New Real Estate Trends & Forecasts for 2023 and Beyond

As always, the real estate market is very changeable and unstable, and it can be hard to follow what’s happening in the scene for many regular people. If you are someone looking to invest in real estate, a real estate agent or just someone who wants to stay in the loop, here are some useful predictions for the market for the upcoming year and beyond.

The real estate market all around the world, especially in the States and Australia, has been rising in the past few years. Due to price hikes, homes are selling out faster than ever, and people all over the world are struggling to find good rental spaces for their money. However, in 2023, we can hopefully see a leveling out of prices and better economic growth that will put people back on their feet. This is great news, especially for people who might be struggling to find an affordable home. Also, homeowners who want to rent out their property will enjoy the upcoming period as well. As we slowly enter the New Year, here are a few real estate forecasts for 2023 and beyond:

Housing affordability

Let’s take a look at the US housing market for a second. Before the pandemic, almost 50% of housing markets in the States had rents exceeding home purchases. The rise in prices was the main driver for people to opt for rental housing instead of purchasing homes. Those who choose to invest, even when considering the rising prices, are mostly choosing pre-owned homes as their first choice. According to market reports, 74% of home buyers tend to choose second-hand homes, mostly due to better prices and better value.

Single-family houses are in great demand

In the past few years, the global market, especially in urban centers, has experienced a return to suburbs. This caused a growing demand for single-family homes, with searches for these properties reaching the highest rate in four years in 2020. Why are people so into single-family homes in markets like LA or Sydney? Well, they provide low interest rates, better privacy and social distancing and better remote work. However, with greater demand come shortages, so it’s crucial to have a good real estate agent on your side working within these urban centers. In Sydney, buyers should look for an experienced Inner West real estate agent to get the best expert knowledge on the area. Your agent will also provide you with effective sales tactics in case you want to sell.

Vacation residences

Here’s another trend in real estate we can clearly see for 2023 and beyond—holiday rentals. More and more people are looking for holiday residences to rent out when they are away. If you have a property like that and want to rent it out, start marketing as soon as possible.

Automation in the real estate world

In the future, mobile and desktop tech in the world of real estate will continue to be loaded with AI and machine learning. This will help search engines spot trends, assess properties and predict future closings and commissions. And there are even more futuristic trends coming up in the future. Automated driving is today mostly used to recognize and learn about surroundings and vehicles on the road. In the future, we can expect brokers to use similar image processing to focus their searches and look for subjective features like preferred layouts, flooring, tiles, landscaping, room conditions—mostly all the things that are not noted down in the listings.

Rent is not the only driver anymore

There are some changes in commercial real estate as well. Today, we live in quite uncertain times, so it’s impossible only to base your commercial space needs on rental costs—there are also improvements and concessions to consider. Commercial space users have questions beyond rent, like can my workforce fit in comfortably, do I like the location, is the space ready to be used. We can expect more focus on dynamic pricing (lease-by-lease) than sweeping rate cuts. Of course, high interest rates can’t disappear overnight, but according to experts, in the upcoming year, we can see some improvements. Until all employees come to work at the office full-time, companies can be making any serious decisions.  

Finally, we can see some positive changes in the real estate market, even if they are driven by general instability in the world. 2023 and beyond will bring their own issues, without a doubt, but things are looking good so far.

Guest Contributor: Diana Smith

6 Situations When You Should Hire Home Restoration Professionals

Home restoration is certainly not something that the average person knows a ton about. It's not a cheap process, and it's certainly not something that can be done without the right equipment. If you’re dealing with some damage to your house and are looking for repair services, here are 6 situations when you should consider hiring home restoration professionals.

1. Working on roof reparations

If you have a leaky roof or damage to your shingles, one of the most important aspects of hiring home restoration professionals is their knowledge about materials and the tools necessary for any type of job. They’ll be able to advise you on what the best choice is for your particular situation, as well as provide guidance around how much work needs to be done in order to safely repair it. According to the team at restorationroofing.com, most damage to a roof is caused by improper installation, something that you want to avoid if possible. Additionally, they will be familiar with certain building codes surrounding such instances that might not necessarily apply when doing this kind of work yourself.

