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Where To Start With Kitchen Remodeling

How to Prepare for a Kitchen Renovation

When you have plans in place to renovate your kitchen, it is important to make the necessary preparations to ensure food is available and that your kitchen gadgets and personal belongings are protected. Depending on the length and type of your planned kitchen renovation, you may want to pre-cook meals or take extra steps to cover furniture for protection against excessive dust or damage. Continue reading to learn more about the steps you should take to prepare your home, family, and pets for a kitchen renovation.

Consult with the contractor or person in charge of the renovation project for an exact timeline regarding dates and times the renovation will take place.This information will help you plan ahead, in addition to preparing you for times that strangers will be arriving to work inside your home.

Reserve the freight elevator during renovation hours if you live in a high-rise building so contractors can move equipment and building supplies to and from your kitchen.

Remove all pictures, mirrors, curtains, wall hangings, or any other types of furnishings from your kitchen walls and any walls shared with your kitchen to prevent them from falling, breaking, or becoming damaged.

Prepare and cook all meals in advance since you may not have access to your stove-top or oven.

SET UP A TEMPORARY KITCHEN DURING A REMODEL

Kitchen torn apart? Everything you need to know to set up a temporary kitchen during a remodel plus tons of practical tips for surviving the process!

The first one is very important.

For the love of everything that is good, DON’T START TWO WEEKS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE AT CHRISTMAS TIME! Did I just lose all credibility with you? Yea, we kinda don’t follow the rules at our house more times than not, at least when it comes to our DIY projects.

I blame it on my husband.

Being married to a painter means if I ever want our own home painted I better be ready when HE is ready to paint, i.e. work is slow, it’s snowing or he is feeling especially generous for some reason. (Don’t question, just be ready!)

Does that comment about the perfect white paint make more sense now? Let’s just say this isn’t the first time he’s had to paint the kitchen twice (and now the living room because it’s all one big room) because I didn’t like the color after it was on the walls.

Paint colors are obviously not my forte. Planning and organizing are. We spent weeks researching and planning (read all about that process here) before we made the decision to go all Fixer Upper and take down the wall between the kitchen and living room and totally gut the room. I had great plans for freezer cooking a month’s worth of menus.

Things you can’t forget in a kitchen remodel

Remodeling your kitchen can be a fun and exciting process, especially if you are giving it some much-needed upgrades. As you are making your lists of wants in your kitchen remodeling, there are some things that you absolutely cannot forget to keep in mind as you go through the remodeling process

Details are everything.

A kitchen should reflect your lifestyle, and that lifestyle is important to keep in mind as you pick out the details during the planning phase of your remodeling. Think about the current daily uses and functions of your kitchen as you design the kitchen you want to help you end up with a new kitchen that you love. Think about everything from storage to functional space. For example, ensure you have the ideal triangular traffic pattern between the fridge, oven, and stove to make cooking and preparing food a natural progression. Communicate every detail of your vision to whoever you have contracted to remodel your kitchen.

Know who you’re working with.

There’s a common saying that a contractor is only as good as their last job. When researching companies to do your kitchen remodeling, make sure you ask them for photos of recent kitchen remodelings. Get an idea of the type of work they have done so that you know if it aligns with your vision and what you can expect. Also, check with references and ask questions such as: what were the contractor’s work habits, was the work site clean, was the scope of work followed as much as reasonably possible, was the project on budget and if anything went wrong.

Consider usage and materials wisely.

You can splurge and get beautiful stone countertops like marble or soapstone that look beautiful but require a lot of upkeep. If the upkeep is no problem for you, then that may make sense for your dream kitchen. However, if you are not as great with upkeep as those materials deserve, consider going with lower maintenance but still great looking materials such as granite. Ultimately, don’t forget to keep in mind just how much wear and tear you think your kitchen will go through while choosing the materials in your kitchen remodeling

Your wish list.

It sounds simple, but you have to keep your wish list in mind throughout your entire kitchen remodeling. There will be unexpected situations that occur in the remodeling and you are going to have to make tough choices. You have to keep your wish list in mind while making those tough decisions so that you still end up with your dream kitchen. Sacrifices to your wish list may be unavoidable however, you should work closely with your contractor to make your vision come true.

A Guide to Kitchen Remodeling Materials

Kitchen CountertopsA kitchen countertop is another big-ticket item. As with cabinets, there are numerous types of kitchen countertops from which to choose. The primary options include laminate, ceramic tile, wood, marble, and granite. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages — the trick is to figure out which kind of countertop works best with your particular kitchen

Kitchen LightingMost people who are remodeling their kitchen don’t consider lighting to be a primary consideration. They should. Visibility is vitally important in an area where you’re working with knives and other potentially dangerous cooking tools. In addition, the proper lighting can give your kitchen a warm and homey feeling. In this section, we’ll examine the ins and outs of kitchen lighting, from halogen lights to incandescent bulbs. We’ll also offer advice on choosing kitchen lighting fixtures.

Kitchen Wall TreatmentsThe first rule in choosing wall treatments is to coordinate them with your cabinets. Paint is a popular wall treatment because it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to clean (which is always a prime consideration with a kitchen). If you want something a little less common, you can go with wallpaper or paneling. Whatever you decide, don’t underestimate the importance of wall treatments. We’ll tell you about all your options in this section.

Kitchen WindowsLet the sunshine in! The right kitchen window will do just that, providing a bright and cheery place for you to do your cooking. Your window choices range from double-hung to sliders — we’ll tell you about these options and others. The window treatments you pick are equally important. They add character to your windows, and to your kitchen as a whole. Cafe curtains are a popular choice, while matchstick or bamboo shades add a more novel element to your kitchen decor. In this section, we’ll show you which wall treatments will work best for you.

Kitchen Doors and HardwareWhen it comes to kitchens, a door isn’t just a door. It not only provides access to your kitchen, but it also offers an opportunity to add another decorative touch. Your options include glazed doors, swinging doors, and sliding doors — all of which we’ll discuss in this section. Kitchen hardware — such as cabinet knobs and window cranks — really offer an opportunity to spice up your kitchen. The right hardware can tie together all of the materials in your kitchen. In this section, we’ll provide suggestions that will aid you in the tricky task of choosing kitchen hardware.

Things That Can Go Wrong With Any Kitchen Remodel

No matter what home remodeling project you undertake, it will not go 100% according to plan. The best contracting pros will of course plan for the unexpected, setting up a contingency budget or adding a few days for the unknown, but that could just be the beginning of a kitchen remodeling nightmare.

It Takes Longer Than Expected

You Go Over Budget

You Can’t Get Along With Your Contractor

You Contractor Cuts Corners

Materials Arrive Late

The Wrong Counters Come In

Counters Are Wrong Size

Your Appliances Don’t Fit

It Doesn’t Look As Good As You Imagined

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Important Considerations For Laminate Flooring Thickness

Ingredient Homemade Wood Floor Polish Recipe

You only need household ingredients to make your own Homemade Wood Floor Polish. This solution  is a safe and effective way to clean and restore shine to dull and aging wood floors.

Cleaning wood floors must be done with a little extra care than cleaning tile and linoleum. Cleaners with harsh chemicals can strip wood floors, leaving them dry and brittle. Cleaning wood floors with water can be done, but you must take great care in making sure that no water is left behind on your floors, or they could warp. The same can be said for wood laminate floors as well. Harsh chemical cleaners can cause laminate to discolor and can even wear away the top layer of the laminate. Water can cause warping and buckling in laminate floors too. You can easily and inexpensively make your own wood floor cleaner/polish using a few items from your kitchen pantry, and get those floors looking like new again!

WHAT’S IN HOMEMADE WOOD FLOOR POLISH?

2 tablespoons of olive oil

1 tablespoon of distilled white vinegar

15 drops of lemongrass essential oil ( optional for fragrance )

2 cups of warm water

HOW DO YOU MAKE YOUR OWN WOOD FLOOR CLEANER?

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a clean squirt bottle. I used an old floor cleaner bottle that I washed thoroughly.

Add 1 tablespoon of distilled white vinegar.

Add 15 drops of lemongrass essential oil. This step is completely optional. I like to add the lemongrass oil for fragrance. You could alternatively use lemon or orange essential oil or completely skip this step.

Finish it off by adding 2 cups of warm water.

Shake well before each use. Because there are no harsh chemical binders in this floor cleaner/polish, the ingredients will separate between uses. Just give it a good shake before each use and it will work perfectly.

Difference Between Luxury Vinyl Plank and Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a type of flooring that simulates wood (or occasionally stone) on a much cheaper budget. Created from multiple layers of synthetic materials that are laminated together, this creates a great aesthetic while having several practical advantages as well.

