Renovations by Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing

If you didn’t know by now, we do bathroom and kitchen remodels. We have a great group of plumbers who are skilled and know what they’re doing when it comes to upgrading and picking out the best fixtures to bring together the bathroom or kitchen. Logan, Todd, Ramon and Ryan are the best crew that work together to tackle these remodels. If you’re interested in a renovation, give us a call at 708-845-7922 to set up an estimate and get a renovation project started!

Just Bought A New House? Here Are Some Helpful Tips

Buying a new house is one of the biggest events in our lives. However, everything does not end with the mere purchase of the house. Moreover, it is the beginning of a long list of actions that you have to take. In the first place, you need to decorate the interior of the house. This means that you have to get rid of the old things and refresh the house. This consists of getting new furniture and finally decorating the home. Once you finish all this, you can call your home a “sweet home” and feel comfortable in it. 

To that end, here are some helpful tips on how to turn your new house into the home of your dreams!

Cleaning

Once you step your foot into a newly bought house, the first thing you should opt for is a thorough cleaning. This is important because it would make no sense to completely furnish your home without giving it prior cleaning. In that sense, make sure you first get rid of all the old things in the home. Once you get it empty, you can start cleaning freely. Likewise, you can hire cleaning professionals if you think your home needs a really thorough cleaning. After this part is finished, you can freely start furnishing the rooms in the house!

Living room arrangement

Since we spend most of our time in the living room during the day, it should be the object of most investment. Starting with the basic elements, moving on to furniture placement, and finishing with the smallest living room decoration. To that end, you must buy furniture that is both beautiful and comfy if you want your family and visitors to always feel at ease in your living room. 

The quality is crucial, in addition to having a lovely appearance and being comfortable. Quality should always come first if you want your furniture to last as long as possible without experiencing any major or minor issues.

Furniture 

Furniture is a crucial element of any house. However, since there is a great variety on the market of different pieces of furniture, it is sometimes difficult to choose the one that suits your home. Nevertheless, you can start by deciding on the style you want your living room or bedroom to have. If, for example, you prefer the French style or anything similar to it, you may find furniture elements, as seen at HomesDirect365, that can suit your preferences. Once you get the right furniture in your new home, you can finally relax and enjoy it, since everything else will be much easier!

Contemporary armchairs and stools

You can also place a variety of other armchairs in the living room, which you will select based on your needs, in addition to the armchairs that come with the sets. There are various sizes and styles available. You can find armchairs that are incredibly compact, aesthetically pleasing, and well suited to their purpose. They can have slimmer seats, more aesthetically pleasing armrests, and thinner backrests. 

On the other hand, stools are another piece of furniture that may be quite useful and also enhance the appearance of your living space. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, the most popular being round and square. They can also be upholstered in any hue, tone, and material, flat or with buttons. Similarly, stools are useful for storing small items that accumulate in the living room and are particularly great for keeping children's toys organized because they can be made with an opening lid!

Colors

Rarely does anybody dare to do a color experiment in their home because it is typically believed that the color pattern should be in neutral hues. However, if you are one of the individuals who disagree with the norm and your apartment is predominantly decorated with white materials (walls, flooring, some furniture, beams, or components), there are countless design options for you.

First of all, you should be aware that the ambiance in a room is influenced by the contrast between lighting and color, and it is up to you to select the hues that are most comfortable for you. For example, it is good to get a red chair in a white environment, or some other yellow element if you want your area to seem warmer and cozier. In any case, the important thing is that you combine the strong colors of the furniture with the neutral colors of the walls. Likewise, you can use the color effects to manipulate perception. For instance, black can make the item appear smaller than it is, making it ideal for compact areas!

With these tips, your home will soon feel just like the one of your dreams. Good luck!

6 Types Of Renovations To Consider When Moving To A New House

Are you in the process of moving to a new house? If so, you may be wondering what renovations you should consider. There are many different types of renovations that can be made, and it can be difficult to decide which ones are right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss six types of renovations that are commonly made when moving to a new house.

1) Painting

One of the most common types of renovations is painting. This can be a great way to change the look and feel of your new home.

