Modernising your garage to add value to your home

If you are looking for ways to increase the value of your home, and a loft conversion is out of your price range, or just too big a job, why not take a look closer to the ground floor and modernise your garage to create a new living space. It can be equally as effective and there are a lot of options.

If you have a detached garage you will need planning permission to convert it into any kind of living space, but in general, if you are not altering the building structure of a garage attached to your house, you won’t need special permission. Always check with your local council first, just to be on the safe side, before starting any large home improvement projects.

You can be innovative about how you use the space – it doesn’t have to become an extra bedroom or a granny annexe! Why not move all of the loud and noisy appliances out of your kitchen and turn your garage into a kitchen extension or utility room. All you need to do is fit a few cupboards and worktops for ease of use, and move your washing machine, tumble dryer and chest freezer out into this extra space.

It may even make room in the kitchen to add some luxury items like a dishwasher or a nice breakfast bar, improving the quality of both spaces – and the impression it would make when selling on.

Why not look at splitting the garage into two new rooms, if it’s long enough, by using stud walls. You can create a useful home office and storage area, for example, to give some extra useful areas. If updating the use of the space, don’t forget to update the door as well! As most garages don’t have windows, a pair of French doors could bring in light and make it look more like a living space.

Other options you can look at to modernise your garage, could be practical – create an additional downstairs bathroom or bedroom. Or why not take a different route and add a luxury room to your house by converting the garage into a bespoke gym, home cinema, or maybe a games room?

If you live in a family-focused area and are trying to sell the house on, then consider converting the garage into a fun family play room for the children to keep all their toys – it will mean less mess and clutter in the house and will appeal to parents and children alike!

Once you have your ideas, do your homework and research what it will mean – do you need power, insulation, heating to be installed? Do you need planning permission for any of the ideas and plans you have – it’s always better to be on the safe side. There can be no doubt that modernising your garage and creating extra useable space will add value to your home in the long run, if done properly. 

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/01/modernising-your-garage.html

Staying current with the carpet and flooring trends of 2017 – Spruce up your floor

The present carpet trends are not like anything else that’s trending in flooring at the present moment. When it comes to decorating the hard surfaces, it’s all about adding the stone looks and mimicking wood. Soft flooring is a different story altogether. With regards to flooring subject, carpet is one of the most controversial topics. No, not in the sense of argument but in general, people either seem to love it or hate it and those who purely hate the idea of carpeting will always try to convince you about the fact that carpets are outdated. But this isn’t TRUE!

While there are homeowners who watch out for cozy carpets, carpet is still the #1 flooring sellers among choosy homeowners. The concerns of this article will tell you about the carpet and flooring trends that you may follow to remain trendy and stylish.

Trend #1: Carpets

Carpets are gradually getting more eco-friendly and there are some manufacturers who are creating combinations of fiber which take softness to an entirely new level. There are factories all over UK which make ‘green’ carpets. The ace carpet manufacturers are of the opinion that the evolution of softer textures serves the cutting-edge trend of their business and they’re surprised enough to see the return of luxury carpet. The broad genre called cut-and-loop is in trend nowadays and most of them are multi-tonal and heathered and the trend is towards patterned carpets with cleaner finish. You can get local carpet fitters to fit in your favorite carpet inside your room. 

Trend #2: Bamboo

Bamboo has been in trend for a long time now but something that we can see off late is an explosion of styles and colors. Technically, bamboo is a fast-growing grass and bamboo is harder than most hardwoods after they’re dried. Strand-woven bamboo is a highly engineered product which is twice as hard as conventional bamboo flooring. As with any kind of wooden flooring, it is always best to keep bamboo away from rooms that are moisture-prone like baths and kitchens. 

Trend #3: Reclaimed wood

Another rising trend in flooring is offering classic looks by leveraging new technology and the best example for that is reclaimed hardwood. The new form of hardwood flooring offers the charm of reclaimed timber but the best part is that there are no high costs associated with it. Wood that is factory-finished will be able to withstand all moisture fluctuations and can perform better than any wood flooring which is done onsite.

Trend #4: Large format tile

In the world of tiles, we always see an explosion of shapes, sizes, patterns and materials and mainly popular these days are the large-format tiles. These tiles come in 12” X 24” sizes and sometime even 36” X 36”. Apart from giving a great look to the floor, larger sized tiles mean more tile surface and less lines to clean. In order to get a professional look, hire a pro installer.

Therefore, if you’re confused about the kind of flooring to add to your house, choose any one from the above mentioned trends to stay fashionable and trendy.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/01/carpet-flooring-trends.html

5 Cases when calling an electrician is mandatory for your home

Electrician

Not every homeowner has all the relevant knowledge about the wires, panels, electrical outlets and other aspects. In such cases, it is better to call an electrician and get the work done. A lot of people try their hands on electrical works just to save their precious money. A minor issue can turn out to be a complicated when you try working out yourself without much knowledge and skill. Therefore, experts recommend having the contact details of the professional electric serviceman in case of emergencies. Electrical wiring and faulty electrical accessories can also increase the power consumption bill and if you do not handle these parts with excat knowledge, then you can get affected by a short circuit. It can also set your house on fire. In these cases, it is suggested to solve the minimal electrical issues by hiring some certified electricians only.

When you should call a professional electrician?

Let us check out five major electricity problems when you will need a professional to repair it in a right way. Have a look at them as follows.