Meanwhile, luxury vinyl flooring is another synthetic flooring option that mimics many of the best qualities of hardwood and tile. However, there are some differences between Luxury Vinyl Plank and Laminate Flooring, which may make one more suited for your own purposes. Read on to learn which is right for you, and where the differences lie.

Difference Between Luxury Vinyl Plank and Laminate Flooring

So, what is the difference between these two synthetic options? The biggest difference is that vinyl flooring is water-resistant. This means that you can use it in the kitchen or bathroom, and you won’t need to worry as much should you spill water on it (this can cause laminate flooring to come apart and warp).

Vinyl also tends to have felt back, which means that it feels particularly soft and quiet underfoot. This is something a lot of people like about it, and it’s another advantage that it has over stone or wood!

Why Choose Laminate or Vinyl Flooring?

Wood or stone flooring has the advantage of making a space look light, natural and timeless. These are great choices if you’re looking to increase the resale value of your home, or just if you find your carpet is starting to look a little untidy and claustrophobic.

What Is Laminate Flooring And How To Use Them In Interior Design

If you’ve been thinking about renovating your home and searching a few websites, you’ve probably come across the term laminate flooring somewhere. It’s a trend that’s recently that’s been catching on like wildfire and for a good reason. Laminate flooring isn’t just a single thing, with a variety of styles and types.

What is Laminate Flooring?

Laminate flooring is essentially gluing together several different layers of synthetic materials through a process called lamination. This provides a result that gives you the look of any material that you want, like wood, but without the exorbitant price of the material, whilst giving you durability and also reducing the strain you put on natural resources.

Glueless Laminate Flooring

As the name suggests, this flooring does not need any special glue to keep it in place. The laminate floor pieces come in planks and are designed to snap together to create your flooring.

Glued Laminate Flooring

Glued laminate flooring is where you’ll need to use a special glue to install the flooring planks. Although this does take a bit more work, this provides a better moisture barrier than glueless flooring. If you have the know-how or can contact a professional, you can trust, this is an excellent method to consider.

Pre-glued Laminate Flooring

These are flooring planks that come with glue already applied to the planks from the factory. All you need to do is peel off the protective covering and install them as you need. This saves you the hassle of having to apply your glue and making a mess everywhere. This is relatively easy to do by yourself.

Hardwood vs. Laminate Wood Flooring

The flooring of a home is one of its defining features. Wood flooring remains one of the most popular options, as it is a naturally inviting, beautiful and timeless material. While older, more traditional homes often have the original hardwood floors still in place, many newer homes are using laminate. It offers a natural look similar to wood but at a lower price.

When deciding between hardwood vs. laminate flooring, there are several pros and cons to consider. Sure, when comparing laminate vs hardwood cost, laminate is usually the more affordable option. But you also must look at durability, resale value, cleaning, installation and more. This article will compare some of the factors between hardwood vs laminate flooring and help you decide which is best for your home

Laminate vs. hardwood cost

The reality of flooring costs and what you can afford may be miles apart. Take into consideration the cost of laminate and hardwood flooring to determine what is best for you.

Hardwood: CONS – Hardwood flooring is made of harvested trees; pricing depends on the type of wood you choose. In general, hardwood is considerably higher to buy and to install.

Laminate: PROS – Laminate wood flooring is made from composite wood pressed together at high temperatures. The image of hardwood is then placed over the composite wood, covering it to form the laminate. Not only are the materials themselves cheaper, but laminate wood installation cost is, on average, 50 percent less than hardwood installation.

Laminate vs. hardwood durability

Assess the traffic load and wear and tear on flooring in your home. A more durable surface is easier to maintain and will look great for years to come.

Hardwood: CONS – Hardwood is susceptible to scratching, can get damaged from excessive moisture and will show wear, especially in heavily trafficked areas. PROS – Hardwood is the real deal; it is gorgeous and, depending on the type of wood, can add considerable value to your home.

Laminate: PROS – Since laminate is made from pressed wood, it is more durable and resists scratches, moisture and wear and tear. Laminate flooring is also easier to clean. CONS – Even though laminate is more durable, it is not as visually appealing. Lower qualities of laminate may have artificial-looking wood grain textures.

How To Clean Floating Timber Floors WITHOUT Damaging Them

Floating timber floors are a beautiful and an easy to install solution for your home, but it requires taking proper care of it. Regular cleaning and maintenance will make the floor looks good and shiny and will prolong the life of the floor.

What are floating timber floors made of?

Floating timber floor is a floor that does not need to be nailed, or glued to a subfloor. The floorboards are attached to one another and are fitted over an existing floor like concrete, tiles or terracotta. In order to attach the floating floorboards, the subfloor should be hard and perfectly level.

Floating floors are flexible. They accommodate any movement and pressure and spread out evenly to reduce gaps and cracks. When installing there is usually a gap left between the walls and the floating floor to allow expansion of the timber boards. The gap is usually covered with skirting boards or mouldings.

Step by step floating timber floorboards cleaning

Floating wood floors are protected with a sealant that allows water cleaning and mopping. Despite that, floating floors are usually laid over other subfloor and if you damp the floor often, the liquid may slip into the boards and damage the surface underneath it, causing warping, mould and cracks. That’s why you need to be extra careful when cleaning a floating timber floor.

Here is a step-by-step procedure for cleaning a floating floor:

Step 1: Vacuum the floating floor regularly

Vacuum and sweep the floor regularly. Focus on high-traffic areas to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating. You can use a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for hardwood floors. A vacuum cleaner will also help you to remove the dust from the corners of the room. When sweeping use a broom or dust mop with softer fibres to avoid damaging the floor.

Step 2: Spot clean stains from the floating floor

Remove spills from the floor as soon as they happen. Use a dry microfiber cloth to remove liquids.

Spot treat stains with a mild cleanser and a damp cloth as soon as you can. You can use rubbing alcohol for stubborn stains. Avoid scrubbing the area, rather tap the spot with the cloth and remove it gently from the surface. Do not use harsh chemicals that can damage the wooden floor.

Step 3: Mop the floating floor

After treating the stains and removing all the dust from the floor, it’s time for moping. Don’t overflood the floor with water. Use a spongy mop, rather than classic wire wound mop, to avoid spreading water around the floor. Use hot water and a cleaning detergent and wipe up the whole floor.

Step 4: Leave the floating floor to dry

After finishing cleaning open the windows and doors if possible and leave the floor to air dry. Over time, the floor may lose its shiny look mostly in the high-traffic areas in your home. To restore and enhance its shine, use a timber refresher.

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Complete Financial Documents For Investors And Lenders For Residential Roofing Investments

Residential Roofing

specialty and know you need roofers who will get the job done right. Your roof is the most important part of your home’s structure. It is the only thing keeping you and everything inside safe from the elements, so, it should be in excellent condition. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, wind damage or just normal wear and tear, will provide you with high quality workmanship and materials.

Key Factors – If you aren’t sure whether or not you are in need of a new roof replacement or repair, here are a few things to watch out for:

Water leaks that come from the attic or ceiling

Water stains on your ceiling

Sagging ceilings

Loose or missing shingles

Gray patches on asphalt shingles

Damaged metal flashing

Wet spots on wood

Granules or small pieces of shingles in rain gutters

Dripping sounds

full-service Commercial Roofing and professionals are capable of  handling everything from minor roof repairs to new roof installations and roof replacements.

A good roof protects your investment, while a bad roof may lead to thousands of dollars in damage and decreased property value. At Roofing Contractors, offer the following commercial roofing services:

Commercial roof repair

Commercial roof installation

Commercial roof replacement

Roof insurance claims

RESIDENTIAL ROOFING FAQ

You should always check how long the company has been in business as well as verify their licenses. Hiring an unlicensed roofing contractor could be costly in the long run

unless it was us then you can stop there.  Just  Kidding… It is always a good idea to get more than one estimate from a reputable company, three is a good rule of thumb.  When getting multiple bids make sure everyone is bidding the same thing, ask questions such as what underlayment they are using, manufacturer of product they are quoting or certified to install. Compare workmanship warranties and read the exclusions. Many roofing companies give you a price, wait for you to accept, and then give you the contract revealing their exclusions, which make the warranty worthless.

Your neighbor’s roofing costs could be a different than yours even your homes are identical.  Every roof has different conditions such a debris, flashings, cracked tiles that may need to be replaced, etc. can give you a ball park but it is impossible to give you a close number due to all the different variables that need to be seen by a qualified estimator. Things such as roof pitch, substandard or rotted wood, what is currently on the roof like air conditioners, solar panels, etc.

