Checklist for Home Maintenance

September 7, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing tips on a checklist for home maintenance.  If you are a home owner, you will need to make home repairs or replace items around your home.  As your home ages, it’s certain that items will break, come apart or simply give out.  Replacements and repairs are simply a part of home ownership.  

 

 

checklist for home maintenance

 

 

 

Checklist for Home Maintenance

 

Roof

I’ve been in my home for almost 30 years, and I’ve had the roof replaced once.  At some point, you will need to replace or repair yours too.  Homeowners should check their roof every few years.  Many home owners don’t take this step, and when there’s a huge storm with lots of rain or snow, they suffer the consequences.  Roofs will leak if shingles are lose or if they are weak they can cave in. 

Homeowners can encounter water damage to ceilings, walls and floors.  If furniture is under the leak, it can be damaged as well. Water can cause mold in walls too.     

Making checks on your roof a regular part of your home maintenance will save you money in the long run.  Call a local and reliable roofer to check your roof to ensure you don’t suffer major damage on your home.  

 

 

checklist for home maintenance

 

 

 

Concrete Sidewalks and Patios  

The elements can cause damage to your concrete pathways and patio if you don’t clean or seal it regularly.  Investing in a power washer and a good concrete sealer will save you money by not having to replace or repair your concrete.  Use Deicer that won’t harm your concrete if you live in a climate that gets ice and snow.  Use a professional contractor for any repairs.  

 

Basements

Making sure your sump pump is working sufficiently in your basement, and all drains around your foundation are unclogged and draining properly. You may also want to waterproof your walls internally.  Also, installing a water leak detector in your home could save you thousands of dollars down the road.  Whole-house leak detectors use wireless transmitters that detect and automatically shut off the water in the event of a leak. Ensuring your basement is dry will eliminate any chances of mold getting in your basement.  

 

checklist for home maintenance

 

 

Gutters and Downspouts 

Gutters have a slight downward pitch toward the corner of your house where there is a downspout.  The downward pitch is to move rainwater or melted snow toward and into your downspouts.  The downspouts allow the water to flow away from your home.  

 

Storage Buildings

Many homeowners have a storage building in addition to their garage.  If you have one, check the roof just like you check the roof on your home.  They need to be painted with quality exterior paint and maintained just like your home. Otherwise, they will deteriorate and cost money to replace them.  

 

Decks

Replace any cracked or weak boards on your deck.  A good power washing is needed every few years, and once dry a good sealer should be added.  Maintaining your deck regularly will save you thousands of dollars in replacement cost.  

 

 

Filed Under: Shopping Tips Tagged With: , , ,

Tree Maintenance for Homeowners

July 15, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on tree maintenance for homeowners.  People often underestimate the importance of taking good care of your trees. Although the trees existed before you moved in, it’s still your responsibility to take care of them.  So, you will want to ensure that they continue to grow big and healthy. However, taking care of your trees can be tough work, especially if you’re not sure how to get started. Lets take a look at how you can take better care of the trees around your home.

 

Tree Maintenance for Homeowners 

tree maintenance for homeowners

 

 

Water Young Trees 

 

Trees can actually absorb a lot of water.  Especially, if they’re already large and have well-established roots. New trees that have just been planted can actually use several gallons of water every week.  Especially during the first two growing seasons.  

So, if you haven’t had rain for several weeks you’ll want to water your trees to ensure they continue growing. One of the best ways to water trees is to let them absorb water slowly.  Actually, over a long period of time is recommended. Focus watering on the areas beneath the branches or at the trunk if it’s a new tree. A soaker hose is best, especially if you can leave it on a slow setting for a long time and just place it near the trunk. However, a sprinkler or bucket can also work.

 

 

tree maintenance for homeowners

 

 

 

Trim Trees

It’s a good idea to occasionally trim your tree to remove dead branches and reduce potential risks. Without tree trimming, your tree may grow in unexpected directions which could damage your property.  Furthermore, not trimming your trees can reduce the amount of sun and air that you get in a particular area.  Tree trimming ensures that you can improve the overall form of the tree which is important over a long period of time.

