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Residential and Commercial plumbers and plumbing contractors available in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Lawn, Palos Heights, Midlothian, Oak Forest, Homer Glen, Mokena, Frankfort, and the surrounding Chicago South Suburbs. Emergency plumbers.

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Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing Blog

Kevin Szabo Jr Plumbing is Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Forest, Midlothian, Orland Hill, Homer Glen, Mokena, Frankfort, Crestwood, Palos Heights, Oak Lawn, local plumber. Read our blog for advice, tips, a good laugh, and basic home improvement.

**We are moving our old blog to our new and improved website. Too see all our posts visit kevinszabojrplumbing.blogspot.com

Filtering by Category: May 2022

Can Mold Cause You Serious Health Issues? Find Out Here

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It doesn’t matter whether it is cold, or hot outside, whether you are experiencing a damp winter, or extremely humid summer, there are many factors that can contribute to moisture inside your home and the appearance of mold.

Unfortunately, mold can be seen in many places, like clothes, walls, books, toys, and surprisingly, even CDs. It can ruin various precious items that become useless and must be thrown into the garbage.

But does it only affect things, or is our health jeopardized as well? If you’re not too sure about it, yet you want to get the answer to this question, then stay tuned because we’re about to discuss this topic below.

Is Mold A Health Hazard Or Not?

What Is Mold Really?

It can be defined as a type of fungus and there are many types of it that can be found both outdoors and indoors. Generally speaking, it produces spores, which then spread by floating in the air. 

Additionally, mold spores can be seen in practically all indoor spaces, and sadly, there isn’t any way you can prevent them, since they can survive in conditions where mold cannot grow. Furthermore, mold spores love to inhabit places that are warm and moist, so as soon as they land on a damp spot, they start to grow.

On the other hand, mold can grow on various surfaces, such as paper, fabric, plastic, and glass, As it grows, it can potentially digest the material it inhabits 

Mold And Various Health Problems

There are several health issues that can be caused by mold. One of the most frequent questions when it comes to this is, can mold cause headaches and the answer to it is, unfortunately, yes. Headaches are actually quite common in people who have been exposed to toxic molds, like black mold or stachybotrys chartarum. 

Why does it cause headaches? The main reason this happens is due to the fact that mold spores can negatively affect the respiratory system and cause numerous issues with the immune system, which can aggravate the issues with the sinuses. 

And it is widely known how serious and painful headaches can be in people who are having problems with sinuses. In some severe cases, the pain can be so intense that people may feel like something or someone is trying to push their eyes out of their sockets.

Issues With Breathing

As mold grows, cells, spores, unstable organic compounds, and fragments are in the air and once this occurs, they will start developing allergens, mycotoxins, and irritants. Some of these things can be extremely toxic, particularly to people who are too sensitive to them.

Additionally, dampness stimulates materials to shatter, increasing the amount of dust and particles in the air. All these particles can negatively affect the nose, throat, and lungs, especially in patients who are suffering from a chronic lung condition, asthma, or any other breathing issues. 

Adding More Informative Details Below

Allergies

An individual who is sensitive to any mold-related particles may experience allergies after mold exposure. Generally speaking, people who are having mold allergies, will most likely have similar symptoms to other more common types of allergies, like, seasonal allergy or hay fever. So what are the most common symptoms of mold allergy?

  • Runny or blocked nose

  • An itchy throat

  • An itchy nose

  • Watery eyes

  • Frequent sneezing

It's worth mentioning that people who are having asthma, or mold allergies are having higher chances of having an asthma attack whenever the mold is present.

Other Health-Related Conditions Caused By Mold

Mold can also encourage the production of bacteria and microbes. These bacteria can trigger an inflammatory response in anyone who has been exposed to them, according to the World Health Organization.

Furthermore, the World Health Organization has also stated that both the mold and the microbial agents it makes can increase the risk of fungal and bronchial infections. Potentially, it may cause:

  1. Bronchitis 

  2. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis 

  3. Allergic alveolitis 

  4. Allergic fungal sinusitis 

  5. Chronic rhinosinusitis 

  6. Lower respiratory tract issues in kids that were previously healthy 

Furthermore, World Health Organization, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have added that certain individuals have experienced these symptoms after being in a place where mold is present:

  • Fever

  • Fatigue 

  • Eye and skin irritation

  • Wheezing

  • Nausea 

  • Insomnia

  • Headache 

  • Sick-building syndrome

  • Mucous membrane irritation

Unfortunately, based on the facts that were written here, it’s safe to say that exposure to mold can pose certain health risks. That’s precisely why, if you notice it, do everything you can to eliminate it.

