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How to Make Your Home more Environmentally Friendly

June 12, 2019 by admin

Being more energy-efficient is a fabulous thing, and knowing that you’re reducing your carbon footprint is even better. Mother Nature is a beautiful force, and if you can make any change – no matter how small – to preserve her, then you should probably do it.

It doesn’t just have to mean spending money on new fixes; sometimes, it can just be small changes. Here are just a few ways you can help make your home greener.

Install Solar Panels

Solar power is one of the best sources of clean and renewable energy and is also one of the most reliable. Having solar panels on your roof means you are not only helping the environment, but you’re creating a more consistent energy bill for yourself and even helping to create jobs in the solar panel industry.

It’s also possible to save a whole load of money by switching to solar power. Depending on the state you live in, there are varying tax incentives and cost savings to be had by having home solar systems installed. Companies like goingsolar.com explain exactly what you need to know in terms of where you live, along with an estimator to give you an idea of exactly how much you can save by switching.

Use Your Water Sparingly

Being eco-friendly doesn’t just mean your energy consumption and how you approach it. Water is also a valuable asset, and you can make simple changes to help the planet. Try not to leave your tap running when you are brushing your teeth or shaving. If you don’t need the water during that time, why waste it?

Try to spend a shorter time in the shower if you’re prone to spending half of the time in there singing into the shower head. If you can be in and out in less time, try to do so. You can also even consider installing a lower-flow shower head if you have a large family who spends a lot of time in the bathroom.

Install Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

You don’t want to get to the point where you’re worrying about switching on lights in case it harms the environment – it’s unrealistic to think you can get away with never using electricity or turning on the main lights.

If you elect to switch to energy saving bulbs instead of regular bulbs, you’re not only using less electricity, but you’re prolonging the life of the bulb (energy efficient ones last longer) meaning you’ll save money having to replace them all the time.

Use a Smart Meter for Your Heating

You’ve probably already fallen victim to the trap of leaving your heating on longer than necessary in the colder months, maybe even when you’re out of the house to ensure it’s all warmed up ready for you when you get home. If you use a smart meter programmed to come on and turn off exactly when you need it to, you’ll save money on energy bills and help to reduce your carbon footprint.

Upgrade the Appeal of Any Room with the Artichoke Lamp

May 23, 2019 by admin

Lighting is both an art and a science, and the Artichoke Lamp pays tribute to both categories with its unique structural design. Sometimes appreciating the handsomeness of this product is easier than deciding how and where to place it. To assist your designing venture we’ve compiled a few suggestions and ideas that make use of a wide array of themes, colors, rooms, and options to satisfy all kinds of preferences.

1. The perfect chic living room retreat:

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If you’re looking to cast a halo of inviting glow then the Artichoke Lamp is the choice for you. Available in silver, copper, and white, this signature piece will instantly elevate your living rooms outlook. The entire arrangement featured here is attempting to capture a bright, airy and cheerful room where you can host brunches, tea parties or laze around with family. By surrounding the light with a variety of articles ranging from patterned cushions to pure white couches, dark-colored seating arrangements on and around wooden elements and a wide open bay window, you create a wholly eclectic aura that appeals to modern sensibilities. Placing a large mirror parallel to the lamp and alongside natural lighting plays off well as it systematically enhances the amount of light and open feelings in the room.

2. A glorious dining room:

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A transitional hanging fixture like the Artichoke Lamp emphasizes the seating area in the center of the room, granting you the ability to frame a sophisticated communal area. As you can see in the image above, most of the furnishings are following a theme of classic elegance, from the large vintage portraits to the enormous fireplace and exquisite candle ornaments. However, the inclusion of bright carpeting and neon wall colors against the light create an intriguing combination. Furthermore, the chandelier-like appearance of this lamp earns it the title of a regal, state-of-the-art, contemporary lighting tool that adds a dimension of the aristocracy to the layout.

3. A chic and cozy arrangement:

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The symmetrical grace of the Artichoke Lamp makes it a charming decor piece to add to any residential zone. One might consider it redundant as there are already lamps and natural light from the large European style windows. However, the Artichoke Lamp is an accompanying lighting layer that’ll prevent the formation of unflattering shadows. It is imbued with vibrant properties that bring dynamic energy into the place.

4. Showcase your personality:

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Accessories are considered the finishing touches that complete any room and complement the designing scheme of the very same room. The trim design, handcrafted contours and sharp geometrical characteristics of the Artichoke Lamp allow you the chance to experiment. You can fluctuate between vintage, antique, conventional, contemporary or as shown in the illustration above. You can lay down the framework to a creative and unorthodox layout that represents the workings of your inner mind. Its eccentric nature works well in rooms that are host to neutral ceiling and flooring schemes but are littered with quirky and unconventional ornaments. It is a hybrid of a trendy, individualistic and fun gizmo. The only limit to the creative aspect of the layout is your imagination. So you’ll have to think outside of the box when dealing with this unorthodox yet good-looking fixture.

