St. Patricks Day Parade Weekend

We beyond happy with the parades this past weekend! We want to thank everyone for coming out and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with us, and we love to hear all of the feedback on seeing us in the parade. We had tons of candy to throw out and we wanted to thank everyone for the continuous support! If you have any pictures or videos of us in either of the parades, we would love to see them. Please send them to us! We have the best family and customers we could ever hope for. We love you guys!!

7 Ways to Make Your Kitchen More Family-Friendly

What exactly does it mean to make a more family-friendly kitchen for your home? Does it mean creating enough space for the whole family to enjoy a meal? Or: does it mean making the environment safer and more accessible to your little ones so that they can help you out with the preparation of certain meals or safely play while you cook? The previous question seems a bit more like the truth. But, how exactly does one do it? Well, if you are planning a kitchen remodel, have a look at our seven ways to make your kitchen more family-friendly without much hassle. Stick around for some pretty helpful info!

Why's it important to create a family-friendly kitchen?

In other words: why should you involve children in something you'd call kitchen-related activities? Well, encouraging your little ones to cook and help prepare the meals is a fantastic way to introduce them to the ever-present excitement associated with food preparation. Also, they'll learn to value teamwork from the youngest age. Additionally, if they're picky eaters, this might help them relax and feel more open towards meals they'd rather skip otherwise. 

All in all: these activities bring the whole family together in one of the most practical ways. Not to mention the fact you'll equip your kids with some pretty helpful knowledge they'll use later on to take care of themselves and, sometimes, impress their buddies/partners/future spouses when they come over for dinner.

But, there’s still a long way to go. You need to plan it, think it over, and be vigilant – kitchen remodels are no easy feat.

There isn’t a better way to equip your little ones with some practical knowledge than to include them in the preparation of certain family-style meals.

#1 A change fit for (almost) all ages

Installing a kitchen island that can accommodate most age groups is probably the best way to start making a family-friendly kitchen. As your kids grow up (babies probably won't enjoy the benefits of kitchen island seating), they'll want spaces for their plates and cups (or snacks, for that matter). 

A kitchen counter that's easy to clean works wonders when you've got little kids, as spills are pretty standard. For instance, a kitchen island with a laminate or quartz surface is an option you'll want to consider since it works better and absorbs shock more than granite.

#2 Create some open space

The next item on our to-do list is creating an open floor area between the kitchen and the dining area. The thing is: you'll want to merge the two rooms and create an illusion that there is more space than there actually is. For instance, if you've got a tiny kitchen, your family members can hang out in the dining room area and enjoy being close to what's going on in the kitchen (to semi-quote Coolio's Gangsta's Paradise). Anyway, those with larger kitchen space might consider adding two kitchen islands, as the second one can function more like a breakfast bar with your typical kitchen island chairs. 

Keep in mind, though, that changing the layout of your kitchen is a huge undertaking – you’ll be bashing down the walls, so don’t be surprised if a thick layer of dust covers… well, everything, your expensive kitchen-related appliances included. That’s why it’s best to plan ahead: consider renting some storage space to keep them safe somewhere else during the remodel. 

While a kitchen island with built-in cupboards is great for storing appliances, renting out storage space might sometimes be your best bet.

#3 A chalkboard to the rescue

A blackboard in the kitchen? You might say to yourself: are they nuts? The thing is: kids of any age will enjoy a blackboard in the kitchen. It will enable you to make notes, display a daily menu, or create so-called impermanent art pieces. It will make the whole experience more fun, trust us on that one.

#4 Fridge organization

Obtaining a fridge with separate drawers is one of the best family-friendly decisions you can make. While that might sound like a bit too much, opting for this kind of fridge is incredibly convenient. For instance, you can organize a separate refrigerator drawer that kids can use. 

#5 Create a role-playing area for kids

Another way you can make your kitchen more family-friendly is by designating an area where your little ones can role-play while you cook. We're talking about kids that are too young actually to help you out with some cooking. Some modern families designate this space even before they've moved and unpacked. At least that's what the folks over at preferred-movers.com told us. Since they're knee-deep in family-style relocations, there's no reason not to trust the info coming from that direction. 

Designate free space in your kitchen area where your little ones can do some role-play cooking away from any real fire.

#6 Keep knives and sharp tools out of children's reach

Needless to say, this might be the most important way to make your kitchen more kid-friendly since sharp kitchen tools are one of the serious health hazards. It's a definite no-brainer. Anyway, sharp kitchen tools and appliances have to be as far as possible from the hands of your little ones. So, what's there to do about it? For example, you can install a magnetic wall rack behind the counter instead of an easy-access knife block. Oher sharp accessories (like a cheese grater, for instance) you can keep in a drawer which you will then secure with a child lock. 