If you are not sure what color to paint your walls, you may want to consider hiring a professional painter. They will be able to help you choose the right colors for your home. Also, if you are not comfortable with painting, they can also do the job for you. Painting is a relatively inexpensive renovation that can have a big impact on the look and feel of your new home. So make sure you consider this option when you are looking at renovations.

2) Flooring

Another common type of renovation is flooring. This is a great way to change the look of your home and make it more comfortable. There are many different types of flooring that you can choose from, so you will need to decide what is right for you. If you have pets, you may want to consider hardwood floors. These are durable and easy to clean. If you have allergies, you may want to consider carpet. Carpet is a great way to trap dust and allergens. But it is important to remember that carpets need to be vacuumed regularly in order to keep them clean. So make sure you take all of these things into consideration when you are choosing your flooring.

3) Kitchen renovation

A kitchen renovation can be a great way to update your new home. If your kitchen is outdated, you may want to consider renovating it. There are many different things that you can do to update your kitchen, including painting the walls, installing new cabinets, and replacing the flooring. If your kitchen is in good condition, you may not need to do a complete renovation. But if it is in need of some updating, you may want to consider this option. Don't forget to consider your budget when you are planning your kitchen renovation. The folks at RebornRenovations.com explain how it is important to discuss all the details and make a full plan to avoid any hidden expenses during or after the renovation. This is one of the most important rooms in your house, so you want to make sure it is perfect and within your budget!

4) Bathroom renovation

Like the kitchen, the bathroom is another room that can be easily updated with a renovation. If your bathroom is outdated or in need of some repair, you may want to consider this option. There are many different things that you can do to update your bathroom, including painting the walls, installing new fixtures, and replacing the flooring. If your bathroom is in good condition, you may not need to do a complete renovation. But if it is in need of some updating, you may want to consider this option. You can also think of some creative ways to update your bathroom on a budget. For example, you can add some new towels or rugs to give it a fresh look.

5) Electrical wiring

Another common type of renovation is electrical wiring. If your home is not up to code, you may want to consider updating the wiring. This is a dangerous job, so it is important to hire a professional electrician to do the work. electrical wiring is a necessary renovation, so make sure you budget for it. For example, professionals recommend that you budget $500 to $1000 for electrical wiring when renovating your home. Also, make sure you get the work done by a professional electrician. This is not a job that you want to do yourself.

6) Roofing

Another common renovation is roofing. If your roof is in need of repair, you may want to consider getting it replaced. This is a big job, so it is important to hire a professional roofer to do the work. For example, professionals recommend that you budget $3000 to $5000 for roofing when renovating your home. So make sure you take this into consideration when you are planning your renovation. Roofing is important because it protects your home. So make sure you get it done right.

Renovations can be a great way to update your new home. There are many different types of renovations that you can consider, including flooring, kitchen renovation, bathroom renovation, electrical wiring, and roofing. It is important to think about your budget when planning your renovations. Make sure you discuss all the details with a professional before starting any renovations. This will help you avoid any hidden expenses. With a little planning, you can renovate your new home on a budget!

Is Your House Showing Wear And Tear? Follow These Tips To Give It Some Shine

People frequently forget about the outside of their homes when they are busy remodeling and decorating the inside. Nonetheless, the outside of a home is perhaps its most crucial component. Being the first thing guests see, it should represent your style and personality. Given the fact that, over time, wear and tear are inevitable, you should seriously consider giving it some shine. To that end, here are some tips on how to give your home some shine!

Clean the gutters

Gutters are an important element of every house since they protect it from rainwater. However, over time, the gutters can easily become filled with leaves, mold, dirt, and other kinds of debris. Such gutters can easily give off a rather negative impression of your house. Likewise, clogged gutters can also lead to water leakage and damage. What is more, your foundation may suffer water damage as a result of damaged gutters!

Nevertheless, you can always give your house its old shine by either changing or cleaning them. Indeed, no one likes cleaning their gutters, but the material may accumulate there during the winter and not become visible until the snow melts. So, on the first sunny day, make sure you clean up any debris and check for leaks. 

Windows 

Windows are one of the key elements of a house. Not only do they provide it with the necessary protection from external effects, but they also give it a good

aesthetic look. However, if your windows and shutters are already dirty and shabby, it is time you replaced (if needed) or cleaned them. Therefore, clean your windows thoroughly so you can take in the springtime blooms both inside and out. 