5. Add interest to simpler interior schemes:

Portrayed above is a mundane representation of a decidedly contemporary interior of the living room. It offers an uninterrupted theme of light-colored, wooden furniture articles. The Artichoke Lamp is a mid-century classic that offers an oasis of unfettered tranquility. The effect is enhanced when it is placed amidst similar pastel colored environments. You can create a wonderfully humble setup with warm and inviting tones. You’ll get a charming aura that is almost akin to rustic elements. Because of the embellished natures of the lamp itself, it’s best to minimize the presence of excessive decorations, artwork and additional decor item/ They’ll make the space too claustrophobic.

There are of course an infinite number of layout designs out in the sea of interior designing. But regardless, this detailed guide should be your go-to. It assists experts and novice designers and homemakers alike.

Silent but Deadly: 5 Major Signs Your House Has Plumbing Issues

April 11, 2019 by admin

Plumbing is one of those things that we often don’t think about because it’s hidden. With the major pipes behind walls, under cabinets, and running across the ceiling of the basement, it’s easy to forget completely about it.

Until, of course, there’s a problem.

That’s when you need to take action. Of course, it’s much better if you can discover a problem before it causes significant damage. Sometimes there’s a drip or knocking pipes to clue you in, but not always.

Here are five silent signs that your home has plumbing issues you should handle as soon as possible.

Discoloured or Rusted Pipes

When you go to your basement, take a moment to look at the water pipes you can see. The next time you need to open your kitchen or bathroom cabinets, do the same. Do you notice any odd coloration? Be sure to check especially around joints.

If you notice an odd colour, rust, or any kind of gunk building up, that’s a sure sign there is a leak. It’s possible the leak is from the supply line, which could cause a huge mess if it bursts. Contact a plumber right away to get help.

Nasty Odor

It may not make noise, but you’ll certainly notice it. If you notice a nasty sewer smell in your home, check and see if it’s coming from outside. If you step out of your home and don’t smell the same thing, you probably have a problem with your plumbing.

Drains and vents are designed to keep sewer gas vented outside of your home, so if you can smell it, there’s something wrong with that system. A vent line may be cracked or a drain may not be working properly. Either way, you’ll want to take action.

No Water in Wintertime

If it’s been quite cold and you notice a drop in water pressure or you simply have no water at all, it’s possible your pipes have frozen. This is a major concern and has to be handled right away.

Unfortunately, thawing the pipes is the least of your concerns. You have the most danger of an incident after the pipes thaw and the water suddenly returns at high pressure. Any splits or leaks that have occurred as a result of the pressure of the freeze will suddenly be very noticeable, and you may even have a pipe burst.

Do your best to keep your pipes from freezing in the first place, but if it happens, you may want a professional to help you fix it safely.

Bubbling Paint on the Wall or Ceiling

If you notice problems with paint bubbling from the inside, it’s a sure sign that there’s moisture behind the wall. Unfortunately, this can lead to a host of problems, from mould and mildew to pests and damage to your home’s structure.

It’s possible there’s a leak from the roof, a nearby window, or even a plumbing pipe that’s nearby. You’ll have to do some investigation to discover what’s wrong, as these kinds of plumbing leaks can be a bit sneaky and hard to find.

Once you do fix the issue, you’ll want to work with a company that provides waterproofing in Toronto so that you can ensure that no moisture will find its way into your walls again.

A Huge Jump in Your Water Bill

You know how much your water bill is most months. If you have a sudden spike, you should immediately look into what’s going on.

Of course, water rates change over time, but they don’t usually cause a huge change from one month to the next. First, consider if you have done anything that would increase your water usage significantly. Did you install irrigation in the yard? Did you fill a pool for the season?

If you haven’t done anything differently, it’s likely there’s a leak or problem in your plumbing system instead. A running toilet, for instance, can cause hundreds of dollars of extra water usage. You should fix your running toilet or address whatever leak is happening right away.

Great Plumbing Supports Great Health

One of the most silent but deadly things about water leaks is that they promote the growth of germs, bacteria, mould, and mildew. These things can significantly impact the health of you and your family. Younger children and older adults are especially at risk.

If you keep an eye on your plumbing issues and help make sure everything is up to date and working well, you’ll be promoting great health in your home. Your air quality and water quality will be better, and you’ll avoid provoking allergies or other illnesses.

Of course, it’s always best to have professional help with your plumbing issues. They know exactly how to identify problems and fix them safely. If you notice a problem, call a plumber right away!

Create a Bedroom That You Absolutely Love

February 8, 2019 by admin

Your bedroom is much more than just a bedroom. It is a haven where you can unwind, relax, and escape from your busy day and the outside world. There are a number of ways to create a comfortable bedroom that you won’t be able to resist. It doesn’t matter if you have a small or a big bedroom either. You can create the perfect space no matter what the size of your room is.

When shopping for a new mattress, it pays to do your research. Shop around, and if you have a health condition, talk to your doctor to see what he or she recommends. Try out your new mattress. Go to a mattress store that will let you lie on their mattresses for 10 to 15 minutes to get a feel of how comfortable they are. A mattress that your best friend loves may not be ideal for you. When you get recommendations, remember that you’ll still need to try a mattress out for yourself. Recommendations are a good starting point, but test it out first before committing to buy.

