“I am still learning about my home. If you can’t do it yourself, find good service people and treat them well.” — Terry (mom to our Human Resources Coordinator, Louisa)
Raise your hand if you grew up with a mom (or another parental figure) constantly reminding you to clean your room. Often, our earliest memories of figuring out how to tidy up and take care of our homes are with our moms—they taught us how to do laundry, how to do the dishes, and how to make our beds. So it should come as no surprise that when we asked our moms for their best home keeping advice, they came back with some great tips.
Most agreed on a few major themes: it’s important to make sure everything has a home, that you put things back when you take them out, and that your home is inviting, relaxing place to come home to—and invite others to.
Decorating a house isn’t a child’s play at all. To have a beautifully decorated house you will have to dig deep into your pockets something that often hinders a lot of people from decorating their houses. Decors can be really expensive making the process of house decoration to seem unaffordable. Other than cost, some decoration techniques are time-consuming and hard to implement at the same time. Even with the help of online videos, these techniques still seem hard to actualize. Well, for any problem there’s always an excellent solution to it. Everyone desires to live in a house that leaves all the guests admiring the decorations incorporated into that home. There are cheaper and easier ways of turning around the look of your house. In this review, there are various DIYs decorating techniques that are not only cheap but also fun and marvelous.
Floating Shelves
Floating shelves create a very beautiful illusion that can take someone some minutes before figuring out how such an idea was executed. Wooden shelves can be hard to construct maybe because of the prices of the material required thus floating shelves are your best alternative. To achieve this, you will need two or more metal brackets that are firmly anchored on the wall by screwing them. Floating shelves are ideal because they make use of wall space thus saving you more space to store other items. However, be careful not to put too many books such that the metal brackets won’t be able to withstand the weight exerted by the books.
Customized Walls
Plain walls are pretty boring most of the time. On the other hand, painting a wall over and over can become expensive since they are people who love changing the colors of their walls from time to time. In such a scenario, opt for wallpapers. Wallpapers are beautifully crafted and can be customized to any look. You can have lyrics and favorite quotes written in these wallpapers and you can be sure that your walls won’t look the same way again. Anyone who sets their eyes on such a wall won’t be in a hurry to take their eyes off your walls. Wallpapers are easy and cheap to get making them a better option compared to painting.
Turn Wine Corks Into Necklace Racks
Most ladies love necklaces and they have a dozen of them thus storage places for these accessories become a hassle. Well, wine corks can be made useful and can be used to hold accessories such as necklaces and even watches. Paint these corks with a color that suits you then glue them into a small wood in a linear manner. Then, mount the wood into the wall. You can now hang your accessories on the wine corks. This is such a great idea that uses readily available materials. Also, this idea is amazing as it uses wall space saving you more space to store other items.
A Simple Nightstand
From your store or garage, you are likely to find an old table that you have no use for. Such a table can be turned into a marvelous and colorful nightstand. First, cut the table into equal halves. Afterward, you can paint the table with your favorite color. From there on you can attach the table against the wall and you can use it to hold your lampshade or even a glass jar full of flowers.
Chalkboard on Walls
Chalkboards are very convenient and magnificent especially when erected in the kitchen or kid’s bedroom. These chalkboards provide kids a chance to be creative and improve their art skills. In the kitchen, these chalkboards can be used to write reminder lists, rules of the kitchen or even a meal timetable. Chalkboards can really be magnetic when utilized in the proper way.
Shelves With Frames
Well, you may have shelves that have been outdated or are broken and they are lying in your store. Did you know that these shelves that seem useless can be revived and turned into magnificent shelves once again? First, you have to get a beautiful frame and put it on the edges of these shelves so as to recreate a new look. Afterward, you will have to paint the shelves so as to make it appear new.
Hallway Markings
To avoid confusion in any house, having labels and markings in your house saves guests some headaches and at the same time makes your house look beautifully decorated. These markings can be curved into a simple but beautiful wood, this wood can be attached to a metal bracket that is mounted on a wall. This is a cheap decorative method that will be greatly admired by a lot of your guests and friends.
Painted Flower Pots
There are various flower pots and vases that have been crafted in such an amazing way and then painted in a very admirable way. These vases sometimes are expensive leaving many people with no other option but to admire them from a distance. If you have flower pots of your own, you can work some magic on them by painting them. You can opt for colors such as gold, red or even purple. Bright colored pots tend to rhyme very well with flowers. For instance, vases painted in gold bring out an exquisite design and feeling around your house.
Being Creative
Creativity will earn you a lot when you are decorating your house and you really want to cut down on cost. You don’t have to buy new pillows, you can swap pillows from different rooms and create a new look in your room.
The Bottom Line
There’s no better feeling than that of living in a well-decorated home. With the advancement of decoration techniques, prices shouldn’t be a barrier at all. You don’t need to be an expert in home decors to make your house look fantastic since there are various tips to do so and they can easily be found online. Try these tips and add more flair and glamour to your house,
Whether it is a bad painting job with water spots, writing stains from your now-grown kids or leftover from the stickers and nail holes, you know how distracting an ugly wall can get. It literally beats any efforts made by your classic furniture and accessories to create a stylish and organized look. It is even more annoying if you are renting the place and you can’t make permanent changes.
