The median salary for painters is $38,940. Depending on the level of skills, experience, and type of job, some painters make up to $51,530. The figures are not surprising as house painting is one of the most sought-after home improvement projects.

Choosing a painting contractor can be a daunting task. A wrong move can make your home’s exterior painting an eyesore. Therefore, taking the necessary steps to get the best exterior house painter is prudent.

Hiring a professional painting contractor will save you significant time and effort. You will also rest easy, knowing that the work will be exemplary and leaving you thinking ‘my home exterior looks brand new. with just a coat of paint’. Here are some of the tips on choosing a fantastic exterior house painter.

1. Use Referrals

Satisfied clients refer others to a service provider. If your identified house painter doesn’t have any referrals, there’s a problem. During the vetting period, you can ask the contractor if they have referrals from past customers.

If you searched ‘best house painters near me,’ you’ll probably get a list of local home painters. The results might have customers’ testimonials, which can give you headway choosing a painter. Use the list to vet the painters individually.

It would also help to ask friends or families on exterior painters they can recommend. Most of your networks will give you honest reviews about a painter. You can inquire more about their efficiency and professionalism.

2. Licensing and Insurance

More than 20 states require painters to have a license. A painter has to pass several state exams, prove work experience, and financial ability before getting the permit. Working with a professional painting company gives you confidence in the outcome of the project.

You can ask to see a painter’s license before hiring one. A licensed home painter will give you a list of activities to guide you when preparing for exterior painting. The professional will guarantee you quality results, better pattern and color options, structural stability, and timely completion of projects.

Painting has its share of risks. A painter can spill hazardous material, damage your property during the painting process, or experience a fall or slip. These liabilities might be on you if your contractor doesn’t have painting insurance.

3. Familiarize Yourself With the Painting Products

Your home exteriors get exposure to all manner of environmental conditions. You need a painter who uses high-quality products. The last thing you want is to repaint your home after a few months due to heat or water damage.

Make sure you inquire about the premium products the company uses. The high-end materials will give an exceptional final look, which will be durable. Low-end options might be inexpensive, but they will prove costly in the long run.

Acquainting yourself with most of the paint types gives you leverage. When your contractor briefs you on the options available, you can choose the oil-based or latex paint from a knowledgeable point. A contractor would hardly dupe a homeowner who has insights on matters relating to paint.

4. Meet Different Contractors and Compare Bids

A painter who has been working for most people within your neighborhood isn’t necessarily the best for you. You need to contact at least three experienced contractors to inspect your home. You can get to know more about an exterior painter and the extent of their knowledge as they check your house.

From the multiple contractors you’ve identified, get bids. It is always advisable to compare bids before settling for a painter. Have at least three to five bids to guide you on the ideal option.

While at it, avoid the temptation of settling on a contractor based solely on a low bid price. You might end up compromising on quality work. However, competitive prices are not necessarily a sign of low quality.

5. Use the Internet to Search for a House Painter

About 97% of consumers search for local businesses on the internet. The explosion of internet use has increased consumer awareness. If you don’t know how to find a painter, the internet is a great place to start.

You will get multiple suggestions on house painters near you. More importantly, you will get considerable reviews from users who have dealt with the contractors. Sites such as Yelp, Angie’s List, Houzz, and Nextdoor can provide reliable recommendations.

If a house painter has several negative reviews, that’s a red sign to note. The more the reviews, the better it is to know more about a company. However, you ought to be vigilant as some contractors can forge the reviews.

6. Request for a Contract

Everything you discuss with a painter should be in writing. The contract should include the name of the painter, address, license information, and cell number. The written agreement should further highlight the details of the estimates.

The contract ought to detail what the entire project involves. A contract prompts a service provider to perform the tasks as required. It also binds the client, who has to meet the outlined requirements such as payment.

You might also want to get copies of insurance certificates for workers’ compensation and painter’s liabilities. The move ensures that you’re not held responsible for any negligence or unintended accidents by the painter. With a contract, you can rest easy knowing that everything is under control.

7. Trust Your Intuition

When interviewing identified home painters, you can pick some of their attributes based on how they talk and behave. While you wouldn’t want to be discriminative, it is essential to work with a painter that makes you comfortable. Some characters can make you uneasy.

Inviting a stranger into your home isn’t the most pleasant thing. Therefore, you might want to go to a painter who has your idea of the right personality traits. If your gut feeling isn’t in sync, don’t sign the contract.

A Great House Painter Can Give Your Home a Face-Lift It Deserves.

Settling for a house painter is not always as straightforward. Yet, you need to make the right choice as home painting has significant impacts on the aesthetics of a home. You can follow several steps from getting referrals to personal vetting to ensure that you get the best contractor.  Keep exploring our site for more home-related content.