#7 How about touch-free faucets? 

Last but not least, we have another better-safe-then-sorry kind of solution to make your kitchen more family-friendly. Of course, kids have a bit of a rough time turning faucets on and off and may, without knowing, kick on water hot enough to burn their little hands. To stop this kind of scenario from ever happening, you can install touch-free faucets that can be pre-set to a safe "start temperature," which can be changed once the tap is on and running. That way, you'll guarantee your little ones are completely safe from harm inside your family-friendly kitchen. 

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

Why Should You Hire A Professional For Hvac Repair?

HVAC systems these days have become the basic necessity for every homeowner. That means those days are gone when HVAC systems were considered luxurious items and only rich people could afford them. But with the advancements in technology these HVAC systems have become affordable because of which every home or business can install them. 

They are machines that can break down anytime if you don't maintain them properly or hire a professional to install them. That means, like many other electrical appliances, they are also prone to faults after some time. Here if you think that calling an unprofessional individual will be the best idea to save your money, you are wrong. The reason is they don't have much expertise, skills, and qualification to repair HVAC systems perfectly.

Now the question arises why one should hire HVAC repair in San Diego, CA, to repair their HVAC unit?

To get this answer let’s deep dive into the below points: -

1.    Protects your system

If you are not hiring an HVAC repair in San Diego CA to repair your unit, surely you are further damaging them. Apart from that, you are also causing damage to various components of your system by doing it yourself or calling an unprofessional person.

So, why take the risk? Just call an HVAC repair in San Diego CA to repair your heating and cooling system so that it will work efficiently.

2.    Have tools and experience

Professional HVAC experts have the proper and latest tools which are mandatory to do the job in a perfect manner. Apart from that, they have enough experience handling these units, which lets them do the job efficiently and quickly. The reason is they know what they are doing as they are trained for dealing with various HVAC system problems that may come in their way.

3.    Offer immediate service

If you are choosing an HVAC repair in San Diego CA, then it will be your best choice as they offer fast service. Moreover, these experts quickly identify the problems in your system and fix them so that your unit will work efficiently within a matter of time.

4.    Consider safety 

Whether you are calling a professional to install your system or repair it, they take care of safety measures anyhow. While repairing an HVAC system, the most significant safety issue is electrocution, which mainly comes from wiring problems. 

But the experts very well know how to deal with wiring issues.

5.    Professional guarantee

This is one of the most significant benefits of hiring a professional HVAC repair in San Diego CA. That means, being a human, an experienced technician may make a mistake while repairing. If the HVAC system improving company messes up a repair or service as the homeowner, you don't have to worry. The company will offer all the extra expenses of all the extra damages caused by the expert. 

6.    It saves time and money both

Many people love to do the repair of their system within some time so that they don't have to pay money to any other person. But sometimes, this approach proves wrong and will take a lot of time to repair as HVAC systems have many parts. 

Apart from that, when any part of your system fails, and you have to buy a new one, then also your time will be wasted as you don't know which one is best. So, here it is best to call a professional to repair the HVAC system as it will save your time and money.

The bottom line

From the above points, you can see that hiring an expert will be a good idea. Doing yourself indeed will save your money, but if something goes wrong, then you have to pay extra. So, to be safe and to make your system work efficiently, it is better to hire an HVAC repair in San Diego CA for repair. 

Author Bio:- Jacqueline Lewis

Jacqueline is a content marketing manager who formerly worked at Cali's Choice Plumbing & Restoration. She is a writer, editor, and content strategist for plumbing services. Making her knowledge and skills a power, she amplifies the readers’ knowledge about the ways of water leak and slab leak detection and their reciprocation. 

Through her articles, she shares the most successful tactics and strategies of slab leak repair, mitigating blockages through Hydro Jetting, and AC & heater installation tips to the audience.

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/CalisChoicePlumbingRestoration

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CalisChoice 

WATCH YOUR STEPS WHILE WASHING UP

Falls are a leading cause of hospitalization in the elderly. So, now is the time to take a look around your home or your parents' home and take steps to limit the danger of falls, beginning with the most slippery room of all – the bathroom. It will help to relieve demand on hospitals during the pandemic, as well as safeguard yourself or your loved ones from the often fatal consequences of a fall.

How Falls Affect the Elderly

As you get older, you're more likely to fall. Many factors contribute to this, including age-related deficits in balance, vision, strength, and cognitive function. As you become older, you're more likely to have health problems and take drugs, some of which can increase your risk of falling whether it is your home or work injury.

Falls accounted for 75% of all hospitalizations in adults aged 65 and more in 2016-17. The head, hip, and thigh were all injured among the 125,000 older persons who were admitted to the hospital after falling.