Reasons to Check the Plumbing When Buying a House

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The list of things to check when buying a house can be quite long - this is a massive financial investment, so you should not rush the process and just buy a house that you think looks good. Even if a property looks modern, there may be underlying issues that can worsen quickly after you move in, so make sure you know what to look for. 

This article will provide you with a few reasons as to why you must check the plumbing when buying a house, to encourage you to get this done. 

The House May Be Old

A good reason to check the plumbing when buying a house is that even if the house looks in good condition, it may be old. It costs a lot of money to fix issues with the plumbing, particularly if the system overall needs updating. For this reason, sellers may not be as upfront with you and may not be too concerned about telling you about any specific issues. This is why you must check the plumbing as well as every other system before buying a property so that you can check yourself. Even if you find issues this may not necessarily put you off buying the home but it may give you more room to negotiate and to be prepared to spend money on this. 

To Prevent Further Issues Down The Line

The plumbing may be old, as discussed above, or it may be that it just was not installed properly in the first place, which will create several issues for you at a later stage. If you check this before buying a home you can assess the overall health of the plumbing system and identify any issues that you may see. When homebuyers forget this, they regret it later on as they face a range of issues as a result. Make sure to check the plumbing and that there are no issues that can worsen down the line.

It May Be Required for Your Homeowners Warranty

A home warranty may be offered for new buyers. This can be added even if you have homeowners’ insurance, as they are two different policies covering distinct issues. The home warranty covers any issues with the home systems including plumbing and HVAC. However, you will only be eligible for this support if the systems are in good working condition, so you may have to check the plumbing before an assessor with a home warranty does it for you. This is why you should ensure that you have a real estate agent that you trust. If you live in Australia, for example, you should look for a trusted real estate agency in Perth. They will be able to provide you with sound advice and disclose if there are any issues within the property. 

Let a Professional Do This for You

It should go without saying that you should not check the plumbing system unless you have this particular expertise. You must consult with a professional plumber and arrange for them to come with you. They will be able to check the systems properly and assess the condition. It may be costly to bring an expert with you to every viewing but it will be worth it. 

If you are buying a new home, make sure that you check its condition thoroughly. This page will give you an idea as to why you must check the plumbing system when buying a home, and the same will apply to every other aspect of the property. 

Keep Your Home Cool During The Summer Months With These 6 Tips

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As the temperature rises, so does your house's temperature. At this time, you want to strike a balance between escaping the heat and avoiding breaking your budget on pricey energy expenses. You may take advantage of cost-effective and easy home cooling solutions in some cases. Sometimes, it might be necessary to make significant changes to your routine. The following tips will help you keep your home cool this summer without spending much money.

1. Invest in a Modern HVAC System

If your HVAC system is more than a few years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Technology has come a long way in recent years, and newer HVAC systems are much more efficient than older models. If you're wondering how to keep upstairs cool in summer, a new HVAC system is a great place to start. This will save you money on cooling costs, but it will also reduce your environmental impact.

In addition to being more efficient, newer HVAC systems also come with various features that can help you keep your home cool. For example, some systems come with programmable thermostats that allow you to set different temperatures for different times of the day. This way, you can have your home cooler when you're awake and active and warmer when you're asleep or away at work.


2. Install Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans are a great way to circulate air and keep your home cool. If you don't have ceiling fans, now is the time to install them. If you have ceiling fans, make sure they are running in the correct direction. During the summer months, ceiling fans should be spinning counterclockwise. This creates a wind-chill effect that will make you feel cooler.

Ceiling fans can be a fast and easy solution when your home feels uncomfortable due to stagnant warm air. You may find that you can raise the temperature on your thermostat a few degrees when you have ceiling fans installed and running. The cost savings you will experience by raising your thermostat a few degrees is more than enough to offset the cost of installing ceiling fans.