Electrician

Flickering of lights: When you notice the lights of your home flickering all of a sudden and you are unable to fix it by yourself then it might be because of internal damage or wrong wiring. The solution is calling an expert who can actually figure out the root cause of the problem and repair it. You may thinkthat due to power fluctuation, you are facing these problems but if you notice the power fluctuation problems then it is more dangerous. Constant power fluctuation can damage your main fuse and it can permanently damage your electrical meter.

Burnt fuses: Has any of the fuses of your home got burnt or blown out? There is no question of repairing the same fuse; rather you will have to replace the entire fuse. Instead of wasting time and thinking how to repair, call an electrician immediately and get the matter sorted out without risking the entire electrical system of your property. It is suggested that do not try to use any adhesive and tape on the burned fuse because it can lead to some dangerous effects, and it can even set fire to your house. So always replace the damaged fuse by contacting with some professional electricians.

Building a new house: If you have constructed a new home, then surely you will need a complete and effective electrical system. It is mandatory to call a professional to create a perfect and functional system for the home. The certified and professional electrical contractors can easily install and design the electrical wiring and other accessories in your new building.

Security system for the house: Nobody likes to invite burglars and criminals in your house. Hence, nowadays everyone is installing security systems to protect the people and the property. Only experts can install the right kind of security systems to help you stay safe and relaxed.

Water related issues: It is known to everyone that water and current are the worst enemies, which can result in extremely serious situations. Whenever you notice any leaks or such issues, you need to call the electrician immediately to reduce the risk of any danger.

The person whom you are going to hire should have a license that reflects that he is a proficient man for the job. He will assure you right solution and as per the government standards of the country. In addition to this, the licensed person will also charge the fees based on the industry rates and you can be rest assured after hiring him for the task.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/01/calling-electrician.html

2 Stunning Hardwoods That Make the Best Bathroom Vanities

The New Year has finally arrived and I’m sure you want every nook of your house to look new-like and fresh. And you also want to change the decor of your house according to the latest trends, right? So, what are you waiting for? Revamp your home and make it look absolutely gorgeous. Home renovation won’t just enhance the aesthetics, but will also increase its value. Therefore, go for a renovation and when renovating your home, don’t ignore the bathroom. You must be thinking, why I am saying this. Well, it’s because more than half of the homeowners ignore their bathroom when they are renovating the entire home and the reason is hilarious. What most of them claim is that “nobody is going to check the bathroom when they visit my home!” But what if the guests want to go to the loo and they find out that during renovation you have focused on living and bedroom and completely ignore the bathroom? That’s really embarrassing. So, do revamp your bathroom, as it is definitely one of the most important rooms of the house and the most used one too.

Now, if you are thinking that renovating a bathroom area will cost you way too much, then that’s your biggest misconception. To renovate your bathroom, you neither have to hire an interior designer nor buy expensive decorative items. And you don’t even have to change every single part of the bathroom. All you need to do is replace the sink area with a stylish bathroom vanity.

A bathroom vanity won’t just make the sink area look more royal, but will also help you keep the bathroom clutter free. Wondering, how is that possible? Well, these vanities come with cabinets where you can easily store your bathroom essentials. So, wait no more and visit a reputed store that is famous for selling attractive and affordable Wholesale Bathroom Vanities.

Thinking, which type of bathroom vanity to purchase? Well, there are varieties of bathroom vanities available in the market. But as an interior designer, I would suggest you purchase wooden vanities as they will make your bathroom look stunning. Here is the list of wooden vanities which are best for bathrooms and their characteristics.

Take a look

2 Best Hard Wood For Bathroom Vanities

• Maple Wood

This is one of those woods which are mostly used in making the bathroom as well as kitchen cabinets. I’m sure you must have come across people saying that maple kitchen cabinets are the best. But trust me; bathroom vanity cabinets made of this wood are good as well. So, you can opt for maple bathroom vanities. Some of the pros of this wood are:

1. It has consistent and fine grain all over it that makes for a uniform, handsome appearance.
2. This wood has warm consistent shading, which takes stains brilliantly.   
3. It is absolutely durable. And in fact, it is said to be sturdier than any other wood.

• Walnut Wood

After maple, if there is another wood that is loved by interior designers and furniture makers or carpenters then that is none other than walnut wood. And believe me, if you purchase walnut bathroom vanities, you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of its specialties:

1. This is quite a strong wood. But still, try o prevent it from blows and bashes.
2. Walnut wood has smooth, fine and general straight wood grain, which makes it look classy. In fact, it mellows with age. Trust me; you’ll love to see the color transformation from dark to light.

These were the two best kinds of wood that will make great bathroom vanities. So, wait no more, rush to a reputed store and purchase wholesale bathroom vanities.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/01/wholesale-bathroom-vanities.html

What Type of Concrete is Right for Your Garden Project

Garden renovations are a common practice for homeowners all over the world, whether it’s turning a jungle of a garden into a neat, clean living space or it’s just bringing your outdoor area up to date. Everyone has an idea of what they want their renovated garden to look like – what plants are going to take which spots, where the pond might go, how big the patio is going to be – but knowing the materials required for certain aspects of the project is a different matter.

In this piece, we are going to detail why you might concrete for different aspects of your garden project and why they are necessary. (Different types of concrete have different pricing, so please ensure you understand the costs of each concrete before you begin):

External pathways:

For external pathways, we recommend C30 concrete. This concrete is designed for lighter applications, like paving in gardens. The PAV 1 mixes of C30 concrete contain an air entrainment additive, used to create standard air bubbles that help to protect the concrete from freeze-thaw cycles. 