Either because we are all selfish and want the person preceding to go through the same experience or its lack of cash to re-paint, regardless, you don’t have to worry anymore. There are clever tips you can incorporate to hide those draining walls. The best part about it is that you are killing two birds with one stone. While you are hiding ugly walls, you are also adding style by using some accessories that give your space personality. Here are some ideas that might transfer the ugly wall into a masterpiece.
Use Wallpaper
Using wallpaper on your wall is a bit complicated, but when chosen right coinciding with your existing décor, it can totally transform your room into a beauty parlor while making a statement. It is advised though, it is a perfect cover-up for stains and writings but not for a damp wall. Wallpapering is actually one of the easiest ways to restyle your interior. This is because depending on the wallpaper you choose, can make your room appear larger, warmer and brighter; and vice versa. Yet with such a bountiful abundance of designs in the market, it can get a little intimidating. Therefore, you might want to research it to understand your options first.
Use Art
Art is popularly used as a masterpiece for any room, and we know how well it goes. It creates a visual appeal that can totally distract your guests by pulling them to the painting. Where art is concerned, the more the merrier. But since it is a cover-up, investing in one large canvas is wise. You should consider your space though if your room is small, you don’t want to hang art that will chew up all the visual space and overtake everything in the room. Art is such a personal choice, therefore pick out something that pleases you. Consider being open to other mediums too, like photography. Instilling wall lamps and hanging mirrors can also work well.
Install a Bookshelf
Installing a bookshelf is a good solution for walls that are not in such a terrible state. It also adds a hearty dose of character to your space and speaks for the homeowner. There is nothing that feels as right as when I walk into a person’s home, and I suddenly realize how much I know them from their home decor. It creates a rapport, especially if you get to see some of your best book or music collection. You can consider a cabinet, which can also be used for storage if your space is small for a ceiling to floor bookshelf.
Use Washi Tape
If you are not on board, washi tape is a decorative masking tape made from Japanese rice paper. It is mostly enchanting by the bunch of possibilities it provides because it comes in gazillion colors and patterns. Although it is very adhesive, it’s quite temporary, which is not bad anyway because you don’t have much time to get bored with the decorations. It is a perfect solution for those, like me, who are in need of constant change and creativity. You can come up with various patterns like polka dots. Or if you want a larger cover-up, you can use the decorative washi tape as a frame for your poster.
Add a Different Texture
A room without texture variation will fall flat and one dimensional, in spite of owning various expensive accessories. Therefore, you can use this to your advantage and hide those ugly wall-stains by adding some texture. Don’t worry, it is not as expensive as it seems. The result doesn’t have to be busy, in fact, keep it simple by finding out the layers that combine to give you the best result. The colors you use are key. If you are using art, for instance, you can try covering up the frame with the same fabric as the mat. It is a great way of creating a visual appeal that will go a long way to distract your guests in the best way.
Bamboo Covering
It can be a bit expensive, but you will be glad you invested in a bamboo exterior wall covering. It not only covers the walls but also creates an outstanding personality. It provides a natural ambiance to a room and when paired with some greens, it’s a wrap. There is something about going natural that can never go wrong. Though this is more of a permanent solution, therefore, doing it on a rental home might not be a good idea.
Cover Your Wall With a Curtain
Using curtains can be a perfect cover-up for unsightly walls. Consider investing for a quality curtain, one that makes a room feel warm and luxurious. Curtains can also be used to create an illusion of a window. A map mural can also serve the same purpose. The big difference is, it instantly makes your wall look immensely interesting. They range from world maps to whatever map you want based on your taste. If curtains don’t do it for you, try map murals.
Use Your Photos to Create a Wallpaper
I have preserved the best and my favorite for last, using your photos to create some sort of wallpaper. This will immensely work in not only creating a visual appeal and covering up your ugly wall but also gives character and personality to your room. It has a perfect visual illusion when the photos are arranged in a neat brick pattern. This is can be achieved because each horizontal line is created using photos of the same size when printing them out.
The Bottom Line
There are more ways than you can hide ugly walls. Just be creative and if the ugly wall is just too much, you can always consider doing a wall facelift and turn it into the wall of your dreams.
Molds can be very sneaky, and because they hide in cracks, as well as other invisible places, most of us are unaware of their existence. If they were harmless little creatures, probably none of us would really put their time into them. I mean, there’s a lot more to think about than mold. But apparently, mold in the house is not only a problem for people with asthma and allergies. Irrespective of who you are, or where you live, you need to reduce the amount of mold you are breathing in. Mold exposure can irritate your eyes, skin, throat, and lungs. A report from 2007 also stated that scientists have found a direct correlation between a high presence of mold in the household and depression. The state of your home greatly influences your mood. Think of when you have clutter lying all over, how does it feel? Additionally, molds are just a nuisance because they can live off any organic matter; this includes your leather jacket.
