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How To Control Birds On Commercial Properties

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control bird on commercial property

According to Total Bird Control, thousands of pounds are spent each year by business owners trying to repair the damage caused by birds and cleaning up the mess their droppings make. The cost of this persistent annoyance is significantly greater than the cost of routine property repair. This habit of birds building nests and leaving droppings can cause major problems such as falls, electrical fires, and unhygienic conditions. These are just a handful of the many risks that come with birds nesting on commercial properties.

Bird droppings can ruin your reputation, erodes structural components, and increases the chance of slips and accidents, which can result in a costly lawsuit. Birds are also known to carry more than 60 diseases, making their eradication essential for maintaining a safe and sanitary working environment. If not addressed promptly, the problem can result in pricey settlements as well as major health risks.

Why is Bird Control Important For Commercial Spaces?

Birds can bring a very unpleasant environment for working, therefore, it is very important to keep them as far as possible. Let’s take a look at the importance of having bird control at your business place.

  • Bird droppings are very acidic and can harm everything from paint and cement to wood and metals, causing irreversible damage to important equipment, rooftops, and walkways.
  • Birds can block components and cause fires when they become stuck in HVAC ducts or entangled in machinery.
  • Foodborne infections and regulatory action are possible as a result of bird contamination of food goods.
  • Customers, visitors, and employees will be put off by nesting materials and bird droppings in commercial locations.
  • Businesses that spend time and money cleaning bird droppings daily may feel like they are done with the problem but on the other hand, they are also exposing their workers to the diseases that come with these birds.
  • Flooding can occur when nesting materials clog gutters and drains.
  • Bird droppings and nesting materials discovered in storage facilities, food processing industries, and restaurants can result in substantial penalties, legal action, and even the closure of the facility.
  • Bird droppings are slick and might pose a safety risk to your personnel and consumers.
  • Infectious bird droppings can violate health rules, resulting in penalties, lawsuits, and legal action in some businesses.
  • You are losing money if your output has to be slowed, postponed, or stopped due to bird influence. Employees should avoid working in locations where bird droppings have accumulated, as this can result in shutdowns.
  • Working in an environment where birds are swooping and creating a lot of noise can be distracting and bothersome, something that your staff can not appreciate and it’s also bad for the visitors that come to your company. This can also have an impact on productivity.

Safe and Humane Methods of Controlling Bird Infections

Total Bird Control is a professional bird control service that offers safe, effective, and viable solutions for all types of bird problems. If you want to turn things around and be on the safe side, get in touch with our team and we can help you prevent health hazards, property damage, cleanup expenses, expensive equipment repairs, health code violations, work stoppages, and clogged drains. The following are the most often utilized bird exclusion methods:

1. Bird Netting

Birds are compassionately excluded from undesirable areas such as eaves, canopies, and gardens by using the netting as a physical barrier. There are a lot of things that come along with netting, it helps keep birds from breeding and roosting all year and protects any desirable site from getting ruined by their droppings and the noise they make.

2. Shock tracks

Shock tracks are a simple way to keep birds out of any place, and while they may appear to be a harsh alternative, they are a safe and compassionate technique to scare birds away. When the birds land on any surface, they give off very minor electric shocks. Shock tracks can be quietly put, tacked, or glued to any flat or curved surface, including parapet walls, eaves, beams, ledges, and rooflines, and are non-harmful yet highly effective in driving birds away from an area.

3. Bird spikes

Bird spikes are the most effective approach to prevent birds from landing. Spikes effectively form an anti-roosting, anti-nesting, and anti-perching zone into which even the most obstinate bird species are unable to enter. They are meant to fit in with their environment and do not damage anything. Security cameras, signage, parapet walls, ledges, above windows, and light posts are all places where bird spikes are commonly employed.

4. Flash tape and chemical repellents

With movement from the wind and sunshine reflecting off the Mylar tape surface, reflective flash tape chases birds away.

Bird Control is Not Easy Without Professional Help

Bird Control is Not Easy Without Professional Help

Trying to control birds on your own can be stressful and time-consuming for your warehouse management. This is because bird control is more difficult than merely chasing them away. After all, you can chase them, yes, but they continually return.

To permanently deal with this problem, you need to hire a professional.

Which Bird Species Are Pests?

Several birds are pests and can cause a lot of trouble in different environments. Let’s take a look at some of the bird species that are known to be pests around commercial areas.

Pigeons

Pigeons can congregate in large flocks on building ledges and roofs, for a business place or a workplace this can be frustrating. This is a trait inherited from its cliff-dwelling wild ancestor, the rock dove. Their excrement, especially limestone and calciferous sandstone, can accumulate and damage construction materials. A fungus that grows in feces corrodes the stone, making the surface porous to water, which then freezes and breaks the stone. Many historic structures in cities like London are made of porous stone.

Starlings

At night, vast flocks of starling’s roost atop buildings, polluting the structures and nearby regions with their droppings. They will make their nests in cavity-like areas such as drainpipes, gaps in walls, and ceilings inside and around structures. They eat grains, waste food, insects, seeds, and berries as well as grains.

House sparrows

House sparrows frequently build their nests in huge facilities that store or process food, such as factories and warehouses. They make big, filthy nests out of grass and leaves, and their droppings and nesting material contaminate surfaces and items. Pecking to get to the contents of packed goods can also cause damage.

Gulls

Gulls are a plague in many coastal towns around the world. They eventually realized that roofs were safe predator-free nesting grounds and that cities offered a variety of food supplies.

Herring gulls prefer to build their nests on the rooftops of houses, where their continual calling is a nuisance. The smaller black-backed gull, according to the RSPB, loves industrial structures with flat roofs. Gulls produce less fouling than pigeons, but their droppings can deteriorate roofing materials, and nesting material can accumulate on rooftops and clog drains.

Gulls are abundant at waste sites in the United Kingdom, and they have been spreading inland in recent years. Wildlife law may protect them; in the United Kingdom, all species are protected, and destroying nests or birds requires a permit.

House Myna or Indian Myna

In Australia, the United States, South Africa, and other nations, this is a major pest that has been imported. The IUCN lists the house myna as one of the top 100 worst global invasive species. It is a native of South and Southeast Asia. It can create large, noisy flocks and eats a wide range of foods from farms and cities. Mynas in buildings pose the greatest threat by constructing nests in roof areas and scavenging food from restaurants and stores.

Conclusion

If a few birds are coming to your commercial areas often, try to control them before they become a problem to your workplace and it can also save you from other health risks that may be brought by them.

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10 Scandinavian Living Room Designs That Can Accentuate Your Modern Home

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scandinavian living rooms

Without any delay, we will accept that we tend to be consumed by the simplicity and therefore the unspontaneous fantastic thing about Scandinavian Living Room. It’s arguably one amongst the simplest designs to tug off and an eye will be fixed for utility. Quality precedes amount here, and prudence is lattice-like with sophistication and minimalism!