There is no easy answer to this question. The price of your roof will vary based on the following factors:

• Materials chosen for the project

• Square footage  / size of your roof

• If you are keeping any part of your existing roof

• Time and labor required to complete the project

There are multiple variables on how long it takes to complete a house from start to finish; size, roof pitch, product being installed, access to the roof, does the roof have a lot of angles and weather?  This question could best be answered when the contractor comes out and inspects your roof and provides a bid.

Residential Roofing

What’s your roofing story? Maybe you’ve been in a home for years, and your roof is finally showing signs of wear-and-tear over the decades. Or maybe your home is a comfortable, loved place that has recently gone through weather damage due to hailstorms or other natural disasters. Or maybe you’re just wondering if your roof is safe and want your roof inspected to make sure everything’s okay.

Whatever your homeowner’s story, Roofing knows that it’s important to make sure that the roof above your head is sound, solid, and secure. Your home is your place of sanctuary and community, and knowing that your home is protected by an honest, high-quality roof takes the worry away when thinking through any sort of roofing issue.

There are a lot of things to take into consideration when choosing a roofer for your residential needs. One of those considerations is a business that’s locally owned and operated with good referrals from the community. Roofing scams or low-quality roofing companies just out to make a quick buck off you can be detrimental to the community that roofers serve, and it’s important to keep that in mind when searching for a roofer. Don’t go with the guy that randomly knocks on your door; go with the one that individuals and companies truly trust in the area. A roofing company that oversees their work and can back up their work with an outstanding reputation.

You also should look for a company that uses high quality materials and doesn’t compromise on the production of the roof itself, who can accurately assess a roof’s true needs, and who can cut through the red tape that often accompanies insurance claims and mortgage companies. A company that truly works hard to get it right on all levels and fights for you first and foremost.

Residential Roofing

Bringing Trust Back to Roofing

Choosing an insured, licensed professional is imperative to protecting your home

Coming up with an economical, durable and aesthetically pleasing plan for your residential roof has never been easier with certified leak-proof package.

specializes in:

Asphalt shingles

Wood shingles

Tile shingles

Metal roofs

Slate roofs

The packages available for roofing projects are truly comprehensive.  They come with a GAF LIFETIME Roof System warranty, continuous ongoing inspections and a maintenance program that will protect your investment.

Roofer Resume Examples

Roofers work on houses and buildings to build, maintain and repair roofs. Responsibilities shown on sample resumes in this field include assisting in the repairing of roof leaks and the installation of tile, shingle and coated roofing systems; and working under the supervision of experienced roofers to learn how to find the source of a leak in a roof. There are no formal education requirements that Roofers need to list on their resumes, aside from a high school diploma, as most training is done on the job.

Member of crew responsible for manufacturing mobile homes

Aligned roof materials and applied alternate layers of hot asphalt or tar

Measured roof to calculated the quantities of required materials

Assisted crew with siding, window installation, door installation, body work, painting, and other finishing touches

Apprentice Roofer

Performed all aspects of roofing installation mainly at residential sites. This included tear off, maintenance and repair as well as gutter repairs and installation. Increased knowledge through hands on training. Managed employee’s performance standards.

Loaded and unloaded trucks as well as managed delivery of tools, supplies and equipment to meet daily job site requirements.

Drove crews to job sites and set up equipment; managed logistics and oversaw safety issues

Application of roofing supplies and materials

Safely applying roofing materials with the proper tools, specifically according to customer’s request.

Perform roof maintenance without causing any down time.

Daily operation/use of both seated forklift and manual/power hand jack.

Maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

Helped other operators troubleshoot and brainstormed with the engineers on how to better please the customers.

Performed primarily commercial roofing on schools and prisons

Installed insulation and steel plates

Applied fireproofing

Operated 10′ brake and metal slitter using 4×8 sheet metal, slitter and shear

Certified forklift operator and Beistline Equipment Operator, including aerial lift

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Buying Or Starting A New Drywall Repairs Business

How long does it take for mold to grow on wet drywall?

Even minor water damage can leave severe stains and damage on drywall. In some cases only minor maintenance is needed. Other times you will need to completely remove the damaged drywall and replace it. Water damage can come from a leaking roof or broken plumbing within the wall. It could also be from old or cracked drains. Even the smallest of leaks can leave nasty yellow stains. Repairing drywall can take some work but once water damage has occurred, it is important to do so right away.

How Long Does it Take for Mold to Grow on Wet Drywall?

Once drywall has come in contact with water it is a matter of time before mold or mildew will begin to set in. In fact, mold spores can germinate after just 12 hours in some conditions. Drywall is extremely porous and traps moisture very easily. When it becomes damp or wet, settled spores can quickly become growing molds. Depending on the type of mold, it may colonize in 1 to 12 days. If you react quickly enough to the water exposure, you can use bleach or a mold and mildew detergent to slow down the mold or mildews development. Moisture trapped in the drywall or sheetrock also deteriorates it and after some time the drywall will begin to crack and break down.

Conditions for mold growth

Water in your home or building is a disconcerning thought and for good reason, unattended moisture an lead to mold growth. 

Mold needs four things to grow:

  • Moisture (liquid water)
  • Food (typically starch or sugar)
  • Temperature between 41° and 104°
  • Oxygen

The conditions of temperature and oxygen are almost always met in an indoor environment. Food sources can easily be found in the paper backing of the drywall or even in particles in the water making the addition of moisture into the wall cavity something that should be addressed right away.  

Steps to prevent mold growth

Weather the water damage is the result of a storm surge or a leaky faucet, when water is trapped behind walls or paneling, the elements needed for mold growth will most likely be present. It is best to take action at this time to mitigate the damage and prevent mold growth from occuring. 

Dry areas immediately. Try to clean and dry areas subjected to water within 48 hours to help prevent mold growth.

Be aware or warning signs. After cleaning and drying, continue to be sensitive to musty odors in the affected area.

Take look outside. Check the exterior of homes and buildings regularly for accumulating ground water. When the ground is saturated mold can begin to form outside and find its way inside. If water is accumulating against your foundation, take measures to drain the water away from your building. Keeping things dry is the key to preventing mold growth.

Remove damaged materials. If materials are wet and can’t be cleaned or completely dried, remove them from the building and replace them with new materials which may be more mold resistant. Fiber glass doesn’t have the food needed for mold growth but often when insulation gets wet, the water which intruded into the cavity was dirty and brought food along with it.

A Mold Growth Timeline

In the wake of a sudden in-home water leak, most folks are pretty preoccupied with the process of containing and diverting the problematic water. Once that job is done, most people feel satisfied that their work is complete, especially after proper repairs have been made. But if any walls, floors, or ceilings became saturated during the leak, there is a decent chance that mold may try to take up shop there in the coming days.

After 24 hours: Specifically, most types of common in-home molds (cladosporium, penicillium, alternaria, and aspergillus, according to the CDC) can land on a suitable surface and germinate with as few as 24 hours. At that point, there will not be any obvious signs that mold spores are present in the area. Because mold spores are fairly contained at this stage, it is often the best time to eliminate them through cleaning with diluted bleach.

After 12 days: However, if the mold spores are not detected during the germination stage, they are prone to colonize in as few as 3 days, with most types of mold gaining stable footing by 12 days post-germination. Even at this stage, mold may not be visible to the eye on the afflicted surface. However, mold spores at this stage can begin to spread more effectively if the air in the area is not properly dehumidified.

After 18 days: Once you pass the 18 day threshold, you will almost certainly see the visible signs of mold begin to crop up on the afflicted surface. While the precise appearance may vary, most mold types are recognizable due to their dark color and spotty appearance. At this point, any cleaning of the afflicted surface will need to be far more thorough and accompanied by proper airway protection.

All of these time frames are estimates, however, with specifics for mold growth speed based primarily on the surface’s temperature, the surrounding air temperature, the level of moisture in the surrounding air, and the amount of airflow in the afflicted space. Controlling each of these factors after a major water leak is often the best way to prevent mold from taking hold in your home.

Areas Most At-Risk For Mold Growth

When it comes to identifying and abating mold in your home, one of the most important steps is to isolate areas that are at the greatest risk for mold growth. Generally speaking, these areas are most often those that contain a lot of natural moisture or have been exposed to an excessive amount of moisture due to a roof leak or pipe burst. However, other types of environments are more likely to foster mold growth than those in warm, dry, well-lit areas.

Mold spores are more likely to come to rest on and colonize surfaces made from natural fibers, including cotton, wool, paper, leather, and wood.

Meanwhile, inorganic surfaces covered in organic material, such as food, grease, or soil, are likely to encourage mold growth as well.

