Tips on How To Entertain Guests Outdoors This Winter

Tips on How To Entertain Guests Outdoors This Winter 

Entertaining outdoors is quite challenging, especially in winter. It’s cold and freezing outside, which is why some homeowners would rather stay inside instead of inviting guests for a get-together.

It’s not a lost cause, though. There are exciting and creative ways you can entertain outdoors, even if the winter season is in full swing. Your residential patio misting system will now be replaced with a heater, but you can still party and have fun.

Prepare your patio and backyard, get those party plates ready, and check out these cool tips for entertaining outdoors in the cold wintertime.

Use or Build a Fireplace or Fire Pit

A little bit of rearranging and redecorating will be good. So, move things around and find space for an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit. Adding some warmth to your party venue will make it cozy and comfortable. Your guests won’t mind the cold winter air or the snow if they’re all snug and relaxed.

Use the fireplace as the focal point of your venue. Spice it up by adding some decorations. If you can, find a permanent one so you can use it whenever you need to. If your budget does not permit you to do so, you can always go for portable fireplaces that come with DIY kits.

If you want a more practical option, buy a portable or DIY fire pit from your favorite home improvement center.

Creating a tabletop fire is your third and most affordable option. Use fire pots and torches and arrange them in such a way that they’ll illuminate the place. They can be your centerpiece, or you can line them up on the edges of the patio.

If you’re entertaining in the backyard, an open space, building a small bonfire is a great idea.

Lastly, adding a patio heater is a good investment, especially if you plan to have more outdoor get-togethers in winter. 

Level up on Your Outdoor Furniture

Change your regular cushions, throw pillows, and living room furniture isn’t suited for the cold winter outdoors. It would be best if you leveled up your outdoor furniture. Metal, wood, or plastic chairs should have thick cushions.

If you have an outdoor sofa, look for big cushions that you can place on top of it. Find as many as you can and cover your couch with these cozy pillows.

Also, take out your thick blankets and comforters and arrange them around your furniture. Your guests will appreciate it if you prepare one for each of them.

Be sure you have enough tables so your guests won’t have to hold their drinks the whole time.

Cover Your Patio Floor with Rugs

Even if you have a fireplace or fire pit, your patio floor will still be cold. Sometimes, the floor will be a little moist and damp, too. So, find thick rugs and use them to cover your patio floor. Better yet, if you have an extra carpet, place it on the floor. Add some fluffy floor cushions to make the area cozier and more comfortable.

Likewise, you can add curtains to cover your patio and generate a little heat. It can be a regular outdoor curtain, or you can use bamboo roll-up shades. Be careful and make sure that your curtain is far from your fireplace, fire pit, or tabletop fire.

Serve Warm Drinks

Instead of the usual ice-cold drinks, serve warm drinks. There are many options to choose from - hot chocolate or hot cocoa, hot white chocolate milk, hot vanilla cinnamon milk, eggnog, and warm or spiced cider. Don’t forget the marshmallows!

Brewed coffee is also a good choice, especially if you add some Irish cream or peppermint syrup. Alcoholic drinks like beer and wine are perfect for those who want a little kick.

To add some fun, try putting up a minibar, one that specializes in warm drinks. Experiment on some drinks for a memorable winter adventure; add some honey or mint on your tea, or sprinkle a little cinnamon on your friend’s coffee.

Prepare Warm-Up Food

Warm-up food is food that makes you feel all warm and satisfied. Examples for this are soup (any kind), chili (paired with warm toasted bread slices), and beef or lamb stew.

If you have enough space, prepare an area for roasting marshmallows and hotdogs. The kids will love this!

Don’t Forget to Remind Guests to Dress Appropriately

The appropriate outfit for a winter outdoor get-together includes a pair of gloves, beanies, boots, scarves, and winter clothes. When you send out the invites, specify that it is an outdoor event so your guests will know how to dress for it.

Make dressing up more fun for everyone by coming up with a theme or a wardrobe requirement, such as a winter hat, an ugly Christmas sweater, or colorful scarves.

Prepare Games and Entertainment

If your guests have exciting things to do, they won’t feel the freezing winter air. So, be sure to prepare games and some unique entertainment. It doesn’t have to be traditional party games like relays. Go with games everyone is familiar with, like Monopoly or Pictionary, for example.

For entertainment, bring out the guitar and sing some songs with your guests. Setting up an outdoor cinema is also a cool idea.

Follow these tips and have a fun and memorable outdoor winter entertainment get-together with family and friends!

Guest Contributor: Anna Fox

5 Top Traits That Mark a Reliable Plumbing Contractor

5 Top Traits That Mark a Reliable Plumbing Contractor

Whether you have a leaky faucet or want to renovate your bathroom fixtures, your best option is to hire a professional plumber. But among the available plumbing contractors in your area, which one should you choose? 

There are certain characteristics that make some plumbers exceptional at providing their professional services. These people are passionate about the job and will go out of their way to provide excellent customer service. So if you are looking at getting the services of a plumber, you need to look for these five characteristics that mark a reliable plumbing contractor.

1. Certified

Plumbing is a regulated profession, which means almost all U.S. states require them to have a license to practice in their respective states. Requirements vary across states, but in general, a plumber can obtain the certification if they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to pass a state-approved exam. 

