Effective Ways to Secure Your Backyard

Due to the pandemic, many of us have fallen back in love with your backyards, since they were the only escape from the house. But if you take a good look at your beloved outdoor space, does it look secure to you? Is it protected from burglars and other intruders? Does it offer privacy that you crave? If one of these deserves a no as an answer, you need to boost security in your backyard. Luckily, that can be done quickly and effectively with these tips.

Light it up

First things first, make sure to illuminate your space properly, since burglars don’t like well-lit spaces. The more light you have, the easier you will catch the intruder, and everyone knows that. Get moderate-intensity floodlights with motion sensors to ensure proper security. When the sensors detect motion, they turn on and stay on for a few seconds (you can program your lights how you like it) and shut off unless they continue to detect movements. Aim your sensors at all doors, deck, patio and stairway and place them from 6 to 10 feet above the ground.

Stock up on chains and padlocks

Many burglars are only looking for a quick and easy loot from your backyard like ladders, power tools, bikes and such—they are not even interested in getting inside your house. If you often keep these things in your backyard in the open, it’s smart to get a few chains, padlocks and a ground anchor and secure these down. Pay special attention to your ladder, because they can be used to access other floors of the house, so they should always be secured or put away in the garage.

Invest in a fence

One of the best ways to boost security in your backyard is to get a sturdy fence. Burglars might be scared to jump over and realize they are trapped, so they will stay away from your space thanks to your fence. Make sure to find a fencing supplier with a good reputation and plenty of experience, so you know your fence will be sturdy and installed properly. With this simple move, you will add a ton of security, safety (your kids and pets will always stay safely inside), privacy and noise control to your backyard.

Install security cameras

Outdoor cameras are also a great security feature that will give you peace of mind during the night or when your kids are home alone. The best devices have motion sensors that capture any movement in your outdoor space. Also, some cameras can automatically alert authorities if they detect someone in your backyard. And most cameras today have phone apps, so you can monitor your outdoor space wherever you are and know exactly what’s going on there.

Be strategic with greenery

Your choice of backyard plants can make or break burglars’ plans, so make sure to be strategic when planting and pruning. If you know how, you can easily keep intruders away with your landscaping. Firstly, tall shrubbery is a perfect cover for sketchy characters, and they can use it to hide behind and watch your home or to pry open a window or door. So make sure all your foundation plants are low so no one can hind behind them.

Additionally, keeping tall trees near your fence or your house can provide a hiding spot and something to climb on, so it’s best to remove these to ensure optimal safety in your backyard. Instead, focus on thorny plants around the fence and under windows (unless you have small kids who could get hurt). If breaking in through the window means going through a cactus patch or a rose bush, many will give up.

Add a furry protector to your backyard

Did you know that one of the most effective deterrents for burglars is a guard dog? Big dogs are more successful in keeping intruders away, but even small ones can alert the owner and provide plenty of distraction for the bad guy. If you’re not ready to become a dog parent, buy a “Beware of Dog” sticker and put it on your gate, fence and doors—not many will stick around to check if you actually have a guard dog or not.

None of these ideas above are too big to be performed quickly, easily and with little investment, but the returns in security will be immeasurable. The safety of your family and property are worth every penny you spend!

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

How to Safeguard Your Plumbing from Tree Roots

The purpose of tree roots is to absorb and transport water and minerals from the soil to the rest of the tree. Therefore it is only natural that roots from trees and shrubs grow toward sewer lines. These pipes hold the water source that the plant needs, as well as oxygen and nutrients. Roots that find a way into a tube through a leak will grow fast and cause blockages resulting in damaged pipes. This instance is one of the reasons why regular plumbing inspections and maintenance are necessary. 

Sewage leaks are unhygienic and lead to health problems, and repairing the damage caused by the roots can be very costly. Prevent costly repair bills by taking a few precautionary measures when planting trees and maintaining pipes. 

But first, you must be aware of the signs that the tree roots are the primary culprit in causing damages to your pipes. Here are the symptoms:

• Bad Odor

• Sewer Flies

• Toilet Drainage

• Water Backups/ Overflow

If you ever noticed these signs, it's time to get your pipes checked and take precautionary measures to prevent this instance from happening again. 