Swimming pools:

As swimming pools are obviously heavy, the concrete that they need to be built upon needs to be strong. C40 concrete is ideal for this purpose. It’s used commonly for support beams and structural support, including footage and foundations. C40 concrete is also used for septic tanks.

Fence posts:

In order to ensure your fence posts are secured in the ground, they need to have solid foundations. C20 concrete is the ideal choice for this, as it is designed for lightweight domestic applications.

Patios:

For seating and socialising in your garden, you can’t go wrong with a patio. But the patio needs a solid base to ensure people are sitting comfortably. C20 concrete is the material for you.

Find out more at EasyMix Concrete UK Ltd in London

 

The post What Type of Concrete is Right for Your Garden Project appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

from UK Home Improvement Blog http://www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk/what-type-of-concrete-is-right-for-your-garden-project/

Points To Consider When Buying A Mini Digger For Yourself

When it comes to comparing the different mini excavators, there are some main factors that need to be taken into consideration. These include the operating height, dump height and digging depth. These 3 aspects will always have an effect on the size and type of machinery that you will obtain as they impact directly on the productivity levels when it comes to job sites.

Before deciding on one model, make sure you are pairing your requirements with the capabilities of a machine in order to ensure they are matching up. Choosing an excavator that is undersized will not provide enough functionality or power in order to accomplish your job requirements in an effective manner. And even when the bigger excavators may seem like a better choice they can risk causing unnecessary damages on a job site as well as using significant amounts of fuel.

Factors To Keep In Min When Comparing Diggers

Below are the main factors that manufacturers make use of to compare diggers to their competing models. Some of the machines can fall outside of the ranges, they still represent an average of the availability currently.

Bore

These are mainly utilized for installing cables or conduits and underground-utility construction. The directional bores are able to drill in a horizontal manner underground with average diameters of between 3.7 to 4.5 inches in relation to diameter for the mini excavators.

Net Power

This is a representation of the “total output” these machines are capable of. The lower end machines are designed for lighter duties such and handling of materials and landscaping and the higher end machines are designed for mining applications, heavy-duty construction, trenching and stump removals. You can expect these machines to feature horsepower of between 10hp and 50hp.

Swing System

This design will allow the operators the ability to hydraulically-shift their boom in specific ranges of degrees to the right or the left. These are utilized for trenching and digging in a parallel way to the tracks of the machine. The typical swing speeds range between 9.2 and 11 RPMs.

Engine Fuel

In regards to the horsepower required even with the light-duty tasks, each mini digger uses diesel fuel and will feature tank sizes that vary from as little as 3.6 gallons onto 33 gallons dependent on the output and size of these machines.

Maximum Governed

With the intention to maintain torque loads placed on the engine which occur with varying demands, a typical maximum when it comes to governed RPM is about 2200 RPM.

Maximum Digging Depth

This should be one of the main considerations to keep in mind before purchasing a mini excavator. This is because it will dictate the depth of the trenches. When it comes to mini diggers you can expect a 5.5 to a 12 feet deep range.

Max Dump Height

Another important consideration, particularly when the machine will be used to handle materials on a job site. The maximum dump height varies between 6 to 13 feet.

Operating Weight

Often referred to as “compact” or “mini” this portion of the excavators weigh anything from 2,000 to 18,500 lbs and will be chosen according to the least impact it will have on the working environment.

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/01/buying-mini-digger.html

6 Tips For Approaching Home Upkeep Like A Pro

For a lot of homeowners there’s something appealing about personally taking care of jobs around the house. While there are definitely times to leave it to the professionals, there’s something satisfying about using your own hands to fix up your home when you can manage it.

Of course, much of your ability to take care of home repairs depends on the job itself and your skill as a handyman, but it’s not all up to skill. Sometimes having the right tools for the job can have you well on your way to a professional approach to basic projects. Here are a few specific tips to keep in mind.

1. Learn The “Hacks”

There are usually more than a few easy ways to simplify small repairs around the house. Remodeling Expense wrote up a helpful list of home “life hacks” that dealt with everything from fixing scuffed floors to hiding the wiring for a mounted television. Learning some of these tracks can have you well on your way to being more handy around the house and maintaining it like a pro.

2. Upgrade Your Tools

For a lot of homeowners a toolkit typically means a few basic handheld tools that have probably been lying around for years, maybe with a set of wrenches thrown in. But upping your tool game can help you do a far more thorough and professional job when addressing a lot of home repairs. A power drill is one of the essentials for any home collection and Screwfix has neatly catalogued a number of drills to make it easy for you to find the perfect one for your home. We recommend finding a decently powerful cordless model with a reverse setting to get yourself started.

3. Have a Home Starter Kit

In addition to a solid power drill there are also a few other must-haves for any home starter kit. A hammer is something of a no-brainer but you should also have two types of manual screwdrivers (a flat head and a Phillips head), a set of hex wrenches, an adjustable wrench, a measuring tape, and a level. With a set of tools at your disposal that covers the basics you’ll be well on your way to fixing up your home in no time.