3. Use Window Treatments

Window treatments are another effective way to keep your home cool during the summer months. If you own single-pane windows, they can cause you to lose a lot of heat and increase your cooling costs over time. Window treatments help to insulate your windows and keep the heat out. There are a variety of window treatment options available on the market. You can choose from blinds, shades, and curtains. Blackout curtains are a good option if you completely block out the sun's rays. If you're still going to let some light in, opt for lighter colors or materials.

4. Use Portable Air Conditioners

Portable air conditioners are a great way to cool down individual rooms without having to cool your entire house. This can be a great option if you have a room that gets hotter than others or if you want to save money on your energy bill by cooling only the rooms you use the most. When choosing a portable air conditioner, select the correct size for the room you plan on using it in. If you choose a too-small unit, it won't be effective. If you choose one that is too large, it will cool the room too quickly and shut off before it can remove all the moisture from the air.

5. Cook Smarter

During the summer months, cooking can make your home feel hotter. Whenever possible, try to avoid using your oven. Instead, opt for stovetop cooking or grilling outside. This keeps your home cooler, but it can also prevent your house from smelling like whatever you're cooking. If you need to use your oven, try to cook during the cooler hours of the day, like early morning or late at night.

Meanwhile, consider investing in a slow cooker. Slow cookers can be left unattended for hours, allowing you to prepare dinner before leaving for work. This way, your house will smell delicious when you arrive home from work, and it will be cool enough that you can enjoy the meal without feeling uncomfortably hot.


6. Utilize Natural Cooling Methods

There are many ways to cool your home without using any electricity naturally. If you live in a climate that gets cold overnight, open up your windows and let the cool air from outside circulate throughout your house. And if it's not too hot outside, consider sleeping with the windows open instead of turning on an electric fan or AC unit.

Another option is to use damp towels or sheets to cover your body as you sleep. This will help to keep you cooler while also providing a more comfortable sleep environment than simply opening the window would provide.

Planning is key to keeping your home cool during the summer months. By taking steps early to prepare for warmer weather, you can stay comfortable without breaking the bank this season. With these six tips in mind, you can rest easy knowing that your home is ready for whatever summer brings.

Simple Final Details That Will Complete Any Room

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Making your room beautiful is not always a walk in the park, and sometimes it can get really expensive. However, there are a few tips you can use to decorate the rooms in your house without having to use a fortune. Maybe add a little color to the room, a little texture, and add a few things; your room could look totally different. In this article, we will provide you with some tips to help you transform your room and make it more beautiful.

Choose the Right Colors

Depending on your personality, the color you choose could make your room appear very admirable. While you can choose dull colors, sometimes choose bold colors that will give your room a magazine spread. Add bright colors like yellow, blue, purple, etc., and take your room to the next level. You can use these lively colors in every room in your house, from the bathroom to the living room. Use the color that will make your room feel new and fresh. Additionally, the things in the house, including the beds, bed sheets, bed covers, chairs, etc., should complement the colors in the rooms. `

Use Mirrors in the Living Room

If you feel like your living room seems smaller, you don’t necessarily have to call the contractor to make it larger. Instead, decorate the room with mirrors in areas where the mirrors can fit. These mirrors will make your room appear beautiful and somehow larger than it actually is. For a rule of thumb, place a mirror directly across your window to make sure that it reflects light into the room, making it appear larger.

Add a Few Things to Every Room

While you may want to beautify your room without having to use a lot of money, sometimes you will always need to add a few things to make the house even more beautiful. Fill the empty areas in the rooms with beautiful accessories and make sure that the objects you pick make you happy. For example, in the bathroom, you could add beautiful laundry baskets.

Make Use of Natural Light

If there is a way to let the natural light inside your home, then make use of it. Natural light is very beautiful, and it will make your room feel open and more calming. Open the windows when the sun is lighting and make use of the right curtains that will make your room appear even more beautiful.

Try New Things

For your room to be beautiful, you will need to be creative. Everyone can fill their rooms with plenty of furniture, but not everyone can make the room seem desirable. Make use of your imagination and plan your house in a way that makes it beautiful. Combine black chairs with white tables, choose a door threshold that complements the colors in the house, use modern ditches, and instead of using the normal sofas, you can use a modern leather loveseat.