A decent steam machine may provide astounding results. Additionally, gently remove your screens. Your home's exterior will certainly look much better and shinier! 

Roof examination

The roof is the crown of the house. However, this does not refer to aesthetics alone. In other words, a damaged roof can only lead to further damage to your house. Therefore, it is essential that you have your roof examined and repaired or replaced. Some people with a lot of experience might be able to accomplish this on their own. If you do your own examination, you should search for exposed nail heads, gaps around vents or chimneys, and debris in valleys and up against dormers or chimneys. The ideal substance for covering exposed nails and filling gaps is roofing cement. You might also need to get some shingles replaced. 

On the other hand, instead of experimenting yourself, it is best that you actually hire a professional. To that end, with Matador Exteriors, your roof will be brought back to life, and this will give your entire house a completely new look. Although winter might harm your roof, summer rain storms can take advantage of it to create leaks and water issues. Likewise, in order to prevent water from seeping into your foundations, keep your roof free of leaks.

Clean the garage door

The garage is a great and functional place for a house. It also complements the house’s appearance, especially the door. However, a garage door can have the opposite effect if it is muddy and damaged. To that end, use the same method of pressure washing as with the windows and shutters and give the garage door its old shine, and your house will look nicer as well!

Revive the front door

Upgrading and replacing the front door is one of the simplest ways to brighten up the exterior of your home. Everyone who visits you will encounter the front door, which serves as a miniature representation of your home's face. If the door is too old and shabby, it should be replaced. 

Otherwise, you can just remove it from its hinges, sand it down, and repaint it! But one thing is for certain, once you put your newly painted door in its place, your home will be much more welcoming and livelier! 

Paint the decking 

There is so much you can do yourself in order to enhance the appearance of your home. For example, simply mend any blemishes and damage to your porch and decking for a quick and low-cost remedy. Once it's up to par, cover the upgrades with a couple of coats of durable exterior paint. Also, you may think of adding some newer and livelier colors. This way, your home will look new and you will feel more comfortable in it.

Make sure you implement these awesome pieces of advice and your home will shine in no time!

Top 6 Maintenance Services You Need for Your New Home

Congratulations on your new house! Now that construction and the paperwork are in order, you’re ready to move into your new home.

But before you can get settled and begin living a peaceful life there, you must first plan for home maintenance.

Like people, your house needs regular check-ups for its upkeep. It is also crucial in maintaining efficiency in your home, not to mention it helps you save money from costly repairs down the road.

Moreover, maintenance increases property value, albeit indirectly. It is also crucial for your home warranties since those don’t usually cover wear due to neglect and lack of care.

In short, you need plenty of professional help in keeping your home in tip-top shape. Besides the occasional repairs, your home would fare better through the years with the top six maintenance services listed below:

1.  AC Servicing

Air conditioning is a godsend innovation, especially in countries with warm climates like the United Arab Emirates. This is because an AC not only helps keep you comfortable inside your home but it also enhances the quality of air you breathe indoors.

Besides enjoying its extensive benefits longer, maintaining your AC system supports better energy efficiency and reduces repair costs.

Ideally, you need to have your AC serviced every six months. Professionals who offer this type of service keep the air-conditioning system in good shape by performing the following tasks:

●      Assessing cooling efficiency

●      Checking and disinfecting air-conditioning components

●      Inspecting the condition of the thermostat

●      Evaluating airflow balance

●      Providing recommendations on repairs that may be needed

Take note that AC maintenance may need to be performed more frequently because of heavier use due to the warm weather. Likewise, HVAC filters must be replaced every one to two months during summer.

Besides AC maintenance check-ups, you may also require other services focused on the specific parts of your air-conditioning system, such as:

Duct Cleaning

Experts recommend performing monthly duct cleaning to maintain good airflow and AC efficiency. However, it can also be carried out if one or more of the following signs emerge before the scheduled maintenance:

●      Visible accumulation of dirt on the AC vents

●      Retention of foul-smelling odours inside the house

●      Allergy symptoms

●      Respiratory issues

Coil Cleaning

Besides the air ducts, the coils also need particular attention to ensure that your AC works optimally for longer.

Like the air ducts, they also affect how well the air conditioning system can eliminate foul odours, improve airflow and air quality, and ensure efficiency.