According to the Department of Energy, older furnace systems range in efficiency from about 56-70 percent. New furnaces, on the other hand, can have efficiency levels as high as 98.5 percent! If you’re interested in replacing your current furnace with a new model, it may be useful for you to take a look at a company such as Denver furnace installation and repair for more ideas and information as to what is available.

Do you want to make your home more energy-efficient and say goodbye to high heating bills? Are you unsure of how to install a new furnace and unwilling to pay a professional?

If this is the case, you’re in the right place. Read on for a step-by-step guide that will teach you everything you need to know.

Choose the Right Furnace and Furnace Location

Start by deciding what type of furnace you want to purchase for your home. The higher its efficiency rating, the more money it’ll save you over time (although, it might cost you more money upfront). There are other factors to consider, though, including the type of fuel it uses (gas, electricity, propane, etc.).

Once you’ve selected a furnace, you need to find a place to store it. For most people, the basement makes the most sense. If you do this, make sure you place your furnace on blocks to protect it from flooding.

Find a Location for Your Duct and Drain

Once you choose a place for your furnace, you’ll need to choose a place for the furnace return air duct and condensate drain. Most of the time, the condensate drain should be placed off to one side and pointing toward the floor drain.

Connect the Furnace to the Ducting System

Now, it’s time to connect the furnace to the house’s ducting system. When you’re doing this, seal connections with duct sealant or metal foil tape.

Do not use duct tape. It doesn’t last as long as these other options.

Connect the Vent Pipes

After the furnace is connected to the ducting system, the next step is to connect its intake and exhaust pipes.

These should be connected at slight angles sloping toward the furnace. This allows condensation to be drained in a safe and efficient way.

Connect the Gas Supply

Up next is connecting the furnace to the gas supply. After you do this, check to make sure it can be shut off properly and ventilates well. Ensure there aren’t any leaks, either.

Connect the Electrical Supply

After connecting to the gas supply, you’ll need to connect the furnace to your house’s electrical supply. Furnaces typically have two connections, a low voltage and a line voltage. Take care when you’re connecting the furnace to the electrical supply to ensure these connections get hooked up properly.

Connect the Condensate Drain

Finally, go ahead and connect the condensate drain. Most of the time, this will attach to the furnace with a hose that leads to your basement’s floor drain.

After you’ve done this, your furnace should be good to go. Be sure to double-check your work to make sure everything is working in the proper way. Don’t forget to make regular furnace maintenance a priority, too. This will help you ensure your furnace is as energy-efficient as possible. It also saves you money on expensive repairs later on.

You Know How to Install a New Furnace: Time to Get to Work!

Now that you know how to install a new furnace, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Follow these steps and you’ll have no trouble setting up your furnace and keeping your home warm during the coldest months of the year.

Are you looking for more home maintenance or home improvement-related content? If so, we have tons of resources on our site. Visit the Home/DIY section today to keep learning.

 

Stress is a fact of life for most Americans. In fact, more than 36 percent of adults are so stressed and worried that they have trouble getting to sleep at night.

Finding ways to relax is an absolute must and one of the best ways to do that is to invest in a hot tub for your home. However, buying a hot tub is more involved than most people think.

You need to understand exactly what you’re looking for to find the best tub for your needs. Here are a few tips to help you find the right type and model for your home.

Set a Budget

Before you can start looking for a hot tub, you need to figure out how much you’re willing to spend and how you want to pay for the purchase.

If you have money saved up, think about how much of your savings you’re willing to use. It might be in your best interest find hot tubs for sale in Redmond.

Remember, many companies offer financing options, letting you break up the cost of the hot tub into monthly installments. Keep in mind that these financing options are a type of loan. You will have to pay interest on the purchase price.

If you decide to finance the hot tub, make sure you can afford the monthly payments. This might mean you have to choose a cheaper hot tub than you’d necessarily like.

Once you have a number in mind, you can start looking into your options.

Think About Where You Want to Put It

Once you have your budget in place, you’ll need to think about where you want to enjoy your hot tub.

Some people prefer to have them close to the house so they can get in and out of the hot water without braving the elements for too long. Others prefer to install the hot tub away from the house in an area with better views. This can make the soaking experience more enjoyable and relaxing.

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer. It all comes down to where you’re most comfortable soaking. Keep in mind that installing the hot tub further away from your house could increase the cost of installation.

Your installation team may need to run additional electrical lines to power the hot tub. If you install the hot tub close to the house, they may be able to use existing outlets and hookups to keep the tub’s heater going.

Think About the Type

Believe it or not, there are many different types of Hot Tubs For Sale on the market ranging from inflatable to permanent.

