The first thing parents think about when looking at kids – is how to make the surroundings safe for them.  Needless to say, that everything at home should be planned and placed in accordance.  It is good when we can move all curiosity arousing things on top, but what can we do with windows?  We can’t change their position, but we can make them safe.  The window unit should be secure for kids to be and play around.  

There are few things to be foreseen when talking about kids and glazing constructions:

• windows should have the ability to be locked in either position – closed or opened;
• the premise should be protected from dangerous to our eyes UV rays;
• the rest area is to be not directly under the window.

Windows must be secure for kids.  Any type, American double-hung or regular swinging double pane window, can be additionally equipped with various locking devices that will prevent children from opening them.  Parents should consider this before the installation process or even after since most of them are additional devices possible to be applied on existing constructions.

So, let’s take a look at some child locks for swinging mechanisms:

• “Socket” lock: “closed” plate is installed on the place where the handle should be.  This additional cover can be easily removed by hand, and only the handle can open the casement.  The system is not really convenient, since you always should remember where the handle is and even a two-year-old child can do the same unlocking manipulation himself after the process is well observed;
• The next option is a handle with a button.  It is installed as easily as a regular one. To perform the manipulation, it is necessary to hold down the button located on the front part – only then the handle will begin to move. The point is that the child will quickly understand the logic.  The other thing is that the button can become an entertaining device.
• Handle with the key is the coming option.  As you now understand, the handle turns only while the key is inside.  This means that the key will be needed for every manipulation – which is not convenient.  Adults will have to secure that key from little kids at the place, where they can’t reach it.  
• Another option to secure the window is to buy a child lock. It is installed at the bottom of the frame, consists of two parts, which are securely fastened together if the key is put into operation.  This option allows us to open the window for normal ventilation or completely close it.  In this case, you do not need a key, it is only needed to open the window.  The suggestion is not to open the window for ventilation with an inserted key underneath not to scratch your sill.
• One more option is such called “cable-lock”.  It can be installed on the top of the window, connecting operable sash and frame and allow the window to open as wide as the length of the cable is.  Once installed and locked you do not need the key all the time to do the manipulations, it is only needed to remove the cable once not needed.

As we see, it is not a big deal to equip the window with a child lock.  The thing we should care about is that it should be convenient and useful.  Call Apex Window Werks technicians to receive worthy advice and useful device to make your windows safe for children

Child lock for American double-hung windows seems to be more natural.  These are special locks in the construction that allow either to block the movable sash or leave it open on the width the parents consider safe for the child to play around.  The construction is good-looking, very easy to wash, safe for children, and has high energy-saving possibilities.

Another important protection that parents should think about is to secure the kids from harmful UV rays.  You should ask the company-manufacturer or your window glass repair company to apply the special coating on the inside of the glass.  The procedure is not difficult but very important for the health of your family and even for the durability of your interior furniture.

All the glazing units are now claimed to be very tight, not permitting any wind blows inside.  However, we used to think about the security of our children on a level extent higher than normal and try not to place the bed exactly under the window.  This will not only secure the kids from the sun, wind, or other influence but will also exclude direct access from the bed to the window.  Our children deserve to be taken care of, so let’s give them our full attention and unconditional love.

To summarize, all available on the market devices can make the windows safe for the kids’ room and Apex Window Werks, a trustworthy company in the window repair and replacement market, will be happy to assist you to organize any glass repair service and make the glazing units safe for your family.  Apex team pays much attention to safety measures to ensure comfortable and healthy living for our younger generation.

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When someone thinks about architects, they usually envision grand, aesthetic buildings. What people often do not understand is that it’s not just about how the building ends up looking, but also a lot about how to sound the core, foundational plans are. Out of the many layers of planning that go into a building’s architecture, plumbing plans will be in focus today, as we are about to discuss a few important considerations to facilitate plumbing.

Reduce the Number of Walls with Pipelines

Often known as wet walls, in every building or household, there are a few walls that contain the plumbing lines. These would be the:

• Sewer lines
• Vent stacks
• Main water supply and distribution lines

Now, the little trick here is to share wet walls, whenever possible. By placing rooms that require active pipelines side-by-side, it is possible to use the walls that they share between them as common wet walls. Reducing the total number of wet walls has the following advantages:

• Reduces the cost of plumbing installations and the associated labor costs
• Simplifies the plumbing plans, making repairs in the future a lot easier
• Damp walls can be kept to a minimum in case of a water leak
• Detecting the origin of a leak becomes so much easier when there aren’t too many wet walls

Unfortunately for homeowners, they usually buy into homes that already have a set plumbing system inside. If the architect was not particularly mindful of the shared wet wall strategy, fixing even a small leak can become a nightmare for even experienced DIY enthusiasts. In such cases, leave the job of leak detection and repair to expert professionals. If you are in South Carolina, these Rock Hill plumbers can help.

Cleverly Place the Main Shut Off Valve

There could be many reasons why people in the contracting business decide to place the main shut off valve as far away from easy reach as possible, but we can’t find any good ones! When we mention cleverly placing the main shut off valves, do not assume that it needs to be placed in a cleverly hidden crawl space. Instead, place it in a location that’s easy to reach for everyone who might need to reach it in case of an emergency. A burst pipe and the consequent water damages are going to be so much worse, if the future homeowners cannot even find the main valve, or reach it in time.

For instance, let’s say that your main shut off valve is somewhere in the yard, but underground, in a room that can only be accessed with a key. If you are away from home when a pipe burst and someone wants to shut off the water supply to reduce how much damage is caused, it will be very difficult to do. 