1. Locate the Sewage Lines in Your Area

It is essential to know and locate where your underground pipes, lines, and cables run as an establishment owner. This information will help you in future potential planting or landscaping projects in your area. It is also best to limit the amount of plant present next to your sewer line to avoid problems with your pipes. 

2. Have Regular Maintenance and Inspection

When clog drains frequently occur, this can be difficult to clean and emit gurgling noises. Call a plumber to inspect the drain and sewer lines if you notice the signs. With the help of surface mount access panels, a plumber will have easy access to your drainpipes and can use a camera by running it through the pipes to locate injured areas. After the inspection is complete, the plumber will make the necessary recommendations. For regions with significant tree-root damage, you must replace the lines.

In addition, you can also clean sewer lines regularly and inspect the structure of the pipes to avoid significant sewer repairs. Regular maintenance and clearing the lines prevent root growth inside the pipes. Sewer-line care involves threading a cable through the sewer pipe that cuts through tree roots or clogs and cleans the sewer pipe to the inner walls.

3. Safeguard Your Sewer Lines

One of the most helpful methods to keep pesky tree roots out of your sewer pipes is to build a barrier between the trees and the sewer lines. There are various options available for you to create a practical hurdle. One of the common examples is by purchasing slow-release chemical solutions designed for residential properties. These chemicals help stop the growth of roots within the sewer line area, minimizing the probability of tree roots uncovering their way into the water pipes through breaks or cracks. 

You can also use metal barriers and wood by burying them about 6 inches to a foot deeper than your pipes and running them vertically along the sewer line to prevent the roots from getting into the sewer pipes.

4. Plant Wisely 

Planning your landscaping project smartly and thoroughly is the best way to avoid problems that can lead to expensive repair bills. To prevent this instance, you can limit the number of plants you place close to sewer lines. Plant more giant trees far enough away from sewer lines, so the roots are not within reach of the pipes. If you do plant near sewer lines, select slow-growing trees with a small root ball.

Your plumbing pipes are the nutrient source for tree roots. It is why it is vital to be aware of the signs and symptoms if your pipes are damaged from tree roots, for it can impose some potential health risks for your occupants. Be sure to seek help from your local plumbers if ever you notice any damages.

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Lousy Shower Habits That Ruin Your Plumbing

Having daily showers is part of most people’s routine. A good shower can do wonders for your mind and body. Cold showers can increase alertness, help with muscle recovery, and even improve our immune system, while hot showers can aid in detoxing your body, repair cells, and ease anxiety. 

The typical shower habits that cause damage to our plumbing are probably not the first thing that comes to your mind when you turn the knob to get the water going. Still, the way we get ready every morning can significantly affect our plumbing system. These ordinary shower routines might be beneficial, but they might also affect your plumbing. Here are some of the lousy shower habits that you should avoid. 

1. Ignoring Small Plumbing Issues

Many plumbing problems come with different warning signs before accurate disaster strikes. It is especially the case in the bathroom, where your shower is likely to give you a fair bit of prior warning if all is not well. The constantly dripping faucets or showers may not seem like a significant problem, but it could be a hint that you need to adjust water pressure before you ruin the plumbing. 

Similarly, hot water not lasting as long as you hoped is not only annoying, but it may also be a sign of a severe problem with your water heater. It’s always better to call a plumber as soon as you notice the minor problems than to ignore and risk them escalating. You can consider installing louvered access doors and panels for you to have easy access to your plumbings during minor check-ups. 

2. Leaving Puddles on the Bathroom Floor

We might often forget to drain up small water puddles in our bathroom, especially if we’re in a rush. Leaving water on the floor of your bathroom is a recipe for disaster. That water could cause mold growth, ruin your base, and can potentially cause much more widespread problems. Investing in a bath mat and cleaning up water spills after a shower will help to prevent severe water damage. 

3. Not Removing Falling Hairs From The Drain

Obstruction in your pipes is one of the most dangerous things for your plumbing system. As time goes by, hair that accumulates in your drain can slow and eventually block the drain completely. Use a drain cover or another hair-catching device like filters, then remove the hair after every shower, so it doesn’t create potential problems in the future. 