Before you start shopping for a hot tub, think about what type of tub you want on your property. If you want a hot tub that you can put away when you need extra space, an inflatable hot tub will be a great choice.

However, if you want a hot tub that you can use year-round, a hard shell tub will be the better option. If you decide to install a hard-shell tub, you’ll need to figure out if you want it installed above ground or in-ground.

Above-ground hot tubs are easier to clean and maintain, but in-ground tubs look more sophisticated and elevate the look of your yard.

Consider the Size

Hot tubs are available in many different sizes and the right size for your needs depends on how you plan to use the tub. If you like to entertain multiple people at a time and plan to use your hot tub with friends, a larger tub is an absolute must.

If you’re looking for a more private soaking experience, a smaller tub will work just fine.

Remember that larger tubs can cost more to operate than smaller units and may be more expensive to purchase upfront. If your budget is tight, it’s almost always better to opt for a smaller hot tub.

Choose the Right Features

Think about the types of features you want your hot tub to have. If you’re looking to use the hot tub as an in-home spa, look for one that provides plenty of water jets to help your muscles stay loose. If you’re looking for a tub that you can exercise in, look for one with a swim zone.

These hot tubs allow you to soak and swim in the same unit. Instead of swimming laps, these tubs let you swim against a strong current so you effectively swim in place.

The more features you want your tub to have, the more expensive it will be. As you’re exploring your options, take care to keep your budget in mind.

Look Into Its Energy Efficiency

When you’re looking to buy a hot tub, it’s easy to focus on the upfront cost alone. After all, it’s going to take up the bulk of your budget. There’s more to finding the best hot tub than looking at the price alone.

You also need to look at the tub’s energy efficiency. More efficient tubs will use less energy to keep the water warm and to power the jets.

If you choose a tub that has a good efficiency rating, you’ll spend less on your energy bills each month. This will end up saving you money over the life of the hot tub. If you choose a tub that’s less efficient, you’ll end up spending more for years to come.

Buying a Hot Tub Can Be Tough

Installing a hot tub at your house is a great way to help you and your loved ones relax throughout the week. However, buying a hot tub that works with your budget and your space can be challenging.

Keep these tips in mind as you start shopping and remember to always hire an experienced professional to install your hot tub. This way, you’ll know that everything got installed correctly and won’t break down the first time you use it.

Looking for additional tips and tricks to help you make the most of your home improvement efforts? Check out our latest posts for more.

With an outdated kitchen or bathroom, can your home really meet its full potential? It’s time to remodel your bathroom! All of those outdated features have been bothering you for quite some time now, and you need an update.

When you start remodeling a bathroom, you will quickly learn that there’s an overwhelming amount of options to choose from. What kind of tile will you use? What color should the walls be? Do you need a metal mirror?

Often, remodeling companies have an online portfolio available for you to look at for inspiration. By searching for ‘Bathroom installation cambridge‘ (or elsewhere relevant) online, you can find a local bathroom remodeling company for you and your specific needs. Trying to decide on the theme and features that you want in your bathroom is difficult when looking at a blank canvas, there’s plenty of inspiration available for you online!

What are the best fixtures to install, and will there be a certain theme that you stick with? Trying to figure all of this out last minute might not be the best idea. Instead, you should look over a few creative tips to help inspire the remodel.

Once you have some ideas in mind, you can then start to make a plan for the remodeling process. Are you ready to get started? If so, continue reading below!

 

Here’s what you need to know!

1. Large Wood Tile

If your bathroom is outdated, then there’s a good chance that its current tile is small square bathroom tiles that you’d normally imagine when thinking of bathroom tiles.  Check out this DIY tile guide to see the latest styles and learn how to start the installation process.  There are some beautiful bathroom tiles to choose from if you’d like to keep that style.  Alternatively, you may decide to go with a more modern bathroom design.

Keeping it modern will ensure that your bathroom stands out and screams, “NEW!” One way to switch things up is to replace your small bathroom tiles with large wood tiles. These tiles aren’t actually made of wood, but they trick your eyes into thinking they’re wood.

It’s a great way to bring in modern and earthy flair into your bathroom design without actually using wood. The tiles are also much larger than a normal square tile. These tiles are normally rectangular shape, larger than other tiles, and feature a wood grain look.

They also come in a variety of colors, which make matching them with your bathroom theme a breeze!

2. Wooden Mirror

When your bathroom feels cold, you can place some warmth in it by replacing your cold metal mirrors with driftwood mirrors. This works well in bathrooms with one sink and mirror, or two! The driftwood mirrors not only bring warmth into the space, but they also make it feel homier by bringing natural elements into the design.