It’s totally possible to trim a tree yourself.  However, hire a professional especially if the tree is rather large. Climbing large tree requires safety precautions that should be performed by professionals.

 

Deal With Pests

Pests can be a huge problem for trees.  When starting a home garden, it’s important to take note of the potential pests that could invade your garden.  Make sure that you have measures to prevent pests and rodents from damaging or destroying your trees.  Thankfully, trees are resilient and will bounce back from most pest problems, but it’s important to identify potential infestations and other problems as early as possible.

 

 

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,

Home Remodeling Tips For Everyone

June 8, 2021 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing home improvement advise on home remodeling tips for everyone. At first glance, a remodeling project seems like an easy task to complete.  Most people who are DIYers or even if you can afford a professional remodel team, you need to be aware of the basics of home improvement endeavors. 

To simplify the process of home remodeling, I have prepared a list of the five most important recommendations.  

 

 

home remodeling tips

 

Home Remodeling Tips:   

 

  • Planning is everything

Choose the materials wisely and allocate your time.  This includes time to complete your project and to fix small issues once the project is completed.  You never know what emergencies will arise. After all, this is a remodeling project. More likely than not, something unexpected will be encountered. 

Furthermore, the cost may drop significantly if you plan properly.  Consult with your contractor through each step.  If you will be doing the work, put every step of the project on paper.  Be as elaborate as possible, even on minor details. Know your exact goal and follow the plan precisely. Set a timespan, budget, consider the possibly of extra expenses, and relocation expense if you have to move out.  

 

  • Search for the proper contractor

Unless you can do everything by yourself, make sure you hire the appropriate contractor for the job.  Look for the following:  

 

  • Thorough estimates
  • Licensed and well-trained team of professionals
  • Great customer service
  • References of completed projects
  • Good reviews
  • Quality service
  • Proper equipment to complete the job
  • A good vision of your remodel

 

When it comes to the right choice of a contractor, residents of Sacramento often opt for the services provided by the team of remodeling specialists from A+ Construction & Remodeling. They have the most permits in the area.

 

  • Be present at the remodeling site

Check on the remodel every step of the way.  You will want to catch problems early, and make sure they are brought to the attention of the contractor. This includes checking the materials to ensure they are exactly what you selected or will work for the remodel.  You can also assess the workers to ensure they are putting in the work they are getting paid to do.   

 

 

home remodeling tips

 

 

 

  • Have a good Understanding of the Contract 

Without considering this step, you could end up paying more money for the job.  So, ensure the contract contains all the information needed to make it a binding legal document.  This includes exactly what is to be remodeled and the end goal.  Also, include addresses, phone numbers, dates, signatures, materials and their cost, extra items etc. The success or failure of the home remodeling project depends on you as well as the contractor.  

 

  • Consider the value of the home 

What if you sell or rent out your property in the future? Such things as home remodeling can significantly contribute to the home value. As a result, add some stylish details, enlarge the kitchen, or build arches and passages in the home.  These upgrades could increase the amount of rent paid by renters or your home’s appraisal amount. 

 

Put some serious thought into your remodeling project. Even if you are knowledgeable, professionals can help you save on time and ensure everything is done with top-notch quality. Consider these home remodeling tips the next time you are considering a home remodel.  They will help you get things done effortlessly.  

Filed Under: Financial Tips, Shopping Tips Tagged With: , , ,

Budget Roof Replacement Tips for Homeowners

March 31, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing home improvement tips on budget roof replacement tips.  So, replacing your roof is necessary because the roof protects the interior of your home. Fortunately, it can be replaced even if you are on a budget.  We all know that budgeting is important; however, maintaining a roof that will protect you home is important too.  If you have an older roof, you may need more work than you realize.

 

Budget Roof Replacement Tips: 

 

 

budget roof repair tips

 

 

 

When starting on your budget, there are a few steps of planning:

 

Roof Inspection

Have a professional roofing technician inspect your roof. The technician will tell you if the repairs you need are minor or if the entire roof needs replacing. 