2. Mold removal

Mold grows in wet conditions, so if your home has suffered from a water leak or flood and you don’t address it properly, mold can start to form. That’s why it’s important to have a home restoration specialist come and remove the mold for you because not only will they know what to look for, but they also have the right equipment (and experience) to get the job done safely. Additionally, they will work to remove any moisture from your home so the mold doesn’t come back. If you don’t address the problem, not only will you be at risk for health problems from breathing in mold spores but your home might also develop structural damage over time if the problem isn’t dealt with.

3. Fire damage

Homeowners are often quick to try and put out fires themselves (since they want to avoid costly damages), but this is one case where it’s best left up to the professionals. In addition to fire damage repair, smoke removal, and other water cleanup services you may need after a fire, one of the most pressing tasks will be to remove any soot and smoke residue that has made its way into your home. Professional restoration specialists have the knowledge and experience to know how to get it out quite effectively, using special cleaning chemicals that are designed specifically for this purpose.

4. Water damage

Water damage is one of the most common reasons to call in a home restoration specialist, and it’s also one of the most destructive. A professional will be able to assess the damage and figure out where the water is coming from, as well as provide you with an idea of whether or not your home has become moldy or if there is any structural damage. They’ll also work to remove any moisture in affected areas so that you can get your home back in order and avoid further damage. Additionally, if the damage becomes extensive and your home can’t be saved, they will work with you to help you find another place to live while your home is being repaired.

5. HVAC maintenance

If you notice that your heating or cooling system isn’t working properly, it might be time to call in a professional who specializes in HVAC maintenance. Not only can they inspect these appliances for damages and replace them if necessary, but they will also be able to run diagnostics tests on them to determine what exactly is wrong, and whether or not you need new equipment. It's important to have your HVAC system periodically serviced by a professional in order to prevent major problems down the line, as well as ensure the optimal function of your heating and cooling systems.

6. Carpet cleaning

Carpet cleaning is another task that many homeowners try to do themselves, but it’s one that should really be left to a professional. This is especially important if you happen to have an expensive or delicate carpet, as they will know how to handle it properly and avoid causing any damage. Professionals also have special cleaning solutions that can remove tough dirt and stains without harming your carpets, and can even apply treatments afterward in order to protect them from future stains or spills. Whether you need deep-cleaning services for your carpets or just regular maintenance, it’s best to leave this job up to the pros!

Whether you are dealing with fire damage, water damage, mold removal, HVAC maintenance, carpet cleaning, or any other home restoration issue, there are plenty of good reasons to call in a professional. They have the experience, knowledge, and tools needed to address these issues quickly and effectively, ensuring that your home is properly restored. So if you’re dealing with a home restoration issue, don’t hesitate to contact a professional today!

How Big Should My Kitchen Countertops Be?

If you ask me, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s also the place where small changes have the biggest impact on useability and enjoyment.

Whether you’re renovating or building a kitchen from scratch, an important question to ask is: how big should my kitchen countertops be?

Today, we'll be exploring standard countertop dimensions, why they're in place, and if you should stick to the norm or forge your own custom path. 

Standard Countertop Dimensions

Not all kitchen countertop dimensions are exactly the same. But, in most cases, you’ll find countertops are around 36-inches high and about  25-inches wide, measured from the wall to the edge of the counter.

Standard countertop dimensions were established a long time ago. And as a result, base cabinets are now manufactured in a standard size as well; 34.5-inches high and 24-inches deep. So once you add a countertop with an overhang that's an inch or two thick, you end up with your standard measurements of 36-inches high and 25-inches wide. 

You'll find those common measurement standards in most homes, but it's not the only option. For example, if you're renovating or building a new kitchen, you can choose almost any dimensions you'd like. Just know that the customization can be pricey and may even affect the ease of renting or selling your home.