To really tie the driftwood mirrors into the overall look of the bathroom, you can consider installing large wood tiles that have darker hues in their patterns. The darker hues in the tiles will blend well with the dark hues of the driftwood.

All other aspects of the bathroom can stay neutral and light to give it balance.

3. Freestanding Soak Tub

If you’re someone who loves soaking in a warm bath, then you’ll want to consider installing a freestanding tub to soak in. Freestanding tubs have no attachments to the shower, and installing one is a great way to show your creative side. While many other bathrooms have wonderful soak tubs in their design, yours is different because the tub is freestanding.

It’s not placed up against the wall or attached to anything at all, which makes the tub the centerpiece of your bathroom. You can find several different freestanding tub

designs, so be sure to take your time and find one that compliments your personal style!

4. Sophisticated Lighting

When thinking about bathroom lighting, you might automatically think of those boring bulb vanity lights or something similar. This type of lighting won’t work in your bathroom, however. You’re looking for something more creative and unique.

That’s why you need to install sophisticated light fixtures in your bathroom! Consider installing a chandelier, which will look stunning hanging over your freestanding tub. Otherwise, place it in the center of the room to give your bathroom a spa-like feel.

You should also be sure to allow as much natural light into the bathroom as possible. Then, be sure to install beautiful vanity lighting either behind or on the side of the mirror. Use pendant lighting as well to help light the perimeters.

The more lighting options your bathroom has, the more spacious and clean it’ll look. We know how important great bathroom lighting is, but sometimes you need your bathroom to function as a place for relaxing as well. To ensure you get the best of both worlds, place all of your bathroom light fixtures on a dimmer.

You can use the dimmer to brighten or dim the lights as you please!

5. Pebble Tiles

Large wood tiles are amazing for the bathroom floor, walls, and shower walls as well. You can use those tiles in one of the above or all of the above! Even if you decide to use them inside your shower, you can get even more creative by placing pebble tiles in a single row down the middle of the shower wall where your showerhead is.

You can even use the pebble tiles for the floor of the shower as well. Using this type of tile gives your shower a beach feel. It’s creative and something that your neighbors most likely don’t have in their shower!

Get Creative When Remodeling a Bathroom!

When it’s time to remodel a bathroom, you want to go above and beyond. Use these tips listed above to help you stay creative when remodeling a bathroom on your own! Be sure to use these ideas as inspiration for some of your own creations as well.

If you’re looking for more great tips and ideas, be sure to visit us regularly for more posts!

“Hey, how was your weekend cruise”? Your neighbor asks you as they clasp you on the back on Monday. You tell them it was great and carry on as normal even though you’re a little freaked out. You never told them that you were going on a cruise.

So, how did they know? Maybe you told them and just don’t remember it or maybe, they’re spying on you. Them knowing things about you that they shouldn’t is the first of many signs your neighbor is watching you.

Check out this list of all the signs so you can catch them in the act and stop them.

1. They Know Confidential Information

Your neighbor knowing that you went on a cruise over the weekend can come down to the fact that they heard it through the grapevine. It’s only one instance. If they start asking you about several things going on in your personal life however, they may be spying.

You can test this by starting a ridiculous rumor about yourself (nothing too embarrassing, you don’t want to ruin your rep). Tell them all about the new fancy luxury watch you just purchased. Have a loud phone call in your home

telling a person real or imaginary that you’re thinking about buying a new car for example. If later your neighbor asks you what kind of car you’re thinking about getting, you know their knowledge isn’t only a coincidence.

2. Your Mail Has Been Tampered With

You’ve found your mail outside of your mailbox on occasion. You’ve even found a couple of your letters ripped open. Again, it could be a coincidence but it’s good to check.

Address an enticing looking letter to yourself and place it in your mailbox. If you go out later and notice that it’s been opened, that could mean someone is checking your mail on purpose.

3. You’ve Found Hidden Spy Cameras and Listening Devices

If you’ve experienced the two signs above, it’s a good idea to purchase cheap but effective anti-spyware. This spyware will sweep your house for any hidden cameras or listening devices.

It may feel like you’re being paranoid but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Repeat the sweep a couple of times a week.

4. They’re Stalking Your Social Media Page

Your neighbor never comments on your stuff but they seem to know everything you post on your Facebook page. That could mean that they cyberstalking you rather than physically spying on you. Luckily, there’s a simple fix for this problem.

Block them and if you notice that they’re friends with any of your friends, tell them to give them the boot as well. Take extra precautions by never posting where you are or where you’re going.

5. You Catch Them Watching You

You’re coming back from your morning run and you notice your neighbor staring at you through their kitchen window. This isn’t the first time you’ve caught them staring.