 

Get an Estimate

Call a roofing company, such as Dominion Roofing Company, for a free estimate. This step will give you a better insight into what work is needed on your roof. You’ll also learn what materials, and the number of labor hours that might be needed.

 

Get a least three estimates before accepting one. You’ll want to avoid picking a company just because it’s offering a low rate too.  

 

The companies you want to consider will offer competitive rates. Also, they should be properly licensed and insured. A good company will take the time to explain the details for your roof replacement.

 

Materials

You’ll want to know what materials you’ll need and how much they cost. Certain materials are cheaper than others. Pricing roofing materials before calling a roofer means you’ll have an expectation of what the quote is going to be.

 

Save

Unless your roof needs immediate repair, then get estimates and save your money. Another thing to do is plan ahead and set money aside over the course of years if possible.

 

Time it Right

You’ll want to schedule your roof replacement in late winter or spring. Roofers are busy in the later summer and fall.

 

 

 

budget roof replacement tips

 

 

 

Use Insurance

While homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damages due to neglect, your insurance can help cover costs due to something like a hailstorm.

 

Do some of the Work

If you have the skills, time and proper equipment, you can do some of the work yourself. This can help you cut the costs of repairing your roof.

 

In budgeting for a roof replacement, plan for it. Get estimates, research the cost of materials, save your money, and schedule  your repairs for the off-season. Do some of the work yourself to help save some money. Doing all of this to repair your roof correctly will protect the rest of your home and is an excellent long-term investment.

 

Filed Under: Shopping Tips, Shopping Tips Tagged With: , ,

Improving Your Backyard Tips

February 10, 2021 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing Tips for improving your backyard. If we want to improve our quality of life, we need to start improving our backyard, and start enjoy it.  There are many ways to improve the look of your backyard.  Possibilities include planting new plants or upgrading your garden furniture. It is very important that just as our house is harmonious and everything blends, the design in your backyard and garden should also blend.  Furthermore, it should have a uniform look and a sense of harmony. 

 

 

improving your backyard

 

 

Tips for Improving Your Backyard:

 

Install a Pergola

One way of improving your backyard is to install a pergola.  Installing a pergola in your backyard will increase your outdoor living space, and give you a shaded area to enjoy.  Furthermore, you can enjoy a pergola even when it’s raining.  However, it is suggested that you consider the quality of the wood before you install it.  A high-quality wooden pergola will last years with quality wood.  Additionally, it will make your backyard garden a place for entertaining guests, having your child’s birthday party, hosting a baby shower or just relaxing with family or friends. If you need to remove trees to get more light, consider a reliable tree removal service. 

 

Install a High Quality Space 

Another tip for improving your backyard is to consider different entertainment areas. You can divide your backyard into different spaces.  For example, you can use one part of your backyard for an outdoor seating area, a dining area, vegetable garden, butterfly garden, rose garden or more.  Use your imagination. If you need ideas, visit spaces of vegetation and seating.  

 

 

improving your backyard

 

 

 

Invest In Your Vegetation 

It is very important that we invest not only in the construction of our deck, balcony or pergola, but we must invest in our garden area.  When we design and plant our garden area, we should invest in quality flowers and other vegetation.  When our gardens does not have colorful flowers, it can be boring. We should also consider the areas in our garden that are shady or sunny.  You must purchase your plants based on sun or shade. Be sure to plant a few fruit trees and yummy vegetables.   

 

Invest in a Quality Garden Design 

If we want to improve our property and make it more inviting, we should not only invest in the interior design, but also in the design of the garden. Make sure that it has a sense of harmony and aesthetic beauty.  These elements will help upgrade your outdoor living experience, and raise the value of your property.

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: , , ,

Improving Your Home’s Value Tips

February 6, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I sharing outdoor living space tips on improving your home’s value. With more people spending leisure time at home, more people are considering their backyards more carefully. If you’re one of them, you will want to ensure that your investment won’t be lost when you sell. There are outdoor features that will improve your home’s value.  Furthermore, it will make your outdoor space more enjoyable.  

