To Refinish Or Replace? Assessing The Scale Of Your Home Projects

Homeownership comes with its joys and its challenges. One reality all owners must face is that, eventually, everything will need mending. As such, it pays to understand which factors will push you into either repairing an existing feature and those indicating a replacement is in order.

Let’s start with the flooring. Have you noticed wear and tear on the hardwood floors or tiles in the bathroom? These indicators could mean it’s time for a refinish. For hardwood floors, you’ll want to inspect the boards for scratches, dents, sun damage causing discoloration and water damage. If these seem manageable and mainly cosmetic, you could refinish the surface by hiring professionals to sand and apply a fresh coat of polyurethane.

However, if the floors show significant damage that cannot be patched or covered, especially if there is water damage affecting the baseboards, it may be time to replace. Another indicator that replacement is necessary is the height of the boards. Resurfacing requires a thick enough surface and if you’re down to the nails, sanding and refinishing just won’t be possible.

For further examples of home projects and how to assess the scale of work needed, please see the accompanying resource.

Refinish or Replace from Coldstream, a Cincinnati luxury vinyl plank installation company

How to Identify and Handle Different Types of Water Damage

Water damage in your home or apartment can be a frustrating experience due to the problems that result from it, not the mention the health risks. Regardless of the cause, learning how to identify and fix water damage before it becomes a larger issue can save you time and money in the future.

What is Water Damage?

The term water damage broadly refers to any type of physical damage caused to a property that has come into direct contact with water. The specific cause of the damage doesn’t matter, as water damage can occur naturally due to hurricanes or floods, and it may occur non-naturally such as when a pipe breaks.

Just minutes after water damage begins to affect a home, the contamination will start to spread to the surrounding walls, floors, and ceilings. Water will be absorbed by these parts of the home, and they will begin to swell within a few hours while creating an unpleasant odor. Days after exposure to water, these parts of your home can develop mold and start to decay.

Finally, the health risk associated with water damage in a home may become so bad that you will be forced to leave your home until the property has been gutted and rebuilt from the inside out.

Common Signs of Water Damage

The average cost of restoring water damage is $2-3 per square foot, which goes to show the importance of spotting water damage before it starts to spread. To that end, learning the common signs of water damage can help you understand when to contact a professional. Below are some of the quick ways to identify if water damage has occurred:

·       Visible mold growth is occurring around areas in the home close to where water damage happened

·       Musty smells start to grow stronger over time, which can be a result of water damage in a dark, hidden part of the home

·       Paint and wallpaper beings to peel around the home after a storm or accident involving water

·       Your floors, walls, and ceiling being to warp over time

·       Your utility bills suddenly skyrocket for no apparent reason

6 Ways to Address Water Damage

Fixing issues related to water damage can seem challenging on the surface, but the following six tips can help you solve the issue quickly:

1.   Inspect for any molding

In most cases, mold will begin to start in the seams of floors and ceilings when water damage has occurred. If you notice a musty smell, consider opening all the doors and looking under all your furniture. Mold will enjoy growing in dark and damp places, so keep this in mind as you search your home.

2.   Dry out the affected area

If you know where the water damage occurred, such as a storm or burst pipe, immediately focus on drying out the area. Use towels, sunlight, or whatever you can to reduce the amount of water being soaked up by the surrounding area. Every bit you get dry will help reduce the risk of more damage occurring.

3.   Contact a professional for cleaning

If the water damage is far too extensive, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help. Certified restorationists can successfully clear out the area and dry it quickly so that you don’t need to worry about long-lasting problems.

4.   Disinfect any remaining materials

Water damage can cause bacteria to build up in the walls, floors, and ceiling of your home. Disinfect any area that has been impacted by water damage to help ensure that any health risks are reduced.

5.   Replace any damaged wood

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, damp surfaces that are cleaned within 24-48 hours have a low likelihood of molding. However, if the wood in your home has been exposed to water damage for longer than this, it’s best to replace all of the wood with new slabs.

6.   Focus your attention on ceiling water damage repair first

Due to the effects of gravity, a water damaged ceiling can be the most dangerous part of a home. To avoid your ceiling collapsing from compromised wood, handle any water damage affecting the ceiling first.