They can be found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can get into your home through open windows, doors, and even heat and air conditioning systems. Mostly they flourish in humid places. If you smell a musty odor in your home, it’s probably time for a cleanup. Since they are almost imperceptible for you to be searching for them clueless, we have come up with a list of places that mold could be hiding in your home.
Chimneys
The environment in the chimney equals an ideal place for the growth of mold. By now we know molds can grow anywhere as long as there are moisture and food. If moisture gets in your chimney (which can happen easily) maybe through damaged masonry or any other damaged component, it can make a perfect home for mold. Since chimneys are dormant most time of the year, the humidity causes a healthy amount of moisture that encourages the molds to multiply. If you are unable to see discoloration on your chimney’s wall, more often if mold is growing inside, the first indication will be a musty odor (that smell most of us relate to old-basement smell). To remove the mold, try calling in for service because it is easier that way without risking your health. Then check if there are moisture intrusion problems and get them fixed to take care of the dampness.
Washing Machine and Dishwasher
As surprising as it may be, mold can be found in the same place as both a washing machine and dishwasher. Mostly, they are found in the gasket around the door of the dishwasher and a front-loading washing machine. It often stays wet because the door is usually closed when not in use. This gives the molds the right environment to munch and multiply. To prevent this, wipe the gasket and the glass dry after any wash. If you notice molds are already there, simply run a hot water wash with some mild bleach-like chlorine. It will definitely kill any mold. Make sure both the machines are empty when you are at it.
Mold On Dishes
It might not come as a surprise if you see some molds grow on your dishes, especially if you are in the habit of leaving them dirty in the sink. You are creating an ideal environment for them with both moisture and food. Nevertheless, you will be shocked that you can also find mold in clean dishes if you give them enough time. Mostly for some, life just gets in the way and you find you ordered takeout for the whole week. In such situations, if you didn’t dry your dishes and placed them in the cabinet, you will be sure to get molds. If you do, use vinegar and warm water to clean the utensils. Thereafter wipe the cabinets with the same and completely dry the dishes as you arrange them back. A moldy dishwasher can also be a cause of quick mold growth on your utensils. Therefore clean it too.
Window Sashes and Sills
Discovering molds in your window can be a regular problem if your windows have leakage or condensation is an issue to your home. On most homes, molds begin to grow from the bottom of the window at the joint between the glass and window sash frame. As soon as you spot one, you need to get rid of it because mold seen is hardly compared to the amount that is really there. Before you begin cleaning away the mold, you want to make sure you don’t ingest dangerous spores. Therefore, find a dust mask and gloves to wear. Also, ensure there is proper ventilation by opening doors and windows where spores can go instead of being trapped inside the house. On the other hand, you don’t have to treat mold from your windows when you can prevent them. You can achieve this by reducing the amount of condensation on your windows. It can be done by setting the air conditioner thermostat above 70 degrees. It is also helpful to allow proper airflow by ensuring ceiling vents are open at all times.
Air Conditioners
The air conditioner mold should be removed as soon as possible. This is because they can be easily spread throughout the house every time you turn it on. While some homeowners prefer to deal with a household problem on their own (all you need is bleach, clean sponge or towel, and hot water), It’s probably better to call in a professional. It can be pretty difficult to access all parts of the air conditioner, but the professionals have the necessary equipment without exposing you to health risks. Definitely, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and if you can prevent the growth of mold in the first place that would be better. Keeping the air conditioner duct-free from dust by regular cleaning will go a long way in preventing mold development.
The Bottom Line
In every problem, prevention is better than cure, therefore try keeping those moist places in your home as dry as possible and allowing the free flow of air. We are hoping you will now have an easier time finding and getting rid of those molds.
If you are looking at organizing your home, then you should be thinking of instilling floating shelves. You not only appropriately store your stuff but also do it in a very stylish and trendy way if well instilled. Space is a challenge in most homes and if you are looking for the best way to maximize it, shelving is a perfect choice. There are a wide variety of shelves and most, if not every person’s taste is accounted for. Additionally, most modern shelves regardless of their style and shape present a clean display. They accelerate the wall in a sophisticated way and maintain neatness.
Depending on your room, you can have them instilled in even the most unlikely corners and still come up with something you’d be proud of. Shelves instilled right on top of your door create a vertical illusion, automatically making your room feel bigger. Corner shelves, though mostly ideal for bathrooms, can still fill in the vacant of your lounge walls in an unimaginable, but perfect manner. Whatever your choice might be, adds perfection to your home and spice to your vanilla walls. They enliven your overall décor and make your home look clutter-free. If being just stylish doesn’t just cut it for you, here are some more ways you can find floating shelves very beneficial.
Add Function
Floating shelves can do so much more than sitting on the wall in neat lines, you can add in some function. For instance, do you have a convenient place where you can store your shoes? If not or you just want to show them off, you should get floating shelves. Install the shelves in an attractive pattern them display your collection. You can now admire your shoes even when they are not on your feet. If you also want to give your bedroom a more dynamic and open look, you can use low shelves as your nightstand. You might end up with more usable space than a regular nightstand. Furthermore, they are more affordable compared to most nightstands. A shelf that is well placed can also act as wine storage which is easily accessible plus you can show off your taste. Whatever comes to your mind, add function to your shelves. Don’t limit yourself!