4. Find Ways To Practice

From fixing electrical wiring to repairing a hole in a wall, home upkeep can present a lot of jobs that you may have never tried before. That can be a bit intimidating, but as with most everything else in life, practice makes perfect. That means one of the best ways to set about becoming a professional-caliber home DIY’er is to find ways to gain some more experience. You might want to try your hand at finishing or remodeling a basement or some other out-of-the-way room just for practice, or build a workshop or garden shed on your property. Projects like these can expose you to all kinds of jobs that you’ll learn valuable lessons from and help prepare you for future problems.

5. Remember To Be Organized

It’s tempting to look at home repair tasks as being all about hands-on work, but the best repair jobs tend to be the most organized ones. That means you’ll also want to keep things clean and maintain records of your progress. This isn’t particularly complicated, but you may want to have a notebook set aside for jobs around the house. In it you can record a list of things that need doing, materials you need, and progress on various ventures. Additionally, you should always keep adequate cleaning materials nearby—it’s pretty easy to make a mess otherwise.

6. Know Your Limits

Finally, it’s important to know your own limits. Optimism, hard work, and a will to learn can take you a long way, but The Huffington Post points out that there are some projects you probably shouldn’t try on your own unless you happen to have the necessary expertise. Even the handiest of homeowners still recognize the need to call a professional from time to time!

The post 6 Tips For Approaching Home Upkeep Like A Pro appeared first on Homey Improvements.

from Homey Improvements http://homeyimprovements.com/6-tips-approaching-home-upkeep-like-pro/

The rage of steam: don’t panic – if looked after, steam radiators aren’t dangerous

As a home heating device, radiators operating via steam have been around for many decades. In fact, they predate central heating systems relying on hot water-based radiators. Granted, in many homes up and down the UK, hot water-powered systems have long been favoured over their steam counterparts, yet in some instances (and certainly in homes outside the UK; for instance, in the US) the latter remains very common. But why?

Well, the advantage with a steam system is it drives heat through pipes and to radiators without the need for pumping, which makes heat distribution easier – and cheaper – through large, tall buildings, such as inner city apartment blocks. However, there is a drawback. Relatively speaking, a steam-based central heating system may be considered more dangerous than a hot water-based one – if it’s not properly maintained, that is. Obviously, these dangers can be avoided so long as inspection takes place regularly and worn out and faulty parts are repaired and replaced.

Old radiators, systems and boilers

So what goes wrong with steam systems? Well, as many are ageing nowadays, some are at the mercy of wear and tear; specifically corrosion inside their pipework and boiler, usually unseen and unnoticed, thus potentially causing pipes to burst, blasting steaming vapour into rooms or even causing explosions.

Additionally, there can also be pressure build-up within the pipes and so stress on the entire system because ageing boilers are not being turned on and off automatically due to faulty thermostatic controls. Or because a boiler may have become clogged up with chemicals and minerals or because radiator relief valves have worn out and refuse to open. In such aged and compromised systems, valves may also simply break off if they’re worn out, resulting again in a room filling with steam and suddenly resembling a piping hot sauna.

It’s worth mentioning too that should a system be leaking a large amount of steam or generating a lot of humid air via its radiators, it’s likely to foster mould in a room, which can prove to be a health hazard for young children, the elderly and people afflicted with allergies and respiratory conditions. Again, however, it should also be stressed that, although the wearing out of components is common, these worst case scenarios are rare because steam systems are, by and large, effectively maintained.

Maintenance is crucial

If you’re responsible for a steam system then it’s crucial you ensure it’s regularly inspected and kept in good condition. This should involve a professional expert examining the boiler, its radiators, its exposed pipes and its release valves, specifically for any worn or broken components. They also should check the guide marks to be found on the boiler’s sight glass; these will inform them whether or not the boiler contains the correct amount of water. Moreover, they should insist on the area in which the boiler’s stored be kept free of all dust and debris – allowing the latter to build up here is just asking for trouble as they could become potential fire hazards.

All that said, there is, of course, an alternative to maintaining an old steam system. Depending on the constraints of the building it serves, it may be possible to upgrade it; that is, replace it with a more modern and (relatively) safer hot water-powered system, which would also be a good excuse for installing new, stylishly designed radiators. And why not? Given there are so many different smart and elegant types to choose from today, including the likes of the towel rail radiator and the mirror radiator.

Rarely dangerous

If installing a whole new central heating system isn’t an option, though, then it’s certainly possible to keep a steam system going; irrespective of its age, so long as it’s been well looked after. To that end, such a system is unlikely to pose significant dangers to home occupants. Indeed, most injuries from a radiator tend to occur because children have foolishly touched its piping hot, metal surface rather than because steam has escaped or exploded out of the radiator owing to a broken or worn out valve or any other system components.

It is true, of course, that steam can burn skin worse than hot water because it may be superheated; however, children tend to get burned much more often by scalding bath water than by steam, while the severity of steam burns are often lower than those caused by fire. Unlike steam systems and radiators then, fire – that potentially highly dangerous component found in every home – is surely the main one every household should remain ever vigilant about.

The post The rage of steam: don’t panic – if looked after, steam radiators aren’t dangerous appeared first on UK Home Improvement Blog.

from UK Home Improvement Blog http://www.ukhomeimprovement.co.uk/the-rage-of-steam-dont-panic/

Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them

There’s a variety of reasons for why your garage door may not be functioning properly. The causes range from dead transmitter batteries to something blocking the door’s path. Fortunately, the answer is usually something easily resolvable.