Some of the signs that indicate the need for coil cleaning are:

●      Insufficient cooling

●      Reduced airflow

●      Water leaks from the coil

●      Frozen evaporator coils

2.  Plumbing Services

Besides your air conditioning, another system you should remember to maintain in your new home is the plumbing.

A well-maintained plumbing system supports hygiene while ensuring efficient water use. In most cases, it also aids in reducing water consumption, especially in desert cities like Dubai.

Of course, it’s not just the amount of water used up that should matter. You also need to pay heed to the health of the water pipes and other plumbing components and watch out for any signs of leakage. If you find any in the toilet or sink, make sure to have those fixed immediately.

Also, check if water pressure is optimal because the plumbing connections, pipes, and appliances could get busted if it’s too high. Plus, having too-high water pressure can waste massive amounts of precious water.

3.  Water Tank Cleaning

You also need to have your water tank cleaned periodically – ideally once every six months. This will ensure optimal performance from your tank and pump system.

This expert cleaning service also prevents debris build-up and keeps your water clean and safe to drink. Also, it could potentially extend the lifespan of your water tank and reduce repair costs at the same time.

Some of the tasks included in water tank cleaning services include:

●      Inspection

●      Mechanical and pressure washer cleaning

●      Disinfection

4.  Handyman

Most handyman service providers cover a variety of tasks applied across the entire house. They can handle almost anything, including the occasional grout and caulking, repainting, repairs, and even appliance installation and furniture assembly right after your move.

Although there’s no set schedule for these tasks, having a professional handyman on your contacts list could prove useful when the time comes. This is especially true a couple of months to a year into your new home, when it’s time to regrout or replace your bathroom or kitchen tiles.

These experts can also help recaulk your bathroom, which prevents moisture damage to the walls and floor (or ceiling if the bathroom is on the upper floor).

Besides this, your trusted handyman can also help perform roof inspections to ensure that there are no damaged shingles or blocked gutters. This particular task should never be included in your do-it-yourself home projects, as it can be dangerous without the proper safety gear, skill, and experience that qualified experts have.

Some of these professionals also handle:

●      Inspection and repair of seals around windows and doors

●      Smoke alarm installation and maintenance

5.  Painting Services

Typically done during springtime, painting and repainting are vital aspects of house maintenance.

Covering cracks and peels with a fresh coat of paint keeps moisture at bay. As a bonus, it also refreshes your home and serves as an opportune time to update its appearance.

Repainting can be done every five years or so, but that would still depend on the condition of your house. To be sure, watch out for the following signs that indicate the need for a repaint:

●      Fading exterior or interior paint

●      Deep stains on the walls or ceilings

●      Peeling paint

Repainting is also a great way to boost the value of your property in case you plan to put it up for sale.

6.  Electrical Services

Many things in your house are powered by electricity, which means you’ll need a qualified electrician in your phonebook should repairs be needed.

Remember to leave electrical work to qualified professionals, as most of these tasks could be dangerous when performed without the skill and experience required for the job.

Among the things that merit a call to a licensed electrician include:

●      Power surges

●      Busted light fixtures

●      Lights that burn out frequently

●      Sagging voltage

●      Dead outlets

●      Circuit breaker trips

Live Comfortably in Your New Home

Like people, a house needs regular check-ups as part of its upkeep.

A well-cared-for home not only helps you save on repair costs but also allows you to live comfortably in it with your family.

Guest Contributor: Chiyako Ikeda

How Roof Inspections Are Done Throughout The Year

Roof maintenance is vital for protection against harsh weather and to enhance the comfort of your home.

Given the functions and location, your roof faces a high exposure to the elements.Damage and deterioration are bound to happen over time. You don’t want to wait until you notice a significant hitch before calling a roof maintenance company.

We’ll explain what a roof inspection is, when it’s needed, and why you should consider getting one.

What Is a Roof Inspection?

A roof inspection is a series of checks that roofers perform to determine your roof’s structural integrity. After this process takes place, you’ll have a clear picture of several factors that include:

• Your roof’s relative age and lifespan

• Whether you need roof repairs

• Whether you need to invest in a replacement roof

When Should You Have a Roof Inspected?

