home repair

Experienced Architect for Luxury Renovations

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The construction of your new home is the culmination of years of planning and dreaming. It is the point at which your expectations will be exceeded by luxurious design, high-quality craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. There is no greater partner than a luxury house builder with a team of experts to help you when it comes to renovating your luxury home. These professionals have an unparalleled experience. They will provide renovation solutions for your home from design to completion, ensuring that every aspect meets your quality, style, and functionality standards, and ties in with the existing design of the house. 

There are other luxury home builders to choose from, but Radvi is without a doubt your finest bet. They will work with you to create your ideal dream home. When you eventually decide to become make those modifications to your luxury home, you will require the services of a luxury home architect.

Get the exact renovations you want

white and brown living room set

There are so many options for aesthetically pleasing luxury homes, and you have always wanted your home to be one in that category but something just doesn’t seem right. If you feel the need to change certain aspects of your house to make it feel more lavish and give you the satisfaction you have invested in, you can work with Radvi. They are an architect service that offers renovations to ensure you get everything you ever wanted in your home. You’ll be able to provide inputs on the renovation design house plans and select your favorite fittings to create a space unique to you. You can actively participate in the design to make sure your wishes are carried out properly.

Your place will reflect your personality

white and brown concrete building

Your luxury home should have a design and elements that mirror your personality and style, and if you do not communicate your requirements, you may find the house cold and unwelcoming. When renovating with a luxury home architect, you will work closely with them to ensure that all aspects of the renovation reflect your personal style, and provide guidance through the entire renovation process. The luxury building architects have experience, skills and resources to transform your luxury house to the one you truly envisioned. 

You can have customized luxury pieces

Nightstand with plants and alcohol bottles that decorate the room

When working with a renovator or architect that specializes in luxury homes, they have a set of standards that ensure that an elegant and luxurious feel accompanies each of their projects. These luxury renovators can help you find, source and incorporate statement pieces of luxury to the design of your house to highlight that lavish lifestyle, while also complimenting your own personal style. 

When you work with the architects at Radvi, there are numerous ways in which you can make your luxury home curated and one-of-a-kind. You can choose every element of luxury from the type of wood you want for your floors to the type of marble for your countertops, and even any structural design elements that you want changed.

If you feel that there are some aspects of your luxury home that are just not ‘you’, or do not fit with the rest of the house, there is always room for changes, because you have the option to renovate. If you are going to change any aspect of your luxury home, you need to work with an experienced renovator. When you search for ‘Architects Near Me for House Plans’, Radvi is your best bet.

They offer renovation services that are custom-tailored to your specific requirements and consider your individual tastes as well. Do not settle for a sub-par renovator to help actualize your dream home.

Saving Money On Electricity In The Winter

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Saving money on electricity in the winter can be a challenge, especially when temperatures drop and heating costs rise. However, there are several ways to reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bills during the winter months. Here are some tips to help you save money on electricity in the winter:

Insulate Your Home 

One of the most effective ways to save money on electricity in the winter is to insulate your home. By insulating your walls, attic, and floors, you can help to keep heat in and reduce the amount of energy needed to keep your home warm. For a project like this, it can be helpful to hire an electrician

man in green crew neck t-shirt holding smoking pipe

Electricians are trained professionals who have the knowledge and expertise to properly insulate your home. They can identify areas of your home that are not properly insulated and recommend solutions to improve the insulation. Additionally, insulating your home can be a dangerous task, especially if you are not familiar with electrical systems. By hiring an electrician, you can ensure that the job is done safely and correctly.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can be a valuable tool for saving money on electricity in the winter. By setting different temperatures for different times of the day, you can ensure that your heating system is only running when it is needed. For example, you can set the thermostat to a lower temperature when you are away from home or asleep and then adjust it to a higher temperature when you are awake and at home.

Use Energy-Efficient Appliances and Light Bulbs 

Another way to save money on electricity in the winter is to use energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs. These products use less electricity and can help to reduce your energy bills. For example, you can replace your old, inefficient refrigerator with a new, energy-efficient model or switch to LED light bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs.