Whereas we tend to already feature a few of the fascinating home offices covering Nordic goodness, these days it’s the Scandinavian-style lounge that takes its rightful place below the spotlight.

It is a testament to the brilliance of fashion. The fascinating assortment of these Scandinavian living rooms on the show these days can make sure that you may fall gaga with stunning and economical style – everywhere again!

Born out of robust Scandinavian winters that demand potency and a way of airiness to drive off any notion of gloom, this can be a method that is excellent for the tiny lounge. Colour is unbroken to a clean minimum once it involves crafting beautiful scenery within the Scandinavian lounge, and it’s usually clad in pristine white.

This reduces visual fragmentation and visually enhances the outcome of their house. the employment of restricted and curated ornament with sleek, straight lines additionally aids in making a tidy living space that looks tantalizing and cheerful.

Our living rooms are one of the most important spaces in the house. It is where we spend the most communal time with our family and loved ones, watching TV, or sipping coffee, or just reading. A well-curated living room can develop a sense of being in the home, and that’s why they are so important.  The Scandinavian living room helps you to colorize the shape of easy accents, and you will even add a mirror or two to further enhance the attractiveness of the small area.

An opulent floor cover, cool facet table, trendy lamp, and a comfortable couch complete this elegant look. These Scandi inspired style living rooms are all about using the right furniture that is simplistic to decorative objects that are also functional. The key is to create spaces where everything is functional.

In this article, we will be looking into some of the opulent and thoroughly inspired Scandinavian living rooms that are nothing less but an inspiration for your home decor. These room designs are quirky while adding a sense of calm in your Scandi inspired homes, we will also be sharing some tricks and tips for you to curate these Scandinavian-inspired rooms.

1. Reading Books in Your Scandinavian Living Room

Reading Books in Your Scandinavian Living Room

A Scandinavian living room is a culmination of various elements at one go. These reading nooks can be an ideal secondary spot in your spaces. They are minimal yet functional while oozing out sophistication. You can spruce this up with several minimalist materials, like rattan to create a calming vibe.

You can even add comfortable cushions for seating and the back to create a comfortable reading corner that is aesthetic yet budget-friendly.  You can further curate this space by adding a standing lamp or a hanging lamp along with photo frames on the walls.

2. Creating Warmth Through Scandanavian Living Rooms

Creating Warmth Through Scandanavian Living Rooms

One of the best Scandinavian living room ideas is to create warm and sophisticated decor. Here the core elements are the white walls and the use of grey tones. Wooden finish in the form of tabletops and lighting elements adds chic decor to the homes.

You can add more jazz with a throw, pillow, plants, flowers, jars, or a stack of books. To create further visual depth you can choose white paint with a creamy tint.

3. Add Colors

Add Colors in scandinavian living room

Adding colors through minimalism is the best way to spruce up your Scandinavian living room decor. You can use colors in the form of wall coverings and paints. Colorful upholstery in the form of cushions, curtains, etc can be a vital part of Scandinavian decor. It is a myth that this decor style is restricted to black and white. Scandinavian decor is also very much about the inclusivity of colors as well.

Another element is adding pastel shades of green, pink and blue. These three colours are known to be Scandinavian decor staples to spruce up your spaces.

4. Adding Classic Masterpieces and Being Modern Chic!

 Adding Classic Masterpieces and Being Modern Chic in scandinavian living room

Scandinavian living rooms are a mix of various styles and display how this mix can be equally minimal yet ornate. You can combine these aesthetics by using artwork, art pieces, and masterpieces that suit the home decor.

Artwork is the ideal accessory for your Scandinavian living room decor as they help in elevating the spatial experience by a large amount.

5. Personalization

Personalization best scandinavian living room

A home needs to be a physical representation of the personalities that reside in that abode. This involves picking pieces, elements, art as well as decor that suit you the best. You need to identify your sense of home, is it comfort-based or is it leisure-based. Is it supposed to be focused on tranquillity or a sense of play?

These help you in identifying an ideal end product for your Scandinavian living room. You can even curate a photo display in the form of frames on the walls, to depict the family’s journey through time. There is no need to go extravagant on personalization, bare basic elements can also have a huge impact.

6. Minimal and Efficient

Minimal and Efficient best scandinavian living room

It is a myth where people believe that minimalism means a minimal usable space. With the help of Scandinavian living room ideas, you can create a space that is minimal yet space-efficient. Scandanavian themes are focused on creating sleek finishes and lines, these finishes can be achieved by creating storage spaces as well.

Creating sectional sofas with storage aligned with media consoles can be a great way to use the available elements efficiently.

7. Experiment with Geometric Prints

Experiment with Geometric Prints best scandinavian living room

Geometric prints are one of the staples in Scandinavian-inspired decor. The idea behind using these prints is to break the monotony of the spaces. You can pair these prints as a front against your subtle pastels to accessorize your Scandinavian living room. These prints can be by using pillow covers, or wall art.

8. Say Hello to Nature!

Say Hello to Nature for best scandinavian living room

Scandinavian decor is as much nature as it is about its ornate elements. You can add indoor plants to accentuate the theme even more. The inclusivity to green helps in making the spaces look fresh and engaging.

They also make the user feel a part of the outside while being inside. Scandinavian living rooms look great when paired with greens. You can even theme the spaces by adding wallpapers inspired by nature. These themes create a sense of play while keeping the spaces visually fresh-looking. For all nature lovers, the Scandinavian style is one of the most relevant themes to adopt.

9. Scone Lighting Designs

Scone Lighting Designs in scandinavian decor

The lighting design is the core aspects of the Scandinavian theme. Accent lighting along with ornate elements is a plus for your Scandinavian living rooms. The most popular lighting design is the black matte Scandinavian-themed lighting fixtures. These fixtures are minimalistic and create a rich look within the indoors.

10. Rugs, Carpets, and the Story of Upholstery

use Rugs, Carpets, and the Story of Upholstery in scandinavian decor

The Scandinavian decor takes its pop from its upholstery elements. These elements add much-needed jazz to space. They are known to be the highlight zones that act as a catalyst and focal points. Be its striped carpets or hand-dyed rugs, the Scandinavian theme is all about inclusivity towards styles that ooze a sense of calm and play at the same time.

Unlike other themes, the upholstery here plays a vital role in creating the ideal Scandinavian living room!

Why the Eccentricity?

Eccentricity in scandinavian decor

Final Words

Of all the styles and themes one can explore, Scandinavian decor acts as a trending one since its inception. The reason behind it is its relativity to a wide range of audiences. In our homes, we always seek peace and a sense of tranquillity, and this theme gives the user just that!