Although things, such as the paint color of your bedroom, your choice of linens, and other details are important, your mattress is also very important. You could have a bedroom that is worthy enough to be featured in an issue of Better Homes and Gardens. If your mattress is not comfortable, you will not only wake up with a sore body and feel like you got ran over by a bus. You simply won’t be able to relax.

There are many different kinds of mattresses to choose from; simple to high-tech ones that give you the power to adjust the firmness of your side and the side of your partner. You can even get cooling sheets and pillowcases if you find that you are often hot at night. It is always best to keep the temperature low when you are sleeping as well for a better night’s rest.

It is best to keep your bed for sleeping only and not do work on it or even eat or watch TV. This is a hard rule to follow sometimes. You see that big comfortable area and think how nice it would be to watch some TV or check your phone. But if you begin to do these things, your bed will become just another work area. If you stick to only sleeping on your bed, you will be able to associate your bed with only sleep and will be able to drift off easier.

You should also keep your bedroom clutter-free. It’s hard to relax when you have piles of paperwork piled to the ceiling and clutter covering your nightstand. It is a constant reminder of all the things that you need to do. Just keep the essentials that you need in your bedroom and keep items on your dresser and nightstand to a minimum. You should also organize your closet and dressers so that they are neat and aren’t overstuffed with clothing. Even if you can’t see the unorganized mess, you’ll still know that it’s there and be thinking about it in the back of your mind.

Different people have different needs when it comes to getting the right amount of sleep. For example, most adults only need about seven to nine hours of sleep, while teenagers eight and a half hours of sleep to nine and a half hours of sleep. Pregnant women will require more sleep in the first three months of pregnancy.

Sleep affects your body in many different ways. Your body depends on sleep in order to reboot and to function. When you sleep, your body is able to heal and to restore its chemical balance. If you don’t get enough sleep, you can get irritable and experience daytime fatigue. If you regularly miss out on the amount of sleep that you need, you may suffer from impulsive behavior, depression, and paranoia in extreme cases.

Save Money When Moving and Hire A Cleaning Service Instead

December 14, 2018 by admin

Moving can be an incredibly expensive, not to mention stressful, process. Expenses that come with packing, hiring people, unpacking, and having everything cleaned can truly add up and make your wallet and your bank account thin out pretty fast. However, never fear, there is a myriad of ways to save money during the moving process and leave you a cushion of your money so at least one stressor is taken off your shoulders. Below are a few ways in which you can save money on the move and use those funds to instead clean up and make your new place sparkle.

One obvious way to save money is by packing everything up by yourself instead of hiring workers to pack your things for you. That alone could save upwards of $200 during the process. You could also find free boxes to pack your things in places like mailrooms, liquor stores, grocery stores, etc. Most moving companies charge roughly $40 for only a few boxes, which when packing an entire house, could add up very quickly. Donating things that you no longer need or want hits two birds with one stone. It cuts down on packing time, keeps you from needing as many packing boxes, and also allows you to claim the donated items as tax deductions.

You can also save money when you move by carefully checking out different moving companies in your area and finding the ones with the company that offers the best deal. Consider Allied Movers for your next move. They can offer suggestions to not only save money, but make the whole moving experience hassle-free. Ask each company you call for a fixed price, and not an estimate, so that you can be fully informed on the decision before choosing a moving company to help you. Often times, if you tell a moving company that you found a better price at a different location, they will compete for your services and either match the price or go slightly below it, so use that to your advantage.

Moving can cause a major mess everywhere which is a stress on the process. It can cause scratches on the floor, dust to come up with things moving in and out, and people tracking things inside as they go in and out of your home. When you use the above tips, you should be able to save enough money to splurge on a cleaning company to come in and clean the house that you moved out of, and clean the house when you finish moving in. For the move out portion, the cleaning company comes in and dusts everything, cleans kitchen appliances, cleans out cabinets, sinks, and cabinets, scrubs all the toilets, showers, and tubs, and wipes down baseboards, finishing up by vacuuming and sweeping all the flooring. They ensure that your house is clean and ready for the next owners to enjoy.

When you move into a new home you want nothing more than a fresh start. Being able to afford a thorough move in clean, thanks to all the money you saved from moving expenses, will give you the peace of mind in knowing that your new home has been cleaned and disinfected from the top to the bottom. When you are in the process of moving and are able to hire a cleaning company, they can come in before all of your personal belongings are unpacked and ensure that every inch of every room gets the cleaning and attention to detail that it needs. Move out and move in cleaning services can be on the pricey side, however. With all the money you save from moving by following the tips above, the price is well worth the investment. You can have peace of mind in knowing that an extensive checklist will be checked off and the homes will be cleaned to the highest expectations. It will definitely take the stress off your shoulders and make moving easier.

Moving is all about a fresh start. By following the advice of moving professionals, you can save yourself money and the headache of having to do the incredibly hard work by yourself. Instead, be smart, relax, and get to know your new home and neighborhood.