Either they’re spying on you or they want to ask you where you got your cute jogging outfit and haven’t gathered the courage to do so yet.

6. They Know Your Schedule

It never fails. As you leave your house to head to work, your neighbor shouts good morning to you while they’re getting their morning paper. That wouldn’t be so weird but they always happen to be outside when you’re coming home or when you’re leaving.

It almost like they know your schedule better than you do. The best thing you can do in this case is to not give them the attention they’re seeking. Ignore them.

7. There’s Evidence That Someone Has Been in Your Home

You come home and notice that your junk drawer is open. You could have sworn you closed that before you left. You also spot a few scattered papers and your pillows aren’t in the same place.

Someone has been inside your house while you were away.

How to find evidence and proof that your Neighbour is stalking you

If you need evidence of a crime, such as a poterntial break in or mail tampering, then a private investigator can help you to discover what has happened and provide evidence of potential crimes. Private investigators can carry out surveilance to see exactly what is going on. If you are being stalked, then a private investigator can watch your house to check who is tampering with it or watching it. WIth this evidence you can know for sure what is going wrong at your home and then seek out the right resolution. Find london based private investigators available to help with your issue now!

How to Deal With the Problem

While the situations above are scary, there are ways for you to address it. Here are a few of the best things you can do to put a stop to your nosey neighbor.

Install Spy Cameras

So, your neighbor wants to come into your house while you’re away? Catch them in the act by installing spy cameras on the inside and outside of your house.

Make copies of any video footage that shows them lingering around your house or coming inside while you’re away. Now you’ve got plenty of evidence to incriminate them.

Avoid Them Whenever Possible

You want to avoid them whenever you can. If they try and approach you while you’re going on your morning jog, take out your phone and call someone or at least pretend to call someone. they’ll be less likely to bother you.

Always pretend that you have somewhere to be. Look busy and cut them short if they try to stop and talk. Over time, they may lose interest in you.

Put Up a Physical Barrier

Your neighbor can’t spy on you if they can’t see you. Put up a few barriers such as a solid fence or bushes. You could also have a privacy window film installed. You’ll be able to see out of your home but your neighbor won’t be able to peer in.

Report the Problem

Once you’ve gathered enough evidence that your neighbor is spying on you, take it to the authorities. Contact your lawyer while you’re at it and draw up a restraining order.

Signs Your Neighbor Is Watching You and What You Can Do About It

Have you found hidden spyware in your house? Does your neighbor know things about you that they shouldn’t know? These are all signs your neighbor is watching you. Knowing the signs is half the battle.

Now you have to gather evidence to go to the authorities. You can also handle the situation yourself by putting up a privacy barrier and installing a few spy cameras of your own. Take precautions and keep yourself safe.  It may even be time to consider selling your home if things get too bad!

Need a few more ideas for keeping your home safe from prying eyes? Check out the Home/DIY section of our blog daily for all the best articles for homeowners.

Over 320 billion gallons of water — that’s how much the US consumes every day. Of that, about 300 gallons go toward each US household. The thing is, the average home has water leaks that waste a staggering 10,000 gallons each year. That’s over 27 gallons of wasted water a day! What’s even worse is that one in 10 households has plumbing leaks that amount to 90 gallons or more each day.

This is why you need to stay vigilant of broken pipes, as these are a huge driver of high water bills. The water they leak also adds to your home’s indoor moisture, which can have bad health effects.

The question is, how do you even know you have leaky plumbing pipes? Most importantly, what can you do about them?

We’ll answer all these burning questions you have, so be sure to read on!

How To Tell That You Have Broken Pipes

Abnormally high water bills, musty smells, and molds are some of the solid signs you have broken pipes. You can also do a quick leak check if you know where your water meter and main water valve are.

This method is especially helpful for determining if you have hidden leaks. After all, you may have broken pipes under the house or beneath its foundation.

To check for potential leaks, make sure no one is using any water fixture — no faucets, no showers, no toilets. Then, check the dial, pin, or digital display of your water meter. If there’s no leak, it shouldn’t be moving.

If it does move, then you most likely have a broken pipe or leak somewhere. Check each faucet and showerhead for moisture, as they may be leaking other than from their spout. Pay particular attention to their handles, stems, and bases.

If these fixtures remain dry, next up is to check the exposed sections of your plumbing system. These exposed pipes are usually found in basements as well as under or behind sinks. These are the pipes that you may be able to temporarily fix on your own.

If there’s no leak in these areas, you’re likely dealing with broken pipes under the foundation. In this case, it’s best that you get on the phone with your local licensed plumber. Professional plumbers use cameras, ground mics, and listening discs to detect hidden leaks.