Why Countertop Height Is So Important

Kitchen countertops should be easy to use and work on. That means a height you can comfortably stand up straight in front of while preparing food. 

A counter that is too short will lead to you hunching over and causing back pain. A countertop that is too tall will force you to hold your arms up unnaturally high. And that will cause fatigue and can be especially uncomfortable while doing knife work.

While your height plays a role in choosing the ideal countertop height, your elbow is a more important place to look. For the best ergonomics, your counter should fall between 3 and 6-inches below your elbow.

When performing most kitchen tasks, your elbows act as hinges while your hands do specific tasks several inches below. The easiest way to see this in action is to grab your kitchen knives and do some slicing and dicing.

You should be able to comfortably raise and lower your knife in a cutting motion without your hands rising above the level of your elbow. This ensures good posture and will allow you to cook to your heart's content without feeling any pain in your back, shoulders, or arms.

What About Kitchen Islands?

The same considerations should be taken if you add or update a kitchen island. Again, ergonomics and comfort are key, and in most cases, the height of your island countertop will be the same as the rest of the surfaces in your kitchen.

When it comes to width, you have a bit more freedom here. You’re really only constrained by the size of the room. And a huge kitchen island can be great if you do a lot of baking and entertaining. Just be sure you can reach the center without climbing on top.

Countertop Material Thickness

What your countertop is made of can also have an impact on height. The average countertop is about 1.5-inches thick. However, materials like marble and granite may be thinner, while a hefty butcher block counter may be a bit thicker. 

The cutting board you use on top of your countertop will also impact the working height of your counter. For instance, a thick wooden board can make your counter 2 or more inches higher, while a thin plastic one will be closer to its actual height.

To Stick To The Standard Or Not

Kitchen countertop standards were established a long time ago. And they were developed for people with an average height of around 5-foot 3-inches tall. And while the standard could probably use an overhaul, a 36-inch high countertop is still what many expect to find in a home.

So, if you’re planning on living in your house for years, countertops tailored to you will be more comfortable and more enjoyable to use daily. On the other hand, if you’re looking to sell the house in the near future, sticking to the standard dimensions is likely to be more appealing to more people.

Guest Contributor: William Mack - https://kitchenambition.com/author/william-mack/

How Multi-Role Technology Can Be Used For Mapping

Multi-Role Technology (MRT) is being used by mapping agencies all over the world to map the world because MRT has many advantages over traditional methods such as aerial photography and satellite imagery.

This article will explore important ways in which Multi-Role Technology can be used for mapping.

Creating digital twins

MRT can be used to create digital twins which are exact replicas of real-world objects or environments which are further used for a variety of purposes such as urban planning, asset management, and disaster response.

Digital twins are created by scanning the real-world object or environment with MRT and then using computer software to create a 3D model of the object or environment. It is also possible to do drone inspections for digital twin assets located in hard-to-reach places or dangerous environments. For drone inspection, the digital twin is used to plan the flight path of the drone and to avoid obstacles.

The use of digital twins allows for a better understanding of how the real-world object or environment works and how it will respond to different stimuli. Additionally, digital twins can be used to simulate different scenarios such as natural disasters and traffic congestion.

Creating 3D and HR maps

MRT allows for the creation of 3D maps with a high degree of accuracy and detail because MRT uses LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to measure the distance between objects. LiDAR is more accurate than traditional methods such as aerial photography because LiDAR can penetrate through fog, smoke, and other atmospheric conditions that can obstruct the view.

Additionally, LiDAR can be used to create 3D maps of hard-to-reach places such as mountains, forests, and urban areas. The use of LiDAR also allows for the creation of high-resolution maps which is important for mapping agencies that need to map large areas in a short amount of time.

MRT uses a technique called photogrammetry, which is the science of taking measurements from photographs. Photogrammetry is more accurate than satellite imagery because photogrammetry can take into account the curvature of the Earth. This is important for mapping agencies that need to map large areas such as countries, continents, and oceans.

