water quality. As you are building your home it is good to know the following: 

·      6 tons of CO2 are sequestered by straw

·      5.5 tons are sequestered by hemp 

·      30 tons are sequestered by solid timber 

We could, easily, reduce 31 tons of global carbon emissions by constructing homes with wood versus concrete and steel. 

Build Your Green Home with Glazing Windows

The windows in your home impact how much heat enters and exits your home. During the summer months, approximately 87% of heat is absorbed into your home. 49% of your home’s heat escapes during the winter months; the, overall, energy efficiency of your windows is extremely important. Double-glazed window systems are your best bet, and they are viewed as the benchmark when it comes to energy efficiency. It is important to select double-glazed glass windows that are outfitted with timer or “UPVC” frames. “UPVC” stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. 

There are several benefits of having UPVC frames, and they are: 

·      Due to being less porous, maintenance is reduced 

·      They have an increased lifespan 

·      They are resistant to high impact 

·      They often last decades 

·      No discoloration when exposed to prolonged direct sunlight 

·      Can be recycled 

Choosing a double-glazed window will help you save money on your energy bills, but it will also improve the comfort of your home. 

Purchase Energy Efficient Electrical Appliances for Your New Green Home

When you are building your home, there will be many choices that you will have to make throughout the process. One of those choices are which appliances you would like in your home. If you want to practice green living at home, it is best to select appliances that are energy-efficient. As the name suggests, energy-efficient appliances use the least amount of energy as possible. 

Energy-efficient appliances come in 2 different varieties: 

1.    6-star energy rating 

2.    10-star energy rating 

Energy consumption and the size of the appliance generate that appliance’s star rating. Appliances are tested and measured for their energy consumption and to determine the minimum energy performance criteria for that particular model. Once the appliance is tested they can be granted an Energy Rating Label. The more stars granted, the higher the energy efficiency. 

Here is a list of some appliances that would receive an Energy Rating Label: 

·      Air Conditioners

·      Clothes Dryers

·      Computer Monitors

·      Dishwashers

·      Fridges and Freezers

·      Washing Machines

·      TVs 

·      HVAC Systems 

As you are choosing your appliances select a model with a higher rating to ensure that you achieve the green home you are hoping to build. 

Use Solar Panels in the Construction of Your New Green Home

Sunlight is a renewable resource. A renewable resource is a substance that holds economic value which can be replaced and replenished in less time than it takes to use the supply. It is abundant and is freely available. It can be used as energy. In fact, the energy that sunlight generates in a single hour is enough to satisfy the needs of the world for one year. 

The benefits of using solar panels are: 

·      Reduces your energy bills 

·      Emits zero greenhouse gases, and helps the environment 

·      Improves the value of your home 

·      Versatility with installation 

·      Can be used anywhere 

Select Finishes and Decorations that are Eco-Friendly and Sustainable for your New Green Home

As you begin the make the final selections in your home, you should continue to be thoughtful and intentional in what you choose. Green interior finishes and home furnishings are just as important as the aforementioned aspects of your new green home’s design. Arguably, these items are more impactful as they are the items that will be in your direct living environment. They will touch your skin and will add to the air you breath every day. Here are some sustainable materials to be select for the inside your home: 

·      Repurposed materials – Breathing new life into an item is a great way of keeping your home sustainable and eco-friendly. Adding a new coat of paints, or reupholstering, a piece extends the lifetime of that item and keeps it out of a landfill. 

·      Bamboo – It is beautiful, versatile, and sustainable. A variety of home furnishings and decorations are made from this material. 

·      Reclaimed wood – Many people choose to use reclaimed wood throughout their home interior. It is often used for flooring. 

The construction of homes generates a significant amount of CO2 emissions across the globe. Luckily, we can help to cut CO2 emissions by making intentional, sustainable, choices. Building a green home helps the environment and can be cost effective as well. You can save a considerable amount of money, long-term, by using sustainable materials, selecting energy-efficient windows and appliances, utilizing solar panels, and by carefully selection sustainable interior flooring and decorations. Each choice we make goes a long way in helping to heal our Earth. 

Guest Contributor: Jade Piper

How to Redesign Your Kitchen For a Luxury Food and Drink Experience

You might automatically associate luxury with extravagance or luxury with things that are beyond your means. However, luxury doesn't have to mean extravagance-it can be as simple as enjoying a luxury food experience. With this in mind, the design of your kitchen should reflect this luxury, by incorporating something as simple as marble countertops and a beverage station for a more luxurious feel. Explore the ways you can achieve a luxury home interior design for your kitchen to ensure your guests have a wonderful luxury food experience!

