Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater in 2023

Tankless water heaters, also known as on-demand or instantaneous water heaters, are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes and businesses. Unlike traditional water heaters, which store hot water in a large tank, tankless water heaters heat water as it is needed, resulting in energy and cost savings.

How Tankless Water Heaters Work

Tankless water heaters work by heating water as it flows through the unit. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water enters the heater and flows over a heat exchanger, which rapidly heats the water to the desired temperature. The heated water then exits the unit and flows to the faucet or appliance. Tankless water heaters can provide a continuous supply of hot water as long as there is a demand.

Benefits of Tankless Water Heaters

Energy Efficiency: One of the main benefits of tankless water heaters is their energy efficiency. Traditional water heaters are constantly heating and reheating water in the tank, even when hot water isn't being used. This can result in wasted energy and higher utility bills. Tankless water heaters only heat water when it is needed, resulting in significant energy savings.

Space Savings: Traditional water heaters can take up a lot of space in a home or business, especially if they are larger models. Tankless water heaters are much smaller and can be mounted on a wall, freeing up valuable space in your home or business.

Longevity: Tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters. While traditional water heaters typically last around 10-15 years, tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.

Endless Hot Water: With a tankless water heater, you never have to worry about running out of hot water. Traditional water heaters can run out of hot water if the tank is emptied, but tankless water heaters provide a continuous supply of hot water as long as there is a demand.

Cost Savings: While tankless water heaters may have a higher upfront cost than traditional water heaters, they can save you money in the long run due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan.

Factors to Consider

While there are many benefits to tankless water heaters, there are also some factors to consider when deciding if a tankless water heater is right for you. These factors include:

Upfront Cost: Tankless water heaters can have a higher upfront cost than traditional water heaters, so it's important to consider your budget when making a decision.

Installation: Tankless water heaters may require a professional installation, especially if you are replacing a traditional water heater. This can add to the overall cost.

Flow Rate: It's important to choose a tankless water heater with a flow rate that meets your hot water needs. If you have a large family or use a lot of hot water, you may need a larger unit.

Conclusion

Overall, tankless water heaters are an efficient and cost-effective option for many homes and businesses. With their energy efficiency, space savings, and longevity, tankless water heaters offer many benefits over traditional water heaters. However, it's important to consider the upfront cost and installation requirements when making a decision. If you're interested in a tankless water heater, give us a call at 708-845-7922 to set up an estimate.

Common Summer Plumbing Problems and How to Solve Them

Plumbing systems form the backbone of our homes, silently working to ensure we have clean water at the turn of a tap and waste is disposed of safely. Often, we think of winter as the season of plumbing woes, with frozen pipes and boiler breakdowns. However, the heat of summer brings its own share of challenges. Today, we explore common summer plumbing problems and how to address them effectively.

Understanding Plumbing Systems in the Summer

Summer days are synonymous with pool parties, lush green gardens, and lots of cold showers to beat the heat. However, this heightened water usage can strain our plumbing systems, leading to various issues. Understanding how summer weather affects your plumbing can prepare you to tackle these problems head-on, ensuring a hassle-free season.

Common Summer Plumbing Problems

Blocked Drains

One of the most common summer plumbing problems is blocked drains. Increased outdoor activities and children being home from school often mean more dirt and debris finding their way into your drains. Symptoms of blocked drains include slow drainage, unpleasant odors, and in severe cases, overflowing.

Sprinkler Issues

Summer is the prime time for sprinkler usage, watering our lawns to maintain their verdant beauty. However, neglected sprinkler maintenance during the other seasons can lead to issues, including leakages and non-functional sprinkler heads. Regular checks can help identify these problems early.

Sewer Line Backups

Hot weather and increased rainfall can cause sewer line backups, a serious issue that no homeowner wants to face. Common signs include multiple drain clogs, bad sewer odor, and water pooling around the basement drain.

Overworked Water Heaters

While we typically associate water heaters with winter, they can be overworked in summer, too, especially if you have a pool or a hot tub. Signs of an overworked water heater include inconsistent water temperature and noises coming from the heater.