Asset management

The process of tracking and managing physical assets such as buildings, roads, and bridges is called asset management. MRT can be used for asset management because MRT can create 3D models of assets which can be used to track the location of the asset and to monitor its condition.

The use of MRT for asset management is particularly useful for mapping agencies that need to manage a large number of assets. Additionally, the use of MRT can help reduce the costs associated with asset management by reducing the need for manual inspections.

On the other hand, the use of MRT can also help improve the accuracy of asset management by providing up-to-date information about the asset.

As you can see, MRT can be used for the creation of 3D maps with a high degree of accuracy and detail, the creation of digital twins which are exact replicas of real-world objects or environments, and the tracking and management of physical assets.

Additionally, MRT can help reduce the costs associated with mapping activities while also improving their accuracy.

Therefore, it is clear that MRT is a valuable tool for mapping agencies.

Great Tricks To Help You Store Some Extra Stuff You Have

When you have been gathering items over time, either for your family or for yourself, it can be difficult to know what to do with those items. This blog post discusses some tricks that will help you store those extra things and to make them easier to find when you need them!

How To Store Items

There are plenty of great tricks that you can use to help you store some extra stuff that you have. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Get creative with your storage containers. If you have limited space, get creative with the types of storage containers you use. Try using plastic storage bins that can be stacked on top of each other, or hanging storage bags that can be hung on a door or in a closet.

2. Use vertical space. If you have items that can be stored vertically, make use of all the space in your home by storing them on shelves or in tall cabinets.

3. Don't forget about underutilized spaces. There are often spaces in our homes that we don't think to utilize for storage, like the space under our beds or behind doors. By getting creative with how we store our belongings, we can make the most of every inch of space in our homes.

4. Get organized. One of the best ways to make sure you're making the most efficient use of your storage space is to keep everything organized. Color code your storage bins, label everything clearly, and invest in some good organizational tools like drawer dividers and shelf risers.

5. Make it easy on yourself. If you're constantly struggling to find things or put things away, it's time to reassess your storage situation. Maybe you need to downsize your belongings or find a better way to organize what you have

Where To Store Items

If you have extra stuff that you need to store, there are some great tricks that can help you out. First, try to find a place in your home that is out of the way and not too visible. This could be in the back of a closet or in the attic. Second, invest in some good storage containers. These can be plastic bins or even old suitcases. Be sure to label them so you know what is inside. Experts at https://welshpoolselfstorage.com.au/ suggest that if you have items that are delicate or valuable, consider renting a storage unit from a local facility. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and secure.

How To Rent A Storage Unit

When you're running out of space in your home or office, a storage unit can be a great way to store some extra stuff. But how do you go about renting a storage unit? Here are some great tips to help you get started:

1. Decide what size unit you need. Storage units come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to figure out how much space you'll need before you start looking for a unit.

2. Research different storage facilities. Once you know how much space you need, it's time to start looking at different storage facilities. Compare prices and amenities to find the best deal.

3. Choose a location for your storage unit. You'll want to consider things like proximity to your home or office, security features, and climate control when choosing a location for your storage unit.

4. Make sure your belongings are insured. Most storage facilities offer some level of insurance, but it's always a good idea to make sure your belongings are fully insured in case of damage or theft.

5. Pack your belongings carefully. When packing up your belongings for storage, be sure to use sturdy boxes and packaging materials. Label everything clearly so you can easily find what you're looking for later on.

There you have it! A few great tricks to help you store some extra stuff you have. These tips are easy to follow and will definitely come in handy the next time you need to declutter your home or office. So, what are you waiting for? Get started today and see how much easier your life can be with a little bit of organization.