 

 

improving your home's value

 

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we live our lives.  This includes our wants and needs when it comes to home. Understandably, the real estate landscape has transformed.  Which, is why leading real estate referral company HomeLight went to the experts to get a feel for the market. HomeLight’s Q4 survey of more than 1,000 top real estate agents, indicates that more people are remodeling and tackling big home projects.  As a result of the pandemic, backyards are a focal point.

If you want to upgrade your yard area, know what’s popular in your area and which projects have historically high returns on investment. 

 

Improving Your Home’s Value:  

 

1. Fire Feature

The nation’s top backyard feature is a fire pit.  Approximately, 54 percent of agents say buyers are seeking homes with backyard fire areas. If you’re in the Northeast or Midwestern part of the country, fire pits are the top outdoor feature. There’s nothing like sitting around a fire with friends and family on a crisp, cool fall evening.  For inspiration, check out these fire pit design ideas from HGTV.

 

2. Privacy Fence

If you really want to kick back and enjoy your backyard, it’s nice to know that you’re not on display for the neighborhood. For this reason, 48 percent of agents say that privacy fencing or hedges are the second most popular outdoor feature. Privacy fencing is also practical if you’ve got a dog or small children.  It keeps your precious ones in and strangers out. If a fence isn’t appealing to you, or you’re restricted from erecting a fence, check out some of these plants to grow for backyard privacy.

 

3. Outdoor Kitchen

If you live in an area that’s warm or experiences mild temperatures year-round, a full outdoor kitchen ranks third on the list nationally. Forty-six percent of agents say that their home buyers say that an outdoor kitchen tops the list of desirable home features. So, if you live in the Pacific region or the South Central portion of the country, investing in an outdoor kitchen will yield a decent return on your investment.

 

 

improving your home's value

 

 

 

4. Sun Shade

The number four spot nationally is held by sun shades.  There are options for every budget. Approximately, 34 percent of agents across the nation say that buyers seek homes with a shaded backyard area.

 

5. Screened In Space

Rounding out our list in the number five spot in the nation is a screened in area.  Agents say their buyers are looking for this feature in homes.  Screened in porches or spaces are most popular in the South Atlantic region.  This stretches from Maryland to Florida, and the is the most popular outdoor feature wanted by their buyers. With mild to moderate weather and humid summers, shaded, screened in porches or lanais provide much-needed cover from the sun and bugs.

 

I hope my list gives you some insight on where you should invest your money for your home investment.  What tops your list. 

 

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,

Budget Makeover Garden Tips

January 10, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing gardening advice on budget makeover garden tips. How much time do you spend in your garden? I ask the question, but I know that answer will differ depending on the individual. Some people love spending time in their garden and other people avoid it like the plague. In this post, we’re going to explore some of the reasons why you might fall into the latter group and what you can do about it. 

 

 

garden makeover tips

 

 

Garden Makeover Tips:

 

You Hate The Aesthetic

Perhaps your main reason for avoiding the garden is that you simply don’t like the way it looks. If so, then there are numerous ways that you can tackle this issue. For instance, you might want to think about hiring a landscaper. A landscaper will be able to make sure that you are able to get the perfect look for your garden. This can even help you enhance your curb appeal.

Furthermore, it could just be a matter of adding some color to your garden. If so, then consider getting a variety of different seeds and spreading them around your garden. Do this and you’re sure to be thrilled with the impact they have.

 

 The Garden Lacks Sitting 

Perhaps the main problem is that there’s nowhere in your garden where you can sit, relax and enjoy the scenery.  If you lack sitting, perhaps a new deck would remedy the problem.  Companies like Austex Fence and Deck will be able to help you and ensure that you have the perfect seating area.  Remember, if you are installing a deck, then you need to weatherproof it. You will be able to make sure that it’s beautiful throughout all the different seasons without it deteriorating over time. 

 

It’s Not Set Up For Your Needs

Is your outdoor space setup for your interest and needs?  If not, make a few changes. For example, install an organic vegetable gardening if that is your interest. Your garden presents a wonderful opportunity for you to grow your own vegetables and use them in your cooking. You’ll be amazed how delicious food tastes when you grow it yourself. 