Spice Up Your Tiles

The tiles you use in your bathroom or kitchen are vital to the whole design of the room. If you want your kitchen to appear even more beautiful, you will need to use tiles that add beauty to the room. Use titles that are eye-catching but make sure that they are easy to wash because it is very easy for the tiles in the kitchen and bathroom to get stained. If your tiles are beautiful, there is the likelihood that your kitchen and bathroom will appear beautiful.

Add Texture to Your Rooms

To make your room appear even more beautiful, make use of beautiful rugs, cozy blankets, and other visual interests that will make your room appear unique.

Reduce the Clutter in Your Rooms

Your kitchen is likely to get cluttered because of the number of activities that go in it, but it does not mean you should leave it looking like that. Clean the kitchen and ensure that the counters are free of unnecessary clutters, making the kitchen appear more spacious and beautiful.

Conclusion

Making your rooms beautiful does not always have to cost you a fortune. However, you may need to use a few dollars to spruce up your rooms with some finishing touches. Make use of the above tips and complete your rooms without spending a fortune.

 Guest Contributor: Regina Thomas

6 Kitchen Design Ideas You Will Love

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There is no doubt that a well-designed kitchen can add tremendous value to a home. Not only does it make cooking and food preparation more enjoyable, but it also becomes the focal point for family gatherings and entertaining. In recent years, there has been a trend towards open kitchens that merge with the living and dining areas, blurring the lines between these spaces. While this can be a great look, it can also present some challenges when it comes to designing the kitchen.

To help you create a beautiful and functional kitchen that will meet your needs and reflect your style, we have put together six amazing ideas that you will love. Keep reading to learn more about each one!


Cabinet Facades

One of the easiest ways to give your kitchen a new look is to replace the cabinet doors. If your cabinets are in good shape but you are simply tired of the style, consider swapping out the doors for something new. You can go for a completely different style, such as Shaker or Craftsman, or you can keep it simple with a clean and modern look. If you want to add some extra personality, try painting the cabinets a bold color or choosing doors with interesting hardware such as glass inserts or decorative moldings. Also,  keep in mind that you can always change up the look of your cabinets down the road whenever wish to try something different.

Statement Appliances

If you have a kitchen with simple cabinetry and little personality, consider adding some statement appliances. Whether it’s the highest quality kitchen scale and a brand new kettle in a unique color or pattern or something bigger like a retro fridge or stove this addition can add some much-needed wow factor to your space. And if you want to go big, think about replacing your standard stove with something like a range cooker or induction cooktop that will really wow everyone who sees it. The key is to find appliances that are both functional and beautiful so that they enhance any space without looking too kitschy or garish.

Open Shelving

Another popular kitchen trend is to ditch the upper cabinets in favor of open shelving. This can help to make a small kitchen feel more open and spacious, and it can also be a great way to show off your favorite dishes and glassware. If you go this route, be sure to keep the shelves well-organized and dust-free so that it looks tidy and intentional. You may also want to add some lighting under the shelves to highlight the items on display. just be sure to use LED bulbs so that they don’t get too hot and damage any of your items. And if you want to go big, consider open shelving up to the ceiling! Every inch of space can be utilized this way and everyone will be amazed by this unique look.

Butcher Block Countertops

If you are looking for a more natural look in your kitchen, consider using butcher block countertops. This type of material is usually made from hardwoods such as maple or oak, and it can add a beautiful warm touch to any space. A Butcher block is also a great choice if you do a lot of cooking because it is very durable and easy to maintain. When properly sealed, it is resistant to staining and water damage, making it a practically worry-free surface. Plus, it is very affordable in comparison to other countertop materials such as granite or marble. However, it can be prone to scratches and dings, so you will want to take extra care to pick up your dropped items right away.

Backsplash

One of the best ways to add personality to your kitchen is with a backsplash. This is a small area behind the sink or stove that can be used to express your style and make a big impact. You can use colorful tiles, patterned wallpaper, or even metal panels to create a backsplash that is truly one-of-a-kind. If you are not sure where to start, there are plenty of online resources and magazines that can inspire you. And if you want something unique, you can always hire an artist to create a custom design for you. Just be prepared to spend a bit more money on this project as compared to using a standard tile or paint. However, be sure it will be worth it in the end.