Some common garage door problems — and how to fix them — are:

1. A Tentative Door

When the garage door starts to lower and then stays down for about a second before coming back up, it’s likely a sign that there is something blocking the door’s path. Since the door attempted to go down, that suggests there’s nothing wrong with the batteries or transmitter.

Garage doors are designed so they don’t crush objects in their path. Otherwise, it would present a very dangerous prospect. Check the area around the door to make sure nothing is blocking it. If it’s all clear, the issue could also be a buildup of debris on the tracks that’s preventing the rollers from moving forward. Dirt, mud and rocks can build up there, and if a door hits that debris, it will go back up, resulting in this tentative door.

The resolution to a garage door that’s reopening is either something blocking the path or debris build-up. The latter may require a step ladder to view the tracks on the top part of the system, but otherwise this issue can be resolved fairly easily by moving whatever is blocking the door.

2. A Non-Responsive Garage Door

If the door isn’t responding at all, it’s likely that the door’s transmitter batteries are dead. This prevents a strong enough signal being sent to the receiver to open the door. You might still see the lights on the receiver light up, or it may try to open. But, if the door remains shut when you push the buttons, try replacing the batteries in your handheld transmitter.

Changing the battery is a simple process that requires sliding the door open on the back of the transmitter, removing the old battery, then replacing it with another. Make sure the plus and minus signs are lined up, like conventional batteries, and test it. The door should work now.

3. Misaligned Photo Eye

If your garage door is refusing to open or opens a bit and then stops, it also could be due to a misaligned photo eye. Garage doors developed after 1993 have two tiny photo eyes that transmit an invisible beam to detect if anything is in a garage door’s path. If the door keeps stopping, yet clearly nothing is blocking it from closing, the eyes could be misaligned or dirty.

Be careful not to scratch or damage the photo eye when cleaning it, since it’s only a few centimeters in diameter and can be fragile. Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaner to wipe away any dirt or residue. After this, make sure the alignment is correct — the eyes should be pointing in the same direction and at the same angle. They need to register each other to accurately detect if anything is in the garage door’s path. A level can also be used to ensure they are pointing directly at each other.

4. Broken Torsion Springs

Another potential cause of a garage door failing to go up is broken torsion springs. When these break, there will be a loud bang, so if you hear that and the door stops working, it’s likely broken torsion springs. Doors typically have one or two of these springs.

While some garage door solutions can be resolved at home, broken torsion springs require the work of a professional. A broken spring, and the springs in general, can be dangerous to work with because they are under an extreme amount of pressure. Make sure not to attempt to open the door until a professional gives it a look. Springs expire after significant use, so this can happen to anyone.

Tension springs and cables could also break, and they require the attention of a professional as well.

5. Check the Disconnect Switch

If the door doesn’t move but you can still hear its motor, your disconnect switch may be enabled. This switch allows you to open the garage door without power, in case you need to get something out of the garage, such as your car, during a power outage. The switch is sometimes attached to a hanging rope.

If you used the switch during a power outage, you will have to reattach it to automatically open and close your door again. You’ll need a step ladder to reattach it.

Issues for garage door owners are fairly common. The garage door might keep re-opening, not close or not stay down. The various explanations above can usually remedy the issue, with many of them entailing simple at-home repair. However, you can always contact a professional as well should something with your garage door be beyond your realm of DIY abilities — such as changing the torsion springs.

No matter your garage door situation, though, by following these tips, you’ll be fully prepared next time your garage door gives you difficulty.

The post Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them appeared first on Homey Improvements.

from Homey Improvements http://homeyimprovements.com/common-garage-door-problems-fix/

4 Must-Know Hacks to Renovate Your Bathroom on a Budget

Is your bathroom in dire need of a pick-me-up? Bathrooms and kitchens are notorious, money-sucking renovations for a home. However, this post will share a few secrets to redoing a small bathroom on a budget.

Alicia from DIY Home & Health recently did a bathroom renovation that only cost around $150 and in the post below she’s going to reveal her hacks for renovating a bathroom on a budget!

Disclaimer: This post is based off of Alicia’s original article on DIY Home & Health which is sponsored by HOMAX®. Homax sent Alicia their improved formula for their TOUGH AS TILE® Brush-On Epoxy Refinishing Kit. All opinions expressed in the post below are Alicia’s.

If you have an ugly bathroom and are just looking for a way to spruce it up without breaking the bank, these renovation tips are for you!

When most people start to plan their new bathroom look, the first thing they think about is paint. Paint is an easy way to give a room a whole new look! That’s why I’m not sticking it in my list of hacks. This post isn’t to give you the obvious (like a fresh coat of paint) but to help you think of ways to improve your bathroom’s appearance that you may not even know exist!

Hack #1: Use stick-on flooring.

Bathrooms can be one of the toughest areas to put down new flooring due to the toilet and other weird curves. If your bathroom has vinyl, which most old, cheap bathrooms do, not only will you have to scrape up the vinyl tiles, but you will need to also scrape up the glue layer which usually sticks the vinyl to the wood beneath. This can be a messy and long task. So instead, just leave the vinyl as is and cover it up with stick-on flooring. Use the stick-on vinyl wood flooring that is thin enough to easily cut through with a razor knife. This will make cutting those weird curves easier than if you go for thicker floors like floating vinyl wood floors. Ollie’s carries stick-on flooring around $20 for about 20 square feet (this pricing and availability is an estimate and it may not be carried in a store near you).