Turn Appliances Off When You Aren’t Using Them 

white front load washing machine

One of the simplest ways to save money on electricity in the winter is to turn off lights and appliances when they are not in use. This can help to reduce the amount of energy used and lower your electricity bills. For example, you can turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug appliances when they are not in use, and use a power strip to turn off multiple devices at once.

Use a Smart Power Strip 

A smart power strip is a device that allows you to control multiple appliances and electronics from a single location. By using a smart power strip, you can turn off multiple devices at once, which can save energy and reduce your electricity bills. For example, you can use a smart power strip to turn off your TV, cable box, and game console when they are not in use.

Reduce Your Water Heating Costs

Water heating can account for a significant portion of your electricity bills in the winter. Reducing your water heating costs in the winter can be a challenge, especially when temperatures drop and heating costs rise. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce your water heating costs and save money on your electricity bills.

For example, An insulation blanket can help to keep heat in and reduce the amount of energy needed to heat your water. By wrapping your water heater in an insulation blanket, you can help to reduce your water heating costs and save money on your electricity bills. Other ways to reduce your water heating costs include using low-flow showerheads and faucets, fixing leaks, and using a timer or a smart outlet to control your water heater.

Use a Space Heater 

If you have a small area in your home that is difficult to heat, such as a basement or an addition, you can use a space heater to keep it warm without increasing your heating costs. Space heaters are portable, energy-efficient devices that can provide warmth to a specific area without heating your entire home.

DIY Budget Friendly Furniture Ideas For Your First Home

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When you buy your first home it is exciting, but it can also be expensive and stressful. Homes need to be furnished, and you want to decorate in a way that is unique to you and your taste, but spending more money on new furniture for a whole home can really add to the cost. A lot of people can find old furniture in thrift stores, online marketplaces, and from family members looking to get that old couch out of their basement. 

However, not all of these items are going to go together or be to your taste. If you can hire a custom home builder, why not also customize your furniture? Aside from repainting or staining furniture a new color, there are a lot of DIY furniture projects you can do right at home to add a different touch to your home. Here are some easy and budget-friendly projects anyone can do.

Dresser Drawers as Side Tables

brown woven basket on white wooden drawer

Thrift stores are filled with dressers that you can get for a really good price. However, while you might not need a dresser this isn’t the only thing they can be used for. One way to repurpose an old dresser is to use only the drawers to create side tables for your home. All you have to do is glue four wooden legs to the bottom of the drawer with the handle side facing up. Now you have a creative and unique end table perfect for any room in your house. 

Desk to Nightstand

black laptop computer on brown wooden table

Have you ever considered cutting a desk in half to create two brand-new pieces of furniture? If you can find a desk with a drawer on each side, this is perfect for a project like this. All you have to do is cut the desk in half, then refinish the edges and add two new legs on each one. Now you have matching bedside tables that you can use in any bedroom. If you don’t like the color of the tables you can always stain or paint them a new color after you’ve finished sanding and gluing. 

Make Your Own Vanity

white candle beside clear glass flower vase

A vanity is a beautiful and useful piece of furniture, but they can be very expensive, new and even vintage. Instead of buying a vanity, all you need is a mirror and a desk. There are a lot of gorgeous vintage mirrors in perfect condition at thrift stores and second-hand websites. If you don’t want to take up space with a desk, you can hang the mirror on the wall and install floating shelves underneath it to keep your supplies on. Now you have a vanity space without needing a bulky desk. 

Old Door as a Headboard

Old doors, especially vintage ones, are beautiful pieces that you can use in your home as more than just a way to close off a room. If you need a headboard but want something unique, an old door is a great option. Just remove the doorknob and sand off the paint and any rough edges to remove splinters. Now you can paint it any color that you want, and even add some crown molding if you want to give it more detail. Just add the door to the wall behind your bed, and you have uniquely updated your bedroom. 