Having a license is a good indication of the expertise of a plumber, so if you are planning to hire one, ask if they have a license to work in the state. Most states have a website where you can verify their license number. Not having a license is a huge red flag and you should think twice before hiring them. 

2. Provides a clear estimate

Before getting the job started, one of the first steps of the process involves the plumber examining your plumbing system and providing a quote. This is an opportunity for you to judge the reliability of a plumber. You can tell that the plumber is an expert by the estimate that they provide. 

The job quote should be clear and detailed and should include a breakdown of the cost estimate of the materials needed. It should also include labor costs. Finally, the plumber should also specify how they want to be paid and how they will address extra time or materials needed. 

3. Puts emphasis on safety

As with all home improvement and repair projects, plumbing jobs pose a risk of injury not just to the contractor but to other parties as well. Reliable plumbers will always prioritize safety and will strictly follow safety procedures. They will follow safety guidelines to the letter to prevent damage to life and property. They will also have the right tools and equipment to do the job safely.

In addition, reliable plumbers carry two types of insurance—liability and worker’s compensation. The former protects the contractor in case something is damaged or someone is injured as a result of the job, while the latter provides medical benefits to the contractor in case of injuries. 

4. Punctual

A professional plumber provides a precise time of arrival and sticks to it. They respect the time that you have and will call immediately in case they are running late or coming in early. When they arrive, they will apologize for their tardiness, even if it is just by a few minutes. Punctuality is a reflection of their work attitude and ethic, so if the plumber you are planning to hire arrives on time for the appointment, it’s a sign they value your time and your work. 

5. Willing to fix issues

Not everyone is perfect and even the best plumbers make mistakes. There may still be issues with your plumbing after the plumbing contractor has done their job. If you notice some problems with the plumber’s work, feel free to ask the plumber about them. A reliable plumber will be able to explain what looks to be an issue, and if it is indeed a problem, they will also be willing to rectify the mistake. 

Your home is your most significant investment. It makes sense that you want repairs and renovations handled by a true professional. Look out for these top five qualities of reliable plumbers to have peace of mind when having your next plumbing job done. 

About the Author:

Aki Merced is the Content Manager at Handle, where they build software that helps contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers secure their lien rights and get paid faster by automating the collection process for unpaid construction invoices.

Guest Contributor: Aki Merced

Handling Plumbing Repairs During COVID-19

Handling Plumbing Repairs During COVID-19

Getting your plumbing fixed? Here are some ways to keep your home safe when having plumbing repairs during COVID-19. 

1.  Screen plumbing contractors before hiring

As with any home repair contractor, it is good practice to thoroughly research and vet candidates first before signing a deal. Your home is your biggest investment so you want the plumbing job to be done only by capable plumbing contractors. But now that we are transitioning to the new normal with COVID-19, it is important that homeowners be proactive in screening plumbing professionals. Being concerned about letting a complete stranger into your home to take care of needed plumbing repairs is a valid state of mind. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry. 

Aside from the usual ways of screening contractors such as asking for licenses and references, you may also ask questions about how their plumbing companies handle the COVID-19 situation. For instance, you may ask if they are screening their employees for COVID-19 symptoms and if they are restricting them from work if they are suspected of being infected. You may also ask about measures that they have in place to prevent the spread of the virus. 

Once you are satisfied, make sure you talk to them clearly about your plumbing issue and ask if it is possible to minimize direct contact between you and the contractor over the course of the project. If there is a way to pay for the service without having direct contact with the contractor, clarify it to avoid payment issues in the future. 

2. Keep family members away from the repair site

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have identified the groups that are at a high risk to contract COVID-19, who include those that have underlying medical conditions such as chronic lung disease, serious heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease. In addition, people who also have diseases that cause their body to be immunocompromised such as those that had recent organ transplants, those that currently use immune weakening medicines, and those that have HIV are also at risk. Finally, older adults especially those 50 years old and above are highly susceptible to the virus. 

If any of your family members belong in any of these groups, they need to avoid entering the repair area as much as possible. There is no vaccine or cure for COVID-19 yet as of this writing. The best way to minimize the risk of getting the disease is through social distancing. 

3. Ask the contractors to wear masks and gloves

The CDC recommends wearing protective clothing such as masks and gloves when going out in public. The science behind wearing masks is persuasive. Wearing a mask not only prevents you from getting the virus but it also keeps you from spreading the virus in case you already have it but do not experience any symptoms. The risk of transmission is drastically lower when wearing a mask compared to not wearing at all. 

As you and the contractor go through the home inspection and the repair project itself, always wear masks and gloves throughout. The mask doesn’t have to be the N95 type as they are usually reserved for medical front liners. You may use surgical masks and even cloth masks as long as you use them properly. 

When it comes to home repair such as plumbing, it is still advisable to weigh the need to get the fix versus the risk of possible transmission. Some repairs are really necessary so with these cases, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure the risk of getting the virus is very close to zero.