Kitchen Islands

There is nothing more inviting than a kitchen with plenty of counter space and a large island. And with so many styles available, it is easy to find one that suits your taste perfectly. You can use an island to add more seating space for guests or as extra storage if you need the room. This is a great option if you want to try out some of the other trends on this list such as open shelving or statement appliances because they can all be incorporated into the design of the island easily. Plus, it’s also great for food prep since there will always be extra workspace on hand when you need it. Just make sure that there is enough room around the island so that everyone can comfortably move around without getting in each other’s way.

Whether you want something sleek and modern or bold and colorful, as you can see, there are plenty of ways to add personality to your kitchen. And, best of all, these trends can be incorporated into any budget so that everyone can enjoy a beautiful kitchen regardless of their financial situation. So, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your kitchen design. After all, it is one of the most important rooms in your home.

Consider These 7 Things Before You Design A Bathroom

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Are you in the process of designing a bathroom for your home? If so, it's important to take into consideration all of the different factors that will go into the finished product. There are many things to think about, from the layout and design to the materials you'll use. In this blog post, we'll discuss seven of the most important things to keep in mind before starting your bathroom renovation project!

Consider The Layout

When it comes to designing a bathroom, one of the most important things to consider is the layout. You'll need to decide where each element will go, from the sink and toilet to the shower and bathtub. Keep in mind how much space you have to work with, as well as how you want the finished product to look. Once you have a good understanding of the layout, you can move on to choosing the materials and fixtures.

Think About The Materials You'll Use

When it comes to designing a bathroom, the materials you use are just as important as the layout. You'll need to choose materials that are durable and easy to clean, as well as ones that fit your budget. Some popular choices for bathroom materials include tile, stone, and glass. You'll also need to decide on the finishes for each element, such as faucets, hardware, and lighting.

Choose The Right Toilet

One of the most important elements in any bathroom is the toilet. Not only do you need to choose a style that fits your design, but you also need to make sure it's comfortable and efficient. Toilets come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and types, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase. You might also want to look into toilets with a quiet flush and you'll also need to decide if you want a traditional or tankless toilet. Tankless toilets are becoming increasingly popular because they save water and space.

Play Around With The Light

You can create a really unique bathroom space by playing around with the light. Use different fixtures and bulbs to create different effects and moods in your bathroom. You can even use natural light to your advantage by installing skylights or windows in your bathroom. Experiment with different lighting schemes until you find one that you love. Your bathroom will thank you for it!

Think About The Storage

When you are planning the design of your bathroom, think about the storage. You will need somewhere to store all of your towels, toiletries, and cleaning supplies. If you have a small bathroom, you might need to get creative with your storage solutions. For example, you could install shelves above the toilet or in the corners of the room.

You could also install a medicine cabinet above the sink. This would give you some extra storage space for toiletries and medicines. Another option is to install a towel rack on the back of the door. This is a great way to save space and keep your towels within easy reach.

Think About Your Shower Base

Your shower base is one of the most important aspects of your bathroom design. There are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing your shower base. First, think about the size of your bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, you may want to choose a smaller shower base. 

Second, think about the shape of your shower base. You may want a rectangular shower base or a square shower base. Third, think about the material of your shower base. You may want a glass shower base or a stone shower base. Fourth, think about the color of your shower base. You may want a white shower base or a black shower base. 

Finally, think about the style of your shower base. You may want a traditional shower base or a modern shower base. Keep these things in mind when choosing your shower base and you will be sure to find the perfect one for your bathroom.

Consider The Plumbing Fittings

If you're planning on doing a complete renovation of your bathroom, then you'll need to consider the plumbing fittings. This is especially true if you're moving any fixtures or changing the layout of the room. You'll need to make sure that all of the new plumbing meets code and is properly installed. Otherwise, you could end up with serious problems down the line.

Another thing to consider is ventilation. Bathrooms can get pretty steamy, so you'll need to make sure that there's enough ventilation to keep the air quality good. This is especially important if you have any asthma or allergy sufferers in your household. Poor ventilation can also lead to mildew and mold growth, so it's something you'll want to avoid.