A serious fall can have long-term physical and psychological ramifications. It is frequently related to increased reliance on others and a lower quality of life. And if you've already fallen, you're more likely to fall again.

There are several things you may do to avoid slip and fall accidents:

1. Install Non-Slip Surfaces

Slippery surfaces cause a large number of falls. It is recommended that you install non-slip surfaces on the floor of your bathroom to prevent slips. Non-slip decals should also be added on bathroom tiles, which, when wet, can be just as perilous as the tub. Remove any carpets or mats that could cause a tripping hazard.

2. Maintain a clean and dry bathroom

When taking a bath or using the bathroom, one must guarantee that the bathroom is left nice and dry. You can keep the bathroom dry by wiping away all the water using a wiper. You can also install a shower curtain to prevent water from entering the toilet or basin. Use rugs to soak up the water.

3. Enhance Userfriendliness

Keeping frequently used items within easy reach in the restroom, where the risk of slipping or falling is enhanced. This is especially important in the shower/bath. Make sure that towels, shampoo, conditioner, and other items are easily accessible.

4. Install Handrails Or Grab Bars

Keeping your equilibrium as you get older can be difficult, especially in locations where you have to lift yourself or that are frequently wet and slippery. Install grab bars or rails in or around the shower, bathtub, and toilet to provide you and others with something stable to hang onto. Grab bars and rails are available in a wide range of lengths, textures, and styles, so you should have no trouble selecting one that fits your bathroom. It is crucial to remember, however, that a towel bar or soap dish is not a viable solution and will not support your weight.

5. Remove any impediments.

Washroom security can be increased by removing items that are easily tripped over. The most dangerous hazard for the elderly is tripping over the side of their bath.

6. Raise the toilet seat

Is the seat on your toilet too low? You might not realize it, but a low toilet seat needs a lot of work and might even make getting up difficult. It is not suitable for those who have mobility concerns. When a low toilet seat leaks, it may wreak havoc on your entire bathroom, but this is not the case with a high toilet seat.

7. Increase Visibility

Peeing regularly at all hours of the day and night is a common issue for most elderly people. You can reduce the possibility of a fall or injury by installing night lights that illuminate the walkway from the room to the bathroom.

8. Install a hand shower or a shower with an adjustable head

With a nice hand shower or adjustable head shower, you may simply minimize and even be more cautious in the bathroom. The water flow is only in one direction and does not cover the entire bathroom.

Never rush into a bath or shower. The bathtub and shower are quite slick, and the water all over the place only makes matters worse. This, along with 'being in a hurry,' nearly guarantees that you will slip and tumble.

Guest Contributor: John Adams 

A Helpful Guide To Learn How To Properly Clean Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are one of the most important rooms in your home. They represent a place of peace, serenity, and ultimately relaxation. But how often do you find yourself frustrated with all the dirt that seems to accumulate on surfaces in your bathroom? It can be overwhelming! Some people might try to clean their bathrooms every day or even more than once per day. However, this is not always necessary. So, what is the best way to clean your bathroom? Let’s find out!

How To Keep Faucets From Spotting

One of the biggest bathroom cleaning headaches is how to clean faucets without them spotting. Mineral deposits from hard water can quickly build up on your faucet and make it look unsightly. Not to mention, if they’re not cleaned on a regular basis, they can start to produce an unpleasant odor. So, what’s the best way to clean them? The first step is to gather some supplies. You will need white vinegar, a toothbrush, paper towels, and dish soap. Now that you have your supplies, let’s get started!

The first thing you want to do is mix one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle. Next, spray the vinegar mixture onto the faucet. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down any mineral deposits. Next, use a toothbrush to scrub the faucet. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Finally, rinse with water and dry with paper towels. If you find that your faucet is still spotting, you can repeat these steps as often as necessary. There are many online sources such as https://www.mrkitchenfaucets.com/brushed-nickel-faucets-spotting/, that can offer some helpful cleaning advice. There are even blogs dedicated to cleaning, so you can easily find help if you need it. 

How To Clean A Toilet

The toilet is one of the dirtiest places in your bathroom, so it’s important to clean it on a regular basis. The best way to clean it is to use a combination of vinegar and baking soda. You could also use a commercial toilet cleaner. Here’s how to do it:

The first step is to pour a cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Next, add a tablespoon of baking soda. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down any dirt and grime. Next, use a brush or sponge to scrub the toilet bowl. Finally, flush the toilet and rinse with water. You can also use this method to clean the toilet seat and lid.

How To Clean A Shower

When it comes to cleaning your shower, the main thing you need to worry about is how to clean the showerhead. The build-up of hard water minerals can cause it to become covered in limescale. Not only does this look unsightly, but it can also affect the performance of your shower head. So, how do you clean it?