 Schedule reschedule inspections and maintenance with your roofers, even if you don’t suspect any problems. Some seasons and situations increase the need for assessment even if your roof isn’t due for a scheduled inspection. You should request a roof inspection before potential damages worsen and you’re on the hook for major repairs.

Roof work is often done in warm weather, so schedule your inspection before the cold weather sets in. Late summer and early fall are ideal times to repair a roof, so try to get an assessment around these seasons, unless you have an emergency. This way, you can ensure your gutters and roof are in good condition before winter begins.

Winter is associated with snow and ice dams that form on poorly insulated roofs or roofs that don’t shed water and debris properly. If your reason for inspection is to catch potential problems before winter, don’t wait until the onset of winter. 

Other than seasonal changes, several different situations can also call for a roof inspection.

After a Storm

Storms and their associated winds can damage your roof and roof components. Schedule a roof inspection from a professional inspector and your insurance company if you suspect this to be the case. You can get an accurate estimate of needed repairs as well as a report of the damage to file an insurance claim.

When Your Roof Is Old

The older your roof gets, the more the risk of severe damage increases. Older roofs call for more inspections and maintenance than newer roofs to be maintained properly.

If your roof is over 15 years, you’re likely due for a replacement. But some roofs can last longer than 20 years, so you should always request frequent inspections to determine when you need a replacement. 

Before You Sell Your House

When you want to sell a house, appraisers will inspect your roof systems’ conditions. If your roof has damage, you’ll have to make the necessary changes to abide by proper standards or have your home appraised for a higher value.

Buyers might also shy away from a property with underlying problems, such as a faulty roof. Issues such as mold and water damage decrease a home’s value.

What To Expect During Roof Inspections

Roof damage can occur in different ways. Your roofer will do an internal and external inspection to determine issues and their causes.

Ultimately, roof inspection is comprised of four faucets:

• Materials

• Interior

• Artistry

• Structure

Material Inspection

Materials that form your roof include:

• Shingles

• Flashings

• Fasteners

• Gutters

A material inspection involves checking the above parts for faults or misalignments. Roofers look for include mold, rust, curled or missing shingles, and deteriorated rubber seals (among other potential problems).

Interior Inspection

Most roof problems originate from the exterior but can affect your house’s interior. Besides the interior roof, some components like the ceiling and upper wall can also suffer from roof problems. For instance, roof leaks can damage the ceiling and walls and cause rot and mold growth.

Workmanship Inspection

Workmanship problems can increase the risk of leaks and future roof damage. Such issues include incorrect flashing around penetration like skylights and chimneys, all of which can be detected during an inspection.

Structural Inspection

Roofers look for sags and uneven roof planes during inspections. They then determine the conditions of the gutter, soffit, and fascia. 

The structural inspection also includes checking the attic’s vents. Improper vents can cause moisture and heat build-up, reducing your roof’s life expectancy.

What Do Roof Inspectors Look For?

Before hiring a roofing contractor, have a checklist of all roof components that you suspect need an inspection. You can only understand your roof’s overall condition if you get a report of all potentially damaged parts.

Below are the areas of a roof that contractors will typically inspect:

Gutters and Downspouts

Roof inspectors always inspect how your gutters are attached. That part of your roof should be free of still water. The downspouts should also be firm in place. Otherwise, rainwater and snow will leak to other parts of your house.

Skylight

Skylight replacement is an intrusive process for your roof. If your skylight works fine but is almost at the end of the life cycle, consider a skylight replacement alongside roof repairs. Otherwise, you may interfere with some parts of your roof if you do a separate skylight replacement.

Flashing

Flashing consists of metal, plastic, or other materials that divert water from the joint between the wall and the roof. Your flashing always has to be in perfect condition to prevent water damage, as the flashing is often the main entry point for water into a house.

Attic

During an inspection, roof experts look for common attic problems like ventilation issues and rotten wood . Stains and water damage are easy to spot on bare wood, hence you learn the exact point where the problem is occuring.

Chimney

The chimney is a roof component that calls for close-up inspection in order to catch problems early. For instance, if a roof cricket (also called chimney saddles, designed to divert precipitation and debris from your chimney) directs water away, your inspector will do a close check to identify the cricket. Otherwise, precipitation will trickle down your chimney and cause water damage.