These are just a few things to consider before you start designing your bathroom. By taking the time to think about these things, you'll be able to create a bathroom that is both stylish and functional. So get out there and start planning your dream bathroom today!

When Can (Or Should) You Consider Power Washing Your Home

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Power washing, also known as pressure washing, is a way to clean your home’s exterior (or any exterior surface) using blasts of high-pressure sprays of water. It is an effective way to clean mud, dirt, mold, dust and loose paint from a surface. And don’t worry, power washing your home won’t have any impact on your home’s water pressure.

Power washing your home has a lot of surprising benefits, but you might be wondering, is it right for you? After all, blasting the exterior of your home with machines that can produce water pressure ranging from 750 to 30,000 psi might lead you to worry about inadvertently causing damage in the act of cleaning.  

So let’s take a moment to look at when you can (or should) consider power washing, and if it’s right for you!

When Should You Avoid Power Washing

Power washing can clean your home better than just about any method, while avoiding the use of harsh chemicals, but sometimes it might not be the best choice for your particular home.

While most professional power washers will know to avoid these areas, if you are planning on renting or purchasing power washing equipment yourself, be sure not to power wash the following types of surfaces or areas. 

Wood Siding

While it is possible to power wash a wooden surface, it can potentially warp the surface, especially if it is at a higher pressure than the wood can handle. There are still benefits to power washing wood siding, but you might consider utilizing a professional or expert when doing so.

Any Electrical Panels, or Electrical Appliances

This might make sense (don’t combine water and electricity!) but it’s important to note where your primary electrical panels and appliances are before starting a power washing project. This also includes air conditioners, light fixtures, and fuse boxes.

Windows

Power washing involves, well, washing with power. And while it might seem like a great shortcut in giving your home sparkling clean windows, that pressure can often exceed what the glass can handle. And the last thing you want to do when cleaning your home is broken glass. 

Why Should You Power Wash Your Home?

As long as it’s done responsibly, avoiding areas and materials that can be damaged, power washing is a fantastic way to clean your home. It includes some incredible benefits, including the following. 

Increase Your Curb Appeal

While you might not think about it regularly, your home’s curb appeal is essential to improving the value of your home. Essentially, the better your home looks from the outside, the more likely people will want to go inside. Not surprisingly, power washing will leave you with a clean, fresh looking home. 

And also not surprisingly, having a clean exterior of your home makes your home look better, which is the definition of curb appeal. And that alone can make power washing worth the cost or effort. 

Prevents Long-Term Damage Without Using Harsh Chemicals

Frequently cleaning the exterior of your home makes sure that you’ll avoid larger issues down the road, but the benefit of power washing versus employing other methods is that you are not dousing your home, and the soil surrounding it, with harsh chemicals or caustic cleaning agents. 

The benefit of power washing comes from its simplicity. It just blasts away debris and grime using high-pressured water, making it a safe, clean, and natural way to make your home shine. And a clean home is a long-lasting home

Pressure Washing Makes Your Home Safer

Your home’s exterior accumulates all kinds of bacterium, allergens, and general grime, and many external cleaning methods can’t rid your home of these undesirable contaminants. But pressure washing is able to rid these from your home, using high pressured water to reach areas conventional cleaning methods can miss. 

Ultimately, if you can pressure wash your home, you’re able to make sure your home is as clean as possible, using nothing more than water, and a pressure-creating washer, ridding your home of toxins, bacteria, pollens, and other unwanted elements without having to rely on harsh chemicals or soaps.  

How Often Should You Power Wash Your Home?

If you know you can power wash your home without causing potential issues, you definitely should do so regularly to maximize on those power washing benefits we’ve already discussed. But how often should you wash your home? And when is the best time?

Ultimately, you should aim to power wash your home about once a year, to make sure you can keep your home looking clean and fresh, while preventing damage and removing contaminants. 

It doesn’t matter what time of the day you decide to perform power washing, but for visibility reasons, you should try to have that work done during the daylight hours. 

Typically, the best time of the year for power washing is between March and November. But the good news? Conditions don't necessarily matter. Outside of strong cold conditions (think, under 45 degrees Fahrenheit) or strong hot conditions (think, over 90 degrees Fahrenheit), you will be able to power clean your home successfully. Even in overcast or rainy weather, power washing will be effective and useful.