You will need white vinegar, a toothbrush, a plastic bag, and a rubber band. Now that you have your supplies, let’s get started!

The first thing you want to do is fill a plastic bag with white vinegar. Next, place the bag over the showerhead and secure it with a rubber band. Let the vinegar sit for a few hours to break down the limescale. Next, use a toothbrush to scrub the showerhead. Finally, rinse with water and dry with a towel.

How Often Should I Clean My Bathroom?

Now that you know how to properly clean your bathroom, it’s important to know how often you should clean it. The best way to determine how often to clean your bathroom is to think about how often you use it. If you use your bathroom every day, you will need to clean it more often than if you only use it once a week. 

That being said, most people should clean their bathrooms at least once a week. This includes cleaning the toilet, shower, and sink. You may also want to wipe down the walls and floors. If you have pets or small children, you will need to clean your bathroom more often to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.

Cleaning your bathroom can be a daunting task, but following these simple steps can make it easier. By using vinegar and baking soda, you can easily clean your faucets, toilet, and showerhead. And by cleaning your bathroom on a regular basis, you can prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria. There are many different cleaning products for you to choose from, so do your research. So, what are you waiting for? Get started!

Expert Advice on Plumbing Fittings and Fixtures

Choosing the appropriate plumbing fitting can be a difficult task for any owner. Plumbing fittings comprise various plumbing hardware, such as faucets, pipes, joints, and materials to connect these hard wares. To have a reliable water supply and a functional drainage system, you must ensure that your plumbing fittings are excellent.

Whether you're constructing a building or remodeling it to enhance its appearance, you'll need to go shopping for plumbing fixtures and fittings at some point. Although these items appear minor and insignificant, they go a long way toward ensuring your satisfaction and convenience. 

Here are a few pointers to help you choose the correct plumbing fixtures and fittings for your building and other information that you may need:

1. Choose the suitable material

Materials like steel, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), copper, and CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) are popular plumbing fittings and fixtures. Choose a sturdy material that will give dependable plumbing for a longer time, based on their intended use, and ensure to ask an expert first if you don't have a clue.

2. Choose high-quality Fittings and fixtures

The first and most vital factor is quality when considering your fixtures or fittings. It applies to external and internal fixtures and fittings. Leaks caused by low-quality plumbing accessories can result in significant property damage. Furthermore, if the leak occurs out of one of the embedded pipelines, it may take a long time to notice the issue, causing additional damage and making fixes exceedingly costly. To safeguard your building from unneeded damages, you should choose high-quality fittings and fixtures.

3. Ensure they have the right size

You need to have the correct size for your plumbing fixtures and fittings for the structure to stay correctly in place. Don't forget to bring the dimensions when shopping for these products. Not only will too tiny or too large accessories make it difficult to install, but they will also hinder the execution of your project, causing you unnecessary stress.

4. Purchase at a reasonable cost

Another crucial factor to consider when purchasing plumbing fixtures and fittings is the price. You may end up paying a few thousand dollars more than your estimates if you choose known brands for your plumbing accessories. Remember to take a closer look before making a purchase. You must locate a vendor who can provide you with high-quality merchandise at a reasonable cost. You must never spend all of your money before completing the task.

5. Make sure they fit your aesthetics

Aesthetics is something that you can never overlook. The appearance and texture of the plumbing fixtures and fittings play a significant role in determining whether or not to buy them. While you're at it, double-check that you understand the theme. Sharp contrasts aren't particularly effective. Aside from that, you don't usually spend a lot of money on plumbing supplies. As a result, it's a good idea to choose your fittings and fixtures after giving them some thought.

Exterior accessories require special attention. When you consider the designs, colors, and styles of various accessories, you'll have a lot of choices. While being popular is vital, it's also critical to weigh out novelties with long-term preferences. Consider it a long-term investment and not a short-term fix, and you'll find it worthwhile.

Other Things to Consider

For your convenience, whenever there is a need for maintenance, the best recommendation is to install access doors and panels on critical entry points where your personnel can perform their works safely and efficiently. Consider installing an aluminum weather-resistant insulated access panel for your exterior plumbing fixtures and fittings.

Inner pipes are just as important as external pipelines. It is critical to have a well-connected and sturdy pipe network to monitor events such as leakage, wet dividers, and breakage. It is vital to maintain the basic pipes units regularly and, if necessary, make adjustments to the devices and plumbing designs.

Typical buyers will opt for the less expensive pipes, which experts strongly advise avoiding. They could be more prone to malfunctions and spillages and requires more frequent maintenance. Seek the advice of an expert handyman in this situation, as one can go wrong in various ways if not handled correctly.