Fill Up The Corners
Corners are one underutilized space, and you can change that by using floating shelves. Frankly, it is the best way you can fill up that space and leave it looking brilliant. When you have limited space, fill up the nooks with these shelves without having to sacrifice precious space someplace else. It looks best when instilled in the bathroom because even the extra toilet paper, cleaner detergent, and soap look great when arranged on a corner floating shelf. Your bathroom storage can be beautified by adding those shelves. Moreover, they give an airy and light look to your small space compared to other storage solutions you might come up with. Therefore, utilize your corners by making extra space for yourself while decorating at the same time.
Storage
Floating shelves can provide storage space as well as other storage units but without the use of bulky cabinets. This makes your space look open therefore creating an illusion of a bigger room. It is an effective way of storing books and other personal items. If you have kids, you also know how easily their toys can take control over every room, for storage, you can use floating shelves. They are not only effective in storing the toys but also keep some out of reach, therefore, regulating clutter and enables rotation of toys.
Adding Personality
One of the most effective ways to make your house stand out from the rest and give a homey vibe is by adding some personality. Add character to your home and let your space speak volumes about the people who live there without you uttering a word. Creating a personality to your space is as good to your décor as it is to create an impression on your guests. How does it feel when you walk into a home and you feel connected to the person? It opens a doorway for a person to know more about you. A simple display of art on your floating shelf can be a good conversation starter. Therefore, share your hobbies and interest by choosing the perfect shelf to complement your lounge and collectibles.
Organize Clutter
Nothing screams messy like clutter. Clutter makes it impossible to have an organized, clean home. Therefore, bring some order to your home by designating a place for everything. A new set of floating shelves allows you to organize anything from your pantry to your living room and home office. Furthermore, when well instilled they have the added advantage of making your room look bigger. Pure frustration is when you are late for work and that’s when your car keys decide to disappear. Take care of such situations before they occur by instilling shelves to store stuff you use regularly and will be easily accessible. Take your time to organize your things in a logical way while incorporating some design aspects that have visual appeal. Your floating shelf is not a place to get overwhelming otherwise you will have nothing close to organized and airy.
Organizing Your Closet
At some point, we’ve all looked for help on how to keep our closets neat. While there are various ways to achieve organization, I have found floating shelves in closets very effective. Definitely, start by categorizing your clothes to find out what would be the best way to store them before investing in a storage system. Additional shelving in your closet wall is better if you are working with a big space. Regardless, it can convert your small closet into a space that can accommodate your entire wardrobe. It is most effectively caters to your accessories and performs storage. You can also have them to display your shoes for easy accessibility. Additionally, shelves are great for folded or rolled up clothes.
Floating shelves as you have seen provide both can function and design. Basically don’t limit yourself in utilizing your space, especially those nooks that are just bare.
People love living in houses that are spacious enough. Well, this has remained to be just a dream thanks to modern techniques of construction. Most modern apartments are not as spacious as the tenants would love. From small rooms to lower ceiling boards this has become a culture that many homeowners have been accustomed to. Ceilings add a very irresistible appeal to any house but lower ceilings make a house look squeezed and small.
Living in a house with a sunken roof may make you feel imprisoned and restricted in your own house. Since it may prove futile finding a house with a higher ceiling, there are other ways to make your lower ceiling look high. With the right set of skills and tricks, you can just have that high ceiling you have always yearned for in your house. So, how do you achieve that? Here are compiled methods that can help you create an illusion of making your ceiling appear high.
Play With Colors
If you ever want to create a different illusion of something then playing around with colors would be your first step. With the right choices of distinct and attractive colors, anything can appear totally different and unique every time it’s repainted. Having the right color coordination in your living room, your ceiling board will appear high. If what the experts advise is something to go by, then the ceiling should be brighter than the walls, this is so because the ceiling will be the center of focus. Thus, the ceiling will appear to be higher. You can opt to have a darker floor this will enhance the appearance of your ceiling.
Keep The Light Up
This is a trick that will easily create that illusion of having a higher ceiling. Lighting brightens up a room making the room look appealing. Beams of light rays hit the empty spaces of a room making the room look spacious. Mount wall lights on the corners of your living room. Don’t opt for chandeliers as they send their lights rays on the floor as opposed to wall lights. The wall lights will illuminate all over the ceiling creating an impression that your ceiling appears higher. By mounting the right wall lights your ceiling height gets enhanced.
High Curtains
Modern or most houses have very tall windows that make a room look attractive. Not only that but they also enable you to get a glimpse of the neighborhood from the comfort of your room. Air aeration in your room is also enhanced making the air in your room so fresh and clean. Well, these windows have another advantaged; they can make your ceiling appear high. All you need to do is have floor-sweeping curtains. These curtains are very long-running from the curtain rack to the floor. They also have artistic designs such as vertical stripes that run from up to down. These curtains are just what you need to create a different impression in your room.