There are many such styles you can explore for your next home decor, stay tuned with us!

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Must-Know Tips for Planning a Hot Tub or Spa at Home

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hot tub at Home

After a long period of being away from holiday resorts, 5-star spa retreats, and even our beloved salons, a lot of the general public have been considering the option of installing a hot tub at home; creating the spa experience within the comfort of their own property. 

Obviously, there are a lot of things to consider if you choose to go ahead with installing a hot tub or spa in your home. From planning the space, to making sure you have the budget, and even considering all the running costs as well, we’ll be discussing all the things you need to consider before you make this decision. 

Are There Differences Between a Hot Tub and a Spa?

hot tub at home

One of the more common misconceptions when considering whether to put a hot tub or a spa in your home is a misunderstanding about the differences between the two. 

A hot tub is a standalone item that can be bought separately and can be installed both indoor and outdoor; with specialized units created for both settings. 

A spa on the other hand, when installed separately and not referring to an established spa as a public/private service, is usually something that is installed in-ground and may usually be attached to a pool. They are usually paired with saunas and are a little more complex to set up due to the different components involved.

What Should I Consider When Planning My Budget?

When planning your budget for installing either a hot tub or a spa in your home, you first need to consider which one is the right option for you. If it’s a hot tub you are more inclined to choose, then you should be looking at the style of tub that works for you and how much that will cost.

For a good overview of the type of tubs that you can install in your home, you can visit Tubs Direct for more information. 

You should also consider any excavation work that may need to take place in order to install the unit that you choose to buy. Will you need to hire someone to check that the area is safe? Will you need to modify the layout of your outdoor space? All of these can cost quite a lot of money, so you’ll need to consider the implications of installing a hot tub or spa.

The running costs of a hot tub are definitely something to consider. Looking for insulated materials and covers can help reduce costs and it is something to consider, over half of a hot tub’s heat escapes through the surface so a good cover is a must.

What Will I Need To Set Up a Home Hot Tub or a Home Spa?

hot tub at home

The first thing that you’ll need to ensure you have is enough space, and that the space you allocate for the installation of the unit is not near any crucial home systems: i.e power lines, water supplies, etc. 

Secondly, if you need to make any changes to your land, you’ll need to make sure that you have the relevant zoning and planning permissions to carry out the work. 

Another factor that gets overlooked is making sure that you have the time to maintain the hot tub or spa that you choose to install as well! For some, they are quite a hassle to keep clean and if you don’t have the time, you’ll have to consider a tub cleaning service as part of your budget. 

What Are Some of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Home Hot Tubs and Spas?

As brilliant as a spa in the privacy of your own home sounds, or a hot tub that you can use any time you like, you do also have to consider weather conditions being a factor that can determine when you get to use your outdoor tub, which for some, maybe a significant disadvantage. 

However, with spas, as they are custom-built for your site, you can usually request for the unit to come with some overhead covering to combat any adverse weather conditions. The downside is, however, that the spas must be built by a professional and are a whole lot more expensive.

Conclusion 

Whether you opt for a spa or a hot tub, overground, in-ground, or portable safety should always be at the forefront of your mind. Make sure pets and children are safe and there is a way to cover over or lock the access to the water.

Don’t’ only budget for the outlay and installation of the tub itself, consider the running costs and maintenance costs within your figures.

A hot tub or spa is a great addition to any home and there are many options available to suit all ranges of price, make your choices and then dive in the tub to relax.

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Pegasus Trail: An Urban Playscape For The City by 100architects

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Pegasus Trail By 100architects

Have you ever visited or seen a park that is made for every age group? If not, today, you will get to know about the ultimate space. Located in Chongqing city, this open public space is for everyone. No matter which age group you belong to, you can visit and enjoy this amazing park. Let’s see Pegasus Trail. 

Want to know more about this? If yes, keep on reading to find out more fascinating facts about this unique structure.  

Pegasus Trail

Pegasus Trail

Project name: Pegasus Trail

Architect:100 Architects (Shanghai)

Location: Chongqing (China)

Year: 2020

Size: 3,600m2

Pegasus Trail is a uniquely designed space that is filled with playground adventures, including toys and many more amazing things. Located in Chongqing, China, Pegasus Trail is a new milestone in the typology of urban public interventions in the Public Realm.  

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

Designed by 100architects, the total area is about 3,600 square meters. This is not a regular playground that you can see on every other corner of the street; Pegasus Trail is something different, something so unique. 

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

This place is filled with many adventurous things, from long slides, see-saws to swings and many other games. Let’s know more about this playground and why it is constructed in the middle of the busiest city of China.  

About the Architect: 100architects

About the Architect: 100architects

100architects is a Shanghai-based architecture firm founded by Marcial Jesus and Javier Gonzalez in 2013. The firm is currently led by three partners –Javier Gonzalez (Spain), Jenny Fan (China), and Marcial Jesus (Chile). 

About Pegasus Trail by 100architects

The office team consists of 16 young creative architects and designers. The firm mainly works on place-making, street art, landscape architecture, and urban interventions. Now they’re establishing an international collaborative workshop with talents from the US, Italy, Spain, Chile, Colombia, Indonesia, Nigeria, and China.

inter area of Pegasus Trail by 100architects

Pegasus Trail is one of the special projects of the 100architects. They designed it very carefully so that kids from every age group can fully enjoy the playground. The project is for their client, Dowell Real Estate/ Dong Yuan Dichan Properties.  

kid's Pegasus Trail by 100architects

For this project, the design team includes Marcial Jesus, Javier Gonzalez, Monica Paez, Lara Broglio, Keith Gong, Cosima Jiang, Ponyo Zhao, Elena Michelutti, Hayley Huang, Jango Zhang & Yuntong Liu. Also, Jenny Fan, Nicholas Lv & Eva Jiang have been included in the Project management team. 

Location: The Shanghai City

City of  Pegasus Trail by 100architects

You might be wondering why architects have chosen the city “Chongqing” to build this park?    

Chongqing is China’s third-largest city and one of the Chinese megacities that have grown exponentially in the past decade. This metropolis city in southwestern China has a population of over 34 million. 

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

According to the designers, “A brightly colored playground is a new milestone in the typology of urban public interventions at the neighborhood scale.” 

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

This novel type of intervention has been only implemented on a medium scale, within a limited area. This way, it will impact both its immediate urban surroundings and the urban dynamics of the entire neighborhood. Also, it will become an urban landmark and local attraction for social interaction.

Concept Behind The Pegasus Trail

Concept Behind The Pegasus Trail

Pegasus Trail is constructed to be a new typology of public space: “an urban toy for the city.” The studio believes that a playground should not be only for kids; everyone should enjoy this place, regardless of their age. 