4. Not Removing Calcium Deposits 

You might not notice it, but it can leave deposits overtime when hard water dries, blocking the showerhead nozzle and reducing water flow. But you don’t have to worry; this common issue has a straightforward solution! You can add a little white vinegar, and it can easily remove calcium deposits, improving the function and appearance of your shower head in less than minutes. 

5. Staying in the Shower for Too Long

If you enjoy taking long showers, you might want to rethink that habit because it is one of the main reasons your bathroom may be a perfect place for mold growth. The steam that builds up in your bathroom during long showers can result in mold, which is unsuitable for your family’s health. Mold can quickly spread to every edge of your bathroom if good ventilation is not present. Shower curtains and loofahs are also breeding grounds for mold and bacteria and may need regular cleaning if you’ve noticed signs of decay. 

One way to eliminate mold growth is by reducing the temperature and length of your shower. You can also increase ventilation and reduce mold by opening a window or installing an exhaust fan. Cold showers and ice baths can increase alertness, help with muscle recovery, and even improve our immune system, while hot showers can aid in detoxing your body, repair cells, and ease anxiety.

6. Using Chemical Drain Cleaners 

If you’ve noticed a clog in your drain, whether from hair or other debris, using a chemical cleaner is the worst thing you could do for your health and your bathroom. Chemical cleaners may eliminate the clog, but they could leave you with a more severe problem. Not only are chemical cleaners bad for the environment, but they’re also harmful to your plumbing. These harsh chemicals can corrode your pipes, which can cost more than cleaning a simple clog. 

These bathroom habits may be simple, but you sure don’t want to ignore them, for it can open to more severe issues that can cause you a lot more repairs. Always remember to have your plumbings regularly checked by trained professionals. 

Guest Contributor: Chris Jackson

Looking For Something to do This Fall?

The summer heat is finally gone and now we’re officially in Fall! Crisp cool air and the smell of pumpkin spice is every where! Are you a Fall lover like we are? There are so many things to do during the fall season, the ideas are infinite. What better way to show your spirit than getting festive? Check out our best ideas of activities to do this fall!

1. Go Apple Picking!

The best time of the year to go apple picking is in September, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go after then. Different types of apples are ripe during different times, but ideally the best time to go apple picking is very early Fall to get the most ripe and delicious apples.

2. Buy a Pumpkin Spice Latte!

There are many different variations of a pumpkin spice latte, you should get out and try one! There are lattes, macchiatos, cold brew, regular iced coffee, hot coffee, iced vanilla chai with pumpkin spice… tons of options! If you’ve never tried one, you should explore and try one. If you like them, make sure to get them as much as you can, you’ll miss it when it’s gone!!

3. Bake a Pumpkin Pie

Everyone loves pumpkin pie! They’re so simple and easy to make, even if you’re a beginner you can make one! Don’t forget the whip cream for the top, it’s a necessity! Here’s our favorite recipe.

4. Host a Halloween Party with Friends!

This is a great way to get all your friends together and celebrate Halloween! If you’re too old to trick or treat, you can still buy a costume and celebrate party wise!

5. Go for a Hayride!

Nothing says Fall like a hayride at a pumpkin patch! Instead of walking around the entire patch looking for a pumpkin, take the ride and enjoy the crisp air and the views of the field!

6. Have a Bonfire!

Nothing is better than a crispy cool evening with a fire and some friends. Grab some drinks and snacks, marshmallows and crackers for s’mores, and have a great time with friends around a fire!

7. Paint a Pumpkin!

Are you looking to get more creative with a pumpkin and don’t want to have to carve all of the guts out? Just paint it instead! Painting pumpkins is a great alternative for those who don’t want to get messy.

8. Carve a Pumpkin!

Don’t mind getting a little dirty? Cut the top open, and scrape out all of the guts to carve a design on your pumpkin to display outside! Sometimes it’s a little tricky, so use a stencil if you need to. There are stencils you can tape on, or you can draw on it with marker before you start cutting to eliminate mistakes.