About the Author:

Kevin Rabida is a content marketing specialist writing in-depth articles and guides about new technology, small business challenges, and blue-collar industry issues and has been featured in several US, UK, and Australian trade publications. He's worked with companies like UPrinting, PrintPlace, and Handle.com

Guest Contributor: Kevin Rabida

Top Tips to Consider Before Diving Into A Swimming Pool Project

Top Tips to Consider Before Diving Into A Swimming Pool Project

Swimming pools make great additions to a property, especially when you or your loved ones love frolicking in the water. 

However, you have to first be aware of certain factors before you dive deep (pun intended) into your pool project. 

From deciding on what kind or design of the pool that you want to secure the services of expert swimming pool builders, read on and discover helpful tips to get you chilling and swimming in no time.

Diving In

If you want to have your own aquatic haven right in your own home, then you can’t just dip your toes in, so to speak. You have to make sure you have fully immersed yourself in the whole scenario of owning one. 

Sure, it’s thrilling to have your own pool where you can lounge and splash around anytime you feel like it. However, pool ownership also entails responsibility. So when you are toying with the idea of having a swimming pool, it is best to do some careful thinking and thorough planning. 

You have to look at it from different angles and see if you can really commit to this home improvement project. Adding a pool to your home can make or break the value of your property, too.

Before you go and take the plunge, it would be prudent if you at least have a basic idea of the things involved. You don’t just need to decide on the type or design, you also have to consider things like plumbing, landscaping, ensuring that your contractor uses waterproof paint on applicable surfaces, and other building, cleaning, maintenance, and upgrading factors.

It would also be wise if you can secure the services of a master swimming pool builder. Look for one that has years of experience in constructing pools as well as creating a beautifully landscaped area around it.

To help you tread carefully into your swimming pool project, we have put together some salient tips that will help you decide and properly build a spectacular swimming pool:

1. Know What You Want

Do you want a hot tub, a lap pool, or a full-on spa? What is the size and shape that you have in mind? Is it an indoor or outdoor pool?

There are plenty of designs and types of swimming pools to choose from. In fact, it is easy for you to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of designs and materials out there. There are concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl pools. There are above-ground pools and in-ground pools. You can even opt for resort-style infinity pools.

To help you decide on what you want, you have to first identify the purpose. 

Why do you want a swimming pool? Are you the type who wants swimming as a part of your exercise regimen? 

Then perhaps a lap pool will do. If you have small kids who are not yet fully trained to swim, then maybe you can include a wading pool in your design. 

If being around water relaxes you and helps you stay calm, then a pool with a hot tub can help massage away the worries of the day.

2. Set a Budget

A swimming pool is an investment that you have to decide on carefully. A properly designed pool can add value to your property whereas a one that has been haphazardly and poorly made can do the opposite. 

You should also consider how long you are going to stay in that property. Are you going to stay in that house for good or do you have plans of selling it in the future?

Aside from the initial investment that you will be shelling out for the pool, you also have to take account of the maintenance costs. Depending on what kind of swimming pool you like, you have to be ready to finance it. 

You don’t want to scrimp on a swimming pool because, for one, you don’t want to risk your safety. Secondly, should you decide to sell your property, you want the swimming pool to contribute to upping the ante in terms of value.

3. Discuss, Agree, Finalize

If you live alone, then you’ll have to decide on the design of your swimming pool on your own. However, if you are living with a partner, or your family, then you need to consider their thoughts and feelings about the pool project, too.

For example, including your family in the design or decision process may help in having a pool that will be enjoyed by everyone in the house. If the money that will be used for building the pool will come from a joint account, then it would only be respectful to also discuss it with the other party.

You also need to consider the specific needs of other family members who will use the pool. For example, the elderly might use it for therapeutic purposes, or you may have young kids who’ll need a shallow pool they can use safely with adult supervision. These considerations will affect both the design and cost of building the pool.

4. Be Aware of Legalities

Before you build a pool, make sure that you are aware of the zoning laws and other community or housing rules that apply. Ensure that you are not breaking any regulations before you set out creating your swimming haven.

There are cities or housing communities that are very strict when it comes to liability and maintenance rules.

5. Think About Technical Stuff

It is also very important to know about the technical factors that will affect how you will enjoy your pool. This includes considerations as to your current plumbing and water lines. You might also consider adding other features such as a cascading waterfall, dynamic jets, or underwater lighting. Add-ons such as water and lighting features must be thought of beforehand to avoid messy, time-consuming, and costly renovations.

It is also crucial that you choose the correct water circulation system to ensure that your pool water remains clean and fresh. A reputable swimming pool contractor will be able to recommend the best one based on your requirements.

6. Remember the Landscaping

Part of a glorious swimming pool experience is the environment. Having a setting that is both pleasing to the eyes and soothing for the soul can greatly enhance your pool encounters.

Don’t forget to include the landscape design in your pool project. Whether you’re after creating a coastal, modern, or rustic vibe, the landscaping will surely create an ambiance that will round out your swimming pool fantasies.

7. Choose the Best Contractor

When you want a pool that satisfies all your personal requirements, then it is important to seek the services of an established contractor. The experience and expertise of swimming pool specialists will ensure that you have a proper pool that is safe and fun to use.

It will also be advantageous if you choose a swimming pool contractor that can also offer maintenance services for your swimming pool and garden landscaping. This way, you’ll only be dealing with one company.