Washing Machine Overloads

Summer means more outdoor activities, which in turn means more laundry. Increased usage can strain washing machines, leading to plumbing problems. Look out for signs like leaks, strange noises, and poor drainage.

How to Solve These Summer Plumbing Problems

Blocked Drains

For minor drain blockages, a good plunge can often do the trick. However, for stubborn clogs, you might need the help of the right maintenance service provider. They have the necessary tools and expertise to handle such situations without damaging your pipes.

Sprinkler Issues

Regular maintenance is the key to avoiding sprinkler issues. Check for leaks and ensure all sprinkler heads are working correctly. If the system is beyond your repair capabilities, don't hesitate to call a professional.

Sewer Line Backups

Preventive measures like installing a backwater valve can help avoid sewer line backups. However, if the problem persists, it's time to call in the professionals. They can use cameras to inspect the lines and determine the best course of action.

Outdoor Plumbing Considerations

Don't forget that your outdoor plumbing is just as important as what's inside your home. Hose bibs, outdoor showers, and swimming pool plumbing are susceptible to wear and tear. Regularly inspect these areas for leaks or any other signs of trouble. Repair any issues promptly to prevent more significant problems down the line. And even better, if you are just moving in, experts at Pro Movers Miami recommend checking all the pipes beforehand.

Washing Machine Overloads

To prevent overloads, avoid running back-to-back loads and ensure the machine is balanced. Regularly inspect the hoses for bulges, leaks, or cracks. If you notice any of these issues, it might be time to call a professional.

Prevention Tips for Summer Plumbing Problems

Water conservation can reduce strain on your plumbing system, leading to fewer summer plumbing problems. Regular plumbing checks can help spot issues before they escalate. Moreover, a professional inspection, especially before summer, can ensure your system is prepared to handle the increased load.

If you're preparing a home for sale, conducting a thorough plumbing inspection and addressing any existing issues can significantly increase its appeal to potential buyers.

Overworked Water Heaters

Preserving the lifespan of your water heater involves regular checks and timely maintenance. If your heater is older and consistently causing problems, consider replacing it with a more energy-efficient model. That's why you will need professional help to prepare your outdoor space for summer if you have heaters. In case you want to install a hot tub, it's always best to clean your water pipes and check the water heater beforehand.

Maintaining Your Appliances

Not only do your pipes and drains need attention, but your appliances do. This is especially true for those using water, like dishwashers and refrigerators. Ensure that the water lines to these appliances are checked and serviced regularly. This will help you to avoid summer plumbing problems related to these appliances, such as leaks, poor performance, or even total breakdowns.

Garden Irrigation

In summer, maintaining a lush garden becomes a priority for many homeowners. Efficient irrigation is the key to this, but it can also lead to plumbing problems if not managed correctly. Overwatering not only increases your water bill but also strains your plumbing system. Consider installing a smart irrigation system that waters your plants only when necessary, saving water and reducing strain on your plumbing system.

Dealing with Hard Water

Hard water, or water with high mineral content, can cause scale build-up in your pipes and appliances, leading to inefficiencies and potential breakdowns. Consider installing a water softener if you live in an area with hard water. This device removes excess minerals from your water, protecting your plumbing and making your water better for washing and cleaning.

Additionally, junk removal for your plumbing is another essential step in maintaining the health of your plumbing system. Old pipes, faulty fixtures, and blocked drains need to be cleaned and replaced regularly to ensure your system runs smoothly and efficiently.

Balancing Water Pressure

The high water pressure might make for a great shower, but it can stress your pipes and lead to leaks. On the other hand, low water pressure could be a symptom of a leak or blockage. Regularly check your water pressure and adjust it if necessary. If you're unsure how to do this, a professional plumber can help.

Conclusion

Summer plumbing problems can put a damper on the sunniest of days. However, you can enjoy a stress-free summer with a better understanding of these issues and their solutions. Remember, regular maintenance and professional help in complex situations are paramount to keeping your plumbing system in top shape.