Fix your household water damage today

Don’t settle for a home that is ruined by the effects of water damage. While dealing with this issue can seem frustrating in the moment, you’ll thank yourself later down the line due to all the money you’ll save. Reach out to a professional in your area if you think your home has water damage and want to get the problem solved sooner, rather than later.

Guest Contributor: Susan Melony

How To Save Up For Your Dream Renovation

As homeowners, most of us certainly have a long list of upgrades and home improvements that we wish to get sooner or later – whether it's for the purpose of upping the resale value of your home or finally making your dream home into a reality. However, speaking of reality, home renovations can be expensive and time-consuming. It will take some saving and some sacrificing to make it happen. But the good news is that you can make it happen – and this article will list down a few ways to save up for your dream home renovation. Let's get started.

Ask around

Get a precise, realistic estimate of the total cost of your home improvement project. Consult with contractors and price out the materials you intend to use. If you are going to improve your heating or air conditioning, ask your contractor how to get an affordable HVAC system. Inquire with other homeowners in your area about their spending plans for similar projects. Once you've determined how much you need to save, leave some wiggle room for the inevitable surprises that always seem to occur.

Create a renovation budget

Creating a renovation budget is one of the ways to save money for house renovations. This entails calculating the cost of your renovation and then dividing that figure by the months remaining until completion. This will provide you with a monthly budget to help you plan your spending.

Your budget will be determined by the scope of your renovation (new bedroom versus a total house makeover). But here are some things to think about:

• Any permissions? (especially for external works or heritage-listed properties)

• The cost of hiring a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or painter

• Removal of old materials and demolition

• Skip hire (for throwing out heavy rubbish)

• new fixtures (taps, handles, lights)

• Cable management, especially if you plan to update or add new electrical or network cabling

• brand-new appliances

• Paint

• Tiles for the floor and walls

• Blinds and curtains

• If you need to leave for a few days or weeks, you'd have to find temporary housing

You can also use your renovation budget to put money aside in a monthly savings account. This will ensure that you have the necessary funds when you need them and some elbow room if your costs get higher than expected.

Open a separate savings account

Home renovation is a financial goal you want to achieve strategically, and a good strategy is to open a savings account solely for your renovation expenses. A dedicated fund will allow you to keep track of your savings goals and progress and eliminate the temptation to use your savings for other purposes.

Set realistic goals

You're renovating a home, not a hotel. Gold faucets, chandeliers, and extensive landscaping would be visually appealing, but they are optional and realistic. Being realistic does not imply being boring, though. There are numerous creative solutions and cost-effective suppliers for outfitting your home – factory seconds and surplus stock clearance centers, to name a few.

Be patient

Don't feel obligated to renovate every room at a time. If you only have enough money to redo the bathroom and not the kitchen, resist the urge to go overboard.

You can also save money on materials and appliances by waiting for sales if you are not in a hurry. Major department stores, lighting stores, and plumbing and tile stores have regular deals that can help you stay within your budget.

Learn some new skills and prepare to DIY

While saving for your home improvement project, learn some DIY skills that will help you save money on contractors. For example, instead of hiring a professional painter, you could do the painting yourself or learn how to install tiles. Choose something that interests you, and you may discover a new hobby in addition to savings.

Manage your expectations on the costs

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when renovating their homes is underestimating the project's costs. Everything, including architect fees, the cost of drawing up new plans, contractor costs, and the actual cost of any new fixtures and materials, must be factored into the price of the improvement. Is your architect using 3d visualizers? Do you need to pay for temporary storage for your furniture and appliances during the renovation? These are just some things you need to consider to ensure you get a more accurate estimate of the costs.

Final thoughts

If your savings plan does not work out as planned, despite your best efforts, you can always scale back your home improvement project and still benefit from some updates. Instead of replacing outdated kitchen cabinets, refinish them, or install new countertops instead of remodeling the entire kitchen. Instead of spending money on new fixtures, replace the bathroom floor and paint the walls. Take your project in stages and make minor improvements as your budget allows.