Accessorize Your Walls
Having an empty wall will definitely make your low ceiling appear very low in fact. On the other hand, you wouldn’t want to add so many details on your walls as this will make your walls appear so much squeezed. Having details up on your wall will change the appearance of your ceiling. You can opt to have beautiful flowers vases mounted on the wall, beautiful and artistic photo frames, or even mirrors. All these will add an impact on your wall and in turn, your ceiling will look distinct. However, bear in mind not to overdo it, in that case, go for elegance and simplicity.
Opt For Lower Furniture
Selecting the right furniture when you have a low ceiling in your house becomes a very hectic process. It’s quite impossible to have very tall wardrobes as they may not even fit in your limited space. Since you don’t have the luxury of adequate height space, opt for low designed furniture. This includes having coaches that are low in size since your ceiling will appear to be very high. While at it, don’t go for a lot of furniture that will make your house look so much cramped and cluttered. If you can opt for multipurpose furniture the better for you. The lower the furniture the higher the ceiling appears to be.
Vertical Stripes
Have you ever noticed that when a short person wears a shirt with vertical stripes they look somewhat tall? The same trick and concept can also be applied in interior design when you want your ceiling board to appear high. Vertical stripes that are running from top to bottom tend to take the focus of anyone who enters your house. These verticals also create a sense of beauty in your house making your house look elegant at all times. With these stripes, you won’t have to add so many details on your walls which would make your walls appear crowded.
Think Vertically
Thinking vertically, figuratively speaking, is the key thing when it comes to making a low ceiling appear high. There is a lot of space vertically that you can tap in to and change the appearance of your house dramatically. You can have shelves on the walls, shelves that run from the floor upwards, you can also have drawers mounted high up the wall or even have artistic works fixed high up the wall. Basically, maximizing the vertical space pushes the ceiling up higher, illusionary.
If you want to be a happy homeowner living in a house with a low ceiling board doesn’t have to be a barrier anymore. You don’t need to reconstruct your house again neither do you have to shift to another house, all you need to do is apply a few tricks here and there. Getting creative with the design and display of your house will turn around the look of your house immensely. Everyone who steps into your house will admire your house. Besides these steps, you can always seek professional help.
It is possible to take your bathroom from pale to fabulous without risking bankruptcy. Often, when giving a tour of your home, the bathroom rarely gets mentioned. If it does, it’s only with an ‘it is over there ‘and you move on to showcase your kitchen. There’s nothing wrong about that. However, it is not a place to take décor shortcuts.
Remember anyone entering your home must at one point—like some unwritten rule, visit the bathroom. If they find urine stains, no tissue or soap in the dispenser, irrespective of whether it’s clean or not, they will cringe. It is, therefore, important to update the vibe of your bathroom. It should be a place where you can find solitude after a long day.
Most people know better than to bother anyone using the space. Anyway, does anything feel as good as a long bath or shower after a bad day? With the bathroom of your dreams, it raises the experience a notch higher. Whether you need a change from your dated bathroom, or you are bored of with the status quo, it is possible to do it in a snap and on a budget too. Here are some ideas that will help you brighten up space without using a fortune.
Painting
Painting is one of the easiest ways you can refresh and give your bathroom a different look. Additionally, small bathrooms are a burden to most and, you could do with some more space. Turns out, depending on the color of paint you choose, you can easily and cheaply make your space look larger. From cool white to dramatic red, colors literally evoke certain feelings. There’s no precise rule on how to paint the space, it’s a matter of personal taste. However, since space is generally limited and has unique functions, special consideration should be taken as you pick your color scheme. Think of what mood you want to generate. Do you want laid back rhythms that encourage relaxing at the end of the day? Or do you prefer an alarm clock hue that stimulates your senses during your morning routine? Painting can do so much in changing your space’s overall look. Basically, think about shades that will make your space appear larger, brighter, warmer, and more welcoming.
Upgrade Your Mirror
There is definitely a mirror for every taste, whether modern or classic. Mirrors are key in pulling off a trick that fools the eye that there’s more space in a room than there actually is. Besides playing a key role in grooming, mirrors can be used creatively to refresh and contribute to giving your space a charismatic effect. If you already have a mirror in your bathroom, you don’t have to lose it and buy a new one. Easily upgrade it by changing its frame.
As with art, mirrors can be grouped, or stand-alone. Although be careful as you hang your mirrors since as easy as it is for a mirror to reflect the beauty of a room, it can also cast back undesirable reflections. Add character to your this space by creating a gallery of different mirrors. Group them together to create an area which dazzles, adding light and interest to the room. Exploring with your mirrors gives you endless opportunities to add that extra something to your bathroom.
Re-Grout Bathroom Tile
Tiles are amazing in this room. They are long-lasting and simple to clean. However, if your grout is stained or crumbling, it brings down the whole look. Furthermore, if ignored, falling out grout will cause leakage which leads to more damage. While it is not a luxurious material you will use as you update your space, it plays a big role in the final look of your bathroom. Re-grouting cannot fail in refreshing the look of a tiled bathroom. The process is actually easier than it sounds. Yet if you are doing it yourself since it will be more economical, it takes time, technique and you will want to take it easy.