Surface Preparation for DIY Pipe Repairs

Before you do any of the pipe repair hacks below, turn off your main water valve first. It’s also worth investing in a durable coupling to put in place afterwards, so you don’t get leaks while you’re waiting for a professional. Be sure to clean the affected area of the pipe too, as dirt and grime will hinder an adhesive’s sealing ability. Don’t forget to completely dry out the pipe too.

Short-Term Fix For Pinhole Pipe Leaks

If you find tiny holes (AKA pinholes) in exposed plumbing pipes, reach out for your duct or electrical tape. Wrap the tape around the affected area several times. Make sure the surface of the material remains smooth and bubble-free.

You should further secure the tape on the pipe with a hose clamp. This way, you’ll have at least a few hours to keep the pipe from springing another leak. That’s enough time to contact a plumber to give the leak a more permanent fix.

Epoxy Putty May Be the Key

For bigger holes or leaks that spring out of fitting joints, apply some epoxy putty. These are substances that can serve as adhesives and space-fillers. In that way, they can help you seal holes in plumbing pipes that tape won’t be able to handle.

Most household epoxy products come in two parts — resin and putty — but there are also gels and liquids. Two-part epoxy products take less time to dry and harden than other adhesives and fillers. Still, the more time that epoxy takes to dry and harden, the stronger its bonding capacity is.

If you don’t have epoxy putty at home, you can easily find them in hardware and home improvement stores. If applied correctly, it should provide a longer-term fix than duct or electrical tape. Use this hack if you can’t have a professional plumber come to your home until after several days.

Keep Those Pipes Clamped

Another temporary fix to leaking pipes is to cover the hole with a piece of rubber and then secure it with a clamp. Regular hose clamps can do the trick, but pipe repair clamps allow for a tighter, more secure seal. For smaller holes or cracks, you may only need one clamp, but it’s best to seal both ends of the rubber with two clamps.

Schedule Professional Plumbing Repair ASAP

Even after carrying out these DIY fixes, you should still get in touch with plumbing experts. They are only temporary repairs meant to keep pipes from wasting water until you get ahold of a plumber.

Otherwise, you may end up with bigger problems, such as burst, broken pipes in winter. Not only will this be more expensive to repair — it can also cause indoor flooding and water damage.

Keep in mind that water expands as it turns into ice. If this happens, the ice will put more pressure and force against the interior lining of the pipes. As soon as the pipes can no longer handle the expanding water, they will burst and come apart.

Poorly- or hastily-fixed pipes are at a higher risk of freezing and bursting. This is especially true if the initial problem was a break in the middle of the pipe or a leaking joint. Even hardened epoxy can give if water freezes inside the pipe.

Get Those Damaged Pipes Fixed ASAP

There you have it, your ultimate guide on how to repair broken pipes, albeit temporarily. As a final tip, close the main valve before leaving home in case you haven’t had professional repairs yet. This way, you don’t have to worry about getting back to a flooded home in case the damage gets worse while you’re away.

Interested in more DIY hacks for home repairs and improvements? Then be sure to check out and bookmark this site’s Home/DIY section!

Your driveway reaches out and welcomes people before any other portion of your property. Yet, people all too often make it an afterthought.

Do not forget about your driveway until it needs maintenance. Give your home a new look with creative driveway ideas!

5 Awesome Driveway Ideas

If you want to renovate your property, why not start where people enter? Read on for ideas on different types of driveways.

1. Asphalt

While most driveways use asphalt as the standard, you can still get innovative! Plan a different shape for your asphalt driveway.

Curving your driveway gives it a winding road appearance that looks different and fun. This look only works with a long driveway, because small curves would make parking difficult.

A U-shaped driveway looks nice and offers a safer option for pulling out onto busy roads. Circular driveways allow you the option to place beautiful landscape or luxurious hardscape in the center, for a more opulent appearance. How much does it cost to pave a driveway with asphalt? This depends on the size. You can typically expect to pay about $5 per square foot.

2. Concrete For material that offers more strength and durability than asphalt, choose concrete driveway paving. Concrete slabs and stones are easier to clean and maintain.

You can replace each individual stone or slab without redoing the entire driveway. It also offers you a creative license, as you can create patterns or throw in a splash of color.

3. Brick

Brick is one of the more expensive types of driveways. But you may find this material well worth it if you can afford the cost.

Brick looks amazing and can withstand the elements. It also offers a slip-proof surface for you to safely walk on in the rain and snow.

Laying brick also offers versatility for colors and patterns. You can install a unique driveway that looks like none other.

4. Sea Shell

For a beautiful and unique look, opt for crushed seashells! The cost of this driveway can greatly vary depending on the availability of this material in your area.

They do crush under the weight of vehicles and whether easily. So, to keep up the look, they need frequent replacement.