Time to Make a Splash

Make sure you consider the above tips before you decide to start your pool building project. Thoughtfully plan out the steps, weigh the pros and cons, and go for a reliable pool contractor. 

By following these tips, you can dive into your pool project with confidence.

AUTHOR BIO

Rachel Hennessey manages the Pools and Landscaping Division of Hennessey LLC. She also works on Tender and Pre-Qualification and brings in new business to the company's Construction, Interiors, and Civils Division.

Guest Contributor: Rachel Hennessey

Tips to Prepare for and Make It Through a Flood

Tips to Prepare for and Make It Through a Flood

Millions of people around the world live in flood zones. If you’re one of them, you need to take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your home in the event flooding strikes.

A flood presents an enormous risk to life, limb, and property, and preparing for it improves one’s chances of making it through.  Here are some tips that will help you prepare for a flood.

Prepare Your Home

Your home will likely sustain damage, which will require you to hire flood damage restoration experts later. Still, there are some measures you can take that will mitigate some of the damage.

You can, for one, move furniture, appliances, and other essential items to an upper floor, if you have one. If your house has no upper level, you can always build platforms where you can place some of your essentials.

You can also check the grade of your surrounding soil and make sure it achieves a slope that moves water away from your house.

Building barriers like beams, floodwalls, or levees made of sandbags can also give your home some measure of protection during a flood.

To protect your most important documents, keep them in a waterproof container and store it on the higher levels of your home.

It would also be great if you have purchased a flood insurance policy beforehand because it gives you the coverage you need to repair or rebuild your home after a flood.

Assemble An Emergency Kit

Floods are unpredictable and will likely force you to evacuate your home. To prepare for such a situation, you must put together an emergency kit that includes the following items:

• Flashlights

• Extra batteries

• Non-perishable food and water

• First-aid kit

• Medications

• Battery-operated radio

Monitor Flood Warning Systems

The National Weather Service (NWS) issues flood alerts through the Emergency Alert System and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio network. There might also be community-based flood warning systems in your area.

Monitor these flood warning systems and local radio and TV stations for constant updates, especially when severe weather conditions are occurring. That way, you will know if it’s safe to stay, or when it’s time to evacuate.

Have An Evacuation Plan Ready

Evacuation is always a possibility when there’s a danger of flooding, and that’s why you must have an evacuation plan in place for your entire household.

Your flood evacuation plan must include, among other things, escape routes, meeting place away from the house, and a communication plan. Also, don’t forget to turn off the main power switch and close the main gas valve before evacuating.

Stay Off Bridges

Whether you’re in your car or on foot, make sure you steer clear of bridges, especially those situated over rapidly moving water. The bodies of water underneath bridges could also swell up rapidly and wash away everything and everyone on it.

Wait For All-Clear From Authorities

Federal and local authorities are tasked with, among other things, determining when it’s safe for evacuees to return to their homes after a flood. Wait for word from authorities, and go home only when they declare the area safe.

Avoid Driving Through Flooded Areas

Whether you’re escaping during a flood or returning to your home in its aftermath, never drive your vehicle through flooded areas. You could lose control of your car in as little as six inches of floodwater, so don’t even think about it.

Don’t Wade In Floodwater

Floodwater is hazardous to your health. It can be contaminated with chemicals, sewage, animal waste, and all kinds of bacteria. It could also hide debris that can cause injuries. As much as possible, avoid wading in flood water, especially when you’re not wearing protective equipment like safety boots.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

When it’s safe to enter your home, assess the damage and contact your flood insurance provider. Take pictures and videos of damaged parts of your home and submit them to your insurer as you file a claim. The sooner you file a claim, the sooner you’ll get the compensation that will help you clean up and repair the flood damage to your home.

These are just some of the things you can do to prepare for a coming flood and make it through. There are many other steps you can take to better your chances, but the tips above should be a good enough place to start.

Guest Contributor: Rachel Anderson

6 Smart Ways You Can Save Money on a New Construction Home

6 Smart Ways You Can Save Money on a New Construction Home

Building a home for you and your family is probably the biggest investment you’ll ever make, so you can expect to spend a good chunk of your savings on this project. The costs will only rise if you choose to go custom with personalized additions and such. Building a new construction home certainly has pros and cons, but the control you’ll have over the project and the final cost will trump all negative sides. If you’re smart about your project, you can end up with a dream home yet keep it within budget. 

Create a budget

Before you start looking for contractors and sales representatives, make sure to call your financial advisor and see what kind of property you can afford. Any property purchase can quickly make you blow your budget and spend more than you can afford. That’s why you need to know exactly how much you can afford to spend. Once you have your maximum number, do your best not to go over it, even if you get properly tempted. 

Create a site-cleaning plan

One of the cheapest ways to help with construction and save money is to help with the site cleanup. This move won’t bump down the price of construction, but it will make everyone work more efficiently and carefully. An organized site helps the project move faster and eliminates certain issues, which means more money for you. Any delay in construction will result in higher interest payments and a boost in temporary housing costs. 