Guest Contributor: Sophia Perry

8 Things to Know Before Buying a House with Solar Panels

As the world increasingly focuses on supplying affordable and clean energy to residential areas, installing solar panels has grown tremendously over recent years. Its popularity and usage are growing each day.

Today, more than 3 million solar systems have been installed in the US, with over 4% of the electricity coming from solar energy.

Many states encourage citizens to harness solar energy by installing solar panels and batteries to store surplus electricity. To make the solar system accessible to many people, the US government even started a program to give tax rebates and incentives when installing solar systems.

Solar energy plays a vital role in powering your residential home and saving a significant amount of money every month. Thus, you must get solar panels from a reputable company such as Reposit Power through their official website or other online marketplaces.

While solar panels can help you save money on your energy bills, how much you save depends on the type and working condition of the solar panels.

Here are eight things you must know before buying a house with solar panels.

1. Net Metering

Net metering allows you to sell the excess power generated by your solar panel to the grid. It's one of the ways you can save money and offset your monthly energy bills while speeding up the payback period of upfront costs.

To get the advantage, ask the seller if the state has a metering program. If so, you need to work with a company which will do the trade on your behalf. The returns will pay your energy bill and cover any operation costs.

2. Warranty

Warranties play a huge role in protecting your property and other related equipment. Solar panels come with a warranty in most cases. So, before you acquire a house with the panel, you must verify the warranty duration, its validity, and whether it's transferrable.

If your solar panels develop a problem, the manufacturer will be accountable, and you will not incur extra costs for the repair. Again, having a warranty proves that you truly bought that solar panel from a company that will be responsible if a problem occurs.

That will make the compensation process fast. Conversely, if you don't have a warranty, you are unlikely to benefit. Therefore, be sure to ask for the warranty.

3. Age of the Solar Panel

Like any other equipment, the solar panel is prone to undergo depreciation. Before you buy a house with solar panels, it's good to know the age of the solar panel. Many solar panels last for about 30 years.

So, if they are closely approaching their lifespan, you must replace them as soon as possible.

 4. Roofing

Roofing can greatly impact energy production in the home and the amount of money you can save on your electricity bills. To get the best results, you must ensure the solar panels face south to trap maximum sunlight.

Trees and other structural buildings are likely to block the panels from generating optimal energy. Therefore, ensure the panels are at the right angle and position so the tall structures and trees do not shade them. Lastly, if the roofing is damaged, you will need to repair it.

5. Type and Size of Solar Panel

You can choose from different types of solar panels depending on your needs. The solar panels vary in Size, durability, cost, and efficiency. Therefore, knowing the type of solar panel installed in your prospective home is essential before buying it.

6. Check if they Are owned or Leased

Buying a home does not mean you must buy everything in it. When it comes to solar panels, always inquire about the ownership. It's important to ask whether the solar panels are owned or leased before buying a home.

If the seller owns the solar panels, ensure they have been paid completely. Conversely, if the solar panels are on a lease, you must agree with the leasing company to buy off the panels or make arrangements to continue with the lease payment.

 

7. Permit

Every state has a set of rules and regulations concerning solar panel installation. You, therefore, need to ensure the seller has a credible permit that allows the installation.

Let the seller issue you a copy showing the installation aligns with the state's building and electricity safety act.

8. Performance

Performance and productivity are crucial aspects you must consider before buying a home with solar panels. You must ensure that the electricity generated is enough to meet your residential needs if not selling the surplus to the local company.

So, ensure the solar system can generate power effortlessly and efficiently to produce enough electricity whenever needed.

ConclusioN 

Buying a home with quality solar panels is a long-term investment to help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint while ensuring a sustainable environment.

Even though the upfront cost of purchasing and installing the solar panel is high, the benefits that come at last are immeasurable. So, why don't you take advantage of the cheap renewable energy from the sun? Hopefully, this article will help you when you wish to buy a home with solar panels.