9. Visit a Pumpkin Patch!

Nothing is more festive than walking around a pumpkin patch and enjoying the beautiful weather. Looking for a patch to visit? Check out our article on the best Pumpkin Patches in the South Suburbs to make your find a little easier!

10. Try Apple Cider!

Lots of people can’t wait for fall to come around for a cup of nice Apple Cider. Most people like it hot, but there’s cold options too!

11. Visit a Corn Maze!

Most of the time, corn mazes are located inside of pumpkin patches, it’s a two for one deal! Check out a corn maze and see if you have what it takes to get out and not get tricked!

12. Haunted Hay Ride

Are you a fan of spooky things? Some haunted houses offer haunted hay rides where instead of you walking around, you are pulled through their spooky site and look at all the scary things while staying seated.

13. Visit a Haunted House!

There are many haunted houses that open around Halloween, are you ready to be scared?

14. Watch Fall Shows/Movies!

There are tons of classical movies and shows you can watch to set the fall vibes!

• The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown

• Halloweentown

• Hocus Pocus

• Casper the Friendly Ghost

• Beetlejuice

• Dead Poets Society

• Good Will Hunting

• Harry Potter Trilogy

15. Check out a Farmers Market!

This is the best time to visit a farmers market, there will be tons of fresh apples, pumpkins, mums, sunflowers, anything fall related you can think of!

16. Roast Pumpkin Seeds!

Did you carve a pumpkin and now you don’t know what to do with the seeds? Roast them! You can season them with whatever you’d like to get whatever flavor you’re trying to achieve! The possibilities are endless.

There are so many things to do to celebrate the season of fall and halloween. Remember to get festive and get outdoors and try things out!

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell

Amazing Outdoor Fire Place Ideas

Fall is finally here! Nothing is better than a nice warm and cozy fire in your own backyard during a chilly fall day. There are so many ways to make your fireplace look warm and inviting, it just takes some imagination! Whether you’re on a strict budget, or no budget at all, anyone can spice up their fire place to make it warm and inviting.

Tips for Fixer-Uppers Who Can’t Decide Whether to Sell or Rent

Fixing up a home can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but many homeowners are faced with a multitude of questions once the project is finished. Do you stay or make a profit on a house with a refreshed value? Sell to one buyer, or rent to various tenants? Depending on the location, you might even consider turning it into a vacation rental and create ongoing income. 

If you’re unsure of what to do with your newly renovated home, take a few things into consideration first, such as how much competition you have, the average sale price for homes in your area, and the cost of upkeep on a rental, including funds for emergency services. Fortunately, Kevin Szabo Jr. offers reliable plumbing services for kitchens and baths in the South Suburbs area, giving you peace of mind should a problem arise in this department. For further tips on how to make the right choice for your needs, read on.

Look for help

 There are several things to think about when it comes to turning a home into a vacation rental. Location is the most important factor. If the property is located close to the central business district or popular tourist haunts of Chicago like the famous Millenium Park, Magnificent Mile, etc., it can be very lucrative for short-term leases. 

It’s also important to note that there are some resources available to help you create a safe, easy experience for renters. Listing your home with a property management company will lend some legitimacy to your rental and can even bring in more revenue than if you were to try to handle everything yourself. You can even take advantage of housekeeping services so your home will always be clean and ready for guests. 

Consider the benefits of steady income

Vacation rentals are a great way to earn extra income, but some seasons are slower than others. If you want to ensure a steadier flow of cash, consider renting out your home to a tenant. This process requires some careful preparation, including acquiring specific insurance, learning landlord and tenant laws in your area, and creating a lease agreement. You’ll also need to come up with a set of rental policies to ensure that your tenants understand the rules. Common guidelines include no painting without permission, no smoking, and no unauthorized pets.

Do some research

If renting comes with too much responsibility, you might consider simply selling your newly renovated home. Do some research to find out the average sale price of similar homes in your area, and to find out what buyers are looking for in the current market. If you spent a lot of time and money on the kitchen or bathroom, tout those renovations to potential buyers, as they are some of the biggest selling points universally. 