Maximize Storage
There is nothing that messes up your bathroom like clutter. It is limited space and you’d be wise to maximize your storage space in the most creative ways. Well, since it’s easier said than done, you will need some help in keeping clutter at bay to create an appealing look. First, start by decluttering your bathroom. Throw away the empty bottles and broken combs. Also, find a different storage room for things you don’t use regularly in the bathroom. You can then make use of decorative baskets. It reduces the number of items displayed, therefore, gives off an organized look. Also, make use of an open shelf instead of adding more cabinets. Having an organized bathroom goes deeper than aesthetic purposes. It also gives you a good start while preparing yourself for the day.
Lighting
Beautiful lighting plays a big role in every room, but it plays a particularly important role in your bathroom. Incidentally, too often lighting in this room is low on the list of priorities. A bathroom is no longer just a functional room. It’s a room that you can go to and take hours, all by yourself. Therefore, create a sanctuary by instilling different types of lights. When it comes to the bathroom, you need both beauty and functionality. The best and cheapest way to let in more light is by maximizing the natural light. Ensure your window treatment lets in light. Then you can go ahead and choose the right bulb and light depending on the effect you want. With lights, you can totally refresh your bathroom look.
Update Your Accessories
Accessories are key elements in creating the mood, style and look of your little room. Mostly, people think of the bathing or shower system as the most important of all as they upgrade. This might be true but you don’t want to deny your home that effect of well-picked accessories. When you select the right accessories, you can make your bathroom look inviting, cozy, and glamorous.
Try out some of the things mentioned above and watch your tired old bathroom come back to life on a budget.
Wood rotting is the most irksome thing that could happen to a homeowner. Imagine your wooden furniture crumbling because of decay. It can be a very discouraging thing. If you are a homeowner who values that lovely classic look of the home when it is decorated with wooden furniture then you will feel that sense of loss.
Sometimes it is usually the fault of the homeowner who has let their furniture go. It is therefore important that the homeowner understand the wooden material, how to take care of it and what causes the rotting and decay in order to take measures to prevent it. Outlined below are a few reasons why the wood furniture in your home is rotting.
Moisture Exposure
Is your wood furniture exposed to moisture in any way? Do you clean your floors with a lot of water that touches the furniture that could be one cause of exposure? Also if you cook in the kitchen and don’t let the steam out, then it is bound to find its way on your furniture and settle there. Another reason could be, your home is leaking somewhere and the water comes into contact with your furniture. Think of all the places exposing your furniture to water and eliminate them. When water seeps into the wood it definitely causes it to rot.
You Haven’t Painted Your Furniture
Apart from giving your furniture a great look, paint also protects your furniture from the elements. When water comes into contact with the wood furniture, it finds a layer of paint that prevents the water from seeping in and causing it to rot. This will give you a chance to wipe your furniture clean and dry it up before the water damage occurs.
You Clean Your Wood Furniture Using Water
If you clean your wooden furniture the wrong way, it is bound to affect its look. Just like hardwood floors, wooden furniture shouldn’t be cleaned using water. Use lemon or special wood cleaner for cleaning and polishing. Using water will not only cause the paint to peel, but it will also leave your wood exposed to water which is the number one cause of wood rotting.
Your Wood Did Not Dry Out Completely
You could have left your furniture exposed and it rained heavily. If you didn’t let your furniture dry out completely before putting it away, the water that has seeped in will cause the rot. The best thing is to always allow your furniture to air-dry before you cover it or store it away for the season.
You Leave Your Furniture Outdoors During Rainfall
If you leave your wood furniture outdoors when it is raining, the rainwater will soak in and cause the furniture to rot. The best thing is to keep the wooden furniture covered or under a safe area where rainwater doesn’t reach it. You can even store your furniture in the shed or garage during harsh winters or rainy seasons.
Thinking That Your Hardwood Furniture It Rot Resistant
You might have made your wooden patio furniture using the strongest hardwoods such as teak or cedar. Do not be overconfident that the strong nature of the wood will not be affected by the weather. When you leave it exposed too long, it will definitely begin rotting. The solution to this is applying coats of water repellent once every year. You might also consider protecting your patio area where the hardwood furniture is to prevent rainwater from finding its way and soaking in your furniture. Never assume that the strongest hardwood can never succumb to rotting because it can.
Take care. If you have chosen wooden patio furniture, remember that it requires regular maintenance. Even the strongest woods, like teak or cedar, require some protection. We recommend annual coats of water repellent. To stay on top of things as you build your backyard, you might also want to consider investing in furniture that is naturally rot-resistant can be a huge help.
Of course, it is up to you. Maybe you prefer the look of weathered wood as the sun fades it from shades of brown to neutral greys. However, in order to save yourself money and protect your guests from potential injury, protect your wood from moisture by sealing all holes with wood glue and layers of paint. Be kind to your patio furniture by protecting it against harsh rain and UV rays, and you will have a backyard setup that will entertain folks for years.