Guest Contributor: Jessica Smith

Ohio Landlord Rights: What You Need to Know

As a landlord in Ohio, it is crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities to effectively manage your rental properties and maintain a successful landlord-tenant relationship. Ohio's landlord rights are governed by state laws and regulations, and being aware of these rights empowers you to navigate various situations with confidence. In this article, we will explore key aspects of Ohio landlord rights that every landlord should know.

1. Right to Screen and Select Tenants

As a landlord in Ohio, you have the right to screen and select tenants for your rental property. You can establish criteria and conduct background checks, credit checks, and reference checks to ensure you choose reliable and responsible tenants. However, it is essential to comply with fair housing laws and avoid any form of discrimination during the screening process.

2. Right to Set Rent and Security Deposits

Ohio landlords have the right to set the rent amount for their rental properties. You can determine the rent based on market rates, property value, location, and other relevant factors. Additionally, you have the right to collect a security deposit from tenants to protect against potential damages or unpaid rent. Ohio landlord-tenant law does not place a specific limit on security deposit amounts, but it should be reasonable and comply with proper handling procedures.

3. Right to Proper Notice

Landlords in Ohio have the right to provide proper notice to tenants for various purposes. For example, if you need to enter the rental property for repairs, inspections, or other legitimate reasons, you must provide reasonable advance notice to the tenant, usually at least 24 hours in advance. Similarly, if you plan to terminate the tenancy, raise the rent, or make any significant changes to the lease agreement, you must provide proper notice within the timelines specified by Ohio law.

4. Right to Maintain the Property

As a landlord, you have the right to maintain the rental property in a safe and habitable condition. This includes ensuring that essential services, such as plumbing, heating, and electricity, are functioning properly. It is your responsibility to address necessary repairs promptly and keep the property in compliance with local health and safety codes.

5. Right to Evict Problematic Tenants

Ohio landlords have the right to evict tenants who violate the terms of the lease agreement or fail to fulfill their obligations. Common grounds for eviction may include non-payment of rent, unauthorized occupants, property damage, or illegal activities on the premises. However, landlords must follow the proper legal procedures outlined in Ohio's Landlord-Tenant Law, which includes providing proper notice and obtaining a court order for eviction if necessary.

6. Right to Collect Rent and Enforce Lease Terms

As a landlord, you have the right to collect rent from your tenants according to the terms specified in the lease agreement. If tenants fail to pay rent on time, you can take appropriate legal action to enforce the lease terms and recover any unpaid rent. It is advisable to keep detailed records of rent payments and communication with tenants to support your case if a dispute arises.

7. Right to Deduct Damages from Security Deposit

If tenants cause damage to the rental property beyond normal wear and tear, Ohio landlords have the right to deduct the necessary repair costs from the tenant's security deposit. However, you must provide an itemized list of deductions and return any remaining deposit amount to the tenant within the required timeframe after the tenancy ends.

8. Right to Access the Property

Landlords in Ohio have the right to access the rental property for specific purposes, such as repairs, inspections, or emergency situations. However, it is important to provide proper notice to the tenant and respect their privacy rights. The notice period may vary depending on the nature of the visit, but generally, 24 hours notice is considered reasonable.

9. Right to Terminate Tenancy

In certain circumstances, Ohio landlords have the right to terminate a tenancy. Common reasons for termination may include lease violations, non-payment of rent, or the expiration of a fixed-term lease. However, it is essential to follow the proper legal procedures and provide the required notice to the tenant. The notice period may vary depending on the specific situation, so it is crucial to consult Ohio's Landlord-Tenant Law or seek legal advice to ensure compliance.

10. Right to Recover Unpaid Rent and Damages

If a tenant fails to pay rent or causes damage to the rental property, Ohio landlords have the right to pursue legal action to recover the unpaid rent or seek compensation for damages. This may involve filing a lawsuit in small claims court or seeking the assistance of a collections agency. It is important to document the evidence of unpaid rent or damages to support your case.

11. Right to Lease Termination for Safety Reasons

In certain situations where the rental property poses safety risks or requires significant repairs, Ohio landlords have the right to terminate the lease to protect the well-being of the tenants. However, specific conditions must be met, and the landlord must follow the legal procedures outlined in Ohio law. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with the necessary requirements.