Also, mold doesn’t need light to thrive. In fact, darker areas with less air flow tend to be ideal homes for mold spores. Even if improved conditions are temporarily introduced, spores can become dormant until ideal conditions for growth return.

Though it’s not an exhaustive list, these are some of the common in-home areas where mold tends to accumulate due to their natural conditions:

  • Basements
  • Crawlspaces (particularly those built over uncovered earth)
  • Laundry Rooms
  • Attics (consider roof ventilation)
  • Under Cabinets – Check out our guide on waterproofing cabinets.
  • Drywall
  • Behind baseboards
  • Tile
  • Grout and caulking
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Pros, Cons & Costs Of Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood Flooring Dents And Scratches – Causes And Fixes

In its lifetime, any hardwood floor will experience denting and scratching at some point or another. Here are some tips on how to prevent unnecessary damage to your lovely hardwood as well as what do if if your hardwood floors are already dented and scratched.

Accidents happen. It’s a fact of life, especially when you have kids and pets. Sooner or later, you will drop a can of tomatoes on the floor, your kids will race down the hallway in dad’s office chair, or you’ll rush through the house to grab your forgotten purse without taking off your heels.

Causes of Hardwood Flooring Dents

Dents result from heavy items being dropped or dragged across the floor, which compresses the fibers in the wood and results in visible damage.

Moving day – You may be moving into a home that already has hardwood. Congrats! Still, moving in and out of a house creates a lot of hazards for scratching and dinging up a hardwood floor. Heavy boxes and furniture could be dropped, hefty appliances may be dragged across the floor, nobody takes off their work shoes coming in and out of the house, etc. Likely no one will be as careful with your floors as you are, so if you invite a moving crew to help, they probably won’t move in furniture and boxes as gingerly as you would. Plus, who knows how well the hardwood was taken care of by previous owners? You could be moving in and inheriting all of their floor dents.

Shoes –All shoes could pose a threat to your floor, but heavy work boots, cleats, and high heels are especially at risk of scratching your hardwood.

Want a Hardwood Floor?

This is so big, it has two sequels.

Of all the surfaces you can install, hardwood is one of the most beautiful. Nothing changes the look of a home so dramatically. With as many features as there are species available today, let me clear up some confusion and explain what makes one plank different from another.

SPECIES

Oak is the most readily available and affordable option. This is why you see it in more than 75% of homes with wood floors. Other species will offer a different look in terms of grain variation and hardness. Maple, the next most popular, has a more uniform appearance and is much harder than oak. Other popular species are walnut, hickory, birch and cherry.

Exotic species are not always in stock since they are mostly imported. The advantage with most exotics is that scratches don’t show. The color on top goes all the way through the board. When a traditional wood is scratched deep enough, it can reveal the raw wood beneath making the scratch stand out in stark contrast to a dark stain.

Pre-Finished vs Site-Finished

In the old days if you wanted hardwood, you knew that a regimen of waxing was necessary to maintain protection and shine. This became obsolete with the advent of polyurethane coatings. Much like clear coat on a car, polyurethane is a translucent coating that is durable and adds shine. Pre-finished floors will usually have 7-12 layers applied at the mill with the last layer fortified with aluminum-oxide to add additional wear protection.

Gloss Level and Stain

This is a matter of preference and does not affect the level of protection you get. It’s purely aesthetic but there are a few things know:

Darker colors can show more scratches and dents than light ones.

High gloss finishes can show more dents and scratches than low gloss ones.

Direction Of Hardwood Flooring

It’s time to change your flooring and upgrade to beautiful new hardwood. But before selecting the wood, ordering it and scheduling the installation, there’s an important thing to figure out–which direction should you have your hardwood laid? What might’ve seemed like an easy decision at first, now can seem overwhelming since you’ll be living with it for a long time. Not to worry, the direction you choose depends on different factors that we will break down for you.

The most common floor pattern is straight, also called vertical. To achieve this pattern, hardwood flooring planks are installed parallel to each other along with the length or width of your room. This classic pattern is used to create simple and even contemporary designs, enhancing the original look of the hardwood floor. Since this is the most straightforward (yes, pun intended) to install, it’s also the least expensive. Other patterns can take longer to install and need extra wood making them a bit more costly.

This is another common floor pattern. If your room is narrower than long, it can end up feeling closed in. Laying your hardwood flooring horizontally is a good way to combat this problem. This draws the eye from side to side, instead of down the length of the room. Just like a horizontally-striped shirt can make people look wider than they are, horizontal stripes created by the floor boards in the room can do the same thing.

In the herringbone pattern, wood planks are laid in a diagonal kind of zig zag pattern. This pattern can be laid out in the traditional pattern or with square modules to look like a parquet design.

This direction will add a touch of elegance to your space without drifting too far away from the traditional straight direction. The hardwood flooring boards are installed parallel to each other but laid at a 45 degree angle to the walls.

Pros and Cons of Hardwood Flooring You Should Know

If you’re looking out for flooring that suits your budget and gives that rich feel to your feet, then wood is the option that always stands out. The natural beauty of wood and its warmth attracts us to dream of having a house with hardwood floors.

If you are looking out for a style that is both versatile and blends with every type of decor, then wood flooring is the best option. It gives a lot of warmth and character to both traditional and modern homes. Whether you are using wood flooring for your office or residential space, it is a classy and reliable choice for both

Advantages of Hardwood Flooring

Even though the pricing might be slightly on the higher side during initial investment, but with proper maintenance, it can last you for more than a lifetime. Whereas, the regular carpet flooring, linoleum flooring or the laminate ones tend to get damaged too soon, due to wear and tear.

A long-term investment

Wood flooring tends to last for more than a hundred years if they are maintained well. They might seem like a big investment initially, but you don’t need to replace them every 10 or 20 years like the other types of flooring. It also provides a good return on investment, as the value of wood flooring continues to increase with time.

Variety

When your opting for wood flooring you will be presented with a wide array of choices. You can select one depending on your budget and availability. Not even a single plank has the same shade or color,  which makes it more authentic while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. If you want then you can also stain them when you get bored of the same color. You could also mix and match the woods that will give the flooring an interesting look.

wood flooring care guide

The closest thing to solid wood flooring, engineered wood will give you a classically high end finish, a luxurious feel underfoot and timeless styling. Made from layers of timber boards, topped with a real hardwood veneer, engineered wood flooring is versatile, easy to install and looks simply stunning wherever it is fitted. Keep it looking its absolute best by caring for it in the right way. We’ve pulled together this great care guide, packed with expert hints and tips on cleaning and maintenance to help you.

care tips for wood flooring

Use a flat bottomed mop rather than a traditional stringy mop head as it won’t dribble water in the same way reducing the risk of surface water accumulating.

A dry microfiber dust mop can be used to pick up dirt and debris from the floor.

To ensure you don’t damage the surface, never use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to clean your engineered wood flooring.

cleaning your wood flooring

Keeping your engineered wood flooring dirt-free

If possible, sweep or vacuum your engineered flooring daily. Use either a vacuum cleaner with a soft flooring attachment, or a broom.

Always vacuum or sweep an engineered wood floor before washing – this removes most of the dust and grit so avoids scratching. Alternatively a dry microfiber dust mop can be used to pick up dirt and debris from the floor.

Using cleaning products on engineered wood

It’s important to take care of your engineered wood flooring. While regular cleaning will keep your floor looking its best, there are some chemicals and materials to avoid.

Never use wax-based cleaners or harsh detergents on your engineered wood flooring. Always check the label of any products you buy to make sure they are safe to use on engineered wood flooring.

Abrasive materials, such as steel wool, should not be used to clean engineered hardwood flooring. These will scratch the surface and destroy the solid wood flooring appearance.

Always finish cleaning by rinsing your engineered wood flooring with clean water.

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Need-To-Know Pointers For Home Renovation Of Old Houses

What are the types of renovation?

Home renovation is very popular these days. More and more homeowners are choosing to stay in the same place, rather than purchase a new home. To make room for growing families and changing needs, home renovations are occurring at an ever-faster pace. There are five major types of renovations made by homeowners, whether the need is to update the home, add more space or simply make the home better reflect a family’s character and needs.

Kitchen Renovations

Renovating the kitchen is the most popular type of major renovation in a home. It’s also the best way to increase a home’s value if it were to be put on the market. Kitchen renovations can be done for numerous reasons – increasing usable space, updating appliances and cabinetry, or they can be done in concert with other renovations.

Bathroom Renovations

Bathroom renovations are generally not on the same scale as kitchen renovations, but as they can involve plumbing and render a bathroom unusable during the process, they are major considerations. Bathroom renovations offer the means to increase luxury within a home, and increasingly are done to help a family save water and electricity with green fixtures.