Guest Contributor: Bash Sarmiento

Key Areas to Focus on While Creating a Plumber Resume in 2023

If you want to become a plumber, it is necessary to create the best resume showcasing your qualifications to help employers better understand how your expertise will help their company. By learning about the key areas and elements, you can create the best resume and easily acquire the plumbing position. This post will tell you about the things to add to your plumber resume and the best examples to build a quality resume to impress potential employers.

Skills Section

When writing the best plumbing resume, you will have to emphasize your skills, which are the greatest asset. Make sure to highlight your skills and show them off. The longer you stay in the field, the more competitive edge you will obtain. If you are an experienced plumber, the best option is to cherry-pick the skills you use often and position them at the top of the list. If you are well-experienced in a single area or you want to apply for a specific position, it is necessary to highlight these relevant skills and show your expertise in the field.

Hard Skills Vs. Soft Skills

There are two different types of skill sets you should highlight in the resume, such as:

Hard Skills

When it comes to plumbing jobs, the difference between hard and soft skills is clear. Hard skills need the tool or the specialized knowledge, whereas soft skills are the personality traits and strengths when working with others. Following are the hard skills you should highlight in your resume:

• Installation, management, and cleaning of the sewer systems and the storm drains.

• Installation and accurate measurement under the flooring and above metal, PVC, and copper pipe ceilings.

• Welding, soldering, and adding adhesives, caulk, and sealants.

• Replacement and installation of toilets, sinks, washing machines, and other appliances.

• Cleaning, unclogging, and dislodging the objects from the toilets, pipes, and sinks.

Following are the soft skills to add to your plumber resume:

• Great communication skills.

• State building code compliant.

• Good working stamina and physical fitness.

• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

• Follows all the safety regulations.

• Dependable.

Employment History

Another key area to put more emphasis on is employment history. Hiring managers are looking for someone with previous experience assessing your field competency. After completing the apprenticeship will take some years of job experience before the plumber has mastered the skills. The employment history is proof of your skill sets; it is a great section where you can get into the details about your skills and what you do.

If you want to add the skills, use the reverse chronological order. In this, you will add your recent experience at the top. Adding some numbers will be the best way to strengthen your experience. How many hours and customers can you serve in a general week? During the new construction project, you should state how many plumbing fixtures you can install in a day.

Remember to add the complementary tasks you may have done, such as caulking, welding, repairing, and cutting the walls. Pay attention to details while offering additional value to your residential customers.

Education

Whether you have completed the apprenticeship or other training, plumbing education is another crucial aspect of the resume. Every municipality and state needs an exam and license process before you can officially work as a plumber. While the requirements vary from place to place, learning a trade via an apprenticeship program is among the common ways of preparing for an exam.

When it comes to being a plumber, the experience levels are divided into three labels such as apprentice, intermediate, and expert. The plumbing apprentice is someone who learns from a certified plumber. After completing the exam and getting the license, the apprentice will become a journeyman who can work without supervision.

Although the demand for plumbers is high, getting a job after completing an apprenticeship can be competitive. Many people are interested in the job and drop out of the program when things get tough. After the apprenticeship, you should commit to about 4-5 years of training. When making the resume, highlight your experience and how many hours of work you have devoted throughout your career.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you have learned to tailor your resume to the specific skills needed for commercial plumbing and how it can enhance your chances of securing a job. With these tips in mind, build the best plumbing resume or use the template to save time.

These Things Could Be Affecting The Humidity In Your Home

Maintaining the humidity in your home will prevent damp, mold, and dust. You and your family are also less likely to experience respiratory problems. Studies have found that the ideal indoor humidity level is between 30 and 50%. But there are things you could be inadvertently doing that could be affecting the humidity in your home. So, what should you be aware of and how do you keep the humidity in your home just right?

There's a leak

A damaged or broken pipe will increase the moisture in your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that the typical household wastes 10,000 gallons of water in leaks every year. Even if half of this wasted water makes it into your home, the humidity levels will soar. The first thing you should do is look in common areas for leaks, such as around the sink, shower, or washing machine. If you can’t determine the cause, call in a professional plumber. They’ll use their expertise to identify the source of the leak and repair the issue. You can then do things, such as opening the windows and running the air conditioning unit, to reduce the humidity in your home.