Old Ladder as a Coat Rack 

Having your coats lying around everywhere makes them difficult to find, and your home untidy. Instead of just laying them on the side of the couch or the back of a chair, you need a coat rack. A coat rack is a really useful but often overlooked piece of furniture to have in any house. Instead of buying a traditional one, you can make it out of an old wooden ladder. All you have to do is sand the ladder down so no splinters can poke through your clothes or skin. Then you can paint it any color you like, and prop it up against a wall near the entryway of your home. Now you have somewhere to keep the coats you wear frequently, and it looks great too. 

Sustainable Window Frames

A Guide to Sustainable Window Frames and Styles

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From the foundation to the appliances and everything in between, there are a number of considerations when creating a sustainable home. One element in particular that can have a significant sustainability impact is your property’s windows

The way a window is made and how the product is sourced is one element of sustainability, and the other is energy efficiency. Many window manufacturers have eco-friendly products, so it’s easy to find windows that can make your building more sustainable and energy efficient. Here is a brief guide on the benefits of using sustainable window frames and styles in your residential or commercial property, as well as the most sustainable materials and types of glass styles.

Benefits of Having Sustainable Windows

window curtain open wide

A significant amount of energy flows in and out of a building through its windows. While installing sustainable windows may be more expensive up front, the energy savings will likely be worth it in the long run. Research suggests sustainable home products can help save a lot of money on your heating and cooling bills. In fact, sustainable windows may save you up to 50% on energy bills.

Additionally, quality and sustainable windows can help increase the value of your home. And, it’s overall better for the environment. 

Most Sustainable Window Frame Materials

calm body of water near brown mountain under white and gray sky

Cost and efficiency of sustainable windows vary. Some are less expensive but don’t have best eco-friendliness, while others may be more expensive but can save significant dollars in energy bills.

  • Fiberglass is one of the top materials to use when it comes to sustainable window frames. It’s more energy efficient than other options, requires a low level of maintenance, and is durable and long lasting. Fiberglass is made from sand that has been spun into pieces of glass, and sand is plentiful and renewable, making it more sustainable for the environment. Look for frames that contain foam insulation within the frame cavities for the best efficiency.
  • Vinyl is a second sustainable material. It’s also low maintenance but also the most cost-efficient. It can come in a variety of colors and options, is durable, has a long life span, and the material can be recycled.
  • Wood is also a good option, but sustainably sourcing wood for commercial products can be difficult so you’ll want to ensure it is certified and approved as sustainably sourced (approved for use by the U.S. Forest Stewardship Council). Wood frames must also be treated regularly and inspected for water damage, which can develop mold. While it’s a more expensive option, these frames are also recyclable. 
  • Aluminum and composite are inexpensive and require minimal maintenance, but the material conducts heat, so they are less energy efficient than other options. Cost, energy-efficiency, and level of eco-friendliness can vary by manufacturer.

Types of Sustainable Glass for Windows

There are essentially three types of sustainable glass you can use for windows:

  • Insulated glass: Insulated glass is triple or quadruple pane, meaning there are three to four individual pieces of glass in the window with air space between them. The air offers insulation, giving these windows great thermal performance.
  • Low-E glass: Low-emissivity glass is coated with an invisible layer of silver that helps protect the interior of the room from solar energy. These can be designed to hold heat out or hold heat in (depending on your climate), making them largely efficient.
  • Argon glass: With these windows, argon gas is added inside Low-E glass with two panes. This adds insulation between panes, making them more efficient. Argon gas is also a better insulator than air.

Certifications and Ratings

When shopping for sustainable window frames and styles, look specifically for these certifications and ratings: 

  • R- and U-Values. R-value measures the insulation properties of a material. The higher the value, the greater for insulation ability. U-values measure the energy efficiency of windows. The lower the number, the better. 
  • National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which shows U-value, solar heat gain, and visible light transmittance values.
  • Energy Star, which is sponsored by the EPA and Department of Energy to promote energy-efficient products.