Concept Behind The Pegasus Trail

That’s why they have designed  this area known as the “urban playscape for the city.” The best thing about this playground is that it is for all its citizens; anyone can enjoy and visit it regardless of their age.

Behind The Pegasus Trail

Did you know that The Pegasus Trail is named after the mythological flying horse? Yes, it falls into the category of “urban toys,” and this space is a result of a blend of different tactics ranging from playgrounds to landscaping.

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

The main object of this space is to attract the public’s interest in the place with its bold visual impact. The entire structure is permanent, which somehow will encourage an increase in public footfall and eventually become an urban landmark.

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

It is not wrong to say that it acts as an urban attractor that is merged with the cityscape. It beautifully blurs the boundaries between the play area and the surrounding cityscape and presents an open and accessible space for everyone.

Design & Structure Of Pegasus Trail            

Design & Structure Of Pegasus Trail            

The design of this multifunctional playscape is inspired by equestrian sports, in which the horse is the central feature of disciplines such as “dressage” and “showjumping.” That’s why it is named Pegasus. 

Designs & Structure Of Pegasus Trail         

This gorgeous mythical winged horse metaphorically leaves a magical yellow trail behind him in this project and also meandering accurately around circular mini-plazas. These serve as platforms for leisure and social interactions and where adults and children alike can relax.              

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

All these remarkable designs turn the playscape into a multifunctional public space to be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Like equestrian sports, the design of the Pegasus Trail is completely based on a challenging obstacle course in which users can climb, clamber and slide their way through and overcome all the difficulties.

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

All these activities turn the playscape into a fun “Play Route.” These challenging activities are specifically designed and distributed along the path of the yellow ribbon. This will really help to develop and challenge the physical abilities and cognitive skills of those who take it on.

The Play Route in Pegasus Trail

The Play Route in Pegasus Trail

All the playful components of the Play Route have been carefully studied and designed. They have split the play route into different sections and created a sequential circuit of events. 

These levels are composed of challenging activities to be executed one after the other linearly and consecutively. Each section has different levels of complexity corresponding to different age groups.  

The Play Route in Pegasus Trail

So the easier level of complexity in the active components is at the horse’s tail. It is for kids from 3 to 6 years old. As the level increases, the difficulty increases at the horse’s head for kids from 6 to 14 years old.   

Playful & Bright Color Scheme

Playful & Bright Color Scheme

The playground is adorned with a ribbon that meanders around three circular mini-plazas with different typologies of urban furniture for resting. This functions differently for various age groups. For example, the ribbon represents “play and action” for kids, and it also acts as a “rest and a calm space” for parents and adults. 

Playful & Bright Color Scheme

Designers have specifically chosen the red and yellow color combination for the playground. The bright and intense yellow color will make the ribbon eye-catching and distinct from its surrounding background.

It gives energetic vibes and easily grabs the attention of passers-by. This will also evoke a sense of happiness, vitality, and optimism.       

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

The floor is covered with the ethylene propylene diene monomer. Why only this material? Because it can easily absorb all the impacts that users can leave while playing.

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

The floor also has a wide range of patterns, graphics, and interactive games, which help to connect the different spaces and activities on the ribbon.

The Night View of Pegasus Trail

The Night View of Pegasus Trail

At night, this playground looks even more beautiful and mesmerizing. The entire ribbon part is embedded with LED warm lightboxes. The lights equally cover both borders of the ribbon.

Pegasus Trail by 100architects

Other LED lightboxes are embedded in the floor highlight as well the perimeter of the circular plazas. This will provide enough lighting and visual effect at night. 

The Bottom Line

So, this is all about the Pegasus Trail. This is one of the best projects in China as an urban architecture because it attracts both young and old, day and night.   

The playground looks very attractive and eye-catching in the daytime, but it looks more flattering and enchanting at night. Its serpentine profile with warm LEDs are embedded in both edges of the ribbon and the marks on the ground create a fairytale effect. 

All these little details make this place ideal for social interaction and to do outdoor fun activities during these challenging times of the year. 

I hope you liked this blog about the Pegasus Trail by 100architects. Also, don’t forget to share this blog with your family and friends. 

If you want to know more about unique and unusual buildings and constructions in the United States, read our previous blogs on Black Villa in Harriman State Park, Rendezvous House in Teton Village, and Healdsburg House in California.

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How to Patch Concrete Driveway: All You Need to Know

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How to Patch Concrete Driveways

Potholes appearing in your driveway are cause for concern. So, while they are pretty much unavoidable, you still have to do something about it. You don’t want to risk a flat tire every time you drive away from your home. You certainly don’t want that hole getting any bigger and compromising the structure of your whole driveway. The good news is that patching concrete driveway is fairly straightforward, as long as you’ve got the right equipment and the correct step-by-step approach. With this guide, you’ll learn how to patch concrete driveway in no time. 

Can You Patch Concrete Driveway Without Professional Help?

Can You Patch Concrete Driveway Without Professional Help?

If you’re worried about a pothole in your driveway and you want to deal with the problem yourself, you’ve come to the right place. While it can be tempting to call out the experts each time you spot a new hole, you’re about to see that you could save an awful lot of time and money.

It’s a fairly quick and easy process, and it shouldn’t be too difficult to achieve the sort of quality finish that you could reasonably expect from a contractor. And, it’s important that you do, because potholes cause problems. 

Potholes come about when water gets under the surface of the concrete and expands and contracts as the climate changes. This weakens the surface of your concrete driveway and causes gaping holes of various sizes. One pothole can lead to another, too, and smaller potholes are liable to grow the longer they are left. 

By learning to spot new potholes and patching concrete driveway yourself as soon as they arise, you could prevent the accumulation of serious damage over time. In doing so, you’ll avoid having to fork out for more heavy-duty repairs or even a new driveway installation further down the line, which you would need professional help for. 

How Do I Repair My Concrete Driveway? 

So, now that you know you can repair concrete driveway yourself, it’s time to find out exactly how to go about it. The process itself is, as mentioned above, fairly straightforward. However, you have to follow each step carefully and accurately if you want to attain a long-lasting finish. 

Not only will this make for a much more resilient driveway, in the long run, it will also look an awful lot better. Driveways are expensive things, so it’s important to preserve the look of them as much as you can.  

Patching Concrete Driveway: The Materials 

Patching Concrete Driveway: The Materials 

When it comes to learning how to patch concrete driveway yourself, there are a few key things you’ll need. The first is the actual bonding agent, also known as pothole patch. Because you don’t need to heat a pothole patch, this will often also be referred to as a “cold patch,” so look out for either of those names when shopping for your materials. 

The best pothole patch products on the market will permanently repair potholes in concrete driveways and many will be suitable for fixing asphalt driveway, too. Just be careful, though, because many cold patch products only provide quick, cosmetic fixes. 