Stage it

 Whether you’re renting, selling, or making your home available for vacationers, it’s essential to stage each area beautifully to create a comfortable, safe environment. Eliminate clutter, clean every space, and make a list of things to provide to temporary renters, like towels, kitchen items, paper products, and linens. 

If you’re selling, make a list of items you might be willing to include in the sale, as well as those you definitely don’t want to give up. Use natural lighting, add plants, and put away personal items and photos. When it’s time to list the home, take professional photographs that accurately show each space, both indoor and outdoor.  

It can be difficult to think about giving up a home that you put so much hard work into, but there are several benefits that come with renting or selling. Use all the resources at your disposal to ensure you’re making the right choice for your needs, both now and down the road.

Need to book plumbing services? Contact Kevin today and get some peace of mind.

How To Find a Fabulous Office Furniture Table on a Limited Budget

A gorgeous, classy office furniture table is a must for any work area. But buying one can be pretty expensive! What if you are on a limited budget? Is it not possible to buy one without breaking the bank?

Fortunately, you can find an office furniture table that will help you improve your work productivity and won't cost you a lot. Here are some tips to help you buy one for your office space.

5 Tips to Find a Fabulous Office Furniture Table on a Limited Budget

Tip #1: Consider the type of desk needed

There are various types of desks available in the market today. If you plan to set up a home office, it's best to consider one with drawers so essential documents and records can be stored properly. You'll also need to choose whether or not it should come with filing cabinets attached or if you should purchase separate ones instead. It would be to purchase with the table. If you're setting up an office area at home for work and personal use, then the best option would be to buy a computer desk with ample space underneath to store papers or other items. You can also have this in combination with storage cabinets, so not only are you maximizing your workspace but that of your office furniture table as well. You can also check out some great office cubicles for sale. 

Tip #2: Look for used office furniture tables

A great way to find high-quality yet affordable pieces is by looking for second-hand furniture. Sites like Craigslist or even eBay have many options where individuals or companies sell pre-owned items at discounted prices. It's best to look through multiple listings, so it's easier to compare prices and brands. The advantage of buying used is that if you opt for a good manufacturer, they'll most likely still be available even years after purchase through their authorized resellers. It means the brands will continue to service and sell spare parts such as replacement glass tops, drawers, or locks. 

Tip #3: Look for open box items

Another way you can save money is by looking out for open box items. These products have been returned and opened before but are still in excellent condition and perfect for office furniture tables. The advantage of buying them is that their prices usually cost less than those new ones despite only being once before. But make sure to examine the product before actually buying it carefully. Check for any damages or problems that the seller may have missed and establish if there's a warranty before you commit to the purchase.

Tip #4: Shop during sales

Sale time is one of the best times to find a fabulous office furniture table on a limited budget. During this period, shops usually give away significant discounts to clear up their inventory, especially end-of-season sales. A great strategy is to shop online from home during sale time then use coupons when making your order. Some stores offer free shipping deals whenever they hold such promotional events, which adds to savings for consumers like you.

Tip #5 Shop online

A good number of online stores will let you rent their tables at low prices. If you do not want to keep it for long, consider renting the table only until your project gets over. Or else, lease with an option to buy later or return. You could go in for co-sharing, too, where others who need tables could share the space and costs instead of having individual rentals. Now you have several options to choose from when looking to rent an office furniture table.

As a bonus, you will be able to choose from several types of tables such as glass, metal, or wooden, depending upon the aesthetic appeal and comfort level. For example, the glass table reflects the light beautifully and provides a bright feel while it is cold to touch during hot summer months. The wood color fits perfectly with your décor and brings in warmth and sophistication. The metallic type is solid and sturdy for use every day without any problems.

When you buy a good office furniture table, not only will it help improve your work productivity, it can also add to the overall look of your home. And since the prices are usually much lower than regular items, finding one won't break the bank at all. However, when buying one for commercial purposes, make sure to identify potential risks involved before committing to its purchase. You should be aware of safety hazards such as sharp edges and other dangers that could harm customers or even employees when used carelessly. Other considerations include durability and maintenance costs which you should carefully consider before actually making any purchases.

Guest Contributor: Adeendren Iyan