Takeaway

Enlisting the assistance of a qualified professional will guarantee that your property receives the best and most efficient plumbing system possible. You may believe that the decisions you make are the best, but it could lead to a complicated plumbing system in the future. Thus, acquiring the assistance and advice of a reputable expert plumber will ensure that you avoid a similar scenario in your following projects.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Commercial Plumbing: 6 Practices Beneficial For Your Pipes

Modern buildings need plumbing to operate, and that is simply the truth. It is a disaster when this system breaks down for even a day, given the level of discomfort and possible health hazards. That is why keeping this system in excellent condition is always a top priority for owners and managers, especially some of its vulnerable components like the pipes.

Preventing potential harm to your commercial plumbing components is a daunting task for many building owners and managers. It requires planning, a competent team, and a set of excellent practices to follow. You need to look at the methods you reinforce for your building. Here are some that may give you ideas:

#1. Secure and Drain Your Pipes

Before the winter season, empty and secure any external taps and pipes in your building's plumbing system. Any water that becomes trapped in the pipelines freezes, then expands, and then splits, breaks, or ruptures them. Protecting your property by securing these external pipes is the best move.

Drain your pipes, segregate any garden tubes, and use tap covers to protect your exterior faucets from freezing temperatures. Switch off the power circulation into the system and discharge all liquids from the pipelines for irrigation systems. Some plumbers can assist you with your domestic pipes' shielding and draining process to avoid costly pipe repairs.

#2. Secure Exposed Pipes

Rather than shutting off all ventilation in your building, which could lead to the growth of mildew and mold, ensure your pipes have adequate protection so that they can resist the freezing winter air. Insulating your building pipes is a simple and inexpensive technique. It's as simple as wrapping pipe insulation or towels around your plumbing pipes. 

It can help your heater stay warm and lower costly energy bills. It would help utilize electric heating tape to protect vulnerable pipes from close electric sources. Heating tape, which you can twist around pipelines to provide adequate warmth to keep your lines from freezing.

#3. Search for Leakage

Even the tiniest breaches in your taps and pipes can produce uncontrollable floods if you don't notice and fix them right once. The ensuing damage may necessitate extensive and costly repairs that interfere with your building's function. Consequently, you must inspect unheated locations such as garages, basements, and crawl spaces. You can install adjustable magnetic flexisnap attic access panels to these areas for convenience when doing regular inspections.

Pay specific attention to any places that aren't adequately insulated. Pipes with little to no insulation are more susceptible to the environment, making them more likely to crack and leak. Getting in touch with plumbing services is a good idea because they can help you identify trouble areas. They also provide helpful tips on properly preparing and maintaining your pipes during the winter.

#4. Insulate Indoor Pipes

Although external pipelines are responsible for several winter plumbing issues, don't overlook your internal plumbing. In the cold, inside pipes can potentially freeze. Exposing your lines to the warmth of your indoor air by opening some cabinet doors where they are can help to alleviate concerns. 

If you're going to leave for an extended time, set your inside thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. When the external temperature drops below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, enabling your indoor taps to gradually leak can prevent pipelines from cracking and causing catastrophic damage.

#5. Weatherproof Troublesome Sites

It would be best to check your pipe sites that typically have issues. Check to see that the seals on air vents, windows, and doorways are still intact. To prevent your pipes from freezing, repair any loose seals using caulking. You must instruct your team to thoroughly inspect areas that may be susceptible to issues before they can manifest.

#6. Sign-up for a Maintenance Program

Keeping a close check on your building's pipes system regularly, as suggested by professional plumbers, can save you money and effort on problems and repair services. Consider enrolling in a plumbing maintenance program that ensures you will know how to respond in the event of a pipe problem. Participating in a plumbing maintenance program will put your mind at ease because you will be placing your system in experienced hands.

Here are additional things you may consider:

Protect Your Building's Content From the Consequences of a Malfunctioning Plumbing System

If the system fails, precautions must be in place to prevent harm to the property or risk to the residents' health. Fixtures must supply overflow capacity. Roof tanks and other concealed parts of the system should also have overflows that release in a way that serves as a caution before causing damage. You should install a pressure and temperature pressure regulator in every pressure vessel in the system.

Any leaks or discharge in the drainage system must not compromise the space or contents of the food processing and preservation facilities inside the building. Designers must place added measures by indirectly connecting internal fittings to the plumbing system in industrial or commercial settings. It is applicable in areas where they produce or prepare food or handle or store sterilized goods or other potentially vulnerable materials.