How To Create The Ultimate Home Cinema

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The pandemic has taught a lot of us that the things we used to enjoy outdoors, can also be enjoyed at home. For example, people started working out in their own homes while gyms were closed, and some preferred it so much that they didn’t return when the gyms re-opened. Another recreation that people brought home was that of the cinema.

Tv, Man, Watching, Room, Office, Modern, Technology

More online streaming services began offering new movies to rent as well, so you didn’t even have to leave the comfort of your own sofa to watch the latest releases. If you’re wanting to up your movie night game, keep reading and find out how you can create the ultimate home cinema.    

Start With The Basics

Before you get ahead of yourself, you need to make sure that you measure the space you wish to use and ensure that it’s big enough to cater to your ideas. You’ll also want to consider how you’re going to heat the room because you want your home cinema to be comfortable and inviting. A great way to heat a large space is with type 22 radiators as these are slightly larger.

Keeping your home cinema at a toasty temperature will make the room cosy and relaxing, unlike the normal chilly cinemas.  

Decide On A Screen And Sound System

Next, you need to think about what you want to watch your movies on. Do you want to go all out and invest in a top-of-the-range television that covers the entire wall? Or you might want to go old school and opt for a projector. Projectors don’t have to be loaded with film anymore either, as many of the new ones work digitally so you can connect it to whatever streaming device you like. Whichever screen you decide on, make sure it fits the room and the style that you’re going for. 

Different screens will also have different sound systems, and some may need them to be purchased separately. You want the sound to be loud enough that you can easily hear your movie, but you don’t want it to be booming and producing the same noise level as an outdoor festival. If you’re ever unsure, speak to the experts and they’ll be able to guide you in the right direction.   

The Perfect Seat

One of the most important things you’ll need for your home cinema is good seating. If you’re going to be spending lots of time sitting down, then you want to ensure you go for seats that provide you with maximum comfort.

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You could go for state-of-the-art home cinema seats that have drinks holders and controls for the screen in the armrest, or you could go for something simpler like a large, plush sofa. You could even mix it up and throw a few bean bags in to give the viewers plenty of choices. Just make sure when buying your home cinema seats that you can imagine yourself sitting in them for hours at a time. If not, then they aren’t the right ones for you.  

Add Lighting

Although you may have the lights off in your home cinema, you’re still going to need some form of lighting. Try opting for lights that give a subtle, warm glow as opposed to a harsh white light. Home cinemas are supposed to be relaxing and cozy, so try to reflect that in your lighting choice. 

Little Extras

Now that you’ve got the essentials sorted out for your room, it’s time to think about any fun extras that you’d like to include. You could have a snack station that has all your favorite cinema snacks, or an iced drinks machine so you can treat your guests to fruity slushies. You might want to add a bin too so that all the rubbish can be chucked, and you don’t end up with a popcorn-covered floor! 

Bringing the cinema to your home can be a brilliant way to spend time with your loved ones and enjoy all the latest flicks without having to leave the house. You don’t have to spend a fortune either. If you’ve only got a small spare room, just scale down the furnishings and you’ve still got your very own movie theatre. Make your home cinema unique to you and you’ll soon want to spend every evening there!      

4 Most Impactful Ways to Upgrade Your Home This Spring

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A lot of people focus on aesthetics when they think of home renovations, but what about making the home more functional and pleasant to live in? You can always make a house look good, but changes can also take away from its livability. This is something we often see with kitchen renovations, for instance. 

Too many people fall in love with design ideas, but don’t realize how fast the initial excitement of having a pretty room wears off when it brings frustrations. This is why you should focus on impact when making renovations and adjustments. Let’s take a look at a few impactful ways to upgrade your home this spring.

Add Triple Pane Windows

Triple pane windows are one of those things that you can barely notice in a home, but they can have a huge impact. They will help you reduce your energy bills by allowing you to harness solar energy and reduce energy loss. They are also great if you’re in a busy area and you need additional sound protection.