Hack #2: Use stick-on tile for accents.

I’m sure you’re starting to see a trend here. The secret to renovating your bathroom on a budget is to simply cover up the old with something new. Stick-on mosaic tiles or even stick-on stone looks great on mirror edges, as a backsplash, on the outside of the tub, or as certain wall accents. I got my stick-on anti-fungal tile on Amazon for $15 a sheet. To complete a large mirror trim, I needed two sheets.

Hack #3: Use the Homax Tough as Tile Refinishing Kit.

Easily mask older or discolored sinks, toilets and tubs with Homax. My bathroom had a fake marbled countertop and sink that I was dying to get rid of. However, purchasing a brand-new sink and vanity would cost me upwards of $400. Since this is a secondary bathroom, one we really only use if there are guests or if our master bathroom is taken, using this product to paint over the ugly laminate countertop and sink was a great solution. You can find it at The Home Depot and Lowe’s and the brush-on formula, which I used, is just under $40 (price may depend on where you live). It also comes in a spray that may be easier to use depending on your project.

Watch my video on how to apply Homax Tough as Tile.

Hack #4: Replace hardware and light covers.

This hack you may not be needed depending on how old your bathroom looks. Mine had mustard yellow, cracked light switch covers and a gross looking floor vent. The hardware on the cabinets was rusty and out of date. Even though these are small items in the bathroom, they affect the overall appearance of the room. They are also relatively cheap to switch out. A new floor vent cost me $10, outlet covers $3, and new hardware for the cabinet $4. If you are looking for an easy hack to fixing mismatched outlets and covers, use a decorator wall plate. I’ve even painted my light switches with nail polish to get it to be the same color as the plate!

Here are my before and after shots of the bathroom:

Keep in mind, these are DIY hacks, which means they won’t necessarily add tremendous value to your home like doing a proper renovation with real hardwood, actual tiles, and a new sink and counter. But if all you are looking for is for a prettier bathroom without spending thousands of dollars, then these tips will work for you.

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from Homey Improvements http://homeyimprovements.com/4-must-know-hacks-renovate-bathroom-budget/

What Is the Most Profitable Farm Animal?

First rule of farming: Don’t name your livestock. You shouldn’t get too friendly with an animal that is going to end up on somebody’s dinner plate. Yes, the most profitable farm animals are often the ones that generate income by being sold for their meat — but not always.

It’s important to note, however, that if you’re planning on selling the meat from your livestock, it helps to make sure there is a market for what you’re selling. For example, you could raise ostriches, but if no one is buying ostrich burgers, then you’re not going to be in good shape. You also have to think about those “final stages.” Will you be doing the butchering or merely selling off the livestock?

Once you have those issues worked out, you could consider the following livestock choices that are profitable, even if you aren’t simply selling them for meat:

1. Chickens

Chickens are probably the most popular low-maintenance farm animal. They can also generate three potential revenue streams between their eggs, meat and their poop — yes, we know, but it makes great fertilizer for vegetable gardens once it’s composted.

One chicken needs about four square feet as their own “zone” in the coop. The more space they have, the better off they’ll be — and so will you. Stress can reduce egg production.

The chickens will also need the coop to be dry, and they’ll require a fresh water supply as well as plenty of feed. Fortunately, feed for your chickens is relatively easy to come by — it can be just about anything from compost, veggie scraps or store feed.

Once the coop is up and running, your job will be to keep it clean and keep the chickens safe from predators.

2. Honeybees

A farm for bees? Why not? Once you set up the hive boxes, all you need to do is provide some water and then sit back and watch all that honey get made. Best of all, bees are free. You’ll just have to invest in the boxes as well as bee suits and honey-collecting gear, but there will be no requirements for day-to-day feeding!

The hive box you’ll set up will have sugar water to attract the bees. Once they move in, there will be no stopping their growth.

Placement of the hive is key, too — you don’t want this box right outside your kitchen. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, low-maintenance animal for your farm, honeybees are certainly a way to go.

3. Goats

A cow is going to take up a lot of room. You would also need several cows to generate any kind of decent profit. On the other hand, a few goats can prove to be profitable without eating you out of house and home. They work great as roving lawn mowers. Their milk is easier to digest, and goat cheese can be fantastic.

Ironically, though, goats themselves have tender tummies, so you have to keep an eye out for stomach problems that can quickly deteriorate. Also, make sure your fences are secure. Goats love to roam and aren’t above making a “leap” to freedom.

As you get comfortable with these low-maintenance farm animals — and bees — you’ll be able to expand your existing collections and add more variety. Of course, you can make life simple and just stick with the chickens and the bees. Note to self: Look for honey glaze chicken recipe for dinner.

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from Homey Improvements http://homeyimprovements.com/profitable-farm-animal/

How to Remodel Your Fireplace

If you have a fireplace and you are looking for a way to brighten it up, breathe a breath of fresh air into your fireplace, whether indoors or outdoor, or you just want a change, you really can do this quite easily. Refreshing up a fireplace can be as easy as adding paint, or more complex – such as shaving down the niche. Also, when planning on selling the house or rent it off, (landlordstation.com sort it for you) it’s still a valuable remodel. Below, we will be talking about a few ideas you can use for your own fireplace to change the look of it completely.