Hot Water Systems Must Have a Design That Prevents Possible Risks

To avoid the risk of combustion or overheating, equipment for generating and preserving heated water must have a design that can accommodate such forces and position in well-ventilated spaces. It must maintain water temperatures at the prescribed level, and pipes used to transport hot water must come from materials that can resist the warmth of their contents.

Install Liquid Seal Traps in Your Drainage Systems

You can install a liquid seal trap in each fixture or group of fixtures linked to the drainage system. The depth must be sufficient for the liquid in each seal to prevent smells and gases from escaping. It also contains animal access from the sewage to the areas. There are also instances where you can utilize self-sealing waste valves instead of liquid seal traps.

Check Your Plumbing Installations and Disinfect Them Before You Put Them Into Operation

You should test your different designs and types of plumbing systems. It would be best not to put any into service until it goes through and passes the standard testing, as required by the water, sewerage, and other agencies concerned.

Exclude Harmful Substances From Sewer

You should keep any substance that may clog or increase the chances of clogging pipes, produce explosive compounds, wear away or damage pipes or their joints, or interrupt the workings of sewer systems out of the drainage system. You must also avoid substances that could injure individuals working on the public sewer system.

Takeaway

Never take your plumbing system for granted because it can cause interruptions for your business or building operations. As a building owner or manager, you must create a contingency plan to follow when incidents happen. It would be best if you had the help of a licensed expert for such procedures and their proper implementation.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Top mistakes of the fence installation process

There are a lot of steps in the fence installation process, and it's easy to make mistakes if you're not careful. In this blog post, we'll go over some of the most common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them next time.

Not planning ahead

Preparation work is one of the most typical faults in fence installation. If you want to be sure your project runs smoothly and according to plan, you need to do some essential pre-planning first thing when starting out. The following will give you a good idea of what we mean:

●      Measure the space you're fencing in, both length and width.

●      Make a plan for your project before you start building it. This will help your fence company figure out where to put the posts and connect different parts of the project together.

●      Figure out how you want to access your yard for fence services and repair purposes. Knowing how you'll be accessing the area after installation will make it a lot easier for your installer to figure out where they should put gates or doors.

●      Decide on a budget before getting started. In this way, you won't have to spend more than you planned at any point in the process.

●      Get your homeowner's association approval before beginning. Certain fence types can be against HOA rules or by laws, so it's important to check what you'll need to go through ahead of time before moving forward with installation.

If you want to ensure that every step goes smoothly during your next project, then be sure to take the time needed for preliminary planning before actually beginning. This will prevent you from running into any problems during installation, and your project will be up in no time!

Not hiring a professional

Many people make this error by failing to employ a professional for their fence installation job. You can try to do it yourself, but the truth is, a professional knows how to do it right. They make mistakes less likely and make sure your fence installation looks good at the end.

Hiring a professional is especially important if you're dealing with complicated projects like pool and fence installation or other types that require strict building codes to install. If you don't want to take the time to make a complicated project yourself, hiring an expert will be the best way to go. They'll know what they're doing and can give you advice along the way if needed.

What to look for in a Fence installation professional:

●      Check that they have liability insurance. If something happens during installation, you'll want to make sure you'll be covered in case of an accident.

●      Get references from previous clients. A fence installation company with an excellent track record will give your project the best chance for success.

●      Experience. A more experienced fence company near you will know your area and follow building codes most effectively.

Choosing the wrong type of fence

For your project, it's essential to choose the right kind of fencing. Different types of fencing have additional benefits and drawbacks, so you need to make a conscious decision about which style works best for your backyard.

●      Split Rail: a popular choice for smaller backyards because they don't take up too much room like the other types. They're also relatively easy to install, which makes them perfect for beginners.

●      Chain Link fence installation: The main advantage of chain link fence installation is its relatively low cost compared to other types of fencing material. They're also highly durable and require little maintenance over time. The downside is that they won't do much to increase the value of privacy of your property, so they may not be the best choice for everyone.

●      Privacy: For most homeowners with backyards, privacy is a primary concern if they live in close quarters with their neighbours. This type will provide plenty of space to settle into at home with your family without worrying that anyone next door can peek over the fence and interfere with your personal life.

●      Garden: They are an excellent choice for those with big yards who want to create a secluded outdoor space where they can entertain guests or just relax alone. Unlike other types of permanent or temporary fencing materials, metal garden fencing can keep deer and other wildlife from entering your yard as well. 

With all the different types of fencing available, it’s easy to choose the cheapest kind just to get it done. However, this doesn’t mean you should base your project on costs alone. Different types of fencing material have additional benefits and drawbacks, so you need to make a conscious decision about which type is best for your property.

Failing to measure correctly

Getting the dimensions right during fence installation is crucial for ensuring that they fit well and looks good when set in place. It also needs to be spread out on your yard correctly, or else it could end up looking odd or not doing the job it's supposed to be doing.