Stop The Wood Rot
So, how do you stop the wood rot? Well, you can always remove wood from the equation, but for most of us, that would mean remove our entire house.
Let it Dry
It is going to rain or snow and the wetting of your house is not a cause for concern. The concern is when the wood isn’t able to dry out. There are a few things you can do to help the wood in your house dry out.
No Standing Water
If any part of your house gets standing water after a rainstorm, then that area is much more likely to rot. Standing water will find its way into joints and cracks in the paint and seep into the wood giving rise to perfect conditions for rot. Redesign these elements to allow water to shed off of them.
Allow For Air
Good airflow helps in faster drying out and the faster things dry, the less likely rot will happen. Trim back shrubs and trees from your house so that there is enough room for some airflow between the two. Wet shrubs directly against siding are a major cause of rot in many houses.
If you can keep it dry, then you will enjoy the beautiful look of your wooden furniture for a long time. Yes, the cause of rot is the fungus, but if you focus your energies on keeping the exterior surfaces of your house dry you’ll stop it in its tracks. Keep in mind that preventing rot is a lot easier than stopping it once it really gets rolling.
Everyone wants to live in a cool, classy and sophisticated environment. It is always a good feeling when your guests compliment on everything around your home as they glaze in awe of the masterpieces that you have. However, this is just one of those wishes that you feel you cannot accomplish because either you do not have any idea of what to do or where to start. Here are some of the tips that can help you bring your imagination into reality with ease and increase the value of your home.
1. Come Up With a List
This is the first step to improving your home. Good planning equals good results. Make a list of everything you need. You can get help from an interior designer in deciding what theme to have in your house. This will act as a guideline when coming up with the list.
2. Get Rid of Everything You Don’t Need
Get rid of everything that you no longer need or is not necessary. You can have a yard sale that will help you gather some cash for your next new households. This is important because there will be a lot of room left for the new items and that will save your attic from being overwhelmed with stuff you no longer need. This will make your home less cluttered.
3. Inspect Your Home
Have some time maybe a day or week depending on how big your home is and look around keenly. Check your wooden floor to see if the varnish has been scrapped off by vacuuming or the soap that you use, check any leak in the roof or opening that might invite termites. You could also call a handyman to come and inspect your drains and drainage system as well. This will ensure that your home stays above standards and is safe from any infestations or clogs.
4. One Room at a Time
Do not overwhelm yourself with too many thoughts about every place in your house. Access one room at a time and be thorough about it. Plan for it and make sure that the plan fits your time and schedule. Have the designers, if you need them. Have them come when you are home for you to approve of what they are doing.
5. Be Keen on Costs
You don’t have to go bankrupt after your home re-modeling. Go for DIY in areas of your home where you can actually do it yourself and have the designers cater for the most complicated parts. This will save you money and you will have gained some designing experience yourself. However, if you have the finances to comfortably hire the designers then don’t hold back. Go for it.
6. Upgrade
You do not have to entirely upgrade your home just for its value alone. You can also upgrade to your self-comfort. This includes replacing stuff like sofas, getting a new dining table, having new colors or even getting that flat screen T.V that you’ve always wanted. A good idea is to have one upgrade monthly on those items or get the less costly ones and tackle them first.
7. Focus on the Exterior
The weather can really mess up our exterior paint. Over the years after moving in, you will find that there are chips of paint falling off your walls both inside and outside of your home. This can really be a disadvantage to your home value. Yes, your interior may look beautiful and classy but first impressions count. Your guests will see the exterior first and that may result in quick judging. They may not even have the curiosity to get inside your house.
8. Maintain Cleanliness
Be keen on the hygiene of your home. This is not only limited to your indoor areas but outdoors as well. Mow your lawn at least once every fortnight and as you do it, check for spaces on your fence caused by dogs and other animals. Trim your trees and outdoor plants just to keep your compound looking presentable. Always wash your house tiles or wooden floors with the right soaps and check on your kitchen areas too to maintain that sparkling look. No potential buyer would want to walk in a dirty looking house with visible dust all over. Cleanliness also adds on to health benefits for you and your family.
9. Do a Mini-Remodel
Your home doesn’t have to look all the same in terms of the location of your walls. The tiles do not have to be the same year in year out. Knock out one wall to create space in the kitchen. Re-vanish your cabinets all over the house. You could even opt for a glass ceiling in your living room to create that cool environment. Paint different colors in your rooms to create a variety of designs that will increase the value of your home. Let every room be a surprise for your guests.
10. Organize Your Garage
Just by the name garage, you imagine all sorts of oily stuff lying around. Well, it doesn’t have to be like that. In fact, your garage should look better just for it to have a different effect on everyone’s mind. Seclude a wall and have it well painted. Mount your tools and label them well or if you feel like that will make your walls look very busy, you could try having an inbuilt toolbox that you can slide off the space in between a self-made opening on your wall.