Marble Countertops: The Ultimate Luxury Host Experience!

A typical question on home renovation forums is what should I be looking out for when redesigning my kitchen? What extra touches might help me tap into my inner luxury chef? And the most popular answer is, without a doubt, an aesthetically pleasing marble countertop.

Marble has become increasingly popular in recent years thanks to its lustrous beauty and durability. It's made from limestone that's taken from mother earth, then dissolved into lime or calcium oxide, then heated up to high temperatures to reach its final form as stone. You can find marble available in many colors and textures thanks to this versatility. Marble is also very popular because of its wear and tear abilities. It always looks modern and fresh and your guests will love the luxury vibe your kitchen provides along with the incredible food and drinks.

The Benefits of Building a Beverage Station:

A beverage station can be an excellent addition to any kitchen. It provides a place for guests to congregate and enjoy delicious drinks, as well as a sense of luxury that is often lacking in home-cooked meals. Hosts who set up a beverage station will find it easier to keep track of their guests’ glasses, and will also make it easier for the hosts themselves to enjoy the party!

How to create your own beer/wine/water station with unique details that will delight guests

When creating your own beverage station, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure to choose a space in your kitchen that is easily accessible for guests. Next, select drinks that will appeal to a wide range of palates. Finally, add unique details to the station that will make it feel special. Some ideas include decorative glasses, fun straws or stirrers, and beautiful flowers or fruit arrangements. With a little bit of creativity, you can create a beverage station that will delight your guests and make your next dinner party even more special!

Here are some luxury foods ideas to serve your guests on your newly renovated countertops:

Appetizers

Lemon slices, fresh figs, prosciutto-wrapped melon skewers, or shrimp in honey, garlic, and chili sauce are ideal appetizers for your dinner party.

Soup/Salad

Thinly sliced potatoes topped with crème fraîche and sour cream, or sliced tomatoes and cucumbers in a balsamic vinegar dressing would make an excellent soup course. Or serve up classic caesar salad, spinach salad with beets, or chilled seafood salad for your salad course.

Main Course

Serve cedar-plank salmon, beef tenderloin wrapped in bacon, or chicken breasts stuffed with goat cheese, caramelized onions, and basil.

Desert

Skip the traditional chocolate mousse in favor of tiramisu or lemon chiffon cake.

Here are some luxury drink ideas to serve your guests with your newly renovated Beverage Station:

Wine & Beer

Look for wines and beers that complement your menu. If you're going with a seafood entree like salmon, try pairing a nice Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Zinfandel. If you opt for a craft beer try an Amber Ale or IPA.

Water

When preparing water for your guest, try cutting some fruit to infuse your water with. You can add oranges and mint into one, and cucumber and blueberries into another.

Espresso

If you want to go all out for your luxury dinner party, a classic and favorite is offering espresso with dessert. It's an easy add-on and one that helps cleanse the palette as well.

Setting your kitchen apart from the rest and creating an ambiance for your guest

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. It's where you cook, eat and spend a lot of time with family and friends. So it pays to make this room as special as possible.

When it comes to renovating your kitchen, don't forget about the little things that can make a big difference. Adding a beverage station or luxury food items can elevate your party from ordinary to extraordinary. With just a few changes, you can create an inviting and luxurious space where your guests will love to gather and enjoy amazing food and drinks.

Guest Contributor: Andrew Adams

How to Pick furniture from an Online Shop

Whether you have moved into a new home or house or are remodeling and redecorating your current one, you will need new furniture. You will maybe choose where to buy your furniture based on your financial strength. However, you could marry your need for more excellent furniture with a desire also to obtain the best discounts available.

Then, go shopping online. Interiorbeat.com will get you unique and inexpensive furniture and the best possible deals, and you can save quite a bundle. This option will enable you to furnish your house with the best furniture on the planet. In addition, it will keep your stress levels in check while you are furniture hunting.

Here is how to pick your furniture from your online furniture store.

Research on the Company

The internet is like this big global market without restrictions on who comes on board. Therefore, not every online shop is reliable or reputable. So, research and read about the company you choose. Also, take a close look at the shipping costs and the return policy.

Skim through the Furniture Photos

Although it can be exciting to shop online for furniture, it can also be nerve-wracking. To cut down on the stress, look carefully at the photos. Are you looking for living room furniture? Then select images of the living room furniture store. If you want to furnish your bedroom, check out pictures from a bedroom furniture store.