Consider knockdown rebuild process

If you’re not set on moving locations, consider knocking down your old home and building a new one in its place. This process is often less stressful and even cheaper than finding a new plot of land and building a house from scratch there. This is a popular service in Australia and other developed countries, so if you want to contact specialists in knock down rebuild in Sydney, you’ll have no problem finding someone experienced. Building a new house in place of your old one will also allow you to stay in your beloved neighborhood, save yourself time and nerve on moving and avoid selling and buying costs. 

Salvage some materials

Salvaging materials from your knockdown will not only save you some money but also make your building project green. Today, you can find yards specializing in the recycling of various building materials like doors, windows, cabinets, piping, electrical elements and similar. If you can’t reuse your waste, you can try to sell it and get some extra money. 

Splurge on the right things

Not all design elements are created equal, especially when it comes to the return on investment. Sure, you might want to stay in your house for a long time, but what if something changes and you need to sell? You don’t want your house to stay on the market for too long or achieve a low price. To get some idea: splurge on a quality basement and tall cabinets, but save some money on that master bedroom bump out which won’t motivate buyers to spend extra. Of course, your home is not an investment property, so you need to listen to your heart, but splurging smart will make you happy today and if you ever decide to sell. 

Consider conducting some DIY

Most contractors have fair prices, but professionals always cost more than a DIY job. So, if you want to save some money and know your way around tools, you can save some projects for later and conduct some DIY. If you’re fine with moving into an unfinished house, taking your time with DIY will save you a lot of money. Things that need to be installed before closing so you can get your loan approved will need to be done by pros, but you can easily hold off many things and do them later yourself. 

Building a house will not be cheap no matter what you do, but it can always be a little more budget-friendly. In order to save money on your new home, you have to be a careful and smart consumer. Sure, finding a balance between your wishes and your needs is hard, but with some creative thinking and smart money-saving tips, you can succeed in your task. 

About the author: Mike Johnston is an avid blogging enthusiast and experienced freelance writer with a focus in home improvement, interior design, family life, and sustainable living.

Guest Contributor: Mike Johnston

How to Design a Family-Friendly Home

How to Design a Family-Friendly Home

The personal environment has a huge effect on one’s well-being and happiness. Most importantly, the way people perceive their home affects their relationships and memories that happen inside that home. In that respect, it’s crucial that all family members feel comfortable, safe, and healthy when spending time together or alone in their personal environment. As the family grows and bonds, their home plays an important role in strengthening those bonds and contributing to making lifelong memories. This is precisely why it’s necessary to put some serious effort and thought into designing your perfect family home.

Utilize the power of the sun

Natural sunlight is very beneficial for both physical and mental health. The more you have it inside your home, the better it is for everyone living there. Not to mention that making the most out of natural sunlight can actually help you reduce the electricity bills when it comes to lighting, heating, and even cooling.

Essentially, you should talk to the contractors so that you can together come up with the best floor plan and design that will allow the sunlight to enter your home fully. However, during this talk, it’s also important to address the issue of adequate shade. While you may want to utilize the full power of sunlight during the winter months, it’s only natural that you want to enjoy a nice shade during the summer. After all, the Australian sun can be very strong, and having an effective shade is a must. Eaves and landscaping can aid in keeping the roof cool, while awnings, screens, and blinds can help with the horizontal and vertical shading.

Manage the view and entrance

The position of the windows, fence, and entryway will hugely affect the privacy and protection of your home. For starters, when you’re discussing the positioning of your windows, you want to make sure that you have a good view of what’s going on in the garden (especially if you have kids) as well as the street outside, to boost the overall security. However, you also want to keep in mind the privacy aspect, so ensure that your windows are positioned in a way that doesn’t provide a view inside for the neighbors. It might seem a bit overwhelming to incorporate everything into the design plan, but when you’re working with the leaders in the field of quality project homes in Sydney, you won’t have to worry about that.

Furthermore, think about the feel you wish to create when you and your family (or guests) arrive to your home. What kind of fence would be comfortable and secure enough for you? Do you want it to offer a clear view of the home and front yard? Maybe you have a car and need a proper driveway. And if your garage is further away from the entrance, you should probably consider a separate driveway and entryway.

Establish a connection throughout your home

When it comes to the interior design of your family-friendly home, keep in mind the importance of connection. On the base level, you should strive to create family nooks for every room, so that everyone can gather effortlessly. What’s more, it’s important to create a clear view from one room/area to the next; for instance, your kitchen island can provide you with a proper view of the play area and part of the living room where the TV or computer is located.

In case you want to have a two-story home, which is very popular in Australia, it’s paramount to take into account the visual and audio connection. That way, your entire home will feel more harmonious at the first glance, and you’ll also be able to hear someone calling you or make sure that the kids aren’t up to some mischief upstairs with ease.

If you’re already taking up the project of designing your ideal family home, don’t hesitate to do so with the future in mind. In that respect, you might want to accommodate the design of having more kids or even living together with your elderly parents.

Guest Contributor: Diane Smith

A Professionally Crafted Schedule for Cleaning Your House

A Professionally Crafted Schedule for Cleaning Your House 

[Daily, Weekly, Monthly & Years]

Our house is our sanctuary, a place where we are the most comfortable as well as vulnerable. It is essential that our sanctuary remains tidy and clean because our life depends on it. From the minute we wake up, the air we inhale, the clothes we wear, the floor we walk on or the food we cook in the kitchen and the bathroom we use for the shower, everything adds up to our health and immunity. So, the bottom line is cleaning is a big necessity.