You can buy professional quality, pre-mixed pothole patch for around a hundred dollars or less. But, to make sure you don’t fall for products that aren’t up to scratch, check that the one you want to purchase is effective in all climates, easy to apply, and fast-drying. 

You will also need the appropriate safety and handling equipment, including:

  • Safety gloves. 
  • Safety glasses. 
  • Dust mask. 
  • Shovel. 
  • Tamper. 

If your driveway is prone to potholes, then it’s recommended that you keep all of these products stored in your shed, whether you have holes at the moment or not. That way, you won’t have to waste time shopping for new materials each time they appear.   

How to Patch Driveway: The Step-by-Step Guide 

How to Patch Driveway: The Step-by-Step Guide 

With your materials to hand and your safety equipment on, all you need now is a handy guide that will teach you how to repair a concrete driveway. These three simple steps should do the trick. 

1. Clean the Holes 

To start with, you need to clean the potholes you’re planning to fill. This will encourage successful bonding and ensure your repair lasts a long time. Remove excess concrete, too, as well as any loose debris, ice, or water. You can do this using a broom and, if necessary, a commercial concrete cleaner and a hose. 

2. Apply Your Materials 

If you’re using high quality, pre-mixed product for patching concrete driveway, your next step will simply be to shovel the cold patch into the holes in your driveway. If any of the potholes you’re filling are particularly deep, you may need to apply the product a layer at a time. This is also the best way to repair the asphalt driveway. 

With some cold patch products, you will have to mix the materials before application. Read the instructions that come with your cold patch product for the correct ratio of product to water. 

3. Compress the Patch  

Once the pothole has been filled, get your tamper. You now need to compress the driveway patch and seal the hole, to encourage strong adhesion and make for a smooth, quality finish. 

That’s It! 

That’s all there is to it. Now, as long as you’ve opted for a fast-drying cold patch product, your driveway should be ready for normal use again straight away. 

Know the How Much Does It Cost to Patch a Concrete Driveway? 

Depending on the product you purchase and the equipment you have already, it might only cost you around $100 to fill one large hole or several smaller holes. However, if you don’t already own the appropriate safety and handling equipment, it will cost you more to purchase them the first time you complete a pothole repair. 

The other option available to you is to call in a professional to do the job for you. But, while the cost to repair one pothole can be relatively low at around $50, the fees to call the crew out to your home could bring that up to a couple of hundred dollars. And, don’t forget that doing so could delay repairs that are best being carried out as soon as possible.  

Patching Holes in Your Concrete Driveway  

Now that you know how to patch concrete driveway, you can help to ensure that potholes never become an overpriced problem at home. By keeping a concrete pothole patch to hand alongside your handling equipment, you give yourself the best possible chance of maintaining the look and structure of your driveway far into the future. 

Final Words

However, if you find yourself having to fill potholes regularly, there may be a bigger underlying problem at play. In that case, it may be necessary to reach out to a professional for help and advice.

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Granite Vs Quartz Countertop Weight Per Square Foot

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Granite Vs Quartz Countertop

There are several different types of countertops that you can use whenever you are remodeling your kitchen. Two of the most common types of countertops are granite and quartz, and while one of the biggest factors is cost, another thing you will need to consider is the weight of the countertop. Quartz and Granite are very heavy, and the weight of your countertop is something that you need to consider. While it might not seem like a weight has a lot of effect on the countertop, it actually does, and weight is something that you need to consider. The weight of the granite vs quartz countertop is important, and we need to discuss it whenever you decide to get a new countertop.

What Does Weight Do?

Well, one of the things that the weight of the countertop does is it pushes down on everything below it. If you have a kitchen island that is not secured or bolted to the floor, then a countertop that is too heavy can cause problems with the island.

Additionally, you need to think about the amount of weight you are putting on the countertop. If you are going to stand or sit on your countertops for whatever reason, know that your weight is putting pressure on your countertops. While granite, for example, is very thick and can comfortably hold 1000 pounds, it only works whenever the weight is spread out over the length of the countertops.

When you stand or sit, the weight is not spread out and if you happen to be standing on a weak point on an older countertop, then you will run the risk of causing more and more damage to it.

Additionally, if you put your young child in the sink to bathe them, you need to remember that they have weight too. Sinks aren’t as well supported as the rest of the counter and the extra weight of a child can really cause some problems to the surrounding countertops.

Grab Some Chairs!

Grab Some Chairs!

Another big habit that most people have is that they lean on the edges of the countertop rather than sitting down. While leaning on the edges can be comfortable, this does put pressure on the countertops as you press on them, and if you are leaning on a fault line in the countertop. It can cause even more problems.

Make sure to have some chairs ready so people aren’t leaning against the countertops and then you can have both comfort and support for the durability of your countertops.

Weight Per Square Foot

The density of the granite and quartz helps to talk about the weight, because the bigger the density, the more they weigh at the same volume. Since they are both natural materials and we can’t naturally calculate their dentistry because it varies from sample to sample, we have to work with averages.

Still, quartz and granite tend to weigh about the same, if you manage to give or take a few pounds. The contractors for your kitchen will figure out the total weight based on the standard thickness per square foot.

The size and weight of the countertop are dependent on the size of your kitchen and the layout of your counter space. Larger and thicker slabs are going to weigh more.

How Should You Install Them?

No matter how you look at it, granite and quartz countertops are going to be heavy, often too heavy to be handled alone.

You should always have professionals handle the installation, as the countertops might not only be heavy, but they could also be awkward to move depending on the different shapes of the countertop. One of the more common types is a waterfall countertop, and you can see more about it here.

The Differences Between Granite and Quartz

The Differences Between Granite and Quartz

Now that the weight of the countertops per square foot has been determined to be about the same, you will need to look at the other differences to determine whether your countertops should be made out of granite or quartz.

First, quartz is far more durable than granite is, to the point where some have called it indestructible. It also is not porous as granite is, so it is resistant to bacteria and is really only damaged by heat. Granite, however, is all-natural, resistant to heat, and can be found all over the world.

However, it is porous and requires a more thorough cleaning, plus it needs to be resealed at least once a year. Quartz does not need to be resealed at all.

Still, both types of countertop are very customizable and easy to tailor to your own needs. Granite can be cooled and solidified into various colors and patterns, and can even have smaller minerals included in it. Also, no two granite countertops are the same, so you can have a totally unique piece that is just yours.

Quartz also has the look of stone but is still very customizable. Since quartz is ground up and mixed with resin, this allows for excessive customization regarding its color and look. You can have quartz countertops that look like stone, rainbows, or other color schemes. The customization is nearly endless for a quartz countertop.

Getting Your Countertops Installed

Getting Your Countertops Installed

No matter what countertop type you choose, you need to hire professionals to install them. Not just for the weight, but also for making sure that it is done right the first time. You need to make sure that your countertops are installed and secured so no one is put at risk from a very heavy countertop falling from a great height.