12. Right to Enforce Lease Violations

If tenants violate the terms of the lease agreement, Ohio landlords have the right to enforce the lease provisions. This may involve providing notice to the tenant and giving them an opportunity to rectify the violation within a specified timeframe. If the violation persists, legal action may be necessary to enforce the lease terms or terminate the tenancy.

13. Right to Non-Renew a Lease

Ohio landlords have the right to choose not to renew a lease agreement at the end of the lease term. However, proper notice must be given to the tenant within the required timeframe, as specified in the lease agreement or Ohio law. It is important to clearly communicate your intentions regarding lease renewal to tenants well in advance.

14. Right to Recover Legal Expenses

In some cases where legal action is necessary to enforce lease terms, collect unpaid rent, or evict a tenant, Ohio landlords may have the right to recover reasonable legal expenses incurred during the process. This may include attorney fees, court costs, or other related expenses. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to determine if you are eligible for such a recovery.

15. Right to Set Property Rules

As a landlord, you have the right to establish reasonable rules and regulations for your rental property. These rules may include restrictions on pets, smoking, noise levels, or other aspects that help maintain a peaceful and safe living environment for all tenants. It is important to communicate these rules clearly to tenants and include them in the lease agreement.

Conclusion

Understanding your rights as a landlord in Ohio is crucial for managing your rental properties effectively and within the boundaries of the law. Familiarizing yourself with Ohio's landlord rights empowers you to make informed decisions, handle tenant issues appropriately, and protect your investment. It is advisable to consult with legal professionals or seek guidance from landlord associations to ensure compliance with Ohio's laws and regulations pertaining to landlord rights.

Guest Contributor: Amelia Brown

Why is There Sewage Coming Up Through the Bathtub

If you've ever experienced sewage coming up through your bathtub drain, you know just how unpleasant and alarming it can be. Unfortunately, this is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. In this article, we'll discuss some of the possible reasons why sewage may be coming up through the bathtub drain and what you can do about it.

1. A clogged sewer line: One of the most common reasons why sewage may be coming up through the bathtub drain is a clogged sewer line. This can happen when materials like grease, food, hair, and other debris build up in the sewer line, preventing wastewater from flowing freely. As a result, sewage may back up into your home and come up through the bathtub drain.

2. A blocked drainpipe: Another possible cause of sewage coming up through the bathtub drain is a blocked drainpipe. This can happen if there is a blockage in the plumbing system, such as a clogged pipe or tree roots that have infiltrated the pipes. If the blockage is severe enough, sewage may be forced back up through the bathtub drain.

3. A damaged sewer line: Sewer lines can become damaged due to age, tree roots, or other factors. When this happens, wastewater may leak out of the pipes and into your home, causing sewage to come up through the bathtub drain.

4. A malfunctioning septic system: If you have a septic system, a malfunctioning system can cause sewage to back up into your home. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a full septic tank, a clogged drain field, or a damaged septic system.

5. A problem with the bathtub's plumbing: In some cases, the problem may be with the bathtub's plumbing rather than the sewer line or septic system. For example, a blockage in the bathtub's drainpipe may cause wastewater to back up into the bathtub.

If you're experiencing sewage coming up through your bathtub drain, it's important to address the problem as soon as possible. Not only is this issue unpleasant, but it can also pose a health risk to you and your family. To address the problem, you may need to call a professional plumber or septic service company to inspect your plumbing and septic system. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action to fix it.

In some cases, the problem may be as simple as clearing a clogged drainpipe or removing a blockage from the sewer line. In other cases, more extensive repairs may be necessary, such as replacing damaged pipes or repairing a malfunctioning septic system. Whatever the cause of the problem, it's important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and restore your plumbing system to full functionality.

Joinery Mastery: Unlocking the Secrets to Creating Strong, Beautiful Wood Joints

Mastering joinery is an essential skill for any woodworker, as it forms the foundation of creating strong and beautiful wood pieces. With various types of wood joints available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, it is crucial to understand the principles of joinery and select the right joint for the job. This article will guide you through the world of joinery, providing you with the knowledge and techniques required to create long-lasting, visually appealing wood projects.