Top Reasons To Invest In Home Insurance When Buying A New House

If you own a home, regardless of where you live in the world, you are required to get home insurance. Just like you buy insurance plans to protect your loved ones' physical and economic well-being, your house requires protection from numerous external threats. Homeowners' insurance policies are created specifically for this purpose, to protect your home against natural or man-made threats. However, there are also more reasons why a homeowner should have house insurance coverage. 

No matter if you're a first-time homebuyer or an experienced one, insurance for your new investment is an important factor to consider. Your home-buying process can be planned out to help things go a bit more smoothly, particularly for first-time buyers. This includes ensuring that your homeowner's insurance requirements are satisfied.

Continue reading to find out how and why.

Security Against Burdens

The liability benefits afforded by house insurance policies prevent you against allegations of physical harm and property damage submitted by visitors and other third parties as a consequence of their stay in the insured home. You are protected from third-party litigation by liability insurance. It even applies to your dogs! Therefore, if your dog bites a neighbor, whether the bite happens at your home or theirs, your policy will protect their medical costs. Alternatively, if your kid smashes a neighbor's Chinese vase, you can submit a claim to pay them back. Furthermore, there is a chance that either you or your relatives (living in the insured home) will be held legally responsible for any harm or damage done to third parties. This insurance is crucial since it protects both you and your home from potential legal issues.

Protection Against Tragedies Caused by Both Natural and Human-caused Factors

A thorough home insurance coverage protects your home from losses and damage brought on by calamities triggered by nature, like earthquakes, flooding, storms, typhoons, etc. Your home is also protected by the policy from both natural and unnatural events. This includes malicious behaviors like vandalism, theft, strikes, rioting, and other mischievous behaviors. It also lets you reconstruct your house and recover financially from the loss. Accordingly, the team at www.agilerates.com could surely help you find top insurance companies with the best prices. When your house is damaged due to some other accident, the importance of carrying home insurance becomes clear; it helps cover the costs you incur in restoring the damage your home has suffered.

The major reason for purchasing home insurance coverage is to safeguard your home from any harm or loss that may happen. If a tree falls on your roof or someone miscalculates and destroys the border fence with a vehicle, your house insurance coverage will pay the costs.

Coverage for the Damage or Loss of your Priceless Belongings and Valuable Items

Coverage for the damage or loss of your priceless belongings and valuable items

House insurance companies offer policies to make use of the opportunities against loss/damage of items/contents kept inside the covered house, in addition to safeguarding the structure of the property. These include a variety of valuable, important, and expensive belongings. These include documentation and valuables like jewelry, clothing, furniture, and appliances, among many other things.

Prevent Bankruptcy

Construction and upkeep of homes are highly expensive, especially if you run a company out of your home. Each and every loss or damage will result in the bankruptcy of your company. With property insurance, you can replace your home without going into bankruptcy.

Once the House Is Damaged, Provide Temporary Accommodation

The types of crises that necessitate a homeowner's policy might frequently be so severe as to abandon you without even a place to live. Assume you're on a trip and a fire bursts out. When you return, the facilities are no longer habitable, and you'll need to arrange for short accommodations elsewhere. If you have home insurance, it will most certainly cover the cost of alternate lodging whilst your property is being repaired.

You are doubtless uncertain about the place you and your household will stay for a while while the checks and repairs are being made. Property insurance policies typically come with a provision to provide temporary housing during the restoration process, in addition to covering the expense of damage or housing construction.

Unfortunate incidents like floods, fires, or theft could occur at any time and cause severe damage to your home, robbing you of years' worth of hard-earned money. Therefore, obtaining home insurance, including coverage from a title insurance company, is highly recommended.

Apart from the reasons stated above, house insurance coverage offers you something invaluable: peace of mind. You can rest assured that if any damage occurs suddenly, your insurance plan will cover any financial losses.

Common Injuries That Happen When Renovating a House And How To Handle Them

Home renovations are long and complex processes that will take you a little too much time and energy. Truth be said, we are all super excited because of the renovations and dread that period of time all at the same time. The point being is that you anticipate the results but, at the same time, detest the mess you need to bear with. On the other hand, too much mess and a very cluttered space can have some surprising outcomes, such as serious injuries. It is inevitable to get injured during renovations in your home, especially if you are the one doing the majority of the work. Henceforth, we have prepared a list of the most common injuries during renovations and how to deal with them.