Basement Renovations

Finishing a basement is one of the best ways to add usable space to a home in North York. Basements can become full bedroom suites, or they might be used as movie rooms, game rooms, in-law suites or full apartments, depending on the needs. These major renovations can involve an immense amount of work and design, as well.

Additions

Adding a room (or more than one) is also very popular. Often, families with two or more children and not enough bedrooms choose to add on so each child can have their own bedroom. However, adding on can also be done if you want to leave the majority of the home alone, but want to add an office, family game room, sunroom or something else. These are major considerations, as the home’s internal structure will be altered during construction.

Adding a New Bathroom

For homes that have fewer bathrooms than is ideal, adding one is a very popular choice. This might be done to provide a private bathroom for children, or a guest bathroom that is not used by the entire family. However, because of plumbing considerations (and general construction), these are very major undertakings.

Loft conversions

Many homes across the UK, such as Georgian homes, Victorian terraces and modern homes, have an unused attic that can be converted into useable living space. This kind of extension or loft conversion allows you to add valuable square metres to the house’s floor plan while not encroaching on your garden space.

Loft conversions often require structural work, as the original house was most likely not built to hold the weight of a second storey. This means that loft conversions are typically more expensive than same level extensions, but they are nevertheless often the best option to add living space to a home, especially in denser, urban areas. Other factors that might add to the cost of a loft conversion include site access and waterproofing. This might be a good time to generally have your roof inspected and get any problematic areas fixed, or even have your house completely reroofed.

Key design issues to consider when converting a loft are windows and stairways. Skylight windows are more affordable, however, dormer windows create precious extra headroom. Generally speaking you’ll be working with a confined space, so smart storage solutions are worth incorporating. Costs for a loft conversion can vary greatly, depending on your house and your choices of materials and styles, but you should budget on at least £50,000 for a mid-level extension.

Types of home renovation: which ones boost the home value?

Home renovation is not simply an add-on to your loving home—it actually means a higher value for your property when it comes time to sell it. Now selling your house probably isn’t on your mine right now, but you always want to remember, “A House Is An Investment” so you have the opportunity to improve your investment as you renovate it. A renovated property, devoid of smudge marks on the wall, broken shelves and mould problem will fetch you a higher price when you sell it, right? Well, truly speaking, it depends. Suppose you are living in Iowa and engaged the finest home remodeling service Ames IA, still there is no guarantee that if you spent a fortune on renovating your house, you will end up getting a treasure in return. There is a strategic way of adding value to your house and you need to understand what type of renovation will get you more rewards.

Now, in this blog, we will understand which one will boost the home value if you are looking to sell your property.

  • The Basics: The basics include basic features of a house that anybody and everybody will look for. Talk about properly functioning plumbing, non-leaky roof, solid floors, and even a working HVAC system. All these can be maintained with small repair jobs and you need not spend exorbitant amount of money to increase the value because they might not get the returns.
  • Curb Appeal: These features, as you work on them, don’t always get too much of monetary value but they help the selling process becoming faster. As clear from the name itself, these features increase the appeal of the property and help in making the decision quicker for a prospective buyer. Things in this type of renovation will include well-maintained lawn, carpets that are clean, fresh paint and even nice-looking fixtures. A lot of homeowners add LED lights to make it more design-featured, and some very advanced gadgetry which turns the property into a smart home may also be included in this section.
  • Value Added: Value added features or projects that give you maximum returns include kitchen renovations, new windows and new siding. At the same time, if you have searched on Google for “bathroom remodel Ames Iowa” and find somebody really good to work on your bathroom, it will most likely give you good dividends, along with energy saving features.
  • Personal Preferences: As clear from the name itself, personal preferences are items that you have installed because of your own liking or need. Think of a swimming pool, a wine cellar, ponds, game room, and the likes. Though there is no harm if you have these things in your house but you can expect others to pay for these items separately because they might not like them or need them. So, if you are thinking of spending money to renovate these features, consider carefully.

What’s the Difference: Renovation vs. Remodel?

Understand the ins and outs of these similar but not synonymous projects so you can plan the right improvements for your home.

The words “renovation” and “remodel” are often used interchangeably, but if you’re planning some major home improvements, it’s best to get the terminology right before you talk to a contractor. While both renovation and remodel will improve and update your living space, the two types of projects are very different, each with its own set of benefits and considerations.

Renovation updates the look and feel of a room—or an entire structure—without changing its intended purpose.

In a renovation, a kitchen remains a kitchen and a bedroom remains a bedroom, but repairs and updates are made. This generally includes such things as painting, installing new flooring, and switching out items like cabinet knobs and faucets. Renovation also includes structural rebuilding. For example, if rotted wood members are discovered, they will be removed and the area (wall, subfloor, or roof) will be rebuilt using new lumber.

During a remodel, the design—and sometimes the structure—is altered.

Remodeling is the process of changing the functionality and the design of an area. It may involve tearing out a wall to expand a bathroom and reconfiguring a kitchen layout so the cabinets, fridge, sink, and range are in different locations. Constructing an addition to your home would also be considered a remodel. Remodeling need not always involve major structural changes, however; it can be something as simple as turning a guest bedroom into a home office. If the purpose of the area has been altered, it’s been remodeled.

Remodeling is often costlier than renovating.

Since remodeling may involve changing the physical structure of a home, it’s often necessary to reconfigure the wiring, plumbing, and ductwork, which makes the project more complex and pricey. More professional labor is usually involved in a remodel, and the material cost is often higher as well, since many remodeling projects involve building new additions. While the final cost comparison depends on the scope of the project and the quality of the materials, because renovations are usually less complex, they’re also easier on the budget.

Renovating may require pulling a permit, but remodeling almost always does.

Permits ensure that proper building codes are followed. Communities set their own rules, but it’s common for a local building authority to require a permit any time a structure is changed, including putting an addition on a home or tearing out and reconfiguring interior walls. Simple renovations, such as painting and installing new carpeting, don’t require permits, but replacing a roof (a renovation project because design and function are not altered) usually does. Reroofing is in a special category, because if a new roof isn’t installed correctly, it could leak and the home’s structure could be damaged, so most communities require permits for reroofing.

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Common Problems That Will Steer You To An Auto Repair

Things Auto Mechanics Wish You Knew

Nearly 270 million cars and trucks are maintained and repaired by over 800,000 auto mechanics in the U.S. Automobiles and auto mechanics are constantly advancing. Unfortunately, many drivers aren’t keeping up, and this leads to problems, some hilarious – mechanics often have a dark sense of humor – but others disastrous.

For this post, we asked a few auto mechanics a simple question, “What do you wish drivers knew about their cars?” We reached out to a variety of auto shop owners and mechanics, and headed to Quora for some help too.

Pay Attention

had a great time talking with Dave, and he said the worst thing you can do is ignore your car. Unusual noises, warning lights, or gauges in the red zone are warning signs – have a competent auto mechanic diagnose it. Dave says he loves his job and helping people, but misplaced priorities are dangerous.

Read the Manual

For many car owners, a car is their biggest purchase. Too many people come into the shop with concerns that can be linked to not reading the manual, such as ABS or ECT warnings, TPMS settings, or center differential lock usage.

Check the Oil

Many new cars specify oil change intervals up to 15,000 miles or 12 months, but you can’t ignore it in the meantime. Every car “consumes” a little bit of oil, some as much as one quart per 1,000 miles. Check your oil every month and top it off, or else you could end up with no oil by the time you need an oil change.

automotive service

This Corona Virus PANDEMIC is a very serious challenge, and it is time for all of us to do what we can to help whom ever we can.

committed to recognizing the nurses, medical workers, care providers, doctors, and first responders…… as well as assisting ANYONE WHO HAS FINANCIALLY SUFFERED as a result of their employer being FORCED to CLOSE.

have put aside a minimum of $80,000 in automotive repair and maintenance services at no cost for the groups mentioned above. This assistance will be denominated in the amount of $50 per individual and take the form of $50 YES certificate good on any automotive service or repair.

While the total amount is a lot of money for us, especially during these tough times, we want to recognize the heroes and help those who are most financially impacted in our area.

services include 4X4 Services, Wheel Alignment, Batteries, Brakes, Car & Truck Care, Electrical Service, Electronic Diagnosis, Engine & Transmission Service, Exhaust / Muffler, General Services, Heating and Cooling Services, Oil Changes, Maintenance, Steering, Suspension, Tires, and Undercar Services.