The air-con or heating is on too often

91% of US households have air-con. Air-con is good for reducing humidity levels, but it can also cause it to drop too low. On a hot day, it’s easy to leave the air-con running for hours in a bid to keep your home cool. But, the problem with this is that the humidity could drop below 30%. One way to maintain humidity levels while your air-con is on is to use a humidifier. Humidity levels can also drop too low when the heating is on for long periods. Heating dries out the air and puts you at risk of dry skin, scratchy throat, or allergy symptoms. A whole house humidifier can be attached to your ductwork to keep the humidity in your home stable and to tackle dryness. This will blow moist air into your home so you haven’t got to worry about your home being an unsafe environment.

Your showers are too hot

The hotter the temperature of your shower, the more the humidity will rise. Thankfully, there are lots of things you can do to control this. First of all, dropping the temperature a few degrees and shortening your shower by a few minutes can make all the difference. While you’re showering, open the window in your bathroom and run the extractor fan. When you’ve finished, wipe down all surfaces, including the tiles, floor, and shower screen, to remove as much water as possible.

Humidity is a tricky issue that people often find tough to get right. By adjusting your lifestyle, keeping an eye out for plumbing issues, and actively managing it with appliances and technology, you can ensure the humidity in your home is as stable as possible.

Guest Contributor: Alicia Rennoll

How to Write a Plumber Cover Letter in 2023?

The resume is the must-have option when you are looking for a new job/project and want to be noticed by recruiters quickly. But there is one more essential thing you should do to speed up the job-looking process and get the project of your dreams. And this is a cover letter.

Usually, you have a few seconds to catch the attention of the recruiter reading your resume. Sending a cover letter says that you've shown great interest in the position, and it can become a decisive factor in the end.

Outlining that you're a good plumber and your skill set can make a good impression with a cover letter. We'll share with you everything you need to know to write the perfect cover letter that will get you an interview.

What do you need to write in a plumber's cover letter?

A cover letter is a document you add to your resume to explain how your skills and experience will benefit a future employer.

It is a good idea to include your fundamental competencies, work experience, and qualifications. Indicate what specific skills you possess: high school diploma, certification, professional training. Also, you should add relevant experience with different types of plumbing systems like writers from the best writing services reviews All Top Reviews note the pieces of content they work with, knowledge of drawings and building standards, good communication skills, and so on.

How to write a cover letter for a plumber?

Let's briefly examine what a cover letter should consist of.

1. Introduction: a greeting and an opening paragraph. You need to attract attention and explain why you are applying for the position. This section consists of a title, a welcome message, and an opening paragraph.

2. Main part: tell why you are the ideal candidate. Write a couple of paragraphs that highlight your relevant skills and specialized knowledge that you have and that are ideal for the position. Argue how you can solve the company's problems, show your enthusiasm, and that you will be a great addition to the team. Give specific facts and key figures to support the successes you've achieved.

3. Conclusion: a call to action. Conclude your letter with a couple of laconic sentences, being thankful for reading the letter and offering to contact you—this is what we name a call to action. For example, write that you are happy to meet in person to fully discuss your expertise, experience, and what profit you can bring to the company. This part of the cover letter should be short and to the point.

The important tips for writing a plumber's cover letter

Use a cover letter to expand your resume rather than repeating it

The cover letter should be the icing on the cake of your professional business card. So don't repeat information from your resume, but explain in your own words why your qualifications make you the best candidate for a particular position. Use real facts to emphasize your skills and how your previous experience will benefit the company.

Check your writing spelling and grammar

First impressions are important, and a cover letter with spelling and grammatical errors can ruin it. The literate text indicates that the candidate is well-educated, attentive to detail, and a neat person. And it also shows basic respect. Do yourself a favor and be sure to check your cover letter through checking services like Grammarly, and let a friend or a professional editor from the writing services Trust My Paper read it.

Use no copies and templates

Let's be honest, most people who are writing a cover letter for the first time don't know how to do it properly, so they look for ready-made templates on Google. And that's normal practice, but there are a few nuances.

Imagine how many other candidates might take that same example from a search engine and send it to a hiring manager. Lots. So it's a failed tactic. Stick to the appropriate cover letter format as required by the company, but avoid standard text. If you use a template, it's for the structure, not the content. Try to tell your story originally.