Attic Transformation

You could also transform your attic if it isn’t already. You could transform it into an extra bedroom for the children, a game room, a study, or a breakout room. It can also be a great place to build a cellar or a home office. 

Be very careful when undertaking this kind of project, however, as there are many rules and regulations you’ll have to abide by. And, if your goal is to make a good ROI on a sale, try to be sensible with your design choices, especially when it comes to things like flooring. You could go with floating floors instead of permanent hardwood floors, for instance. Using a brick veneer could also help you make the room more rugged without breaking the bank.

Get a New Mattress

Getting a new mattress might be the single most impactful purchase you could ever make. The quality of your mattress will have a direct impact on the quality of your sleep, and the quality of your sleep will affect the quality of your health and life.

If your mattress is approaching 10 years of age, then you have to at least consider getting a new one. The good news is that mattresses are becoming cheaper by the day thanks largely to online retailers. If you want to find a good mattress on the cheap, we suggest you check out reviews for the best mattress to buy online. A good review site will have all sorts of mattresses for every type of sleeper and budget, and you should find one that will be perfect for you in no time.

Smart Additions

If you are reluctant to make your home smarter, you shouldn’t be. You don’t need to have the whole house connected to the internet and you can start with minor additions. You could get a smart doorbell with a camera, for instance, and smart lights. These are largely risk-free smart additions and you’d be surprised at how much more convenient they will make your home.

A smart doorbell is great if you receive packages often. It will allow you to see when someone is at the door from anywhere on the globe as long as you have an internet connection. 

Many of these doorbells will also have two-way speakers that will allow you to speak to anyone who’s at the door. You could even use the doorbell with your smart lights and have them signal you whenever someone is ringing the bell. This is great if you often miss people ringing at the door because of noise.

These are all upgrades and renovations you could consider if you want to make your home a better place to live in. Look at all these options and think about functionality first before making any adjustments.

How To Get Your Home Ready For Guests Post Pandemic

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Now that restrictions around the U.S. have started to lift, and more people are vaccinated, we can all start getting together again. Lately, you may have noticed that more people are coming over, or you’re planning a big gathering to celebrate the fact that you can be around your loved ones again. We’ve all been alone or stuck inside with our spouses for long enough.

Even though we’re thrilled to be able to see our loved ones again, we’re also a little bit terrified to have people back in our homes since we haven’t hosted anyone in over a year. Luckily, becoming an entertainer again is easy. Here’s how to get your home ready for guests. 

Declutter

assorted-color apparels

So, you haven’t had anyone over in over a year, and your house is a little messy. You’re not alone. While many people tried to find the motivation to clean their homes with all of the extra time they had on their hands, others decided to relax. If you’re one of the latter, then it’s expected your home might not be in tip-top shape right now. However, that means you probably have more work to do than someone who kept up with the chores during the lockdown. 

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start slow. Begin tidying up your home a week before your guests come over. If your guests are family and friends, they won’t mind a little bit of clutter. However, if you’re trying to impress anyone, then you should create a plan and put yourself on a cleaning schedule so you can get it all done before anyone rings the doorbell. 

Clean Every Room

person holding yellow plastic spray bottle

Now that you’ve tidied up your home, take a look around. Do you still see messes wherever you go? With all the online shopping you did and the new level of laziness you might have taken on during the pandemic, it’s time to consider a deep clean. Remember that elliptical you bought last year and never used? Hire some professional movers to take it to a storage locker for you. In fact, look around your home and determine which boredom-shopping items you don’t need in your home and put them all in storage. 

Cleaning every room of your house not only makes it easier for guests to move around, but they’ll feel like there are fewer germs in your home, and right now, everyone is afraid of germs. Vacuum your carpet and mop your floors, but be sure you wipe down countertops with disinfectant sprays or wipes. If dust has been accumulating since last year, it’s time to get rid of that, too. 