Auto Repair

A Reputation of Trust

designed this site to offer insights into your vehicle’s needs (and the many ways it communicates its needs to you) while you get to know us better. know it takes time to develop trust. hope is that you’ll remain here long enough to take a closer look at what goes on

Lingering with us a while longer will give you the time you need to carefully consider how willing you are to entrust your vehicle

hope it won’t be long before you decide to pick up the phone or stop by to introduce yourself and get to know better. When you do, promise to reassure you that you’re on the cusp of becoming a crucial part of automotive

keeping you safe while you’re on the road is our top priority. But we also want to make sure you have a great time while you’re

To ensure both, hire only well-qualified mechanics and front desk service agents whose passions extend beyond nuts, bolts, tires, belts, hoses, engines and everything else automotive; hire people who truly care about the individuals and families who entrust your vehicles

Auto Repair

Is your vehicle running as efficiently as it should? Are you sure? With free multi-point visual inspection, you can be certain your vehicle is running at peak efficiency, and that you can enjoy the road ahead with confidence. offer a full and free multi-point visual inspection of your vehicle, and when are done, provide you with a detailed report, so you can enjoy real peace of mind every time you drive.

Whether you need simple repairs to your vehicle or something more complex, you have a right to quality service. When you bring your vehicle, you can enjoy the top quality repairs and service you need, but you get something extra as well. offer a full nationwide warranty, giving you real peace of mind wherever the road takes you. Whether you stay at home or head out on a long-awaited road trip, exclusive nationwide warranty has your back

Is your exhaust system leaking? Is your check engine light on? Do you hear a strange noise coming from underneath your car? If so, it is time to give your exhaust system a look. Whether it is a loose fitting or a leaking catalytic converter, can provide the expert diagnosis you need and the quality repairs your vehicle deserves. are your transmission repair experts in the region, and you can rely on to keep your vehicle on the road.

Is your clutch slipping? Do you hear a strange noise when you change gears? Do you hear a clunking sound when you put your car in gear? If so, you need to bring your vehicle to us for the quality transmission work you need. offer a full range of transmission repairs, from quality rebuilt & remanufactured transmissions to fluid flushes & fills. When you need transmission repairs, you cannot afford to wait, & when you bring your vehicle to us – you will not have to.

Is your brake fluid low? Do you have a leak in your brake line? Does your pedal hit the floor when you step on the brakes? If so, it is time to have your brakes checked. offer a full range of brake services and repairs, so you can stay safe behind the wheel and hit the road with confidence. You cannot afford to wait when your brakes need service, so just bring it to us for the quality service you need.

Certified Auto Repair

Certified technicians has years of experience improving and perfecting all kinds of vehicles that roll into our shop, both domestic and import. seen–and fixed– everything over the years! From transmission rebuilds to engine tune-ups and the simple oil changes in between, are your go-to team whenever auto repairs pop up. In fact, are the team other shops call in for help. facility is fully-equipped with advanced diagnostics to accurately identify problems under the hood. Not sure what’s causing that check engine light? We’ll find out and get things fixed before the day is over.

Auto Repair is a proud member of community and are dedicated to promoting safe driving for neighbors and customers. thorough inspections and accurate diagnostics ensure potential problems are quickly identified and addressed before they cause costly repairs or breakdowns. believe preventative maintenance is the key to protecting the heart of every vehicle, the engine. Quick visits to shop every few months will help your car, truck, SUV or van run smoothly and reliably for miles to come. confident in technical repairs and services, which is why stand behind them with a competitive warranty. Here, your complete satisfaction is all that matters and we do everything can to make your visit simple and easy. customers appreciate our straightforward approach to auto repairs.

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Necessary Steps In Mold Inspection Fixer Upper Homes

Why A Mold Inspection Air Test Is Useful In The Winter

Having a mold inspection air test during the winter months isn’t generally top on our lists of winter home concerns. Many homeowners consider mold to be a spring, summer and fall problem, when water events can cause sudden floods or heat and humidity stick around and get trapped indoors. But mold can grow all year round, and a small problem that begins in the winter can grow bigger by the spring and bigger still by the summer months, making an air test in the winter an important tool in identifying mold problems.

Mold can grow in your home during the winter for many reasons. One common reason is that your furnace may have a built-in humidifier to add moisture to dry winter air. When combined with decreased ventilation and high temperatures, the right conditions for mold growth can arise in even the coldest of months. Another way mold can form in your home is in improperly insulated spaces, where warm indoor air meets a cold exterior wall, forming condensation. Moisture is the single most important factor when it comes to mold growth, and, along with humidity, is one of the things we look for during a mold inspection in the winter.

Where Mold Likes to Grow

During any mold inspection air test at SafeAir, we generally start in one of two places: the basement or the attic. Year-round, they’re the most common places that mold likes to grow in your home, and a mold inspection in the winter can help reveal areas that may become bigger concerns later in the year. Basements are particularly prone to mold because they are often under-insulated, have less traffic, have water sources or are at risk for leaks, and have restricted airflow. At the top of your home, an air test in the winter can reveal a great deal of how your home is coping with increased heating and what problems that warm air could be causing in your attic.

The Benefits of A Mold Inspection Air Test

Having a mold inspection in the winter can help you keep your home and family healthy all year round. Catching mold early can save you time, money, and the headache of remediation by dealing with any mold growth while it’s small and hasn’t caused damage or made anyone ill. An air test in the winter compared with one in the summer can tell you a lot about your indoor air quality and the areas in your home that may need improvement. Mold isn’t the type of problem that goes away on its own – to be certain it’s gone for good, a thorough, professional mold inspection in the winter months is needed to prevent it from continuing to grow and spread.

Prevention is the best method

In the end, the adage ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ applies to mold as well. Preventing mold, through proactive measures like fixing leaks, upgrading ventilation, and by having an air test in the winter are some of the best ways to ensure that mold growth is caught early and removed before it begins to affect your home and your health

WHEN DO YOU NEED A MOLD INSPECTION?

Whether you are moving into a new home or conducting annual maintenance on your own, one of the biggest problems you and your home inspector might not be able to detect is mold. Mold can be tricky to spot and even trickier to remove depending on its type and severity.

Mold 101

Mold is something that occurs normally and naturally outside. It helps to break down dead organic plant or animal matter into materials that can be reused by nature. Mold is incredibly important to our ecosystem, but it should stay outside! You can naturally encounter mold and mold spores every day outside without having any negative results, as long as you aren’t allergic. Once mold moves indoors, it becomes less useful and much more harmful. Without the air circulation and outdoor environment, the mold and its spores will multiply (and you’ll breathe them in) in larger concentrations.

Why Does Mold Like the Inside if It Comes From the Outside?

Mold relies on dead organic material to stay “alive,” so it is constantly releasing spores to find new things to feed and live on. Homes are a restaurant for mold and mold spores, as they are made of tons of different materials that mold loves—wood, drywall, fabric, and paper to name a few. Regardless of how appetizing your home is, mold still needs water and moisture to thrive. If you can control and eliminate moisture, mold should not be able to grow in your home. A professional mold inspection can identify spots susceptible to mold growth and give you tips on preventing mold, even if they don’t find any mold currently growing.

Getting Rid of Mold is a Tall Task

Mold remediation or mold removal is the process that a professional contractor will go through to make your home safe to live in again after finding mold. All materials affected by mold need to be completely removed from the home, as spores are still living on them. As parts of your home structure may be affected, they will need to be replaced with the proper materials. The more damage mold has done to your home, the more you will need to pay to remedy the damage

Trust the Mold Inspector on Mold, Not the Home Inspector

Part of your home-buying process is hiring a home inspector to walk through the home and identify any potential problems before you move in. However, most home inspectors are not skilled at identifying mold problems. Mold can be hidden away in moist areas like underneath baseboards, beneath carpet, or lurking behind a paint job.

TESTING FOR MOLD – SCAM OR SCIENCE?

Let’s start with a quiz.  Which house has a higher mold spore count?

The room on the left is a bathroom with significant mold growth on the walls and ceilings.  This was due to the lack of a bathroom fan.  The photo on the right is a basement with no visible mold growth, but a damp rug and a strong musty odor.  Mold testing was performed in both areas.

Why such weird results?

Despite the heavy staining from the mold growth in the bathroom (left), the flat growth profile did not lead to substantial spreading of spores.  The high spore count in the basement (right) was due to moisture trapped in the rug.  Despite the fact the area rug was only 6′ across, the constant exposure to vapor emissions from the concrete slab led to a tremendous amount of mold growth.  Amazingly, very little mold growth was visible.  This is common with carpeting, as the mold grows within the pad and carpet fibers without much visual evidence.  These are both good examples of when mold testing is helpful.

When should you test your house for mold?