Roof Penetration

Roof vents, vent pipes, and other installations create holes in your roof upon installation. Sealants, seals, flashing, and boots cover the gaps that are created. During an inspection, your roofer will check the conditions of both the penetrating material and the bonds.

Why Should You Have a Roof Inspection?

You should always conduct roof inspections regularly because your roof is a vital component of your home. Never gamble on a roof’s expected lifespan - the repercussions might cost you comfort, peace of mind, and high replacement or repair costs. 

With regular roof inspection, you also reap these benefits:

Early Identification of Roofing Issues

Some roofing problems that are ignored at their early stages can evolve into hazardous situations.

For example, one missing shingle doesn’t appear to be a big problem. But this small flaw exposes part of your roof to infestations and water damage. 

Frequent roof inspections will enable your contractor to spot such issues and do minor repairs right away. But if these issues are ignored for a long time, you will incur a costly repair and may need partial or total roof replacement.

Most roof problems arise from Mother Nature, some are caused by human behavior. A roof inspector can catch such issues early and suggest possible courses of action to reduce the risks of roof damage.

Enhanced Security

A weak roof is a target entry point for thieves, especially if the weakness is visible from the outside. Holes and open skylights are potential dangers that make it easy to cut through the roof. Roof inspection identifies all weak points of a roof so you can reinforce it for better security.

Professional vs. DIY Inspection: Which Is the Way To Go?

If your roof is still relatively new, you can check for noticeable signs of damage from the ground. You don’t have to go up the top to notice curled or missing shingles.

Nonetheless, roof maintenance doesn’t simply involve a hop on the roof or an inspection from the ground.A professional can catch problems you can miss if you only do a self-inspection. For example, granule loss and issues with the chimney may escape your eyes.

A DIY roof inspection also poses the danger of falls and other injuries, which you avoid if you hire a trained expert. If your roof is old or you have other known potential damages, hiring a professional is the right way to go.

What Happens After a Roof Inspection?

Once your roofer is through with the inspection, you get a detailed report also known as a roof analysis. The report details your roof’s structural integrity, any necessary repairs, and recommended roof maintenance tips.

Some people are scared of roof inspections because of the possibility of discovering that a massive repair or replacement needs to take place (resulting in a massive bill). If you’re in the category that is afraid of extensive repairs, understand that ignorance is never a solution. The longer you avoid the damage, the higher the chances of a hefty bill.

Besides, not all roof analyses will report problems. Your roof could be in perfect shape and a good roofer will not suggest unnecessary repairs. Many roofers offer a free inspection, so you don’t always have to pay unless you need a repair or replacement.

Final Thoughts on Roof Inspections

Your roof goes through a lot throughout a year, especially if you experience harsh weather conditions. With regular inspections, you avoid the hassle of significant inconveniences and costly repairs or replacements. Routine inspections and maintenance can help keep your roof and home in optimal condition for a longer period of time than if you just left it alone.

Louis Hanley

Community Manager

Baltic Roofing

Louis is a community manager for Baltic Roofing where they help the greater Chicago community with everything from high-quality roof replacements to skylight repairs. He is an expert on all things roofing and home improvement. Outside of work, he’s a huge Cubs fan and enjoys spending time with his dog, Roscoe.

Why it is Important to Get Your New Home Inspected

The home buying experience is an exciting time for anyone. Once you have decided to buy a new home, you have already taken a huge step towards making your dream come true. After picking out the perfect house, most will go into purchasing their new home without conducting a thorough inspection. Conducting an inspection is quite important as it will help you avoid unforeseen costs and problems later on while living in your new home. As such, below are some important reasons why inspections should be conducted before purchasing a new home:

You Do Not Want to Buy a Money Pit

A money pit is any purchase that will cost more to maintain than the property's value. For example, if you buy a $100,000 house that needs $20,000 worth of repairs, it's still a great deal for you to buy it. It costs less than what you're paying for.

You may think about it another way. Imagine that you're buying a $100,000 house and have an opportunity to buy three other houses (all located in the same neighborhood) for $60k each. One of those properties needs $40k worth of repairs, and another needs $20k. Which do you think would be best? The one with no repairs or that needs some minor ones.

If your new home inspector finds something wrong with your new home before closing, they should immediately let the seller know. They can fix whatever issue before selling their property to someone else.