●      Measure your yard before you order your panels. Also, measure spaces between the perimeter of your yard and any obstacles like trees that will need to be considered.

●      If you're getting a new gate installed, make sure you measure that so that it fits well and that the neighbour's gate will still be able to open and close properly.

●      Order your panels with ample room for installation error so you won’t end up having to replace them later.

Improper fence installation 

If your fence is wobbly when it goes in or there are gaps left between panels, you need to consider hiring a professional to install it correctly for you. The problem could be the base where the posts could be set uneven, or perhaps someone just didn't do their job correctly and did a quick-fix.

●      Do not assume any existing holes in your yard are directly over studs in your house. They could easily be off by an inch or more. A professional fence installation company will be able to tell you that.

●      Look for signs of gaps or crevices between panels that indicate they are not secure 

Incorrect fence staining or painting 

Paint and stain are generally designed to help protect the wood on your fencing and give it a pretty facelift so that it looks excellent in your backyard. If you made some mistakes when fence staining or painting, it can cause the fence to weather too quickly and require constant attention if you don’t want it to look worn down.

●      Make sure to choose a high-quality wood treatment product tailored to your climate so that your fencing doesn't degrade over time.

●      Take care of your project as directed on your product's label.

●      Also, make sure to read up on the best way to prepare them for paint or stain before you apply any treatments.

Conclusion

Contact Surrey Deck and Fence to start your new fence installation project. We've outlined the top mistakes people make during the installation process, so you can avoid them and have a beautiful fence that lasts for years. Our team of experts is here to help, so don't hesitate to get in touch today!

10 Low-Cost Home Improvement Ideas for the Thrifty Homeowner

Introduction

When you are on a budget and want to spruce up your home, there is no better place to start than the outside. Home improvement is a great way to refresh your home for less and become the talk of the town. 

In fact, if you think about it, most people spend thousands of dollars on their home additions every year. So why not take matters into your own hands, and save money at the same time? Here are 10 low-cost home improvement ideas that are simple enough for even the thrifty homeowner to do.

10 Low-Cost Home improvement Ideas

1. Paint Your Cabinets

One of the quickest and easiest ways to make your home look nicer is to paint your cabinets. You can buy a pre-made kit at most stores, or you can use household paints. You can find a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, so you will have no problem finding something that looks good. It is also easy to start with a small project, so you can decide if you like the look of your cabinets before spending more money on them.

2. Change the Backsplash

If you have a dated kitchen, you can spruce things up with a new backsplash. This is one of the easiest ways to revitalize your home's look because it takes less than an hour to install and costs only about $100-$200. 

You will need some extra tile that goes above the sink area in addition to several boxes of standard grout for this project. The best part of this project is that you can choose from many different and attractive patterns, so no matter what you have in your kitchen, like with appliances or a window view, the backsplash will complement it.

3. Update Flooring

Flooring is one of the most important aspects of a home. It can be the difference between a house that feels like home and one that does not. There are many types of flooring available on the market today, like polished concrete or epoxy floor, but each has its own pros and cons.

There are many ways to make your floors look great without spending too much money. One way is to do it yourself with flooring materials you can find at any hardware store. Another way is to hire someone else to do it for you, but this may be more expensive than doing it yourself.

4. Change Window Treatments

Nothing can make a room look brighter than some new window treatments. If you have plain old curtains, you may not be able to do much about it, but if your windows are dated, there are so many different options available for them today. From Roman shades and sheer drapes to blinds and valances, there is something out there that will enhance the quality of light coming in from your windows.

5. Install Dimmers

If you are tired of the old lighting in your home, it is time to install some new lights. You can get these at any hardware store, and they will be relatively inexpensive to put in. 

Depending on how many fixtures you have, this could take between a few hours and a full day, but the result definitely makes up for any slight inconvenience that may come with installing them yourself. The best part about dimmers is that the lights will blend in with all of your other furnishings, and it won't be evident unless you are looking for them.

6. DIY Painted Bathroom Tiles

Bathroom tiles can be a great addition to your space, but they are also expensive. If you have never painted them before, it is important that you take some time to read the directions which come with the paint and know exactly what materials will need to be used in order for this process to work properly. 

It might even make sense to buy new ones rather than trying something on your own because there are so many different options out there now that could look amazing in any bathroom.

7. Update kitchen and bath hardware

The kitchen and bath hardware in your home is probably the only thing that hasn't really changed much at all since you first moved into your house. It may look outdated, but it still serves its purpose, so don't be afraid to update these items as well. You can find new hardware at any hardware store or online, and it won't be too expensive to replace.