From these tips, your home will definitely have that loveliness to it and be sure the buyer will not have any mistake to point out as long as you are thorough with every part of your home. Do not ignore any minor place including the store, artic or pantry. Have fun doing it as it is a whole new experience especially if you are a first-time homeowner. Do not shy away from trying new designs, ideas or colors but also be keen on the quality of what you are replacing. Let the difference be something remarkable that will indeed increase the value of your home. Something that you can feel proud to show off to potential buyers and fetch a great price for.
Owning a house is a dream come true. But it is not a cheap investment; therefore, you’ll want it to remain as good as new for the longest period. In spite of good maintenance of your home, damage, wear and tear are inevitable. As you buy or rent your house then, know the home repairs come as part of the bargain. While there is comfort in calling for professional help to do your repairs, it doesn’t go easy on your pockets considering the many home repairs lined up in the coming years. Therefore, it is wise to know your way around it. Surprisingly, most of them are doable even with little or no experience.
Investing your time in knowing how to handle regular and simple repairs will go a long way in cutting costs. Besides, it’s also an opportunity to show off those skills. I mean, people have been admired for less. Seriously though, as you learn how to do repairs, ensure there is a fine line between low cost and better quality. If it is a complicated repair, leave it for the professionals, otherwise, it will only cost more. Additionally, don’t embark on a repair you totally know nothing about. Especially hazardous ones like electricity. We will help you by listing the repairs that are safe and easy for you. Grab a toolbox and let’s get started.
Painting Repairs
Painting is one of the easiest ways to transform your home into a statement look. It can as well increase the value of your home as it adds flair to your space. While that is all good, having chipped, cracked and stained walls have the opposite effect. It drains every effort of other accessories and furniture in the room that are trying to add style. Therefore, your walls and skateboard need to be in good condition for an overall good looking room. When it comes to painting, it is important to know that prepping is king.
Have a place where you practice repairs regularly until you become good. While it may sound overwhelming, it will go a long way into cutting back finance. When your house gets older, the walls will definitely accumulate dust, stains, and grime—and the depreciation is multiplied thrice with kids around, your skill will make a big difference. Majorly, it is not only about not breaking the bank, but also the pride that comes after an amazing and spectacular-looking paint job.
Toilet Problems
For whatever reason, toilet levers break all the time. They are quite easy to fix, but hardly will it make your top favorite home maintenance project. The toilet lever or handle is an important component in your toilet’s flush system because it is where it all begins. Normally, when the toilet lever doesn’t cause the toilet to flush, it is the cistern lever arm that has broken rather than the handle itself. First, start by removing the cistern lid and place it somewhere safe. You don’t have to drain the water for this job.
Then simply undo the screw of the lever arm and remove the metal. Next, undo the retaining nut using a spanner and remove the old handle. Insert the new lever arm into the hole in the cistern. Then slide in the washer and onto the lever. Tighten the hook and refit the cistern lid, the job is done!
Fix Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet is a major turn off, which happens in the most unexpected times. Therefore as much as you would like someone else to do it for you, you need to at least have an idea. It doesn’t require any special skill, all you need is a toilet plunger or auger. Using the toilet plunger, and ensuring its head is submerged in water, give your clogged toilet 8-10 downward thrust. It should be able to clear but if stubborn, you can now use the auger. If your toilet clogs frequently than ‘healthy’ then call a professional to check it out to avoid embarrassing yourself when expecting guests.
Repairing Doors
Door repairs can be minor but a total nuisance, especially a squeaking door. Sometimes you just want to raid your refrigerator in secret without looking like a glutton, but the creaky door will not let you. Eliminate that annoying sound by doing some simple door hinges maintenance. Basically just identify the hinge and clean it, after which, lubricate using oil before putting it back in. if you are new to it, to be safe, you can remove one hinge pin at a time, starting at the bottom. If you notice your door sticking only during humid weather, then you don’t have to plane it. It will solve itself since it was just due to the lack of space when the door expanded in humid times.
Repairing Faucet Wash
Faucets come in various designs depending on your taste, but they are all usually similar in principle. Doing your own faucet repair seems daunting, but ones you get the basics, it’s easier than you thought. Actually, the hardest part of repairing a leaking faucet is in finding the right replacement parts for the fixes. You don’t have to put up with the annoying drip anymore, check out for the basics for all faucet repairs.
Replacing a Light Switch
It is electricity but it’s actually a quick and easy fix. All you need is a circuit tester, screwdriver, and a replacement switch. Before you start, locate your circuit breaker and off the power to the room you are working on. You will then remove the faceplate using the screwdriver. Next, unscrew the light switch and pull out the wires without touching them.
Use the circuit tester to ensure the power is completely shut off. You will then notice two copper wires; the one that has a green screw is the grounding wire. Install the new switch by placing the wire back in place. Now that the wires, switch and the faceplate are back in place, you can light up your room. That didn’t require an electrician.
The Bottom Line
With some home repairs, you really don’t need to call the handyman and pay them. You can be your own handyman and save some good money on repairs. Just learn the basic repairs and you will be good to go.