You Will Know if There are Safety Issues

When you are buying a home, there are many things that you need to consider before signing the dotted line. One thing that many people don't think about is getting the house inspected. When buying a home, you need to work with a professional inspector such as Clovis home inspectors to check all the systems in the house. This will include checking electrical and plumbing issues so they don't become an issue later.

It is important to make sure that any safety issues are addressed. Such can be very expensive if left unaddressed or ignored over time. Some safety issues might cause an inspector not to approve a property sale. This could lead them to lose money on their investment when trying to sell it later down the road. Such needs repairs before anyone else wants to buy or rent out this property.

Know the Estimated Lifespan of Certain Items

A home inspection will help you understand the lifespan of certain items in your new home. Your inspector can tell you if they are past their life expectancy and whether the item is still safe to use. This information helps you know how long it will take for those items to need replacement or repair.

For example, if the inspector finds that one of your window screens has tears and that water can get through them easily during a rainstorm, they might recommend replacing this screen immediately. There is no guarantee that it won't suffer more damage after heavy rains begin again next year.

It Can Put You at Ease

One of the most important reasons to inspect your home is to put you at ease. As you prepare to buy a home, you may worry about how much money it will cost. You may also be concerned about whether the house will need expensive repairs. A home inspection can help alleviate some of these fears by giving an idea of what work must be done on the house before closing the deal. They will let you know if any major safety issues need attention. They also provide valuable information about the lifespan of appliances and other items in your home. They also give insight into how long it takes for certain systems like heating/cooling, water pipes, or electrical wiring to break down over time.

Conclusion

No matter how much you want to speed through the process, an inspection of your new home is essential. It's a necessary step that ensures you do not get stuck with a building requiring significant repairs and modifications. A thorough home inspection can help put your mind at ease in knowing that every aspect of your home has been looked at by a professional inspector and approved for use.

Guest Contributor: Hannah Boothe

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Bathroom Remodeling Ideas to Inspire You

Maybe you haven’t thought of it that way but your bathroom is the most important room in your house. It’s the place where you start and finish your day. It’s a place to relax and unwind from a stressful day at work, taking a long shower or enjoying a candlelight bath. It’s where you can temporarily escape from reality and give yourself some solitude. Therefore when you consider a bathroom remodelling you shouldn’t only focus on the functional part but also give attention to creating a pleasant ambience for you and your family to enjoy. 

Whether you are planning to make some minor changes or you are ready to go all in for a full renovation with foundation underpinnings, it will surely be a noticeable change and have a positive impact on your daily routine. Regardless of how big of a revamp you are considering, selecting the best and most suitable remodelling ideas is not always easy. Think about your current bathroom layout and if there is something which doesn’t work well for you and your family and see how you can change it. Start with the more practical side and after consider the details and accessories which add character to the room. 

With that in consideration, get some inspiration from the following bathroom remodelling ideas. 

The modern white and grey marble look

Envisioning that sleek and modern looking bathroom? Big white and grey marble tiles or marble effect bathroom panels are a great option to achieve the look without paying a fortune for real marble. Depending on your layout and how much natural light you have in your bathroom, you can leave a small wall to paint it dark grey. To finish off the modern look you can pair it with mat black/dark grey bathroom faucets and hardware accessories. If you don’t feel like adding some vivid colour, go for dark grey bath and face towels and some rolled-up white small hand towels placed around the sink. 

The nature lovers

Your new bathroom remodel can be the perfect way to bring nature into your home. One way to bring cosiness is to add wood accents to your space. These could be anything from wooden flooring, wood framed mirror, wooden storage shelves or units or live-edge vanity countertop. If you want to feel close to nature you should consider adding greenery. The Indoor Nursery recommend adding vining plants to the bathroom so that they grow toward the light of the window (if there is one). The humidity will keep them happy. 

Double sink and double showers

Do you have the same daily routine with your partner and you often fight over who will use the bathroom first? If that’s your case, consider making a bathroom remodel with two sinks and two walk-in showers to make life easier and more convenient and start your day at your own pace. If your space doesn’t allow for two vanity units, consider a stylish pedestal sink. 