 

 

garden makeover tips

 

 

The Wrong Furniture

Next, think about investing in new furniture for your home garden. This is a great way to ensure that you  head out and enjoy your garden more. You might think that there’s not a lot of choices when it comes to garden furniture.  Some of the latest garden furniture  looks incredible and will rival furniture for the interior of your home in terms of comfort and design. 

 

I hope that you will find my garden makeover tips helpful, and you will implement a few so you can spend more time in your garden. 

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,

Tips for Improving Curb Appeal

December 10, 2020 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on improving curb appeal.  On many occasions, we think about our garden’s appearance from a very nature-centered point of view.  Improving your curbside appeal will also add value to your home. It would help if you strived to keep the entire area clean, including your garage areas. You may want to look at pressure washing to help. 

Furthermore, one of he most important things when creating a garden is to do a thorough overview of the area.  So, what does doing an overview mean? Well, it means to not only focus on part of your garden, but try to foresee the completed result.  If you are a landscaper, that’s a bonus.  However for those of who are not, we must learn to consider the functionality and appearance of the elements that we have.  Check out these tips.

 

improving curb appeal 1

 

 

Improving Curb Appeal:

 

Play with lighting

One way to improve curb appeal is to implement lighting.  Improving lighting, especially at night can improve your landscape’s appearance!  Good lighting will significantly improve your garden’s appearance after sunset.  And, lighting can be factored into safety factors around your home.  For example, adding motion detectors or a dusk to dawn lamp at your entrance can improve your home’s curbside appeal.  

 

Organize the space

Another thing that is not taken into consideration in the garden is organization and the optimization of space.  People who have little space think they have to fill everything with plants to make the most of it.  Stop, that is a bad idea.  Like everything else, your garden needs to breath.  Even if the garden is large, we must also use other types of elements to add variety to its design.

For example, when the garden is small we have make it look larger than what it is.  To accomplish this, place  trees at the back of the your garden.  Next, place shrubs and smaller plants moving towards the front of the garden.  Medium size shrubs/plants will go in the medium and smaller plants/flowers will go in front of the medium sized plants.

 

 

improve curb appeal

 

 


Also, if you have a lack of space, container gardening is the way to go.  However, you should not use the soil in your garden to fill these same pots.  It will become too compact and rigid for the pots, leading to the death of the plants.  Look for potting soil, which is designed specifically for pots. Having a beautiful garden doesn’t have to be difficult.  With a few tricks and tips you can be well on the way to creating a heavenly space.

So, if you have a large garden take advantage of all the possibilities that space gives you.  Some things cannot be done in a small garden, but you can give a large one greater sophistication.

 

Filed Under: Flower Gardens, Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,

How to Hire a Plumber for Your Home

November 3, 2020 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing shopping tips on how to hire a plumber.  If you own a home, at some point you may need a plumber.  Leaking pipes, clogged toilets, backed up kitchen sinks are some of the problems that home owners encounter during their daily living.  You may even encounter problems with outside faucets.  So, you’re probably wondering how to hire a plumber to fix your problem.

Unfortunately, every industry has good and bad employees.  So, you want to choose someone who will do quality work at a decent price.  Furthermore, you want to hire someone who has a reputation for being timely, has great communication skills, and will fix your problem without creating a bigger mess.  Check out my tips on how to hire a plumber for your home.

 

how to hire a plumber

 

 

How to Hire a Plumber:

 

Check Customer Reviews  

Most plumbers will have a rating generated by past customers.  Angie’s List is the perfect place to check out plumbers in your local area.  Read the reviews, and if possible ask questions.  Customers will share their experiences good and bad, and rate the plumber accordingly.  Furthermore, they will let you know why they hired the plumber too.  Hopefully, someone has experienced the same problem you’re currently having.

 

Make Sure they are Certified

You want to hire a plumber who has gone through the necessary training to became a master plumber.  Most plumbing programs take approximately two years to complete.  An apprentice ship could take an additional two to five years.  Master plumbers will have experience in residential plumbing as well as commercial and industrial piping.  They will most likely be more expensive than someone doing an apprenticeship, but their skill set will be higher.