If you don’t feel like cleaning every room, you can skip the bedrooms. However, there’s one room you should never skip: the bathroom. If you want your guests to feel like your home is clean, make sure they have a clean area to do their business. Nobody wants to feel like they might get sick because they used your hand towels. Disinfect the entire bathroom and make sure you refill your hand soap. 

Buy Flowers

Nothing brightens up a home or distracts from clutter like fresh flowers. Even if you leave a little mess behind, you can use flowers to pull attention away from the clutter and to a beautiful centerpiece. Not only that, but they can make your house smell better if it’s somehow obtained a little pandemic funk. However if you have pets, make sure you check that your flowers are non-toxic so as not to ruin the party with a trip to the vet.

Check Inventory

Now that your home is in the right condition for hosting guests, it’s time to prepare for the guests. If you’re planning to have people over for a meal, make sure you have enough paper plates, napkins, and cups. If you rearranged your home last year, then you’ll need to find all of these things again or just go out and purchase them. 

Take stock of everything you’ll need depending on the number of guests coming and make yourself a shopping list. Then, shop as early as you can in case you forget something, you won’t feel rushed to run to the store right before the guests arrive.

Make It Intimate

While you can throw a huge bash and invite everyone you know, it’s best to keep your first gathering as intimate as possible so you can relax with your friends and family. Again, many people might not feel comfortable coming to large events, especially if they’re not close with the other guests. For this reason, try to invite only a small group of people so you can slowly get back into the swing of things. 

You can do anything you want at your home, but make it personal by playing music, serving drinks, and simply hanging out with the people you love. 

Have Hand Sanitizer 

person holding white plastic pump bottle

Many people still don’t feel comfortable hugging or shaking hands, but you can make everyone feel more comfortable about attending your gathering by putting hand sanitizer in the main areas where your guest will be, including the bathroom, living room, outdoor area, and kitchen. By giving everyone access to hand sanitizer, they’ll feel more likely to interact with other people. 

Skip Buffet-Style

If you normally have a buffet-style dinner party, consider skipping it this year. Instead, keep the serving table folded up in a closet so you’ll have more room for entertaining. People will be appreciative of single-serve meals that won’t risk being touched by anyone else. Skip any foods that require sharing, such as dips. You may also want to provide everyone with single-serve plastic cutlery so they can rest assured nobody else has touched their fork. 

Make a Relaxing Environment

Having people in your home can be stressful, even if we didn’t experience the pandemic. However, instead of trying to make it the best gathering of the year, consider making it a more relaxed get-together. After all, you haven’t seen these people in over a year, so you’re going to have lots to discuss. 

Remember, while you haven’t had guests in a while, people haven’t been guests in a while, so it’s going to be strange for everyone. Many people still won’t want to get too close to others, so allow for seating that’s a little bit more spaced out than you would have given pre-pandemic.

The End of Summer Home Maintenance Checklist

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The end of summer is fast approaching. Soon, the weather will change, bringing in a whole other list of chores to do around the house. Now is the perfect time to get ahead. The following lists what you can get done in a single weekend before the busy fall season. And for new homeowners, don’t wait to get started. This is important stuff!

Landscaping

brown and white concrete house

Before the season is over, catch up on some much-needed maintenance around the yard. Check your trees for any branches that hang over the roof and cut them a few feet back. In a few months, all those leaves will fall onto the roof and into the gutters. Trim the hedges, mow the lawn, and pull weeds. Get rid of any leaf piles or debris that is lying around. If you had any landscaping projects in mind, like a new garden bed, now is the time to get them done. If you need help, you might consider calling someone like Peterborough Landscaper or another professional near you.

Deck Work

brown wooden terrace outside clear glass door

Skunks, raccoons, and other animals love to burrow under decks in the fall to escape the cold weather. Check if there are openings on the sides of your deck and block them off. If you can access the underside of the deck first, remove any debris that is lying in there and check the foundation for cracks. Chip off any rot that you find in the wood of the deck and replace broken planks with new ones. Mop the deck with a wood cleaner to finish the job. 