Remodel Fireplace

Add Some Paint

Paint is such an easy and inexpensive option. One idea is to also change the paint in the space on the walls. This will create a more fluid look. Add in a few paintings to the walls that also incorporate the colors of the walls and the fireplace to tie it all in. One thing to remember though; when painting a fireplace made from brick, this is a very porous material. If proper precautions are not taken beforehand, you are going to end up using more paint than you ought to! Try to use a paint that is specifically for a fireplace or masonry paint. One suggestion is to use something like a breathable latex paint such as Sherwin Williams Super Paint Acrylic Latex. The great thing about paint too, is that you can easily change the look whenever you want to another color or another texture. Simply paint over it! No removing adhesives or modular panels or whatever else. This is definitely one of the cheaper and easier options.

Marble For Less

Marble can be a very expensive material. Not only in terms of production, but also because you have to get a professional to install it. But, what if there was a quicker, easier and cheaper way around it that you could do yourself? One idea is to use faux marble adhesive paper for the tile surround. Even better: Keep any adhesive handy you find, that you really love the look of, such as granite, slate or another stone, you can use this as well. It takes just a few minutes to cut the tiles out and then place them on the surround. This is also a really great option for people that rent!

White Washing Brick

Brick tends to have a very outdated look to it, especially on a fireplace. Would you want a way to change the “color” of the brick? you can actually whitewash it. This can also be done by you which means it can be a budget friendly and cost efficient project. Simply take white paint with an eggshell finish and brush it onto the brick in small sections. Then, take a clean cloth and wipe it down to remove the paint. You still get the texture of the brick, but it changes the color of the dark red to something a little more bright and clean looking.

Wall Treatments

Wall treatments are panels that are specifically designed for walls – or any flat surface for that matter. These particular panels are made of hardwood that is used for flooring or any composite wood material. These panels can actually be attached to the surround of the fireplace to create a really different look, add texture, and create a whole new style for the room. If you are really concerned about the wood that you will be bringing in for your wall treatments, go through rainforestinfo.org.au which provides you with ample information on improted wood.

Above in the brick red section, these panels would work wonders in taking a room from outdated to modern or shabby chic, or even traditional. It really depends on the texture and pattern on the panels. One company to consider is called tilemarkets.com. They have interlocking panels which are super easy to install.

Statement Making Tile

Let`s say you have the ability to install tile or you’ve ever installed tile on a floor or in your bathroom, this should also be an easy project you can do. If not, that’s okay. This shouldn’t cost all that much so, have someone else install the tiles for you. You can simply visit an online store such as tilemarkets.com to have many options in hand right away. The plan is to purchase tiles which will complement the rest of the room. For instance, an area rug in the living room, with blue and white chevrons, you can take blue and white tiles and place these around. It’s a really easy way to change the look of the fireplace and you can use and find any colors or patterns of porcelain tiles for the job. You can also use any other material you want besides porcelain. You can use slate slabs or square tiles, granite, marble, glass, pretty much anything you can think of, you can use for the surround, or the entire wall for that matter.

More On:

landlordstation.com

rainforestinfo.org.au

tilemarkets.com

 

from Home My Heaven: Home Improvement Blog http://www.homemyheaven.co.uk/2017/01/how-remodel-fireplace.html

Easy Treatments for Ear Mites in Rabbits

Ear mites are a pretty common problem for rabbits. Most infections aren’t serious, thankfully, and can be dealt with easily at home. If left untreated, the problem will get worse and can lead to serious infections, including meningitis and eventually death. Even a minor infection is a pain for a rabbit to deal with, so it’s better to get it taken care of as soon as you can.

Ear Mites in Rabbits: Recognize the Problem

It’s almost impossible to catch ear mites in rabbits before they start. They burrow deep into the ear canal, and there are virtually no visible signs of them. You may notice your rabbit is scratching or shaking their head a lot, but may not be able to actually see anything inside the ears.

Eventually, as the infestation grows, the mites will start to create scabs which will spread to the outer part of the ear. At this point, it’s pretty uncomfortable for the rabbit, but not dangerous as long as you act quickly to take care of it. It will look like a brown, waxy buildup at first. Shortly after, it will become scab-like or flaky, and your rabbit will be pretty unhappy.

Separate and Clean

Ear mites spread quickly, so get the rabbit out of there! Place the rabbit with the infection in a separate hutch and clean, clean, clean! You’ll want to disinfect everything you can, toss out the bedding and keep their permanent living area as clean as possible. The treatment should be done in an area where no other rabbits are going to be. Mites can survive for up to three weeks away from a host, so anywhere the infected rabbit has been is a hot spot.

As the breeder or owner, you also need to be vigilant in making sure you wash your hands after handling the infected rabbit. Mites can transfer from rabbit to people to rabbit, and then you’d have to start all over with treatment!

Start Treatment

Ear mites in rabbits are common, so having a reliable home remedy for them is important. It’s actually quite simple to do, so long as you’re able to keep the rabbit from re-infecting themselves. There are a few easy ways to take care of the mites.

The most common natural home remedy for ear mites is oil. You can use most oils, like coconut or even vegetable oil. Just add a few drops at a time and the oil will smother the mites. Only use two or three drops, since more will be unhelpful and could make the rabbit uncomfortable. This method does take some time, and it’s vital to keep the rabbit separated until the infection is gone. Tea tree oil can help as well, to sooth the itching and help prevent infections from the scratches.