Show your confidence

The end of your cover letter should be the most interesting part of the text. End it with an extravagant paragraph that demonstrates your passion for the job, motivation, and ability to benefit your future employer. That is, the recruiter should read it and weep with happiness because this should be the letter of the best candidate who shares the mission of the company.

To sum up

At first sight, it may seem that writing a cover letter is not an easy thing to do. But you just need to be honest and consistent about your best qualities as a professional worker, to establish yourself on the best side. We hope these tips will help you get the job of your dreams.

Guest Contributor: Frank Hamilton

4 Beautiful Ways to Add Character to Your Home

When it comes to interior design, everyone has their preferences. There’s bound to be a certain look that you’re naturally attracted to and that makes you feel inspired. And the good news about interior design is that nothing has to be permanent, so the way your house looks right now isn’t the way it has to stay.

If you’ve been flipping through home design magazines and online looking for inspiration as of late, and you’ve come to the conclusion your home is lacking in character, then there are plenty of things you can do. Here are four beautiful ways to add character to your home.

Install an Intricate Ceiling Medallion

One thing that older homes are famous for is the lovely ceiling medallions in such spaces as the living room and even the bedroom. They instantly add interest to the space and they are the kind of feature that homeowners love to show off. The good news is that this is something homeowners can add and it can be done in a way that it looks like it was part of the home, and part of the original design.

This architectural detail is typically used in conjunction with a drop lighting fixture such as a chandelier or pendant light. They can be installed by you if you're somewhat handy, or you can hire a professional.

Replace Your Fireplace Mantel with an Antique Model

For those who have a fireplace in their home, you can also transform it into something beautiful with more character. Adding a mantel or hearth will make it appear older and as though it has a story behind it, even if you're in a newer build home. You want your fireplace to stand out for all the right reasons in the room. Marble, slate, tile, cast iron and wood are just some of the materials you'll be able to choose from. Shops such as Stonewoods make it possible for you to reimagine your fireplace.

Vintage Hardware Will Make a Big Statement

The hardware in your home is a really simple update that will bring instant character to the space. Get rid of all the modern or basic-looking hardware and replace them with vintage pulls and knobs. Doing this in the kitchen can give the illusion of brand-new cupboards and an even more customised look.

Get Strategic with Window Treatments

For those of you who love the look of high ceilings in more traditional and classic homes, you can create that same illusion in your house. It's all about strategic window covering placement. Instead of hanging drapes that fit with the window frame, install the curtain rod at the ceiling height and use full-length drapes.

By spanning ceiling to floor it makes the window appear much larger than it is, giving the room that beautiful character that you’re after. You are tricking the eye with this design update.

It’s all about putting on your thinking cap, getting creative and finding little areas that you can update in the home to give it more character.

These Tips Will Save Your Carpets & Rugs When They’re Water Damaged

Carpets and rugs are great for making your home feel warm and cozy. Problems usually only occur with carpets and rugs if they get excessively wet. Unfortunately, 14,000 people’s homes experience water damage every day. Bad weather, leaking pipes, blocked drains, and old and faulty appliances are common causes of water damage. So, if the carpets in your home get flooded with water, what should you do?

Empty the room

First of all, don’t panic. The good news is that if the water is clean water and you’re sure of the source, your carpets and rugs can be salvaged. Gray water and black water are unsanitary. Carpets soaked with gray water can usually be cleaned by a professional. But, black water carpets should be disposed of. When clean water is the problem, quickly empty all items out of the room. Furniture can be ruined if it’s left to sit on a wet carpet. The dye used in soft furnishings can transfer to wet carpets and ruin them too. 

Dry carpets & rugs quickly

Water damaged carpets and rugs are only safe to keep if they’re dried out within 48 hours of being exposed to water. After this time, toxins, such as mold and bacteria, can form and your carpets will become a health risk. The first step is to remove as much of the water from carpets and rugs as possible with towels and a water vacuum. Next, dry the carpet quickly. You can use a combination of a fan, a dehumidifier, and a wet/dry vacuum to do this. 