Attic Check-Up

brown wooden attic

While you may not go there very often, the attic is an important part of the house that requires maintenance. If you can, go into the attic and check the insulation for damage. Look out for signs of mold, moisture, and water damage. These would indicate that there is a leak in the roof. You should also look for animal droppings or burrow holes within the insulation. If you find any, contact a pest control company for help. The insulation in the attic should be clean, dry, and fluffy. 

While you are up there, check the roof vents for blockage and clean them out. Proper ventilation in the attic is key; it will keep the air in the attic dry and improve the air quality of the home overall. 

Showerheads & Drains

brown round metal round frame

When is the last time you descaled your shower head? Remove your shower head carefully, then soak it in a bucket of vinegar or descaling solution. Let it soak overnight, or according to the descaling product’s instructions. Scrub the showerhead with a brush, rinse it off, then reattach it in the shower. Your shower will feel as good as new! 

One thing you can do while the showerhead is soaking is to unclog your drains and clean your faucets. To clean a drain, starting by pulling hair and debris out manually, then pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. Follow that by pouring a cup or so of baking soda and a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then pour another pot of boiling water down the drain. Repeat until water drains smoothly. 

Organize the Kitchen

brown wooden seat beside white wooden table

Fall can be a very busy time of year, so get the kitchen clean and ready for what’s to come. Empty out the pantry and cupboards for a deep clean. Throw out everything that is expired and wipe the shelves clean. Put everything back in an organized fashion. You should also put loose items like flour, sugar, oats, pasta, beans, and lentils in solid containers. This will keep the cupboards tidy and help avoid a pest problem. 

Once you are done with the cupboards, pull out your oven and refrigerator and clean the floors beneath them. Lots of dust, grease, and debris accumulates there. Vacuum it all up, then mop the floors thoroughly. Finish the deep clean by wiping down the insides of the fridge and cleaning the inside of the oven. 

Filters, Fans, & ACwhite desk fan

Last but not least, replace your HVAC filters to save on utility bills this fall. Having a dirty filter will make your HVAC system work a lot harder than it needs to. Then, check the exhaust duct of your dryer and empty out the lint that is inside of it. Disconnect the duct at both ends and vacuum it thoroughly. You should also clean out the fans in your bathrooms to improve air circulation. 

Finally, check up on your air conditioning system and clean the drain line. This should be cleaned every spring. If you forgot to do it, do it now to avoid blockage and mold. Clear out any clogs with a piece of wire, then pour in a cup of bleach to disinfect and deodorize. 

6 Budget-Friendly Bedroom Upgrade Ideas

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Depending on how much time you spend in it, your bedroom could have a very special place in your heart. Everyone wants to have the bedroom of their dreams, whether they want to use it to sleep or as a place of work. The good news is that it’s one of the cheapest rooms to renovate. Just making a few changes here and there could completely transform its look. Here are a few budget-friendly bedroom upgrade ideas that you can try.

Apply a Fresh Coat of Paint

three silver paint brushes on white textile

Painting is one of the most affordable and easiest things that you can do to improve your bedroom. You should try doing something original here. Maybe you could create an accent wall in a different color or choose a different color for your ceiling. Virtually any color will work as long as the rest of the room is in a neutral tone.

You could use crown molding to make a separation between colors. This will also make for a better finish and make the work like it was professionally designed.

Add Wallpaper

Alternatively, you could also go with wallpaper. New generation wallpapers are nothing like their predecessors, and you could use them to cover whole walls, create an accent wall, or add strips.

Get a New Mattress

It’s sometimes the things we don’t see that matter the most, and getting a new mattress could be the best gift you’ve ever made to yourself. Not to mention that Labor Day is coming up soon, which means that you can find a great Labor Day mattress sale and look at models that would otherwise be out of the question.

When picking a mattress, you have to make sure that you consider which type of sleeper you are. Don’t fall for the trends either. You might think that memory foam has to be the best because you hear about it everywhere. However, it might not be the best mattress for someone who needs extra firmness, for instance. So, take the time to do your research on different mattress types so you can make an informed decision.