Do this treatment for two days, then every-other day for two weeks. Do it two more times — once at 21 days from the first treatment, and once at 28 days to make sure the mites won’t come back.

If you aren’t comfortable putting oil in your rabbit’s ear, you can also use honey. Mix three teaspoons of honey and three ounces of water, then coat the inside of the ear. This requires more than just a few drops of oil, but it should be followed on the same schedule. The honey is also a natural antibiotic and will help soothe irritated skin.

Be Proactive

As with any common ailment, prevention is the best medicine. Ear mites in rabbits occur and spread most rapidly in overcrowded conditions, so don’t try to house too many animals in one area. Another big factor for ear mites seems to be stress. The animals get stressed out, and all of a sudden ear mite infections start popping up left and right.

Straw bedding tends to harbor mites, so switch to a different kind if that’s what you use. You can also pre-treat the animals with a gentle mixture either once a week or whenever you do other basic grooming, like nail trimming. A mix of mineral oil with a few drops of apple cider vinegar, and a few drops of a healing essential oil, like tea tree oil, can prevent mites from establishing an infection.

More than anything, remember that a mite infection is not pleasant for a rabbit to go through. Making sure it’s taken care of is an animal health and safety issue. Give your rabbits a little extra love — they’ll thank you for it!

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5 Innovative Ways to Automate your Home

If you’re a new homeowner and tech is your thing, a central vacuum is no longer going to cut it. Personal technology has always been hip, but recently we’ve learned to expect more from our cars and even our homes. Why can’t we enjoy the same level of tech in these big-ticket items that we do every day on a cellphone?

The age of smart home technology is upon us. With it come amazing new functionalities, and all of the troubleshooting and hair-pulling you’ve come to expect with your technology. When done right, a smart house can have a real impact on your quality of life. Imagine never having to worry about checking locks before a trip, having the ability to tune your stereo with a voice command or receiving an alert on your phone when the dishwasher has finished its cycle.

All these things and more are doable thanks to the set of technologies we know as the Internet of Things (IoT). New network technologies like Z-Wave, X-10 and more are enabling low-fi communication between appliances that makes it easy to link just about any network-aware device to your home’s central hub. Here are just a few of the things you can do if you’re new to cool home automation ideas.

Go Hub-less and Start With a Kit

When home automation ideas first became a thing, the smart hub was introduced as the centerpiece of your home automation operation. The hub performs exactly the role you would think it does: It acts as a center point through which other devices communicate. When you add a new device to your home network, you sync it with the hub to allow cooperation with your existing devices.

Here’s the thing about smart hubs: They’re being phased out, and the solution that’s replacing them is simpler and cheaper. Apple and Google have already released hub apps that manage your network using your smartphone. These new apps allow for a decentralized approach, and allow you to manage devices at a distance if you have an Apple TV or similar device in place.

Climate Control

The popular Nest learning thermostat has become something of a poster child for the smart home. It’s still a great option, but in the short time since Nest hit the market, a number of competitors have launched attractive alternatives.

Take for example the Ecobee3 Smart Thermostat, which offers a large, touch-sensitive screen and the ability to add additional sensors and expand the range of your thermostat in larger homes. Either way, you’ll be pleased at the ability to control your air conditioning and heat without leaving your bed.

Next-Generation Lighting

Another uber-convenient feature that many smart home owners enjoy is the ability to control lighting in their home at the touch of a button. Smart lighting can help save energy by placing lights on a timer, and in combination with smart locks, you can make leaving the house for vacation as simple as two quick taps on your smartphone. You can even define preset programs, and in the future it’s likely these will incorporate more than a single smart device.

If you’re really looking to impress, you can equip your smart home design with color-changing bulbs. Feeling blue? Adjust the hue of your entire domicile through an app on your phone. We can only imagine well-to-do ravers find this the best thing since sliced bread.

Kick Out the Jams!

You’ve already got all that music on your phone, why not sync it with the home-wide speaker system you’ve installed and enjoy music in any room at the tap of your smartphone? A number of Wi-Fi audio systems are already able to provide this functionality, an essential ingredient in any well-equipped smart home.

Taking things a step further, Amazon offers the Echo, a clever combination speaker and voice-control device. The Echo answers to “hey Alexa,” and once added to your network, it can play music and control other devices. The classic Echo includes a speaker integrated into its base, but you can expand your system or save some cash with the smaller Echo Dot, which still delivers voice control.

Stay Secure

It might not be quite as fun as piping high-fidelity sound into your cutting-edge living room, but the security features that home automation makes possible should help give you peace of mind while you rock out in the glow of your color-changing lights. They could also make it possible for homeowners to see what’s going on at their house from afar when on vacation or traveling for business.

There are a number of smart devices designed to keep your home safe already available. The most obvious selections for new homeowners are smart locks and cameras. Some smart locks give the added convenience of unlocking your front door when you approach with your cellphone.

Innovators at Cocoon have even devised something entirely new with the smart home device that bears the company name. The system can incorporate cameras, but its secret weapon is the ability to listen for low-frequency sounds that wouldn’t normally occur in your home. If an intruder is detected, it can sound an alarm or alert you via smartphone.

The Start of a New Era

The amount of functionality these new technologies can add to a home is already impressive, but we’ve really only scratched the surface. The potential for technologies like Amazon’s Alexa to expand in scope and usability is enormous, and we’ll no-doubt be living in a world where voice-operated, network-aware homes are the norm sooner than we think.

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