Clean & disinfect

Cleaning and disinfecting water damaged carpets and rugs are crucial for removing stains and odors. Smaller rugs can be washed in a washing machine. However, if you’ve got an antique rug, you need to be more cautious. Always do a colorfast test to check for risks of bleeding. If this comes back okay, you can shampoo your vintage rug with a solution made from warm water, rug shampoo, and white vinegar. Place the rug on a flat surface to dry, making sure it’s out of direct sunlight. Cleaning a carpet is a little easier as you can steam clean it and shampoo it to get it back to its best.

Replace carpet padding

It’s best not to try and dry out carpet padding. Carpet padding is very absorbent and there will be a lot of water inside it. Putting a clean, dry carpet on top of padding that has been exposed to excess water is risky. There’s a good chance that mold will grow. In time, this will move into your carpet and ruin it. Another problem is that water will affect the quality of the padding and it’s likely to break. This means the underside of your carpet will wear more easily and could even damage it.

Flooding is a common problem in households up and down the US. As long as you act quickly and know how to recognize carpets and rugs that can be saved, you’ll save yourself a lot of money and hassle.

6 Roofing Tips You'll Want To Know Before A Renovation

Renovating your roof can be a daunting and expensive task, but it doesn't have to be! With the right information and preparation, you can save time and money while ensuring that the job is done properly.  In this article, we will provide six essential tips for anyone considering a renovation of their home's roofing system. From assessing the condition of your existing roof to researching materials and contractors, these practical steps will help you plan ahead for a successful project. So if you're ready to take on a new challenge or simply want to refresh your home's exterior appeal, read on for all the details you need before starting any major renovation work!

1. Assess the Condition of Your Existing Roof

Look for any signs of wood rot, missing or lost shingles, and other structural damage that could cause problems during the renovation process. Have an experienced professional inspect your roof if necessary. Now, experts at helmuthroofing.com agree that it does not always make sense to replace a roof that has life to it yet. However, if significant damage has occurred or if the roof is more than 10 years old, it might be a good idea to consider a replacement. The entire process of roof assessment should be done with caution, so it is best to consult a professional before making any decisions. Especially, if you are interested in a complete overhaul of your roofing system.

2. Research Materials and Contractors

Start by researching the different types of materials available for your roofing project. Consider how long each material will last, as well as its aesthetic appeal and impact on energy efficiency. Also, take into consideration the climate in which you live and any local building codes that may apply. Once you have a better understanding of what is available, it's time to start researching contractors who have experience with the type of roofing work you are looking for. Make sure that any contractor you hire has a good reputation and is properly licensed and insured. Additionally, ask for references and ensure that they are bonded and insured as well.

3. Calculate the Cost of the Project

Before starting any roofing project, it's important to get an accurate estimate of the cost. This includes the materials, labor, and any additional equipment that may be necessary. Research prices for different types of materials and compare them to find the best deal. Additionally, make sure you factor in hiring professional help. Experienced contractors can save time and money in the long run, so it's worth investing in their expertise. Furthermore, make sure you inquire about any discounts or financing options available to help defray the cost of your renovation.

4. Consider Any Building Code Requirements

Depending on where you live, there may be certain codes or regulations that must be followed for any major renovation project. Take the time to understand what is required before starting your work and make sure that your contractor is aware of any applicable rules or laws. This will help ensure that the job is completed properly and legally. Additionally, you should always obtain the proper permits and inspections to guarantee that your new roof meets all local building codes. Moreover, this will help protect both you and your contractor from any possible legal complications.

5. Get Proper Permits Before Starting Work

Before any major renovation project, it is essential to determine the proper permits needed for your project. Different areas will have different requirements and restrictions, so make sure that you check with your local government or building department before beginning work. Having the necessary permits in place will help ensure that the job is done safely and legally. Additionally, these documents provide an extra layer of protection in case any issues arise during the renovation process.

6. Make Sure to Have Adequate Insurance Coverage

Make sure that you have adequate protection in place that will cover any damages or accidents that may occur during the renovation process. Additionally, be aware of any warranties offered by the manufacturer of your materials, as well as any guarantees provided by your contractor. Having this information in place can provide added peace of mind and help protect you from any unexpected costs. 