1. Understanding Wood Joints

To create strong and beautiful wood joints, it is crucial to understand the basic principles of joinery. This includes the importance of selecting the right joint for the job, as well as the role of wood grain, moisture content, and wood movement in joinery. By understanding these principles, you can ensure that your wood projects are both structurally sound and visually appealing. 

2. Types of Wood Joints

There are many different types of wood joints, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some common wood joints include:

• Butt joints: A simple joint where two pieces of wood are joined end-to-end. While easy to create, butt joints are not very strong and may require reinforcement.

• Mitre joints: Similar to butt joints, but the ends of the wood pieces are cut at a 45-degree angle, creating a more aesthetically pleasing joint. However, mitre joints also lack strength and often require reinforcement.

• Dovetail joints: A more complex joint with interlocking pins and tails, providing both strength and visual appeal. Dovetail joints are commonly used in drawer construction and other areas where strength is required.

• Mortise and tenon joints: A strong and versatile joint, consisting of a tenon (a protruding piece of wood) that fits into a mortise (a corresponding hole in another piece of wood). Mortise and tenon joints are often used in furniture construction.

• Lap joints: A joint where one piece of wood overlaps another, providing a stronger connection than a simple butt joint.

• Finger joints: Also known as box joints, finger joints are created by cutting a series of interlocking fingers into the ends of two pieces of wood. This joint is strong and visually appealing, making it popular for box and drawer construction.

When selecting the appropriate joint for your project, consider factors such as strength, appearance, and ease of construction.

3. Joinery Tools and Techniques

To create strong and beautiful wood joints, you will need a variety of tools, such as saws, chisels, and planes. Specialized joinery tools, such as dovetail jigs and dowelling jigs, can also be helpful for creating precise joints. When using these tools, it is essential to practice safe and effective techniques, such as proper cutting, shaping, and fitting of wood joints.

4. Glues, Fasteners, and Reinforcements

Adhesives, such as wood glue, play a crucial role in joinery, helping to create strong and long-lasting connections between wood pieces. Various types of wood glue are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to select the appropriate adhesive for your project. In addition to glue, fasteners such as screws and nails can be used in wood joinery, as well as reinforcement methods such as dowels, biscuits, and splines.

5. Achieving Beautiful and Strong Joints

To create visually appealing wood joints, consider factors such as wood selection and grain matching. Techniques such as proper clamping and glue application can also help ensure strong joints. Finally, sanding and finishing are crucial steps in creating professional-looking wood joints.

6. Troubleshooting Common Joinery Issues

Common joinery problems, such as gaps, misaligned parts, and weak joints, can often be identified and addressed with careful observation and practice. Tips for repairing or reinforcing problematic joints can help you improve your joinery skills and create better wood projects.

7. Conclusion

Mastering joinery is essential for creating strong, beautiful wood pieces that will last for years to come. By understanding the principles of joinery, selecting the right joint for the job, and practicing proper techniques, you can achieve joinery mastery and create lasting, visually appealing wood projects. So, continue learning and practicing joinery techniques, and unlock the secrets to creating strong, beautiful wood joints.

Guest Contributor: Kristin Annie

How to Transform Your Patio and Balcony for Year-Round Use

A patio or balcony is the perfect place to be in the summer, but during winter, it becomes another unused space on your property – until now. If you want to get more use out of your full property, including the outdoor spaces, then you'll need to upgrade what you have. With these easy fixes, you can enjoy your patio or balcony year-round:

Add Beautiful but Functional Windbreakers

One of the main issues with outdoor spaces is the wind, which can make it feel much colder than it actually is. Consider adding attractive but functional windbreakers to your patio or balcony to combat this. Natural options include a trellis covered in climbing plants or elegant privacy screens. However, if you have a stunning view that you don't want to obstruct, you'll want some glass windbreaks. These are essentially glass fences that can be extended vertically to block out the wind.  