It will not work well in areas with high winds, as the crushed pieces can blow away, but offers a serene look in milder climates. People who prefer green options will love that this is the most eco-friendly driveway type of driveway material when purchased from sustainable sources.

5. Grass Driveway Do you want to jump on the next big trend? Opt for a grass driveway!

This eco-friendly alternative offers a number of benefits. They offer easy installation, take more stress than traditional materials, soak up storm run-off, and blend into the surroundings.

Think Outside the Box

Shake up the neighborhood a little! Rather than conforming, choose one of these unique driveway ideas to make your home stand out.

We hope to help sweeten up your home with simply beautiful ideas. Find creative do it yourself decorating tips on our website!

Trampolines have earned a bad reputation in recent years, and especially trampoline parks. Trampoline park owners have faced a barrage of litigation issues related to accidents and injuries that occur in these facilities.

Many people have also become less likely to have a home trampoline because of the fear of injuries, some of which can be severe.

However, there are benefits of trampolines as well, and kids happen to love them in many cases. If you’re weighing whether or not to get your kids a trampoline, the following are some of the things you should think about.

What Are the Risks of Trampolines?

In 2014, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Academy of Pediatrics, there were nearly 105,000 injuries treated in emergency rooms related to the use of trampolines, primarily by children and teens.

Most of the injuries occurred from falling or jumping off the trampoline, two or more people being on a trampoline together and running into each other, or someone landing on the trampoline’s frame.

A person jumping and then landing wrong was also a cited reason for many of these accidents.

What Are the Benefits of Having a Trampoline?

Some of the benefits of your family having a trampoline include the fact that it can help your children stay active and fit. The bouncing motions on a trampoline can help strengthen the skeletal system and increase bone mass, and there is evidence that regularly using a trampoline can improve posture and the cardiovascular system.

The use of a trampoline can increase endorphins in the brain, which can help reduce anxiety and stress, and people who regularly bounce on a trampoline may have better sleep habits.

Trampolines can give your lymphatic system a boost and help promote drainage, and when kids regularly use a trampoline, they may have improved coordination and balance.

What Are the Downsides of a Trampoline?

Along with the risks themselves, there can be some other downsides of trampolines to consider before getting one. For example, if you get a trampoline, you may feel like you’re always supervising your own kids on it as well as friends they might have over.

Some homeowner’s insurance won’t allow you to own a trampoline under the policy either.

If your homeowner’s insurance prohibits you from having a trampoline and you get one anyway, your insurance company might issue a non-renewal notice or a cancellation.

How to Buy a Trampoline

If you decide that a trampoline is right for you after weighing the pros and cons, there are specific things you should look for.

First, make sure that you’re thinking about weight limits. You also absolutely need a trampoline with an enclosure, since this is an important way to reduce the risk of jumpers falling off. If you buy a trampoline for a child younger than five, it’s recommended that you choose a small one with handlebars.

If you’re going to put a trampoline in your yard, there needs to be enough space all the way around it. It needs to be placed on a soft surface like grass too.

Along with an enclosure, some of the safety features a trampoline should have are padding on the springs, rust-resistant springs, and a galvanized steel frame.

Trampoline Safety Tips

There are trampoline safety tips to keep in mind once you buy one if that’s the decision you make.

First, it’s really best if only one person is on the trampoline at a time. Everyone using the trampoline should stay toward the center, and you shouldn’t let your kids do gymnastics moves on the trampoline because there is a paralysis risk.

You shouldn’t let kids under the age of six use a full-size trampoline, and kids should always have adult supervision.

Your trampoline should be placed on a flat area of ground, and it should be anchored to the ground.

Finally, another option, if you get a trampoline, is to bury it.

You’ll have to excavate the area where you want to bury it. What you do need to realize is that burying a trampoline doesn’t inherently make it safe. You should still use an enclosure, and the trampoline has to be installed properly.

A trampoline doesn’t have to automatically be dangerous and your family could theoretically have one and enjoy the benefits, but you need to be responsible for how you choose a trampoline and make sure you install it correctly.

You should also never get lulled into a false sense of safety and stop supervising your kids when they’re on it, regardless of how long you have it.

If you’re looking into moving your consulting business into a home-based one, then there are a few things you should. Moving your business to your home could be a great decision. It can save you money, and you can have an easier time managing your work-life balance. However, it’s important that you remain successful despite the change of scenery. Here’s what you should know before you become a home-based business consultant.