However, cleaning is not as easy as it sounds. Because it’s not just sweeping or mopping. There is more to it. And, if we consider cleaning a whole house every day, then the idea might just seem to be next to impossible. But, what if you could use another sneaky way to keep the house and everything inside it on a regular clean check and organized? Well, read more to find out. 

Checklist: Cleaning Tips for the Household 

Since cleaning an entire house seems like a whole lot of work, what you can do is break it down and make a scheduled checklist where you can assort them into sections. For instance, cleaning routine for every day, every week, every month and every year. 

Little confusing? Here’s a more detailed scheduled checklist that you can apply for an optimal cleaning routine:

Things to Clean Every Day

When it comes to everyday cleaning, you can resort to cleaning things that do not take up much of your time. This way, you can keep them clean and also attend your work schedule on time. Additionally, it will also prevent germs and bacteria from growing. Here’s what you can do:

1.    Tidy Bedroom 

In order to keep your bedroom organized when you come back home from a tiring day, you can simply wake up in the morning and tidy it up. Set new sheets whenever required, clean up the mess on the bed, keep everything back to where it belongs. This will help you to get into an organized timeline. 

2.    Clean Dirty Dishes 

It is needless to say that dirty dishes should be cleaned as soon as possible because the longer you keep them unwashed, the faster germs will grow. When you are done cooking, place them on the sink and clean them up instantly. Or, the least, after you are done eating and before going to bed. 

3.    Sanitize Sinks 

The sink is what we use daily. It makes sense that it needs to be cleaned every day. But, it only takes a few minutes to do it. Simply use a cleaning sponge to wipe away the stains and food residues. To sanitize the sink, use warm water and pour it down the drain. Use bleach for a few minutes until you wash it off. 

Things to Clean Every Week 

Now that you have set a routine for cleaning things daily, it's time for you to make a weekly routine. This way, you will be covering more areas and more things in the house every week. Here’s what to do:

1.    Clean Microwave 

We use a microwave every day for warming up food. Even though it does not make much of a mess every day, however, by the end of the week, you’ll see some food residue and stains left here and there. So, it is ideal for a weekly clean. Take one whole cup of water and a few small spoons of vinegar. Mix it well in a microwave protected bowl and warm it up inside. Wait until you see steam gas formed and then let it sit for a while until you use a clean fabric to take off the mess. 

2.    Clean Bathroom Surfaces 

To immaculate your bathroom, do the basic things like mopping the bathroom floor, sweeping of dust, and dirt from the surfaces using a clean fabric. Make sure to disinfect the toilet bowl using quality products that are capable of killing 99% of germs. Don’t forget the bathroom tiles, glass, shower head, and bathtub in the process. 

3.    Clean the Refrigerator 

Cleaning refrigerators every week is a good choice because it keeps your food safe and the air inside clean. By the end of the week, you will see spills from food, stains, and perhaps a foul smell. Simply take out the food from the refrigerator and empty it. Now, take out the removable shelves and keep them aside. Use a refrigerator cleaner and a fabric to wipe out the stains and food residue. Don’t forget to defrost the freezer and clean it too. Once it is done, put the shelves and food back in order. 

Things to Clean Every Month 

Now, let us take a look at the task that can stay on hold until the next 30 days passes. Here’s the task that you need to go through every month, whenever you can:

1.    Washing Machine 

For cleaning the washing machine, all you need to do is make sure to put it on a wash cleaner cycle mode. This is meant for models that are new to the market. However, if you have an older model then you can simply use a normal cycle. Fill in water and put washing machine cleaner detergent in the detergent segment. This will clean the insides thoroughly. 

2.    Dishwasher

To clean the dishwasher, take a cup of water mixed with vinegar. Place it on the top shelve of the dishwasher and turn on the cycle. A heat dry cycle would be advisable to clean the dishwasher properly.  

3.    Clean Vacuum 

Since you use the Vacuum almost every day, it is essential to change the vacuum bag once every month. This will keep the suction power strong and intact. Try replacing the filters too, if necessary. Take out tangled threads using a soft brush as well.

Things to Clean Every Year 

There are additional things that you need to clean every year and that will pretty much keep your house perfectly clean:

1.    Deep Clean the Rugs/Carpets 

Carpets tend to absorb a lot of dirt, dust, germs, and bacteria. They hide in deep layers and often don’t come out even after dusting. Hence, at a suitable time, vacuum all the carpet first. Then, you need to wash them. During the washing process, scrub deeply using a special carpet cleaning agent. Then, rinse it off properly. Now, soak out the remaining water and leave in the sun to dry off. 

2.    Clean the Windows 

Too clean windows, you need a pair of clean fabric cloth and a glass cleaner. Start from one edge and cover all the sides, corners, and the sill. Wipe out the layers of dust and keep wiping until the stains are removed. Then, spray water and take off the remaining grease and cleaning agent. 

3.    Deep Clean Pillows/Mattress/Covers

Take off the pillow covers and put them in the washing machine along with your bedsheets. Make sure to put warm water on a normal cycle. Meanwhile, clean your mattress and pillows. Make sure to scrub it using quality products to take out the deep hidden germs and allergen. Additionally, you can also try steam cleaning them, it is more effective. 