Make sure to look for contractors who know what they are doing and have installed these countertops before, and also share the size of your counters and their weight. You certainly don’t want your contractors coming short-handed and unable to lift the weight!

So talk to your contractors and the staff at the hardware store, and you’ll have an idea of how heavy everything will be. Still, no matter what you need, at least you know that granite and quartz are about the same weight!

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Your Guide to a Spicy Colour Palette for Your Home

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Spicy Colour Palettes

This summer, if you’re looking to revitalise your décor, then why not opt for the latest design trend that sees a fiery warmth brought into your home! That’s right — a spicy colour palette is a way to go this season, adding an atmosphere of sultry and seductive heat to your room, with colours that are almost good enough to eat. 

For the living space or dining room, it’s all about adding pops of colour to the furnishings and accessories of the room. Elaborate rugs and throws used generously will create an inviting and warm environment, whilst a vibrant table cloth will match any spicy elements of your cooking. 

If you are decorating the bedroom, you could opt for Designers Guild luxurious bedding for example, which will offer you a range of sublime floral patterns in exquisite colourways to insert vibrancy into the room. Or you could add layers of warmth in the texture of your bed linen, using a rich velvet in a striped pattern, as well as venturing into tones of hot fuchsia. 

Whatever way you decide to inject some sizzle into your home this summer, from painting to the walls to accents of colour in accessories, here are the tones you should go for to introduce a spicy colour palette to your décor. 

Rich Earthy Tones

Rich Earthy Tones Spicy Colour Palette

Embracing a warm, natural palette is a great introductory step into the world of spicy interior design. With more subdued hues, these earthy colours can act as a canvas for more vibrant aspects elsewhere, whilst still developing a sense of homely warmth. 

Shades of terracotta, burnt orange and saffron are spicy yet sophisticated, and scream of the Mediterranean and the glorious summer haze that comes with it. If you dare to be brave, you could use orange tones on your wall, but the best way to use this colour in your decorating palette is in small doses. Bits of orange here and there in your scatter cushions, throws or rugs, for example, is very appealing, especially when paired against a crisp white wall, and rich brown wooden flooring or furniture.  

It’s also effective when you use multiple shades of the same colour, to add depth to the decoration of the room, and use pops of more punchy colours rather than overwhelming the senses. It can be stylish to use a palette of opposing colours to balance the strength of each shade. For example, indigo or deep blue can be a pleasing addition to your orange colour palette, and as opposites on the colour wheel, can work harmoniously to refresh your home décor this summer.  

Sizzling Hot Pinks

Sizzling Hot Pinks Spicy Colour Palette

If you’d like to take inspiration from an Indian summer mood board, where the hallmark of interior design is the use of bright and vibrant colours, then why not try introducing some hot pinks into your décor? Bold shades of fuchsia or magenta can make a statement when painted on the entirety of your walls but work best when incorporated in the rich textures of the room, such as in cushions, curtains, bed linen or throws.

The key to using these daring colours is to balance them out with light, neutral tones such as grey or beige, which can be brought into the room through furniture or the wall colours. The femininity of pink is paired beautifully with a grey backdrop, which can appear cold and uninviting. However, this colour combo will certainly heat things up in your décor this summer. 

Ochre and Sandy Yellows

Ochre and Sandy Yellows Spicy Colour Palette

The epitome of summer heat and brilliant sunshine, shades of yellow are a given when it comes to a spicy, warm colour palette for your interior design ideas. But proceed with caution, as using too much of a primary shade of yellow can leave your room looking more garish than glowing, and leaning on the side of fast-food restaurant vibes. 

The best way to use a bright yellow colour to warm up your room is through pops and bursts, rather than bombarding the senses with it. One design technique is to use a neutral background palette of white, tan, taupe or grey in the walls, flooring and furniture, and add punches of colour here and there in joyfully yellow cushions, furnishings and accessories.

Conclusion

If you really want to spice things up and be exciting in your wall colour choices, decorate in warm ochre tones or golden sandy shades, which are a more subdued version of the colour yellow, without compromising on the warmth it can bring. These desert shades will transform your living space into a rich, cosy paradise.  

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11 Different Types of Blinds: Select the Right Choice for Your Home

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Types of Blinds

Every home has a window in different corners of different rooms. And a window is never complete without a blind. Before selecting a blind, one must understand what types of blinds will suit perfectly in which room and window. Usually, people get confused between a blind and a shade. Whereas the fact is there is a basic difference between the two which shows a clear difference. So first of all, decide whether you require a blind or shades for the windows of your home.

According to the research, people and homeowners prefer blinds over window shades or curtains to cover their windows. Though it is very natural, people will prefer blinds, overshades, or curtains, as they are stylish, modern, and completely functional. You will get many options in shades and curtains, but the fact is nothing will offer you an aesthetic look, which is felt and experienced in blinds. In addition, it sits perfectly on all the window frames, setting an aesthetic look all around the room and home.

Today’s blog will discuss different types of blinds that will sit perfectly for all your window types, considering all your requirements and comfort. So, let us explore them and find out which is perfect for your home.

What to Consider for Selecting Types of Blinds for Windows?

Before buying any type of blinds, it is essential to understand their functioning and benefits. As discussed earlier at the beginning of the blog, there are different types of blinds and shades available in the market.

If you feel considering the functionality and requirements is not essential then, you are wrong. It is necessary to understand that both of them work simultaneously. We have gathered some of the most important features of blinds that everyone must consider before buying any of the ones for themselves.

Complete Privacy is Guaranteed

One of the most significant reasons for installing Blinds is to maintain the privacy of your home. Blinds help you in keeping your privacy. However, the privacy level is not the same for every room. The privacy level you need in your bedrooms and bathrooms is different from what you require in your kitchen and the living room areas. However, what kind of blind you need is decided based on the privacy level you want.

Choosing a shutter blind for the living room is the right option as it allows visuals of the exterior of your home when needed. If you want a blind for your bedroom, a fabricated blind will do perfectly fine. Thus, it is essential to understand the functionality of the blind.

Blocking the Sunlight from Coming Inside

Usually, people enjoy the sun rays on them as a sunbath, but when it pierces inside your room through your windows, it disturbs. In such conditions when we do not like the sunrays coming inside our home. It is preferable to install darker shade blinds that will help in blocking the sunray directly piercing in the room through the windows.

The Sunlight that enters the room through the window is more irritating and disturbing. Thus, people prefer to block Sunlight directly entering the room from the window.

Cordless Functioning

Usually, the blinds need to function for the proper darkness and maintaining privacy. The traditional types of window blinds have a stick on one of their sides. To adjust the angles of the slats, the cords are lifted with the sticks to lower or raise the blinds. Though this is a traditional style, you have to decide whether you want a classic style or a cordless operation.