Thrown-Out Back 

In upside-down houses, one of the most common injuries is the thrown-out back. In addition, this is one of the most common back injuries. When you are deep into renovating your home, you will be required to put your body in a number of different positions that can quite challenge your posture. However, the more flexible you are, the less likely you are to get injured. Unfortunately, while renovating, we keep on throwing out our backs while lifting heavy objects. Normally, it is not always the weight of the objects that keeps causing trouble. On the contrary, awkward shapes and the sizes of different objects can cause serious back injuries. One of the best ways to keep yourself safe from throwing your back out is to repeat the basics. “Lift with your knees, not with your back." 

Also, you need to be proactive. This means that you must stretch before you start renovating your property. To this end, the looser your body is, the less likely you are to throw your back out. If your back has already been stiff, then you should pay a visit to your chiropractor as soon as possible. In addition, when you are done with a very long day, you must get some well-deserved rest on some of the mattresses from the https://www.miamiherald.com/health-wellness/article262452462.html selection. Good quality and inexpensive mattresses sound like a match made in heaven, and on this list, you will find some of the best suggestions. 

Bruises and Cuts 

Your fingers, arms, and legs are the most exposed areas of your body, and while lifting super wavy and edgy stuff, you might face the consequences of your actions. For instance, have you ever wondered how close you are to smashing your fingers whenever you swing the hammer? By mentioning this, we are aiming to say that this is one of the most common injuries at renovation sites. However, these small movements can cause a huge impact and some serious injuries. Broken fingers or even disabled fingers are not rare cases. So, swinging a hammer should be done with full force next time, otherwise, you will face impeccable pain. 

Pulled Shoulders 

Even though none of these injuries do sound very serious and concerning, they may have some consequences you will have a hard time bearing. In the same way that you can throw out your back, you can also pull out your shoulder as well. Shoulders are extremely sensitive areas of your body, and this instance is mainly proven when you keep shifting the objects over your head. Not only will you feel pressure at some point, but stinging pain as well. With lifting heavy objects comes shifting and some awkward positions, which can result in your shoulders being pulled out. 

For instance, you might be installing something in your kitchen. These actions usually require your arms to be placed over your head, which makes your shoulders quite vulnerable. So, if you make the slightest move too fast or abruptly, you can tweak or pull a ligament in the shoulder area. Some of the best ways to prevent this type of injury are to properly stretch your shoulders. You can also start your day by lifting not-too-heavy objects over your head until you are entirely warmed up. 

Renovation sites are the places that bring some risk with them. Since every construction site has clutter that can pose a potential danger, you should be careful where you are placing your feet. Otherwise, you could stand on something sharp. Also, while swinging your hammer, beware that those fingers are your own. Do not make abrupt and sudden movements while holding or lifting something heavy. Remember, you should lift it from the knees, not from the back. 

Space-Saving Hacks For Small Kitchens

If you don’t have the luxury of a large kitchen, there are still plenty of tips, tricks and hacks you can use to make the most of the space you have available.

Many of these involve some innovative ideas rather than restructuring existing furniture, and not all of them will work in your small kitchen, however we hope that these many space-saving hacks for small kitchen will give you some idea of where to start.

Let’s take a look at 13 wonderful ways you can boost your kitchen space with minimal effort.

1.     Hang Things On Walls – you can drill holes in walls for extra storage solutions by creating shelving, or you can even use adhesive hooks to place tea towels on. If you have an open space on a wall, you can add a pegboard which has holes in it so you can attached all kinds of utensils and pans.

2.     Get A Caddy – a simple caddy for your bits and bobs will go a long way to keeping things organised. You can add items into your caddy such as washing up liquid and sponges and place by your sink, or you might want to use them in the fridge to group similar items and vegetables together.