License requirements will be different in each state.  So, check the requirements for your state before hiring a plumber.

 

 

how to hire a plumber

 

Consider How Long They’ve Been Business

Most business will be happy to let customers know how long they’ve been in business and what their  specialties are.  For example,  residential plumbers will specialize in slow drains, clogged sinks, backed up toilets etc.  Plumbing contractors will specialize in wells, septic systems, and new home or business construction.  Either way inquire about their experience and their employee’s experience.

 

Make Sure They Are Insured

Most importantly, make sure the plumber or plumbing contractor you want to hire is licensed and insured.  You want any accidents to be cover by their insurance.  Accidents do happen, so it’s always best to prepared.

 

Furthermore, if you fill out a form on Angie’s List or the plumber’s website, a plumber will get back to you.  Be specific about your problem when you’re filling out your form.  Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions when you get the call back.  Once you get off the phone with the plumber, verify what you’ve been told by doing a little research.  Make an appointment to meet with the plumber and get a written quote.  If they can’t give you one the spot, have them email the quote to you.  Ask additional questions if need to while the plumber is there.  Most will be happy to give you a free quote.

 

Last, I recommend getting several quotes.  You want to make sure you’re getting the best work for the best price.  I hope my tips on how to hire a plumber has helped you feel more confident in hiring a plumber for your household or business plumbing issues.

 

 

Filed Under: Shopping Tips Tagged With: , ,

Attractive Home Curbside Appeal

September 1, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on home curbside appeal.  We judge a book by its cover.  And, we’re all guilty of doing the same with houses. When the outside looks attractive, we want to see what the home’s interior holds.   I know that I do.  

Spring and fall are the perfect times to work on your home’s curbside appeal. Unsure where to start? We’ve got our great tips on how to enhance your house’s exterior. 

 

home curbside appeal

 

 

 

Tips on Home Curbside Appeal:

 

A New Roof 

New roofing for your home is essential for practical and cosmetic reasons.  An old roof can be prone to leaking.  Furthermore,  it can acquire a build-up of mold, become faded by the sun, and age your house. 

A new one will ensure you’re protected from the weather and will give your home a fresh look. There are many choices of colors and styles of roofing these days; the options are endless. For more info on what’s available, you can take a look online and compare designs and pricing.

 

 

 

Update the Door 

If you’re apprehensive on going bold with color choices for large parts of your exterior, bring a pop of color to the front door. Going for a deep red, bright yellow, or even purple will bring your home to life. 

If you have children, get them involved and let them pick out a color. You can repaint your front door in one day.  So, when you want something new grab a can of paint. There’s an app available that lets you virtually see how the colors look before you start the project. 

 

 

home curbside appeal

 

Plant Flowers 

The start of spring is the perfect time to plant fresh, vibrant flowers at the front of your home. By summer, everything will be blossomed and give your curb appeal a radiant look. 

Flowers don’t just belong in the garden by your front door. Grow some by your mailbox, in window boxes, and around the driveway. The more you have, the more inviting your home will be. 

 

Maintain the Lawn 

There’s nothing like seeing a bright green front lawn. Take the time to reseed your lawn.  Hot weather can damage lawns and fall is the perfect time to reseed it for a fresh lawn in the summer.  The winter snow and spring rain showers will do their magic, and help you achieve a lush lawn in the summer. 

We hope our tips on home curbside appeal have been helpful.  Implement a few and bring your home to life.  

In a few weeks, you’ll have a lawn with volume and color. Make sure you continue to water your grass as the summer months roll in. You should also get the lawnmower out every two weeks to promote new growth and keep it tamed. 

The Bottom Line

Attractive curb appeal is your home’s way of welcoming you and your guests inside. Every year, there’s always maintenance we can do to enhance the outside of our homes. 

You can start with getting a new roof, giving your front door a pop of color, plant flowers all around, and maintain a green lawn.

 

I hope my home curbside appeal tips have been beneficial.  Implement a few, and become the envy of your neighborhood.

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,