Nowadays, cordless blinds are available in the market with cordless functioning. You have to pull down the blinds to pull down and uplift them. You have to take control to adjust it according to your requirement.

Thermal Insulation

Every type of blind must have thermal insulation. It blocks the heat in summers and allows it to maintain your interior temperature in the winter days according to the season. Usually, blocking the heat during the summer days is a challenging task. Thus, you need to decide whether you want a blind that functions as thermal insulation or not.

Installing a thermally insulated blind is a better option to avoid any further expenses on the appliances that function like them. It also allows you to access according to your requirement. When are you getting this option of insulation? Why spend on higher expenses?

10+ Different Types of Blinds

Now that you have learned, what to consider while selecting or buying a blind, let us explore some of them. According to your requirements, we have listed different types of blinds that can be installed in your home. So, let us see, which will set perfectly for your room type.

Venetian Blinds

types of window blinds

Venetian blinds have horizontal slats. They are attached with some strings and strips of cloth that work as a blocking factor. They are known as Tapes. Venetian Blinds are one of the most trending and popular types of blinds. It is very simple and easy to functioning. Thus, it is one of the most admired blind types.

For adjusting it, you have to press the bottom slat in the slat right above it. The functioning is so easy that most people prefer this type of blind in their home. It adjusts according to your requirement of privacy and blocking the Sunlight.

Micro Blinds

types of window blinds

Micro blinds have very minute gaps between the two straps. The slats are half an inch thicker in size. You need to adjust in the same way as we do in Venetian blinds. The working process is the same. These blinds are mostly installed in bedrooms or study rooms where you want to maintain the utmost privacy. When the blinds are shut, there are no chances of peeking through that can disturb your privacy. Thus, they are perfect for rooms where you want the utmost privacy.

Vertical Blinds

types of window blinds

Vertical blinds are one of the most accessible types of blinds based on their functioning. They slide along the running track that is installed on the top of the blind. They have individual slats that allow you to adjust which slat to be kept open and which is supposed to be kept shut.

They are available in two different styles. Either they open from parting in both sides from the middle point, or they slide open from side-by-side. They are very popular for installing o a floor to ceiling windows. You can select the style according to your convenience.

Pleated Blinds

types of window blinds

The pleated types of blinds are very trendy, and they look very classy. It is designed with a pleated fabric material that forms an accordion pattern that helps lift or lower the blinds. They look alike like the Venetian Blinds. You can use light shade fabric for such types of blinds that can allow a slight amount of Sunlight even when the blinds are completely shut. They are usually installed to maintain the privacy of the interior and allow natural daylight to enter the room.

Roman Blinds

types of window blinds

Roman Blinds are very popular and a traditional type of blind. It is made of seagrass or jute materials coated with a soft fabric. Roman Blinds are available in different styles but have similar functioning. They raise upwards and folds in themselves to allow you a clear vision outside the window. It somehow has a similar functioning, just like the Venetian style.

These particular types of blinds are installed in rooms to maintain privacy and block the strong Sunlight entering the room.

Mini Blinds

types of window blinds

Mini Blinds are the copy-paste of Venetian Blinds. The slats are different in comparison to the Venetian types of blinds. They have smaller slats that allow more privacy factor. It helps in allowing a slighter amount of direct sunlight in the room. The functioning is very easy; thus, people prefer window blinds in their kitchen or dining area. You can install mini blinds where privacy can be disturbed.

Panel Blinds 

types of window blinds

Panel blinds are the second-best choice for large windows. The functioning is so easy that people love to install them in their living areas. Though one thing that you must know is, it does not allow any thermal insulation. Panel blinds are perfect for blocking the view from the exteriors of your home. If you are searching for something that will enable you to maintain your privacy, these types of window blinds are perfect for your home.

Solar Blinds

types of window blinds

Solar blinds are perfect for rooms where you want to block the heat, ultraviolet rays, and glare. The best part of Solar Blinds is they allow you to enjoy the view from your windows even when they are shut. Suppose you want to maintain privacy in your room, this blind won’t work. These types of blinds are perfect for blocking the effects of the bright Sunlight from entering your room.

Smart Blinds

types of window blinds

Smart Blinds are the most admired type of blinds. There are so many different types of blinds in the market, yet people prefer these intelligent blinds. They are contributing a lot to the smart living of people. They are paired with a mobile application, which can help you to take control of the blinds.

You can adjust your blinds from your mobile in whatever way you want it according to your requirement. They are available in different styles to maintain the décor of your room. Isn’t this exciting?

Roller Blinds

types of window blinds

Roller Blinds are made of fabric that allows you to maintain the privacy of your room. They are very stylish and modern. Though they are available in different styles and patterns, you can select them according to your requirement and liking. They have a perfect and straightforward mechanism that simplifies your work. You need to adjust it according to the specific requirement of the room.

Cellular Blinds

types of window blinds

Honeycomb Blinds, popularly known as cellular blinds, have the same mechanism as pleated blinds. The only difference is the making pattern. Pleated blinds are made from a single piece of material. In contrast, cellular blinds are made from two different pieces of fabric.

Cellular blinds provide double-layered privacy to your room, allowing a slight shade of natural light to enter the room. It is a perfect option for maintaining confidentiality and block harsh Sunlight.

Which Is Your Perfect Match?

There are different types of blinds available in the market. You have to consider all your requirement and select the perfect match for your home. Do not hurry, take your time and select the right option for your home.

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Five House-Hunting Mistakes You Should Avoid

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House-Hunting Mistake

Purchasing a house is a personal task that you should not underestimate. It should be more than just looking for a house with a great façade – you should look beyond and find a house that you can live with for years. Have a checklist. Are you looking for a house that is 100% concrete or just had concrete refinishing? If you are not sure what to look for in a house, here are some common house-hunting mistakes that you should at least avoid.

Not Having a Checklist

Having a house-buying checklist will help you trim down your options when choosing a house to buy. You can start with the number of rooms you want, the size of the house, how many bathrooms you want, the size of the back and front yards, its location, and what it is made of. Do you want a concrete house or are you looking for a house made of wood and something else?

Having a checklist will not just save you time checking all the available houses near you, it will also save you energy and money spent on gas to check every property.

Not Having a Price Range

Before you start asking realtor agents or browsing different housing brochures, you must set your budget first. How much can you afford for a house? Are you looking for an expensive fully furnished home or are you okay with a semi-completed house and you can do the concrete refinishing yourself? If you are not sure how much it would cost to do concrete refinishing, ask a concrete contractor to give you an estimate.

With a price range in mind, you can easily trim down your options and find it easier to choose the best house that is within your budget.