3.     Install A Tension Rod – a plastic extendable bar placed lengthways across any cupboard or under the surface drawer can be used to support cleaning products which have a spray handle. Place the rod as high as you can in the cupboard and then just hand the products from it. It can also be used for utensils.

4.     Opt For Integrated Appliances – rather than having a standalone dishwasher or cooker, why not consider an integrated appliance that frees up floor space? Everything from microwaves to refrigerators can be incorporated into your kitchen design these days.

5.     Use Jars In Cupboards – if you have lots of bags of rice, pasta and dried beans, you should consider keeping them in large glass jars in the cupboard to take up much less space. Simply take a felt pen and write the expiry date on the bottom.

6.     Pull-Out Chopping Board – chopping boards can take up lots of space if stored incorrectly, but you may be able to incorporate a pull out board under the surface. You can even open a drawer, place the chopping board on top and use it that way if you are limited on surface space.

7.     Mobile Kitchen Storage Cart – a standing kitchen cart in your room can hold everything from pots and pans to vegetables. If it has a surface on the top then even better, making it a truly dual-purpose item in your kitchen.

8.     Wine In A Drawer – a small kitchen storage idea with a hint of innovation, you can store your wine flat in a drawer instead of having to place it on special shelving. It doesn’t need a rack, but be careful when stacking bottle on bottle, you might need a tea towel between layers.

9.     Buy Stackables – pots and pans which stack are an excellent idea for kitchens with hardly any storage. You can easily fit your kitchenware such as pans and colanders and measuring jugs in the same place if they stack neatly within each other.

10.  Reuse Office Supplies – you can use things such as file holders to organise your belongings too. Place them inside cupboards, or add them to an unused corner of the kitchen on the surface so they can be easily accessed when you need them.

11.  Try Magnetic Holders – whether it’s pots and pans, kitchen utensils or knives, metal and magnets will save you lots of space. Attach a magnetic board as a backsplash or on your wall, and your objects will stick to it in whatever configuration you desire.

12.  Remove The Door – a simple yet effective way to create more space is to remove the door. If it swings inwards and intrudes on the space, take it off its hinges and store it if you plan on selling. Alternatively, you could see if you can change it for a folding door, or make it swing outwards.

13.  Use The Inside Of Cabinet Doors – you can add adhesive hooks to the inside of kitchen cabinet doors and hang items on them. Or you could drill small baskets on the inside of the doors so things are easily accessible when you open them.

If you’re looking for kitchen storage ideas for your small kitchen, try some of these tips above and you’ll have more space in no time at all. A lot of our suggestions don’t really require any expertise or knowledge to implement, but they can save you precious cupboard and surface space.

How to make the caulking and grout last in your bathroom

Whether you are remodeling your bathroom or just want to freshen up the appearance of the space, it’s important to choose the best grout and caulk when working with a tile project or a tub surround.  

Grout and caulk, while similar, they are not the same thing. Grout is a powder that, when combined with water and properly applied, makes your bathroom shower or tub surround installation completely waterproof. It keeps water and moisture from seeping in behind tiles and enclosures, which can cause damage to your installation and your walls.  

Caulk is a flexible material that is placed along the joint of a tiled wall and bathtub to make that joint completely waterproof.  

Choosing quality products, as well as proper maintenance, will help your grout and caulk last longer and your bathroom installation look beautiful for years to come.  

Choose a quality grout 

Your bathroom finishing project starts by choosing a quality grout. Grout is the thick paste used to seal the cracks between tiles. Grout keeps the tiles in place, as well as provides a nice, finished appearance to a bathroom shower or tub.  

There are several types of grouts to choose from, cement, epoxy, and single-component.  

Cement grout is made from a porous material, which can allow water to seep into the grout, where mold and mildew can form. This type of porous material also allows for dirt and other environmental elements to attach to the grout, making it susceptible to staining. Cement-based grout is also, surprisingly, not waterproof. This disadvantage can cause the grout to damage quickly after installation; therefore, it should always be installed with the help of a finishing sealer. 