1. Have Your Certification on Your Website

In order to become a consultant, many organizations require you to have a certification. This gives businesses more confidence that you are qualified to give them advice. Working at home means you should have a website devoted to your services. Somewhere on that website, you should clearly have your certification and related awards, licenses, et cetera on display. Another thing you should consider is having a LinkedIn account, and if it seems like too much work for you, you can always purchase one. Earthweb provides reviews on the best places to purchase a LinkedIn account , and this can save you some serious time.

It’s one of the first things that a business will look for when searching for a consultant to help them. Don’t make them search too hard, or they might pass you by.

2. Get Insurance

Did you know that there’s insurance for consultants? The need to carry consultant insurance for your business cannot be overstated. For instance, prospective clients may require that you have insurance before hiring you. It’s also just good practice to have insurance for yourself. In the event that something occurs, you’ll have that insurance to rely on.

Since you’re going to be working at home, you’re already likely working with the bare bones. Insurance isn’t something that you should ignore.

3. Prepare Your Home Office

While the idea of working at home may seem wonderful, you may find in practice that it isn’t. Working at home requires a certain amount of focus and self-discipline. You have all of the temptations of home to distract you from work, for example.

For those who also have families, you also have to worry about disturbances from your family. When working as a home-based consultant, your home office needs to have minimal distractions and be cut-off from the rest of the home as much as possible.

This means that it needs to be far enough away from the main thoroughfare that you’re not disturbed. It might even pay to add some soundproofing to the office. Yet you should also choose a room that has a view. The last thing you want is to make yourself feel like you’re sitting in prison until your office hours are finished.

4. Be Organized

Perhaps the most important aspect of being a home-based consultant is that you need to be organized. Businesses expect you to know your stuff at a drop of the hat. Since you’re likely going to be juggling several businesses at once, you may not know everything that you need to know right at hand.

That’s where keeping your home office organized really helps. You should be able to create a system that allows you to quickly pull up the information that you need in order to advise the business. This might mean having a thoroughly labeled filing system, an Excel sheet, or just writing really detailed notes.

5. Advertise

If you’re just starting out, then you’re going to need to accrue a list of clients and quickly. Advertising is the best way to do that. Getting your name out there is vital to your survival. You’ll want to start listing ads on business websites and other news sites that offer business news. It may also be worth it to contact other career-focused websites.

Finally, don’t be afraid to utilize social networking sites to spread your name.

According to experts, hiring an insect control service costs between $50 and $300. You may think consulting a pest control expert costs too much. Yet, the advantages outweigh the costs of having an expert handle your pest control issues.

Protecting your home and family are some of the top benefits of hiring a Pest Control company. You may still think saving some money by doing it yourself is the best option, but that’s far from the truth.

Still, thinking twice about consulting an expert? We’ve got you covered. Here are the top 5 reasons to hire a pest removal service in your area.

1. Find the Real Source of Your Pest Problem

You may have noticed signs of a pest infestation such as dry wood termite pellets. However, it doesn’t mean termites are the only pests infesting your home. When you hire an expert in pest control services, they’ll survey your property and identify the real source of your pest problem.

2. Lower Your Costs

Hiring a professional pest control company may come at a hefty price tag. Yet, not taking care of your pests the right way may cause structural issues to your home. In the long run, foundation repair and repairing other structural damages can cost a lot more than hiring the best local pest expert.

3. Choosing a Tailored Solution

When you consult an expert, you can choose a tailored solution that meets your needs. An example is how companies such as Pegasus Pest Control offer ant, rodent, termite, and even pigeon control.

These experts may also offer monthly or annual plans. You should consider these services to protect your family and home from pests all year long.

4. Limit the Risk of Dealing With Pests

Dealing with pests can expose you and your loved ones to harmful chemicals. If you choose to hire an expert, the technician will deal with all pesticides and insects.

When you meet your pest removal expert, you should ask them about the chemicals used. Make sure to ask them to use non-harmful pesticides. Today, you can choose to use green pest solutions to protect your family, pets, and the environment.

5. Obtain a Long Term Solution

When you hire a professional, you’ll obtain a long-term solution to your pest problem. Depending on your issues – whether you’ve found raccoon feces in attic and the culprit in the rafters, or cockroaches in the kitchen cabinets – it’s likely that the company may guarantee their extermination treatment for a certain time.

Should You Hire a Pest Control Expert Today?

You may think taking care of your pest control issues is the best way to save money. However, you should hire a pest control expert to handle these problems. You might think finding the right company in your area is next to impossible.

Yet, it’s as easy as searching online for “pest control company near me.” Narrow down a list of your top choices and schedule several consultations. During your consultation, you should ask the expert about the costs and suggested treatments.

The right company will offer an affordable solution. The best expert will also explain what to expect during and after the pest control treatment.

Did you find this article useful? Check out the rest of our site for more helpful tips and articles to take care of your home.