8. Spruce up your front entry

Front entries can be a little bit boring, so it is always nice to add a few plants or light up the area with some fresh flowers. Make sure that you choose something dark and rich in color, like red or burgundy, and make sure that they are appropriately arranged, so they look great when people walk over them each day. The only way that you can really make this area look better is to change out your front door for something new.

9. Add Interest to Walls or Ceilings

Walls and ceilings are sometimes just not enough to give a room the right amount of interest. You can easily change this by adding light fixtures or hanging art pieces on them but make sure that you buy something well made and won't fall apart quickly. 

It is also helpful to buy light fixtures that match the style of your home because it will help to make everything look more cohesive.

10. Replace light fixtures

Light fixtures are something you probably don't think about very often, but they will be the one piece of furniture in your home that is always changing. Make sure to look at them every six months and replace any bulbs or lightbulbs, especially if there is a problem with them. 

You can also consider replacing all of your lightings, even if it isn't broken yet because this type of change could bring new life into an area where it was previously boring before.

Final Words

The Thrifty Homeowner is an ideal market for home improvement. They have a tight budget and need to make their home look beautiful without breaking the bank. Home improvement is a great way to save money, and there are many ways to make your home look new without breaking the bank. 

You can update your cabinets, paint your walls, change the backsplash in your kitchen, add a new air conditioning unit, or even put in new flooring if you have the space. The possibilities are endless when it comes to home improvement projects! What low-cost home improvement ideas do you think will work best for you?

Guest Contributor: Rituraj

7 Common Plumbing Mistakes Homeowners Make

If there's something wrong with the plumbing, it's important to fix whatever is causing it. Otherwise, water damage could become a big problem. To stop your plumbing from becoming an issue, we've put together a few tips. Here are the most common mistakes made by homeowners while repairing plumbing.

1. Pouring Grease Down the Drain

One of the easiest ways to damage the sink is by dumping too much grease down the drain. When you've never put any down it, the trap at the bottom doesn't clog as much. So, you'll have fewer clogs, leading to less damage. 

Simply toss the grease into the garbage after it has cooled down to a reasonable temperature. That way, it won't melt a hole through the container after dumping it in.

2. Dumping Litter Into the Toilet

Has your cat been using the litter box as it should? If they have, you may have felt tempted to toss the used litter in the toilet as an easy disposal method. But, putting litter down there could make everything back up, overflowing the bathroom.

Instead of tossing it down the toilet, make sure it's been put in the trash. Then, take it out to the curb along with everything you've tossed away. It should flush well as long as the toilet hasn't been a kitty litter dumping ground. So, there's less chance of it overflowing, even if it's being used a ton.

3. Trying to Tackle Projects by Yourself

Suppose there's a leak dribbling from under the bathroom sink. You saw it after getting home from work and thought it looked like an easy fix. After doing a little research online, your confidence has built up enough to attempt it on your own.

Only after causing a huge leak do you realize it wasn't worth it. Since there was a massive leak already, you'll be paying to repair some damage. Instead of damaging the house by doing it all on your own, hire someone else. They'll make sure the plumbing has been fixed, and they're less likely to cause any damage.

4. Using Too Much Drain Cleaner

If the drain is clogging all the time, it's probably something further down the drain. Even if the drain cleaner gets the water moving, it may not be a long-term fix.

So, you should see if a plumber can find what's causing the sink to clog so often. Since they've seen many of them, it shouldn't take long to discover the culprit. Then, they can repair it and make sure the sink works as it should.

5. Not Using High-Quality Material

Using ht800 silicone to seal your gaskets is a great idea. Since it doesn't break down easily, it'll last a long time after being installed. So, you can see why it's been such a popular material to repair plumbing.

Instead of buying something less durable, try this stuff out for a while. Once you've seen how long it lasts, nothing else will stack up to it well. That's because it has an amazing price to value ratio, driving up demand like crazy.

6. Not Tightening the Fixtures

Loose fixtures have caused more leaks than anything else to do with your plumbing. Since it's easy to leave them untightened, check them often. If they're looser than when you installed them, tighten them up again.

7. Forgetting to Let the Water Run During Winter

Nothing is worse than forgetting to leave the tap open over winter. If you've forgotten to leave yours on, burst pipes are in your future. Once the weather starts changing, water will rush into the house. Then, you'll begin spring with a ton of water damage to repair.

You don't have to leave the taps open too wide, but you should open them a little. Running water is way less likely to freeze and burst your pipes.

How to Avoid Common Plumbing Mistakes

Plumbing isn't something you can just live without, no matter how much you'd like to. But, it's not hard to avoid damaging things as long as you're responsible. Just take care of the plumbing, and it'll last longer than expected usually.

Guest Contributor: Elizabeth Howard