Since you’ve successfully noted the checklist, get started today. Or, if you have any difficulties cleaning, then you can refer to Dubai-Cleaners for quality cleaning services. At the end of the day, nothing is better than seeking professional assistance for all your cleaning tasks.

Author bio:

 An enthusiastic tech blogger with a creativity-mind and an entrepreneur in himself. His focus and passion adjoin for seeking the latest technological developments and travel. A content crafter who can enchant you with his ideas on home improvements. His love for blogging makes him an inventory and an influencer. 

Guest Contributor: Sunil Verma

The most common home plumbing problems and ways to avoid them

The most common home plumbing problems and ways to avoid them

As a homeowner, your attention is divided between so many things: work, school, vacations, budgeting, kids, and so much more. It’s all-too-easy for your home’s plumbing—something many of us take for granted—to go unnoticed. However, home plumbing problems have a habit of inserting themselves into our busy lives, even when it’s inconvenient. As part of your regular home maintenance and upkeep, you should be taking steps to prevent major plumbing problems. In this article, we’ll review several of the most common home plumbing issues and the best ways to go about avoiding them.

Water heater problems

Without a properly working water heater, you and your family are in for some cold morning showers. As water heaters age, they may begin to exhibit several signs that they need to be replaced. If you notice declining performance or capacity, for instance, that could signal that the heating element is no longer effectively warming the tank. Water pooling around the bottom of the tank is a sign that the tank wall is starting to be compromised by corrosion, or that the emergency pressure-relief valve has opened and that the pressure in the tank is too high.

Left untreated, any of these water heater issues could lead to the failure of the tank. In the case of either excessive pressure or tank failure, it could result in the tank “bursting” open and flooding your home. At the first sign of any water heater problems, you need to bring in a plumber and follow any recommendations they have for repairing or replacing the unit.

Pipe leaks

Any water leak is bad news for your home. Repairs, cleanup, and mold remediation can collectively cost thousands of dollars.

Many leaks have a specific cause: freezing temperatures. When overnight lows dip below freezing, your home is at risk of frozen pipes. Your furnace generates enough heat to generally protect these pipes, but any interruption to this heating—such as a system breakdown—can result in the pipes beginning to chill, and then freeze. As the water in your pipes turns to ice, it expands, putting incredible pressure on the pipe walls. With enough pressure, the pipe will burst open, flooding your home.

There are several ways to guard your home against frozen pipes. The first is by having your furnace maintained at least once-per-year: this greatly reduces the likelihood of a heater breakdown, which in turn keeps your pipes warm enough to prevent them from freezing. Another preventative measure is pipe sheathing, which involves a plumber putting insulated material around the pipe to slow down the heat loss in the event your heater stops working. Finally, on the coldest nights of the year, you should run your faucet at a slow drip. Moving water is less likely to freeze than stationary water.

Sewer line trouble

A sewer backup is a waking nightmare for any homeowner. This occurs when a clog or blockage forms in the sewer line. With nowhere to go, the wastewater from your home comes back up through the drains, toilets, and sinks. It’s a disgusting disaster. Generally, sewer line blockages are caused by either household waste or by tree roots. The good news is that you can take preventative measures to keep clogs from happening. Let’s dive in.

There are certain types of food waste that are known to cause sewer line issues. Most infamously, grease. Grease and oils change from a liquid to a solid as they cool, making them incredibly dangerous to a sewer line. What gets poured down the sink as a liquid might solidify deep in the line, starting a potent clog. Uncooked rice and pasta have a similar issue: as they become waterlogged, they expand and can become stuck in the line. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and flour also tend to stick to the interior walls of a sewer line. With enough of this waste built up, the line will start to partially, and then eventually fully, clog. Never put these items down the sink: dispose of them in the trash, instead.

Your property’s trees can also threaten your line. Sewer lines generally develop small fractures as soil shifts and the line ages. Thirsty nearby tree roots seek out these moisture sources like a homing missile. With enough time, they’ll grow around and then greedily delve into the line. Some sewer line clogs are caused exclusively by a tree root that has grown into the line, fully blocking wastewater from traveling to the municipal sewer. We recommend you talk to an arborist: certain species of trees and bushes with fast-growing, aggressive root structures may need to be moved away from the sewer line.

Protect your home

If you’re noticing any plumbing issues in or around your home, now’s the time to bring in a professional plumber to take a closer look. Many plumbing problems can start small and then quickly spiral out of control, necessitating expensive repairs and cleanup. An experienced plumber can help you diagnose any major issues and offer recommendations for your next steps.

To learn even more about the most common plumbing problems homeowners face and how to avoid them, be sure to check out this infographic.

Guest Contributor: Amanda L

How To Install A Dishwasher Supply Line

How To Install A Dishwasher Supply Line

Installing some appliances can seem like a daunting task if you don’t take care of some important details. For example, the installation of a dishwasher cannot take place unless there is an extension of the hot water supply line to the dishwasher and a connection of the drainpipe to the dishwasher. For an already installed dishwasher, replacement of the supply line is also a tad difficult if you don’t know what you’re up against. 