Before any sampling is conducted, you must first identify the potential results.  This may sound obvious, but many inspection companies charge thousands of dollars for sampling without ever identifying a real benefit.  They may provide their clients with pages and pages of data, but no actionable information.   Before any sampling is collected, you must first identify potential actions you’ll take based on the results.

You don’t see visible mold, but you have high humidity

If your home suffers from condensation on the windows, this is often an indication of poor air flow and high humidity.  High humidity is one of the main causes of mold growth.  In these scenarios, it is reasonable to suspect that mold growth may be occurring in the home and therefore, testing is a worthwhile option.  This is especially true if you see condensation on a modern, double pane window.

You’ve found visible mold growth, but it’s unclear what materials have been affected

Let’s say you own a condo and you find mold growth on an exterior wall behind a bed.  Your inspector concludes that the mold growth is due to condensation from a poorly insulated wall.  The extent of the actual growth is obvious, but the extent of the settled mold spores is not.  During mold growth’s cycle, thousands, even millions of spores can be released into the air.

Important Things You Need To Know Before Choosing A Mold Inspector

There are so many mold inspection companies out there in the market, and we can get overwhelmed with all the choices that lay before us. Which company should we choose? Is that company reliable? Will they be able to help me? We know that choosing a mold consulting company can be a difficult and challenging process and therefore, we have put together four important things that you need to know before choosing a mold inspector for your home or office.

Are Mold Remediation Or Cleaning Services Included?

There may lie a conflict of interest for the firm to conduct both the inspection as well as the remediation of mold. You may not be able to trust the mold inspector completely as well since there is a possibility that they may use the inspection to their advantage and profit from the discovery of mold. It will be best for you to engage a third-party company for your initial investigation and testing so as to get a neutral and unbiased opinion.

How Reputable is the Firm?

There are many companies online that you can choose from. To prevent yourself from wasting unnecessary time and effort calling every firm, you can do some homework beforehand. Look up each company online and check out the customer testimonials or reviews about the mold inspector. This will be a good way to gauge the reputation of the firm, if it is worth continuing your search. Quality companies should have a list of satisfied customers, and probably personal statements from past clients who endorsed their services. The more highly rated the reviews and personal statements are, the higher the chances are that the mold inspector is someone good and reliable.

Is the Firm in Good Standing with the BBB (Better Business Bureau)?

Another great way to determine the reputation of the firm is to see if the firm is in good standing with the BBB (Better Business Bureau). The BBB is a great platform for customers to assess the quality, ethicality and honesty of the mold companies. If a company has zero complaints and favorable ratings, you are probably in good hands!

Does the Firm Has a Professional Liability Insurance?

Also known as the Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O insurance). The E&O insurance is a form of liability insurance. Most of the reputable and quality companies carry general liability (GL) insurance.  This is because E&O insurance is usually expensive and cost prohibitive for most mold inspection firms.   Therefore, majority of the mold inspectors do not carry this form of insurance. By engaging companies with such insurance can provide you with a higher level of protection.

Mold Testing & Indoor Air Quality Consulting

From mold remediation to air quality testing, have the tools and the skills to handle all of your property inspection needs. If you’re purchasing a new property, you can’t afford to sign your name on the dotted line without getting an accurate picture of the property’s condition from team of inspectors.

As an established  Mold \ IAQ inspection company with over a decade of experience, helped countless area residents get the answers they deserve about their current or prospective property. here to do the same for you.

When customers seek a locally owned and operated  Mold \ IAQ inspector they can trust, they choose us because:

ACAC-certified

An active member of the IAQA

An AIHA-accredited microbiology laboratory

experienced Mold \ IAQ inspector is known for producing nothing less than stellar results. When you turn to us for help, we’ll present our findings in a clear and concise manner that enables you to make an informed decision.

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Tips On How To Cut Your Deeo Cleaning Time In Half

Quick Cleaning Tips That Everyone Should Know

When it comes to keeping your house clean, it can sometimes feel like everything is working against you. We know how it goes: no matter how many times you tell your kids to pick up their clothes, it never happens. Dishes pile up in the sink, stacks of paper and bills stream across the kitchen table, and the clutter of everyday life starts to take over your house. It’s enough to drive anyone crazy

Here’s the thing, though: There are foolproof ways to ensure a clean and organized household.

It’s really all about building healthy habits – small everyday actions go a long way, when it comes to keeping things nice and orderly. And, best of all, by adopting these daily cleaning habits and tricks, you won’t have to waste time on Sunday cleaning your house.

Always Make Your Bed

Making your bed every morning is a fantastic way to start the day. Not only will your bedroom instantly seem neater, but the burst of productive energy you’ll feel will benefit you throughout the day. Making your bed only takes roughly 30 seconds, and it’s a great mental boost – what’s not to love?

If You Get Something Out, Put It Away

Sounds so easy, doesn’t it? When you get something out, put it back in its place.

Don’t Let the Mail Pile Up

Eek, we’re all guilty of this one! It may seem simpler to just let the mail pile up and then deal with it later, but you’ll just end up spending way more time than necessary sorting through it all. Instead, figure out a mail/paperwork system that works for you and your family – and then, stick to it. No matter what.

Deep cleaning the workplace in the time of coronavirus

Within a relatively short space of time, the coronavirus has radically changed working life around the world, perhaps forever in the case of some organisations. Never before has workplace cleaning taken on life and death implications across so many different types of ordinary, non-specialist, work settings. Vicky Powell looks at how to deep clean workplaces to best protect workers and others from the COVID-19 virus.

A new approach to cleaning workplaces

There have always been workplaces when good hygiene is, quite simply, a matter of life and death. Nurses and doctors understand full well the importance of scrupulously clean, disinfected operating theatres. Likewise, food safety experts have long emphasised the importance of caterers and other food industry workers being sure to diligently cleanse fresh produce and sanitise kitchen working surfaces and other equipment.

Understanding deep cleaning

It should be noted that deep cleaning isn’t really a scientific term as such. The latest UK Government advice updated in May 2020 by Public Health England (PHE) refers simply to the “cleaning” of workplaces and working areas which may have been contaminated by the COVID-19 virus. The new guidance, specifically written in the context of COVID-19, has been published using the health authorities’ experiences of other viruses within the corona family, such as SARS and MERS, and will no doubt be updated as more is discovered about the virus.

It may, firstly, be useful to distinguish between cleaning and disinfecting, in the context of the coronavirus, as explained by the USA’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.

Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. It does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

Disinfecting refers to using chemicals, ie suitable disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection

Types of workplaces that may need deep cleaning

Any kind of workplace might need deep cleaning if there has been the risk of contact with someone with COVID-19 and, of course, there are specialist guidelines for healthcare settings such as hospital wards and operating theatres.

MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS TO DEEP CLEAN YOUR RENTAL

Cleaning can be a quite a chore–literally. While you may not be looking forward to the task of deep cleaning your rental, it truly is necessary. Whether you are just in the mood for a deep clean while you’re at home, or you know you plan to move in or out of a new place. These deep-cleaning tools are vital to get the job done.

Deep cleaning is truly important if you hope to keep your home clean and germ-free after all disinfecting can only truly work on areas free of grime and debris. If you’re moving out of your current rental and want to ensure your security deposit’s safe return, or you are moving into a new place and are not positive about the hygiene of the previous tenants, these products will help you make sure your place is fresh and sparkling clean in no time.

MAGIC ERASER

True to the name, these spongy products come pre-filled with a cleaning agent that is widely regarded as unmistakably magical. They are capable of removing grime from grout and permanent marker from walls.  Touted by many as the best way to remove impossible stains, these products are a must for bathrooms and kitchens that need a lot of love.

STEAM MOP

If your kitchen or bathroom floors have hard to clean dirt, a steam mop can help release that stuck-on grime and sanitize at the same time. While it’s true that a steam mop would be a bigger investment than a standard sponge mop, they are a cleaning gift that keeps on giving.

CHEAP ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH

Some small groves can only be truly cleaned with a small brush and a good scrubbing. If you have a few too many areas like this, try purchasing an inexpensive battery-powered toothbrush to reach the grit that has accumulated in areas by the base of cabinets and under molding.

The Ultimate Apartment Cleaning Checklist

So you found the apartment of your dreams. You’ve been settled in for a couple of weeks… everything is going great. That is until you start noticing the dust on your dresser starting to pile up, and grime in your sink becoming apparent. It’s probably time for a deep cleaning. Regularly cleaning and taking care of your apartment is one of the key steps in getting your security deposit refunded.

Apartment Cleaning Essentials You’ll Need

Before you embark on your apartment cleaning journey, equip yourself with the right tools. To make it easier for you, we created a list of useful items.