Taking the time to understand the process, research materials and contractors, calculate the cost of the project, consider building codes, obtain permits, and have adequate insurance coverage will all help ensure that your renovation is a success. With careful planning and preparation, your roofing project can be completed quickly and efficiently, helping you enjoy the results for years to come. Furthermore, having the proper information and knowledge about roofing can help you save time and money, both now and in the future. Ultimately, by taking the time to do your research upfront, you will be able to enjoy a beautiful roof that will last for many years.

10 Tips to Keep Your Home in Tip-Top Shape

Maintaining a home can feel like a full-time job on its own. Between managing other aspects of your life, it's understandable if home maintenance falls through the cracks. However, a home is such a massive investment. You owe it to yourself to keep your home in tip-top shape with the following tips.

1. Cultivate a Daily Cleaning Routine

If you have a busy schedule, it might seem difficult to carve out time to clean your home every day. However, you'd be surprised at how much you can do in 15 minutes. Set the timer for 15 minutes, and solely focus on tidying up the most commonly used areas of your home. By wiping down the countertops and surfaces, sweeping the floor, and putting items in their rightful place, you'll create a great start to a fruitful and consistent cleaning routine.

2. Prioritize Indoor Air Quality

When you're living in your home, you're used to its scent. Therefore, it's easy to get used to a bad smell and not realize it exists. This phenomenon is called nose blindness. By prioritizing indoor air quality, it's much easier to keep a clean scent in the air. Open the windows for 15 minutes each day. Make sure to take out the trash routinely, and address foul odors as soon as you detect them. Instead of burning candles for hours, set up essential oil diffusers to release natural fragrances through the air.

3. Create a Quarterly Maintenance Routine

Whether you hire various service providers or inspect areas on your own, make time for a quarterly maintenance checklist. Whether you're checking the gutters before the fall months or inspecting the HVAC unit before the winter cold comes in, check areas that you'd normally forget about because they're not immediately causing issues.

4. Keep an Eye Out for Industry Changes

Smart technology continues to evolve as people enjoy the benefits of smart refrigerators, lighting systems, and more. Keep an eye out for some of those fun amenities you can add to your home in order to upgrade it. When you incorporate improvements such as tiling by tile roofers in Palm Beach County, you're more likely to find intentional ways to maintain them.

5. Make It Visually Appealing

Maybe the color scheme in your home is less than inspiring. If your home doesn't look great, consider the aesthetics. In fact, it's a great idea to change them. A can of paint can do wonders for the look or appeal of a home. Whether you opt to paint the walls, add some throw pillows, or hang beautiful wooden blinds, cultivate beauty inside of your home. It'll inspire you to treasure your home more.

6. Make Small Improvements Over Time

Don't try to remove the carpet, install hardwood floors and change the stove in one week. Give yourself the space and grace to make improvements over a period of time. Work on one project at a time. As you take your time in beginning and completing projects, home maintenance becomes more manageable.

7. Set Home Improvement Goals

At the beginning of the year, most make resolutions. Instead, consider areas in which you'd like to gradually make improvements. Make home improvement one of the areas you'll work on. Whether you'd like to replace the windows, get a new roof, or get new furniture, write those goals down. Then, create a plan to make those goals turn into your reality over the next 12 months.

8. Host Friends and Family Members

For some reason, many people wait until they have company to clean up. If you know you'll be hosting friends and family in your home, this can serve as a fun incentive to make sure your home is always ready for guests.

9. Set Aside a Specific Budget for Home Maintenance

For many people, home maintenance is more about having the money to pay for the upgrades. In the same way, you'd create a budget for your groceries and utilities, and set aside a certain amount for home improvement projects and maintenance. Also, look for ways to get homeownership grants to cover the costs. Many counties in various states offer incentives for homeowners who want to improve their homes.

10. Create a Digital Vision Board of Inspiration

Without a vision, it's difficult to know how to move forward. Download home decor apps or social media apps like Pinterest in order to get visual inspiration for how you'd like to maintain your home. Peruse the apps once or twice a week to remind yourself to remain inspired to keep your home's maintenance up.

Bottom Line

Take your time in cultivating these tips. Find a rhythm that works for you. Don't be afraid to ask for help. You don't need to DIY the process. By developing a plan that's feasible and realistic for your life, keeping your home in tip-top shape will eventually become an effortless process.

 Guest Contributor: Samantha Higgins