Ultimately, power washing isn’t for everyone, but if you have the ability to power wash your home safely, you should strongly consider making it a regular part of your home maintenance routine. It can make a huge difference in not only the value of your home, but in its appearance, and your general well-being. And it’ll make your home sparkle for all to see!

Guest Contributor: Jeff Good

Top Ways to Remodel Your Home to Increase its Market Value

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There are many different ways to remodel your home, some of which will raise the value while others will not. We'll show you some remodeling projects that will boost the value of your home.

Roof

Your roof is usually one of the first things that potential buyers see. When they get close to your property, they'll take a close look at the exterior, particularly the roof. Many people would immediately give up if the roof appeared to be run down, old, and had holes in it. You should be aware that a damaged roof can lead to a slew of issues beneath it. For example, if your roof leaks, it could indicate that there is a lot of water damage beneath it that isn't always visible. When people see a nice, new roof on your property, they will be impressed, and you will be able to ask for a higher asking price. If you want to ensure increased value through roofing, you could add something to your roof that could be beneficial for some people. The eco-friendly ones, for example, would be delighted to see some solar panels, which will also benefit you till you sell the home.

Flooring

Nobody loves it when they walk into a room and can feel the floor shaking beneath their feet and hear the ancient wood cracking. They also don't want to see termite or other wood-eating creatures' marks on the surface. As a result, you should consider replacing your flooring because it is something that cannot go undetected if it has issues. We recommend that you replace the entire floor with new versions that will complement the house's decor and make it appear great. There are numerous possibilities available; all you need to do is consider how you want it to accompany the rest of the house and buy something that fits. You could also employ a designer who would know what the right flooring for you is.

The Kitchen

The kitchen is a room in the house that many people, especially women, hold in high respect. Remodeling the kitchen can be tough because there are so many options and styles to pick from. We recommend going for a modern appearance and incorporating as much new stuff as possible, as most people prefer new devices in their kitchen. You should also appeal to the tastes of the female population, as they are more likely to be concerned with what happens in the kitchen. If you redesign your kitchen as suggested, you should use it to sell your home. Take photos and post them online because it's a good showpiece.

Make It Eco-Friendly

People are increasingly aware that they cannot wait for the government to act to combat climate change; instead, they must roll up their sleeves and take action themselves. As a result, they want to live as environmentally friendly a life as possible, and a home just like that is essential. We've already explained how adding solar panels is beneficial, but there are numerous other things you can do. For example, you may need to isolate your home so that your energy is not lost through the walls during the winter and that your home remains cooler during the hot summer days.

Basement

Your basement has the potential to become a place where every man would enjoy spending his days. In essence, you would create a refuge for man from the outside world. There are various themes you can include in your basement, and one of the most obvious is to add a pool table and some arcade games to make it a wonderful hangout spot for friends. You can also create a game area for the more modern individuals, with a couple of PCs and consoles for someone to hang out with their buddies. A popcorn machine might be purchased down there, which would contribute to the overall ambiance.

Outside

There are numerous things you can do to improve the value of your home by improving your yard. First and foremost, you should make your yard appealing to the sight. You can accomplish this by planting flowers that complement the style of the house and keeping the grass mowed. Second, you can construct something, such as a playground, on it. This feature would be beneficial to families looking to purchase a home. If you have a large yard, you might consider building a terrace outside. People enjoy being outside, so investing in it could help you achieve your aim of selling it for the best possible price.

When it comes to remodeling, you must determine what is the greatest course of action for you. There are numerous possibilities available; all you need to do is choose the finest one for you. Hopefully, we were able to provide you with some useful ideas for remodeling your home.

Profit From a Fire Damaged Home With These 6 Tips

RH Business Marketing Solutions

If you've been affected by a recent fire, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. However, there are many things that you can do to get back on track and make the most of this difficult situation. This article will provide six tips for making money from a fire-damaged home.

Research Your State’s Property Laws 

Before you can begin to profit from a fire-damaged home, it’s important that you do your research on the property laws in your state. While there are no doubt many different factors that will play into your decision to buy and sell these types of properties, if you don’t look up the specific regulations that are in the place where you live, you could be setting yourself up for financial trouble down the road. When it comes to your state’s property laws, there are a few factors that you will want to pay close attention to. 