Maybe you intend to furnish an outdoor setting. An outdoor furniture store will come in handy. Search for photos in home furniture stores, and then take your pick. 

You will find variety by searching the relevant furniture store. Even the Office furniture store will be available on your search. Some stores like https://interiorbeat.com/ have furniture from over fifty different retailers on their site.

Read the Descriptions

Furniture companies choose their wording carefully, so read the descriptions. You will gauge poor-quality furniture from good-quality ones using these descriptions. You will also note that composite and synthetic wood are of lower quality than solid wood.

Click on any links on tabs availed by the shop. These will lead you to specifications, durability, and cleaning instructions.

Check the Measurements

The furniture pieces will not just fit where you want them. You must check the measurements carefully before buying. Double-check your room's sizes too. 

If the measurements are not provided, call the websites and ask for them. Remember, furniture for upstairs rooms must fit the stairway, or you will have to pull it up using ropes.

Be Careful with the Colors

The colors provided by your online furniture store, and especially the living room furniture store, could be exaggerated or distorted. Darker colors like the modern-favored expresso tend to look lighter online. Look at the colors from different computers to be sure.

Be Wary of The Pricing

Shopping online will save you money, but you must be willing to get down to comparing and contrasting prices. Compare prices from three or four online furniture stores before making a decision.

Remember also to account for shipping and any tax charges. Consider the cost of returning should you need to return it.

Look for Sales and Coupons

Retailers on the internet offer sales and coupons to get people to visit their site. Take advantage of these deals and the considerable discounts. Interiorbeat.com will offer you excellent deals for the furniture you need when you need it. 

Parting Shot

Finding furniture online is stressful and time-consuming. However, it is still the best way to acquire amazing furniture at the best prices for your house. You can also get the best deals and capitalize on the sales discounts.

Finally, you can acquire coupons and use them for your online furniture store shopping. Interiorbeat.com will offer you the best deal.

Guest Contributor: Jordan Evan

What Size Ladder Do You Need to Clean Gutters?

The gutter section of your house tends to get dirty, now and then. A dirty gutter can cause damage to your home. So keeping those dirty gutters clean is crucial. But sometimes reaching your home’s gutter can be a struggle. In such cases, a right-sized ladder can help you with that. 

You might want to know how exactly you find out what is the right sized ladder for your gutter?

Well, first you have to measure the height of your gutter, then decide the ladder size. Also, you should consider the type of ladder you are going to use for gutter cleaning.

However, here, we’ll discuss every aspect of gutter cleaning with a ladder in detail and show you exactly how you can do it.

What Is Gutter Cleaning, and Why Is it Important?

Gutter Cleaning refers to the process of clearing out tree leaves, dirt, and other debris from your home’s gutter place. It helps to prevent any clog on the gutter. So that the rainwater can flow smoothly without getting stuck in the gutter and causing water damage to your home.

It’s pretty essential to keep your gutter clean and clean. As you know the gutter system is there to create a panel from your roof to the ground. A dirty gutter panel can disturb the water flow and prevent the gutter system from working efficiently.

Now let's talk about a few benefits of gutter cleaning, this will help you to have a better understanding of its importance.

●     A clean gutter helps to redirect the rainwater away from your house.

●     Keep your windows and window sills dry by minimizing the moisture.

●     Protect your home’s interior and exterior ceilings from getting damaged.

●     Helps to keep your home’s roof construction intact for a long time.

●     It also prevents cracks, uneven flooring on your home’s foundation. 

Selecting the Right Sized Ladder For Gutter Cleaning

You know it by now, a right-sized ladder plays a crucial role in cleaning your home’s gutter. Few things you need to consider while getting a ladder that suited perfectly to your needs. Such as what kind of building you’re staying in, the distance of the gutter from the ground, etc. 

For example, the step ladder is great if you’re working on a single-storied building. The good thing about a step ladder is you can add an extension as per your requirement to reach the gutter. 

Remember, you can’t just use any ladder, the ladder must help you reach the gutter. A ladder that’s too big or too small can’t help you do that. That’s why you have to choose a  ladder for gutter cleaning that will fulfill your needs.  

In the following segment, we’ll talk about what exactly you need to find a suitable ladder for your gutter cleaning work.