Not Checking the Property First

property-Hunting Mistakes

Even if you have hired the best and most reliable realtor agent out there, it is still best to check your house of interest personally before making a purchase. Don’t trust images and videos alone. You cannot see small floor cracks or faded paints in images. A small enhancement can remove those marks easily.

Doing an ocular visit will also give you a chance to check other details such as door and door locks, the roof, the foundation of the house, and the floors. These small things are often taken for granted and once they start giving a problem (eg leaking roof or easily chipped floor), then you will just realize that you were doped.

Not Hiring an Agent

Hiring agent for House-Hunting Mistakes

Hiring a realtor agent is like hiring a professional concrete company. You should hire someone with good background and reliable experience. Hiring an agent is advantageous because they knew the ins and outs of buying houses, they knew where the best house on sale was and they knew how to talk to get a great price for you.

Just tell your agent what you want, give them your list and they can easily find available houses that fit your preferences. Again, you can trust them with this because this is their job, but you should still visit each house they recommend before you make a decision.

Making an On-The-Spot Offer

Making an On-The-Spot Offer for House-Hunting Mistakes

Once you find your dream house, avoid making an on-the-spot offer. You should ask yourself at least ten times if it is indeed what you want. Remember, you still have a lot of options out there and you need to balance each pro and cons before making that decision.

Purchasing a house is a long-term investment. It means you will be staying in that place for years. However, you will also be living in that neighborhood so make sure to check the neighborhood first. Is there any nearby hospital, school, train station, police station, concrete company, gas station, and food parks?

Aside from living in a beautiful house, you need to have a beautiful and accessible neighborhood as well.

Final Thoughts

As you shop for the best house to live in, don’t feel too much pressure. Make it a happy experience where you enjoy searching for options. Make a challenging one where the goal is to find the best house for your future. Whether you are looking for a concrete house or plans to do concrete refinishing with your future house, you should always think of it as a happy and challenging task.

Always ask for help from agents and concrete companies who know what to look for in a good house. An agent can find the best deal for you and a concrete contractor can tell you whether you are buying a highly durable house or a substandard one. 

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Architect Vs General Contractor: 9 Things I Wish I’d Known Earlier

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Architect Vs General Contractor

Many different professionals work together to build and complete a construction project. Whether it is an architect or a contractor, the construction project’s success depends on how these two entities work together. Because both experts have specific roles, you may not know the difference between the architect vs general contractor.

Before you even lay the foundation, you need an architect and a contractor by your side to guide you through the details of the project, how it will be done to optimize the use of labor and materials, and more.  

However, nowadays, contractors market themselves as a one-stop solution for a client’s construction needs. Clients look to them to provide end-to-end solutions, including some design. But please note that they have different job roles, and what an architect brings to the table cannot match what a contractor does. 

Simply put, an architect acts as a visionary behind the scene while a contractor is responsible for the actual build. So, you need both to ensure that your house or building is made functional and beautiful. Keep on reading as we discuss the primary differences between contractors and architects with an aim to educate and make informed decisions when it comes to hiring the right people for your home build. 

Who is an Architect? 

A group of people working on a project

An architect is a creative vision behind a construction project. They are licensed professionals who have majored in design and are qualified to create building plans for homes, skyscrapers, public buildings, commercial establishments, and more.

They come up with design ideas according to the available space and your needs and wants while complying with safety requirements. These designs are blueprint drawings that ensure the building adheres to the local city building codes and your building codes. Beyond the designing process, architects maintain close contact with the general contractors and oversee the delivery of the project from start to finish. 

The core responsibilities of an architect include: 

1. Optimize the Use of Land 

Space utilization is one aspect that confuses property and homeowners. You would want to make use of all the available space for good. This is where an architect comes into the picture. An architect knows how to robustly optimize the use of land so that space isn’t wasted. The architect designs the blueprint so that every nook and corner of the land is utilized for the greater good. 

2. Cater to Resident’s Unique Requirements 

As a homeowner, you likely want your house to be unique. Whether it is an open kitchen, an indoor swimming pool, space for terrace gardening, an entertainment room, or a cost-saving design, you just have to tell your idea to the architect, and he/she will come up with unique solutions.

3. Adhere to Building Safety Regulations 

Architect Vs General Contractor

When you are building a commercial establishment or an apartment complex, adhering to building safety regulations is a must, else you won’t be allowed to carry on with the project. Architects are well-versed with the building safety regulations in a city. So, they will always propose a design where safety is given utmost prominence. 

4. Offer Guidance on the Right Building Materials

The success of a construction project depends on the materials used to construct the building. You can find both cheap and expensive materials on the market. However, when it comes to construction, the materials have to be robust and sturdy to withstand the environment and other aspects. An architect has all the knowledge about the right building materials, and he/she will guide you to make informed decisions. 

5. Oversee the Construction On-Site from Time to Time 

An architect’s job doesn’t end after designing the blueprint and sourcing the right materials. They will oversee the entire process from start to finish and guide the contractor on certain aspects. This ensures that the building is being constructed as per the design and other specifications. 

Who is a Contractor?

Two men in safety vests looking at a cell phone

A contractor is a professional who manages the actual process of constructing a building. This means he/she hires subcontractors and construction workers to fill out the team, which builds and completes the project. Contractors work very closely with the architect to ensure that the project is carried out as per the design needs while solving problems quickly and efficiently.

A contractor’s job is to closely follow the architect’s plans to ensure that the project is constructed as per the client’s needs and requirements. Also, a contractor doesn’t have to worry about the permits and building codes as those issues are already sorted by the architect. 

The core responsibilities of a contractor include: 

1. Procures All of the Raw Materials

A contractor is responsible for procuring all of the raw materials required for the construction project. Once they get the thumbs up from the client and the architect regarding the right materials, they ensure that the raw materials, such as concrete, iron bars, stones, and other necessary materials, are procured. 

2. Oversees the Building Crew 

It is vital to supervise the building crew as they carry on with the work. A contractor guides and oversees the building crew ensure that things are done as per the design requirements. Also, overseeing is necessary to ensure things are done correctly. 

3. Hires Subcontractors

A construction project isn’t just about creating the structure with cement, bars, and bricks. There are various other jobs involved, like plumbing, flooring, carpentry, landscaping, and more. So, a contractor hires subcontractors at different phases of the construction project to ensure continuity. 

4. Executes the Architect’s Vision to Perfection 

A contractor works closely with the architect to make sure that their vision is executed to perfection and because even a small mistake can impact the bottom line. 

Conclusion

Both architects and contractors are important for the successful completion of a construction project. An architect is a creative head who designs and plans how the structure should look. On the other hand, a contractor is responsible for ensuring that the architect’s vision is implemented to perfection. We hope that your doubts are cleared regarding the professionals’ differences. 

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