Epoxy grout is a strong and durable material, highly resistant to staining, damaging cracks, and high-moisture content conditions. Unlike cement grout, epoxy grout lasts much longer and doesn’t tend to crumble over time. It can last the lifetime of your shower or tub surround. Also, unlike cement grout, there is no need to use a finishing sealer.  

Single-component grout, made from low-porous materials, will repel mold and mildew. Made from literally a “single component,” this grout is either made from urethane or acrylic-silicone resin. It is pretty durable and resists staining and crumbling. Just like epoxy grout, It does not need to be sealed. Unlike epoxy and cement grout, this grout is usually sold in a bucket with a lid, so you can use as much or as little as you need for your application.  

Choose a quality caulk 

Once you’ve selected the best grout for your job, move next to choosing a quality caulk, to seal around the edges where you will not use the grout. 

Be sure to choose a caulk labeled “for bathroom use,” so you can be sure you are getting a waterproof brand and one formulated to repel mold, mildew, and bacteria. The types of caulk are silicone or latex.  

Silicone caulk is most commonly used in bathrooms as it stays flexible throughout its use. It doesn’t peel or crack and provides a waterproof barrier against moisture.  

Latex caulk should usually only be used in areas where there is not a lot of water, so areas where you need to fill in gaps, such as in walls, ceilings, or wood trim. It is easy to use and clean up, provides a good seal, and can be colored to match your application.  

Choose a quality sealer 

You’re almost through shopping! Move on to the next item on your list - sealer. Grout is not waterproof, so if you want to ensure that your grout and caulk last, you’ll need to apply a sealer after the application.  

By choosing a quality sealer, you will help to prevent staining and mold, and mildew. The material of grout is “sanded,” which means that as soon as it is applied, the grout in the tile joints becomes a porous material that will absorb what it comes in contact with. When you apply a sealer to the grout, after it is completely cured, you prevent the grout being able to soak up exposed moisture.  

There are two types of sealer, penetrating and non-penetrating. You should opt for a penetrating sealer to use with your bathroom project since this non-penetrating type of sealer does not allow for water evaporation. To keep your grout looking, and performing, its best, reapply the sealer once or twice a year. This will lengthen the life of the grout, as well as inhibit mold and mildew growth.  

Choosing a quality sealer will also help to maintain the look of your grout by preventing stains to set in from dirt, or other outside elements. The type of sealer that penetrates will soak right into the surface of the grout, but it won’t change its color. If you need to match the color of pre-existing grout, you can purchase a colored sealer.  

Proper maintenance of grout and caulk 

We’ve already talked about the importance of sealing the grout and using caulk to increase stability. This is the first step in proper maintenance. The other ways to properly maintain your grout and caulk are regular cleaning and proper ventilation.  

Do light cleaning every day 

Use a squeegee in your shower each day, to remove the excess moisture that accumulates after a hot, steamy shower. It is a time-consumption on your day, but in the long run, it can not only keep your home value up, by preventing the growth of mold and mildew, but it will also help keep your family healthier by not being exposed to those formations.  

Ventilate the bathroom

A bathroom constantly has moisture in it. If this moisture is not removed, it’s going to sit and accumulate on surfaces, including the grout and caulk. If you don’t have an exhaust fan, install one. The cost of purchasing and installing one will be far less than having to pay for mold and mildew removal and restoration. Make sure to turn on the fan each time you use the shower or tub with hot water, and keep it running for 20-30 minutes afterward.  

By choosing the right products for your bathroom installation, and maintaining a daily routine of good maintenance, you can ensure that your grout and caulk will stay beautiful and functional for the life of your bathroom. 

About The Author

Correct caulking are the leading joint sealing applicators in Victoria, they have over 10 years’ experience in all types of construction from custom homes to high rise buildings.

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