Bohemian style bathroom

If you are a free-spirit aesthetic who likes natural earthy shades and organic materials, adopt boho style elements in your bathroom remodelling. Use rattan baskets for storage and nicely rolled-up hand towels, place an ethnic rug in front of your sink and add macrame accessories to complete the look. 

Visually enlarge your bathroom

One of the simplest ways is by adding large mirrors which gives the impression for greater depth. When placed in the right place, mirrors also reflect light so it makes the space brighter. For an ensuite bathroom you can remove the wall connected to your bedroom and install glass doors.

Conclusion 

There are endless design ideas you can find online or get inspiration from places you’ve visited and liked what you saw. Depending on the reason for you to initiate a bathroom remodelling project, whether your bathroom is outdated and dysfunctional for your current needs or whether you need plumbing services in order to fix some issues and you’ve decided to make some upgrades, do your search and outline your budget. Once you’ve discovered the style that reflects your preferences and provides you practicality go ahead and bring your dream bathroom home. When you’ve completed your remodeling project, take a long bath and enjoy it with bath bombs for senitive skin.

Guest Contributor: Luke Carlino

5 Repairs to Look Out For Once You Move Into Your New Place

I'm delighted to hear that you've found a new home. The search for a new residence may be fraught with anxiety, and that's before you even start packing for the move. The good news is that there are certain actions to take to save costs associated with the relocation and some tried-and-true recommendations for what to do after you arrive at your new place.

It can seem like all the planning went into setting up for the relocation, but in reality, that stage of the process is not yet complete. Whether you hired an expensive moving company or opted for a less expensive service to transport your belongings, long-distance moving may be stressful, much alone when combined with moving into a new home.

Going a short distance, you won't run into this problem too often. Make use of this advice to ensure that you are prepared not only for the process of relocating but also for moving into your new home.

1. Get New Locks Installed

You do not know the exact number of persons who possess a copy of the keys. When a home is put up for sale, a large number of potential buyers can see it. In addition, there is no way to know to whom the former owners gave a spare set. If the home has an alarm system, be sure you alter the passcode. Also, keep in mind to close the garage door.

2. Determine the Location of the Shut-Off Valves

Locate the main water shut-off valve and determine whether or not you need any specialized equipment, such as a wrench or a key, to operate it. If you suddenly have a plumbing break and there's water rushing into your home, you need to be able to go to the valve and turn off the water immediately.

And no, the locations of these valves are not standardized from house to house. Sometimes the inspector can't even locate them." Look inside the house, in the attic, behind the house, and around the perimeter of the fence. If you still can't discover it, you should need the assistance of a plumber.

3. Ensure that the Smoke Detectors Have Fresh Batteries Installed

During a home inspection, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors aren't routinely tested as part of the process. And even if they are, there is still a possibility that something will occur between the time of the inspection and when you move in. But that's a possibility.

To ensure that your smoke alarms continue to save lives, make sure all the batteries are replaced with new ones and have them inspected by a carbon monoxide testing company.

4. Have Your Heating and Cooling Filters Replaced

The price of a brand new disposable filter is around $4. What kind of harm might be brought on by using an outdated filter? A completely new system may set you back as much as $5,000. If you don't change the filter when it becomes dirty, it might reduce the system's effectiveness or, even worse, cause it to overheat.

Obtain the services of a trained technician to service the apparatus and devise a routine maintenance plan to be carried out once every three months. It's for the same reason that your car's oil should be changed every three thousand miles. If you do not properly care for the apparatus, it will eventually break down.

5. Paint

You can certainly do some decorating before you move in, so don't worry about that. Put your everything into the painting. According to Bowman, the advantages are beneficial in more than one way.

If you paint the home before you move in, it will have time to ventilate before you start living there, and you won't have to worry about your furniture getting in the way while you work. Some recommend that you wait to paint until after you have moved in (so that you can see how the light changes throughout the day).

But, if you spend some time in the new location performing the tasks on this checklist, you should have a good understanding of the space. It would be best if you painted several sample swatches on the walls and evaluated how you feel about them after some time has passed.

Closing Thoughts

The options for interior decoration in a new home may be quite exciting. The concepts for the organization! But before you start bringing in your goods and organizing your furniture, you need to ensure everything is secure and in working condition by checking off these necessary maintenance activities on the list.

Guest Contributor: Samantha Higgins