These include things like the zoning regulations for the area where the home is located in, any additional taxes or fees that might be imposed on these types of properties, and any specific requirements for renovations and repairs. Once you have a good understanding of the property laws in your state, you can begin to look for fire-damaged homes that fit your criteria.

Consider Selling the Home 

One of the first things you should do when dealing with fire damage to your home is to consider how you want to deal with the situation. One option that many homeowners choose is to sell their property to an investor who specializes in buying fire-damaged homes and later renovating them so they can be put back on the market for sale. Selling your house this way can be a good option if you want to get rid of the property quickly and do not have the time or money to invest in repairing the damage yourself. The first step in researching investors who may be interested in your property is to start looking online. Using a keyword like “investors who buy houses” can help you narrow down the options and find an investor that is likely to be interested in purchasing your home. Once you have found an investor, it's important to do some research.

Check Your Insurance Policy

The first step to profiting from a fire-damaged home is to check your insurance policy. You want to make sure that you are covered for the full value of the home, as well as any damage that may have been done. Many policies only cover the dwelling itself, so if there is significant damage to the contents of the home, you may not be covered. There are a few things to look out for in your insurance policy when it comes to fire damage. First, you want to make sure that the home is covered for the replacement value, not the depreciated value. This means that if you have a $200,000 home and it is destroyed by a fire in the first year, you will get $200,000 to replace it. Most policies only cover depreciated value, which is much less than the full replacement cost. You also want to make sure that your personal property is covered for its full value. 

In most policies, there is a limitation on how much any given item can be replaced. For example, if you have a $5,000 television and it is damaged in the fire, your policy may only cover up to $1,500 of this item. Finally, make sure that you are covered for temporary housing. If you end up being displaced from your home because of the damage caused by the fires, you will want to be sure that you are covered for the cost of staying somewhere else while your home is being rebuilt. By checking your policy and making sure that it covers all aspects of a fire-damaged home, you can rest assured knowing that should there be any issues with coverage, they will be resolved.

Get Estimates from Contractors 

The first step to taking advantage of a fire-damaged home is to get estimates from contractors. This will give you an idea of the repairs that need to be made and the cost of those repairs. It is important to get multiple estimates so that you can compare prices and find the best deal. Once you have estimates from contractors, you can start negotiating with them. You may be able to get a discount if you are willing to pay cash or if you agree to do some of the work yourself. Be sure to get everything in writing so that there are no misunderstandings later on. If the damage to the home is extensive, you may want to consider hiring a company that specializes in fire damage restoration. These companies will have the experience and equipment necessary to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. 

Contact Fire Restoration Professionals

When you have a fire in your home, there are many steps that you need to take. One of the first things is to contact fire restoration professionals. These people will come into your house and assess the damage and help you create an action plan for putting out the fire and restoring everything back to normal again. These professionals will be able to help you with your insurance company and will ensure that everything is set up properly. They are trained in the processes of getting rid of fire damage and restoring a property back to normal. They know which products are best for use on different types of fires and how to clean up after a fire.

Consider Making  Repairs Yourself

If you're considering making repairs to a fire-damaged home, there are some things you should keep in mind. First, safety is always the top priority. Be sure that the structure is safe to enter and that all utilities have been turned off before beginning any work. Next, it's important to understand the extent of the damage. How much of the house is damaged, and how much will need to be repaired or replaced? This will give you a better idea of the scope of work that needs to be done. Finally, don't forget to budget for materials and labor. Repairing a fire-damaged home can be expensive, so be sure to get multiple estimates and compare prices before starting any work.

If your home is damaged by a fire, there are many things that you can do to take advantage of this situation. By getting estimates from contractors, contacting fire restoration professionals, and considering making repairs yourself, you can profit from a fire-damaged home. Whether you need to rebuild your home from scratch or make minor repairs, these tips will help you navigate the process and get back on your feet as soon as possible. So, if you find yourself facing a fire-damaged home, don't despair with the right preparation and planning, you can turn this unfortunate event into an opportunity for success.

Protecting your Mental Health While Moving

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