If you aren’t comfortable using detergents containing a lot of chemicals, go for natural solutions like baking soda, white vinegar, tea tree oil, and lemon juice. Just keep in mind that even though vinegar, baking soda, and tea tree oil can kill some bacteria, they’re ineffective against dangerous bacteria like Staphylococcus.

Bedroom Cleaning

Dust your furniture, decorations, pictures, ceiling fan, and area around your windows

Wash your sheets and make your bed.

Pick up clothes off the ground and either put them away or wash them.

Collect all trash laying around.

Vacuum the floors. Make sure to vacuum under your bed, as dust under there can build up quickly

Living Room Cleaning

Dust your television, TV stand, coffee table, and any other furniture.

Clear your table, coffee table, and TV stand and wipe down the surfaces after dusting.

Vacuum soft furniture like couches and chairs using your vacuum’s upholstery attachment.

Sweep and vacuum the floors.

Thoroughly clean windows and window treatments. If your windows have blinds, clean every slat separately. Don’t forget about the window screens.

Do a final round throwing away trash and putting everything in its place.

House Cleaning Yourself vs Hiring a Professional Cleaner

Cleaning your place by yourself will probably eat up a lot of time. If you’re busy with work, social activities, parenting or anything else, you may want to consider hiring a professional cleaner to take care of the hard work for you.

Hiring a Professional House Cleaner

Hiring a professional cleaner is a great way to take the pressure off the stress of daily life. Experienced house cleaners have in modern times become affordable and charge modestly for the house cleaning services that they deliver. Cleaning experts know exactly how to make a home or commercial space sparkling clean! We use modern equipment and solvents in order to get the job done in an effective manner that will leave a lasting impression.

The different types of house cleaning

There are different levels of home cleaning, from light housekeeping to deep cleaning to spring cleaning and beyond. You may select the right type of cleaning service and set up recurring cleaning if you wish to do so. As long as you choose a reputable cleaning service which is bondable and insured, you’ll be primed to access professional cleaning which doesn’t put your property and possessions at risk.

Choosing the right house cleaner

Most cleaners will advertise their cleaning prices and services, as well as their credentials on their official websites. So, checking out a few cleaners will be a great way to find the most suitable cleaner for your household. It will also provide you with ample experience to judge from the good ones from the bad.

Benefits of outsourced cleaning & freeing up time

Once you’ve found a house cleaner you’re happy with, you’ll be ready to access the benefits. The key benefit is that you’ll open up more free time. You won’t need to worry about doing the cleaning yourself. You may simply sit back and relax while someone else with a lot of training and experience takes care of the hard work for you

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Information About Pain Management

Self-Managing Chronic Pain

The most important factor in managing pain is the role of the patient. Self-management is the best way to improve your level of activity, reduce disability and keep pain to a minimum. When people take control over their pain, they feel empowered and able to resume normal activities—or even learn something new. There is no better feeling than that, for people who have been controlled by pain.

If you would like to take charge of your pain management, these three steps will keep you on track:

Accept the pain. Accept that the pain is unlikely to disappear, but recognise that you can do things to mimimise its impact on your life and reduce the severity of the pain.

Change the way you think about pain. When you realise that pain in itself is not harmful and learn not to react to it in a negative way you can “retrain your brain”.

Pace yourself. Incorporate a sufficient amount of activity every day and keep it at an even level throughout the day. This will help keep your body conditioned, keep your pain to a minimum and reduce the risk of flare-ups sparked by overactivity.

Multidisciplinary (or interdisciplinary) pain management embraces a combination of medical, physical and psychological therapies and is the most effective way to improve function and mood, and reduce disability.

It also known as a bio-psycho-social approach because it aims to address all the factors that influence the pain experience. Multidisciplinary pain management involves a team of health professionals who will comprehensively assess your condition and work with you to achieve your goals—such as being able to return to work, or just being able to walk the dog—using a range of treatments and strategies.

Some but not all treatments may be eligible for a rebate through Medicare or your private health insurer. In multidisciplinary pain management your team of health professionals offer support and treatment, but you are required to take responsibility for your health and wellbeing on a day-to-day basis. Self-managing chronic pain includes tailored exercise, relaxation and pacing daily activities. Evidence shows that patients who embrace active self-management strategies achieve better outcomes than those who rely on passive strategies like medication.

Effective Ways to Find Lower Back Pain Relief, According to Doctors

Whether it was brought on by arthritis, nerve damage, bending the wrong way, or lifting something a little too heavy, lower back pain can be frustrating to deal with. But if you’re struggling, know that most people experience back pain at some point in their lives, and it’s one of the most common reasons people book doctor’s appointments and call out of work. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Treatments for lower back pain relief range from simple to complex, and the right course for you depends on how long you’ve been hurting, the severity of your pain, the location of your pain, and whether your pain is structural or muscular.

However, other factors, like your age and activity level, could cause back pain to last for up to six weeks, he says. People who don’t pursue extreme treatment tend to have fewer complications than those who end up rushing into invasive treatments before it’s truly necessary.

Reach for anti-inflammatory drugs.

Even as you practice patience, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce back pain you’re pushing through. The research behind medicine guidelines for lower back pain finds that these may give slightly better relief than acetaminophen (Tylenol).

Find relief through ice and heat.

Break out that bag of frozen peas (or a cold pack, if you want to get fancy) for the first 48 hours after the pain sets in, and put it to use for 20 minutes a session, several sessions per day. After those two days are behind you, switch to 20-minute intervals with a heating pad.

Treating Lower Back Pain: How much bed rest is too much?

Back pain is one of the most common reasons why people visit a health care provider. The good news is that the pain often goes away on its own, and people usually recover in a week or two. Many people want to stay in bed when their back hurts. For many years, getting bed rest was the normal advice. But current studies recommend no bed rest at all and stress that staying in bed longer than 48 hours not only won’t help but it may, in fact, actually delay your recovery.

Staying in bed won’t help you get better faster.

If you’re in terrible pain, lying down for a day to help ease the distress may seem like a good idea, but moderating your activities and staying active in a limited way is a more effective way to control your symptoms. Research suggests that if you can find comfortable positions and keep moving, you may not need bed rest at all.

Research shows that:

Lying down longer than a day or two day isn’t helpful for relieving back pain.

People can recover more quickly without any bed rest.

The sooner you start moving, even a little bit, or return to activities such as walking, the faster you are likely to improve.

Long bed rest can lead to slower recovery.

Staying in bed for any prolonged period can make you stiff and increase pain. When you don’t move and bend, you lose muscle strength and flexibility. With bed rest, you lose about 1 percent of your muscle strength each day. And you can lose 20 to 30 percent in a week. It becomes more difficult to return to any activity. As you become weaker and stiffer your recovery takes longer.

Who needs bed rest?

Almost no one! The only people who might require time in bed are those with unstable spinal fractures awaiting surgery.

Products People With Chronic Pain Swear By

Everyone in our chronic pain community has their own tricks and techniques for coping with the pain. But there are so many lotions, oils, massagers, pillows and other tools out there meant to offer relief, it can be overwhelming to try and figure out which ones to try. We all know what works for one person may not work for you, but hearing which ones others have incorporated into their pain-relief repertoire can be helpful as you decide which ones to test.

So, we asked our Mighty chronic pain community to share the products they swear by. These are the tools (aside from medication and medical cannabis) that help give them that extra relief from their pain. Let us know in the comments what other products you swear by.

Naturals Pain Relief Rub

This topical pain lotion can be rubbed on the site of the pain itself, providing instant and long-lasting treatment

Arnica Skincare Gel

Arnica is a herb that, when applied to the skin, can provide pain relief. incorporates arnica into a shower gel that is lathered onto skin with water. It’s a U.K. product, so it’s cheaper to buy in Europe than the U.S.

Microwavable Rice Heat Pack

A pack filled with rice can be microwaved and laid across the painful areas. The pack featured above is especially designed to be applied to your neck.

Chronic Pain: The Pain management Plan

The Pain Management Plan

Developed by NHS Pain Specialists

Research-evidenced benefits (download paper 1 here) and (download paper 2 here)

Can be delivered with 3/4 brief patient contacts, face-to-face, by phone or email

Works brilliantly in a group setting

Includes a relaxation, breathing and stress management programme on CD (can be bought seperately)

In a research project 95% of people said they would recommend it to other people with the same problem

Now you can buy it yourself if a medically qualified person has told you…

You have Chronic Pain or Fibromyalgia

The pain is not from a life-threatening illness

The doctor has told you there is no cure for your pain

And the pain has not suddenly changed or got worse

The Pain Management Plan can help you live a better life despite pain. Please read all of the information on the site, see some sample pages, and look at the FAQs page before you decide to buy.