Include Beautiful Heaters to Keep Things Cozy Year-Round

Even with windbreakers in place, it can still get chilly outside during the cooler months. Adding a heater to your outdoor space is a great way to extend the use of your patio or balcony into the fall and winter. You can choose freestanding propane heaters, wall-mounted electric units, or even install a natural outdoor fireplace. This heater will need to be either sit center of your patio or, alternatively, around your furniture to create a cozy environment. Regardless of what option you choose, always follow safety guidelines.

Make Sure Your Furniture is Weatherproofed

If you're going to be spending time outside year-round, you'll need furniture that can stand up to the elements. Look for outdoor furniture made from materials like plastic, tough-wearing woods, or metal that are naturally resistant to moisture and insects. If you already have furniture that you love but that isn't weatherproof, consider applying a waterproof sealant to protect it from the elements. You can also invest in outdoor furniture covers to help protect your furniture from the elements when it's not in use.

Add a Roof or Clear Tarp Overhead

If your patio or balcony is completely exposed to the elements, you might want to consider adding a roof or a clear tarp overhead. This will not only help keep rain and snow off of your furniture but also create a cozier, more intimate space. A pergola is a great option for a patio, as it provides some shade and protection without completely enclosing the space. A clear tarp can then be added to create a temporary waterproof roof that can be removed during the warmer months.

Protect Furnishings in a Weather-Tight Storage Box

Even with the best windbreakers, heaters, and furniture, you'll still need a place to store everything when the weather gets really bad. A weather-tight storage box is a great solution for keeping your patio or balcony clean and clutter-free year-round, and it's particularly great if you have cushions you want to keep in good condition. Look for a box made from weather-resistant materials like resin or metal that can withstand the elements. If there's anything soft that you don't want to rot or get infested, opt for storage units with full sealing. A garden shed can then be used to store your gardening equipment and other low-priority items.

Tips For Giving Your Backyard A Makeover

Giving your backyard a new lease on life is one of the most satisfying and rewarding projects you can set yourself when you want to make an improvement to your home.

The reasons for this are twofold. Firstly, working out in the open air is a fantastic way to reconnect with nature, de-stress from a busy, urban environment, and watch the fruits of your labor blossom. 

Unlike interior home improvement projects, backyard rejuvenation doesn’t negatively impact your daily life (unless you use your garden religiously). This means that you can complete the project at your own pace without becoming irritated or overwhelmed by the scale of the task.

The other reason why giving your backyard a makeover is satisfying is because it allows you to enjoy your outdoor space that bit more. Whether you are returfing your lawn to play soccer with your kids on or creating a decking area on which to enjoy barbeques with friends - there is no shortage of enjoyment you can derive from a backyard improvement project.

To help you get the most out of your backyard makeover, here are some top tips:

Install a retractable awning.

One of the best ways to improve your backyard is to ensure you can sit out in the garden during all weather conditions without an unpleasant experience. It doesn’t matter whether you live in the hottest part of the world with the sun beating down on you relentlessly or in a rainy and cloudy climate that can never make up its mind - you need to be prepared to take shelter from the weather when necessary.

This is why installing a retractable patio awning is such a useful addition to your backyard. It enables you to enjoy your garden no matter the weather conditions, which is an underrated benefit.

Consider the number of times you have had to retreat back indoors due to unbearable sunlight or miserable rain. It has severely limited your ability to use the garden, which is a great shame. Instead, with a retractable awning, you can sit underneath and enjoy a book, spend time with family and friends, or simply enjoy the weather from the safety of the cover.

Create a dedicated decking or patio area.

Another great addition to your backyard is a dedicated decking or patio area. This is because having a garden with nothing but grass can be impractical. While grass is beautiful to look at when it is properly maintained, it can be difficult to place tables, chairs, barbeques, and other items on - especially if you frequently get rain.

The grass will soon die or become muddy and sodden, quickly making your backyard unpleasant. Instead, by creating a decking or patio area, you can have a dedicated area for entertaining guests, cooking food, or just placing furniture and other heavy items. 