Gutter Distance Measurement

Before you can select a ladder for your gutter for cleaning work, first you need to measure the distance from the gutter to the ground. A general one-storied build’s gutter has a length of 10.8 feet long from the ground. And the two-storied building's distance is about 18.7 feet long.

We recommend you should buy a ladder that has extension capability, like a double extended ladder. So that you can add extensions as per your needs. But for instance, a ladder that covers about 26.2 feet long should cover about two-storied buildings. 

Don’t worry if the ladder is too long; this extended ladder comes with folding capability. So that you can unfold as much as you require and keep it in a locked place, you can also take the proper measurement of your building to be sure of what length of ladder you require.

Ladder Standoff if Needed 

If your building’s gutter is too close to the roof, it may cause some trouble while cleaning with a regular ladder. Generally, the gutters are made out of plastic and can’t handle the full pressure of the ladder with you on it. So it’s a good idea to use a standoff with the ladder while cleaning up your gutter. 

A standoff is basically a horizontal stand that helps to clean the gutter without putting any pressure on your building gutter. It really comes in handy while cleaning the drain because you can’t always worry about breaking the gutter while cleaning it. 

Ladder Stabilizer

A ladder stabilizer is a support system that keeps the ladder in one place. It also helps you become independent while cleaning the gutter. Because you can’t always find someone to hold the ladder steady while you’re cleaning the gutter. Sometimes the extension ladder doesn’t have the stabilizer on board.

For such cases, you can buy a combined ladder that comes with a stabilizing bar; you add a stabilizer to the extension ladder in the get-go. A ladder stabilizer helps you put your ladder on any surface, whether it’s stone, wood, or mud. This action makes the gutter cleaning process much more manageable.

Using a Ladder to Clean the Gutter Safely

You need to be careful while cleaning up your home’s gutter place. Keeping your safety in mind, we’d suggest you use a ladder to do the cleaning. A ladder helps you stay in a balanced state while cleaning the waste from the gutter.  

Now let’s talk about some safety measures that you can take before you start cleaning your home’s gutter.

Before you start

A simple reminder before you start because you just can’t forget about your health. Who knows what kind of rubles are hidden in the gutter. So before you start the cleaning process, you can follow the following safety tips to avoid any harm to yourself.

Surrounding Awareness

First and foremost, you need to be aware of what surrounds the gutter place. For example, there could be power cables lying around the gutter, and the drain tends to get wet from time to time. So, it’s not a good idea to stick your hand on something without checking your surroundings. Check if there is an active power cable nearby, if so you need to shut down the power line and start your cleaning process.    

Usage Protective Gears

You can use a few protective gears to shield yourself from the harmful debris that lies in the gutter. Such as:

●     Hand Globes
You need a pair of good-quality hand globes. It will protect your hand from any kind of bacteria that lies in the gutter because of bugs, bird or animal litter, and stuff.

●      Eye Gear
While you’re cleaning out the rubles from your home’s gutter place, the debris tends to get into your eye. So, to protect your eyesight and avoid any damage, eye gear is really crucial.

●     Rubber Shoes

A pair of rubber shoes can help you keep a stable balance on it while climbing up the ladder to clean the gutter. It helps to improve your foot’s grip on the ladder, preventing any falling accident.

Keeping all that aside, let's talk about how to choose the right sized ladder for cleaning up the litter from your home’s gutter.

How to Use a Ladder (tips & Tricks)

Using a ladder to clean up the gutter from your home seems easy enough, right? We have gathered some tips and tricks that’ll make your cleaning process much more manageable. The tricks and tricks are as follows;

●     When you keep the ladder by the gutter, make sure you put it at the right angle. Otherwise, you might lose your balance and fall thus, causing severe injuries to yourself.

●     Before using the ladder, you should check the ladder's condition first. Like every object, a ladder can develop problems over-times. 

●     While climbing up the ladder, be careful and don’t step further than one step. This action can cause you to slip and fall to your doom.

Last words

Your safety should be your main concern while cleaning your household gutter. Selecting a top-quality ladder can provide you with proper safety. If you consider the mentioned safety procedures while using the ladder for cleaning your gutter, there is less chance of endangering yourself while cleaning.

Lastly, you must always consider using a ladder that matches the length of your gutter. I meant using a ladder that helps you reach your home’s gutter with ease. Then again, don’t forget that you should add a standoff and stabilizing extension with your ladder to get the best result to get the best possible result. In doing so, you can ensure the maximum amount of safety for yourself.

Guest Contributor: Bernita Fregoso