What is a hot water supply line?

Hot water is needed to wash the dishes. Where does that water come from? It comes from the hot water supply system at your house. This system consists of the heat source, water treatment apparatus, pipelines that transport water, and certain devices that maintain and control the temperature of the water. The main concern for the supply system when dealing with the dishwasher installation is the pipeline that is bringing the hot water to the dishwasher.

Dishwasher’s supply line:

The dishwasher’s supply line does not come with the dishwasher. It needs to be purchased from the plumbing supply store. It has a variety of lengths, varying up to 10 feet. Stainless steel supply lines are considered better than other materials. The supply line can get damaged if you do not take care of the following:

●      Make sure the shut-off valve is within reach.

●      When you don’t want to use the dishwasher for a long period, say a week or more, you must shut the valve off.

●      Regularly check the water supply line for leaks especially at the place where the hose is connected to the water supply shut off valve.

When do you need to change the dishwasher supply line?

As mentioned above, the comfort of using a dishwasher can turn into a disaster if an issue arises with the water supply line. You may have to replace the dishwasher supply line in case any of the following happens:

●      Less or no water reaches the dishwasher -- If there is no water in the dishwasher, then you need to check if the water inlet hose is properly connected and the valve should be in the open position. In case it was not properly connected or in a closed position, then fixing that would solve the problem. If there is less water, then you need to check the leaks and fix them. If nothing works, then you need to change the water supply line.

●      Frozen pipeline -- Another reason for your dishwasher not filling up with water may be that the water supply line could be frozen. It is a pretty serious problem as the supply line may burst at any time. Then you would definitely have to replace the supply line. 

●      Water under the dishwasher -- if the water starts filling up under the dishwasher, you need to check the water supply, check every connection to tighten and secure it. If the problem persists, then the cause may be a hole in the pipeline that should be fixed immediately as it may result in extensive water damage.

Installing a dishwasher supply line:

The whole thing can be a tedious process so you need to have all the tools and equipment at hand before you start connecting the supply line and the drainpipe to the dishwasher.

Tools and equipment required:

You will need the following tools to install a dishwasher supply line, along with the electric connections:

●      A power drill with a hole saw attachment

●      Screwdriver

●      Wrench

●      Pliers

●      Electrical tape

●      Teflon tape

●      Supply and drain tubes

●      T-fittings

●      Compression fittings

●      Wire nuts

●      Tube cutter

Precautions you need to take before the installation process:

You need to be very careful when installing the dishwasher as you will be attaching it with the water supply line and you may need to work with the electrical wires. You could end up flooding your house or get an electric shock if you do not take the following precautions:

●      Make sure you shut the water supply to the sink before you start the work.

●      Ensure that the power is off at the fuse box or the circuit breaker while you do any electrical work as it can have serious repercussions that may result in serious injuries even death.

Steps for installing a dishwasher supply line:

You can easily install the dishwasher supply line by following the steps given below.

1. Cutting the hole in the cabinet wall:

If you are installing the dishwasher for the first time, you will need to cut a hole in the cabinet wall. After you have ensured that the water supply is shut, you can start by drilling a hole in the cabinet wall separating the dishwasher compartment and the area under the sink. You should use a power drill to cut a round hole in the cabinet wall (of about 3-inches).

2. Attaching the drain line to the dishwasher:

Attach the drain line connection of the dishwasher to the main drain line pipe using hose clamps. You must secure the hose clamps by crimping them around the hose using pliers. With a tube cutter, cut the drainpipe under the sink. Then, attach a T-fitting to the drainpipe of the dishwasher. The T-fitting has a horizontal and a vertical part. The vertical part connects the dishwasher line to the drain pipe and the horizontal part connects the drain line.

3. Placing the dishwasher:

Now, the dishwasher needs to be placed under the countertop and you can push and slide it in place. After sliding the dishwasher under the sink, you need to level it with the countertop by balancing the height of the legs using a wrench. When you have adjusted it according to your requirement, secure it to the countertop with screws. Don’t forget to thread the hose through the hole in the cabinet wall. 

4. Attaching the hot water supply line:

To attach the water supply line to the hot water input valve in the dishwasher, you need compression fittings. Tighten the compression fittings using a wrench. You will need a tube cutter to cut the water supply line, after which you will install a fitting and connect it to the dishwasher’s water supply. Then, connect the dishwasher’s supply line to the hot water supply under the sink.

5. Turning on the water supply and switching on the power at the breaker:

After you are done connecting all the parts, turn on the water supply. Then connect the dishwasher’s drain line to the plumbing system. Switch the power on at the breaker and your dishwasher is ready for use. You have installed your dishwasher’s supply line. All that remains is to test if everything is in working order.

6. Testing the supply line:

After successfully installing the dishwasher or replacing the supply line, check the supply line and the drain line for any leakages or problems. Check if the dishwasher gets filled up with water easily and the drain line is also working properly. In case there is some issue, check all the connections again. If the problem still persists, contact a professional plumber to check things out. 

If you follow the 6 steps properly and take the necessary precautions, you will have no trouble at all in installing your dishwasher or replacing the supply line. I hope these easy steps will make your work a breeze and you will be using your dishwasher in no time.

Guest Contributor: Aisha S