Lay new turf and flower beds

Finally, if your garden looks tired and sorry for itself, you should returf the space and plant fresh flower beds to rejuvenate your backyard. The great thing about returfing is that you can buy ready-grown turf, meaning it will look great from the moment you lay it - no waiting for it to grow.

Summer DIY Projects

Summer is the perfect time to get creative and start some DIY projects that you've been dreaming about all year. Whether you want to improve your home, upgrade your garden, or simply have some fun, there are plenty of easy DIY projects you can try out. Here are some ideas for DIY summer projects that will keep you busy and engaged.

• Create a Vertical Garden

Vertical gardens are a great way to add greenery to your home or apartment, even if you don't have much space. You can use a variety of containers, including old tin cans, mason jars, or wooden crates, and hang them on a wall or fence. You can then fill them with herbs, flowers, or succulents, and enjoy a mini garden right in your living space.

• Build a Fire Pit

A fire pit is a perfect addition to any backyard, and it's a great project to tackle during the summer months. You can buy a fire pit kit at a home improvement store or build your own from bricks or pavers. Make sure to check local regulations and fire codes before starting this project.

• Create a Swing

If you have some old pallets lying around, you can easily turn them into a comfortable and stylish outdoor swing. You'll need a few tools and materials, including screws, rope, and cushions, but the end result is a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the warm weather.

• Make a Solar-Powered Outdoor Light

If you're looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly project, consider making your own solar-powered outdoor lights. You can use a variety of materials, including mason jars, wine bottles, or PVC pipes, and install solar-powered lights to create a unique and energy-efficient lighting solution for your yard or patio.

• Build a Birdhouse

Creating a birdhouse is a fun and easy project that can be enjoyed by the whole family. You can use scrap wood, old license plates, or even teapots to create unique and colorful birdhouses. Hang them in your garden or backyard, and enjoy watching the birds as they come and go.

• Design a Custom Beach Bag

If you're heading to the beach this summer, why not create your own custom beach bag? You can use fabric paint, tie-dye, stencils, or iron-on patches to decorate a plain canvas bag and make it uniquely yours. This is a great project to do with kids, and the finished product is both functional and stylish.

Summer is a great time to get outside and explore your creative side. With these DIY projects, you'll have plenty of fun and rewarding activities to keep you busy all season long. So grab your tools and get started on your next DIY adventure!

The Tragedy at Oak Forest Bowl

On May 6th, 2023, Oak Forest Bowl, a beloved bowling alley located in Oak Forest, Illinois, was destroyed by a devastating fire. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning, as the bowling alley has been a staple of the area for over 50 years.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that it may have been caused by an electrical fault, and it appears that it started outside of the building.

The fire was reported in the early hours of the morning and quickly spread throughout the building. Firefighters arrived on the scene promptly, but the intensity of the blaze made it difficult to contain. Despite their efforts, the building was completely destroyed, and the roof collapsed shortly after their arrival. Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire, as the building was empty at the time.

The loss of Oak Forest Bowl is a devastating blow to the community. The bowling alley has been a gathering place for generations, and many people have fond memories of spending time there with friends and family. The building was also home to several leagues, which provided a sense of community for those who participated.

The community has also rallied around the owners, offering their support and condolences. Many have taken to social media to express their sadness and share their memories of the bowling alley. Some have even started fundraising efforts to help with the rebuilding process.

Other local businesses in the area have expressed their sadness and support by offering both part time and full time jobs to those who were employed at Oak Forest Bowl. A big thank you to Durbin's and Kenootz in Midlothian, At The Office in Crestwood, and Cooper's Bar and Grill in Oak Forest for making these jobs available for those who need it at this time.

The loss of Oak Forest Bowl is a tragedy for the community, but it is heartening to see the outpouring of support in the wake of the fire. The memories and friendships formed at the bowling alley will live on, and hopefully, one day soon, a new Oak Forest Bowl will rise from the ashes. Keith has always been there for the Oak Forest Community, we will be here for him when it’s time to rebuild!