Get a Smart Thermostat

gray Nest thermostat displaying at 63

If you are having trouble sleeping, know that it doesn’t necessarily have to do with your mattress, however. In some cases, something as simple as temperature could be the cause here. You see, the human body has a certain temperature where it will have a sleep response, which is said to be around 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Investing in a smart thermostat is the only way to make sure that the temperature stays within that precise range. Not to mention that you’ll be able to turn it on and shut it down whenever you want and from wherever you are.

Add Some Shelves

Whether you need extra space to store your book, or you want to add some decorative elements, adding a few shelves is a great idea. This is one of the simplest DIY projects out there and can be complicated in as little as a day.

Get Yourself a Chest or a Bench

Adding a bench or a chest to your bedroom could give it a nice charm and make it more functional. The foot of the bed is perfect for something like a chest and it will also give you additional storage. Benches can be found for very cheap if you know where to look. There are plenty of benches made of reclaimed wood that you can find. You can also get the wood yourself and build one.

All of these modifications could make your bedroom look brand new without breaking the bank. Look at which ones would work the best in your space and don’t be afraid to experiment.

3 Trustworthy Paint Colors for Your New House

1000 500 Taylor Witt

Choosing a paint color is almost as overwhelming and intimidating as choosing a new house to buy. There are so many factors to consider like personal style, existing furniture, and lighting. 

You want to choose a color that complements the room, making it feel cozy and inviting. A color that fits well in the living room might not look great in the kitchen. One confident way to choose a color is to use neutral colors. Neutrals make the walls blend into the background, allowing the decor to be the focal point. We are here today to discuss 3 paint colors that you can trust and count on. 

assorted-color paints

Neutral Colors

For the sake of this article, we had to start with this one. Neutral colors, such as grays and whites, are the safest colors to choose when painting your walls. The word ‘neutral’ does not need to equal ‘boring’. 

There are various shades, combinations, and undertones that make up an array of unique neutral-toned colors like greige, taupe, and cream. Additionally, you can find shades of other colors that can pass for neutral including greens and pinks, depending on their tone.

If you have thought that I need to sell my house in the next few months, stick with neutral tones. More home buyers will show interest in your property if the paint is neutral.

Swiss Coffee by Behr

If you’re looking for a light and airy neutral color that will instantly make a room feel bigger and brighter, then this is the perfect option. This soft and versatile cream color leans on the warmer beige side. It does not feel cold or stark. 

Choosing this paint color is great for walls, trim, or cabinets. Pairing it with white or wooden trim will draw out the natural warmth in this color. A similar alternative color option is Alabaster by Sherwin Williams.

Sea Salt by Sherwin Williams

If you can’t decide between a neutral or bold color, go with something like this color. Sea Salt is the great “nearly neutral” color. It’s an ultra pale sea green with subtle hints of blue and gray. It’s unique because it can read as green, blue, or gray depending on the surroundings. 

This color looks great in bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms because it pairs well with white. An alternative color option is Wickham by Benjamin Moore

BONUS: Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore

This deep slate blue color is a great choice if you are looking for something bold but still safe. It’s a cool dark navy with just a hint of warmth in it to keep it on the neutral side. This classic color screams sophistication. It is a darker color that works well in bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms. 

If you are not ready to commit to such an intense color, try painting an accent wall or your front door with it. A similar alternative color option is Charcoal Blue by Benjamin Moore 

Get Inspired with These Timeless Paint Colors

Whether your style is modern, traditional, bohemian, coastal, or transitional, these three paint colors will look good in any home. It’s important to always test your paint colors in your own home before committing to anything. The same color can look completely different on each wall or room depending on the natural and artificial light in the room. Be sure to test your paint color on each wall that you are planning to paint. In addition, give yourself a few days to get used to it and to see the shade variances throughout the day and night. Most importantly, enjoy it!