Incorporate the Wastewater Irrigation System

There are no advantages to be had in wasting water, so it only makes sense that the plumbing design naturally incorporates a wastewater irrigation system. It’s basically a design that diverts the dirty water from laundries, baths, and kitchens (not the sewer line!), right into the garden/lawn area.

However, this means that future homeowners should be warned about turning off the wastewater irrigation system if they are planning to use hard chemicals for cleaning. Do not forget to give them an option to do that, whenever they may need to.

Hire Architects That Understand Plumbing

When you look for an architect to design your home or some renovations, you will surely come across some that will tell you it is not their job to layout plumbing pipes. They usually say that the plumber can easily work with the plans he/she creates in order to do his job. If this is a situation you meet, just fire the architect and look for another one. 

A person that does not understand plumbing plans and cannot incorporate important considerations into architectural plans should never be called an architect. For instance, since we mentioned the wet walls, the architect might end up creating a design that would force a plumber to create numerous wet walls, which is not at all ideal. 

Final Thoughts

Plumbing and architecture do not seem to go hand in hand at first glance. But as you clearly noticed, there are some very important considerations that exist. It is very important to make sure that both the architect and the plumber work together in order to create something that is effective in terms of layout and usability.

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There are many options available if you’re planning to build a home. Besides traditional houses, other housing options include cabins, Barndominiums, and even houses made out of shipping containers. Many of these types of homes are newer to the market, so most people are unfamiliar with them. Nonetheless, you’ll find that some of them can be cost-effective, eco-friendly, and easy to customize. Shipping container homes, for instance, might look rough on the outside, but they offer amazing benefits for the unconventional homeowner. 

Here’s what you need to know about these cost-effective and functional structures.

Inspect Containers Before Purchasing Them

The first thing to remember when you’re trying to build a container home is that you should always thoroughly inspect any containers you plan on buying before purchasing. There are many reasons why you should do this. The first reason is the fact that these containers are used to transport goods back and forth between countries before being retired. There is always a possibility that you’ll end up with a container that has a dent or is even broken.

There’s also a possibility that you’ll get a container that has a lot of rust. You want to avoid this as much as possible since rust eats away at the metal and can weaken your container’s structure. You always want to make sure you buy containers from a reputable provider like Royal Wolf. If money isn’t an issue with you then you might want to invest in a one-trip container. These containers are used a lot less than other containers; however, they can be expensive. 

Research Local Laws And Building Codes

Building regulations should always be followed when you’re looking to add or build on to your property regardless of what you are doing. There are many building codes and local laws that apply when you’re completing a new project and you have to make sure you follow these in order to avoid being fined and to ensure everyone’s safety. 

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to build your container without checking your local codes. You want to avoid doing this since some zoning laws restrict what structures can or can’t be built on a specific area. You don’t want to spend so much money on a shipping container and realizing you can’t have it on the land you own.

Install Insulation

When you buy a metal container, you’re just getting the shell. You can technically live in it as it is but you won’t get the same warmth and comfort that a traditional home offers. One way to improve your container is to add insulation to the walls. Insulation can make sure your container home is always comfortable and help you stay warm during the cold winter months. 

Only Make Cuts Where Needed

Steel containers are made of just that, steel. These containers are known to be tough and extremely durable. However, you have to modify the structure of the container in order to make it a livable space. This includes cutting out holes for windows and a door. The problem with doing this is that you will be cutting away at your container’s support and making it weaker with every cut.

These containers are usually extremely strong and you can easily stack up to 4 containers on top of each other if you are wanting a split level home. However, making too many cuts can end up with you having to spend additional money on more support for the structure. 

Find An Experienced Contractor

When you’re building a home out of shipping containers, hire someone with experience in this type of building. This isn’t like a traditional building, so your contractor must be aware of what’s possible and what isn’t. Working with a metal structure is a lot different than working with one made out of more traditional materials. Hiring a knowledgeable contractor can save you money and help avoid any expensive mistakes. 

Keep Welding At A Minimum

Since these containers are made out of 100% steel, they’ll need to be welded if you are thinking of using more than one container. Welding them together will ensure you won’t have any structural damage and prevent accidents.

Welding your containers will also help ensure you have an airtight seal in your home and you won’t have to deal with any outside elements getting in. However, welding can be extremely time consuming and expensive. Keeping the welding necessary at a bare minimum will help you save money on your project. 

Try And Minimize Wind Impact As Much As Possible

If you’ve ever seen a shipping container, then you know that they’re not made to be aerodynamic. These containers are, essentially, huge rectangular structures, so you can imagine how loud the wind can get when you’re living inside one.

One way to avoid all the noise is to make sure you place your home next to some kind of windbreaker. You can use trees, other structures, or even natural landmarks to help reduce the impact the wind will have on your home.

Conclusion

Living in a shipping container is a relatively new idea. Shipping container homes are usually less expensive than traditional homes and are also more environmentally friendly. These containers are good for the environment because you’re giving these containers a second chance at life by reusing them after they’ve been retired.

Another way shipping container homes help the planet is the fact that they’re made of 100% steel. This means you can crush them up and melt them into something else when you no longer want to live in your shipping container home.

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The type of window designs you choose enhances the safety and security of your home. It also enhances the beauty of your home. . Scenic views framed by stylish custom curtainless your home with the come-hither looks. Other choices like roller shutters offer more security.

Modern homes have embraced roller shutters technology because of its enhanced safety. One can find shutters for any kind of window design, from NYC shutters to roller shutters Adelaide, companies have many options to choose from depending on the window design. So, without further ado, let’s see what designs are there right now.

Types of Windows

Windows may be classified according to their placement, or how they open. Before you choose the type of windows for your next home, or when you are remodeling your home, it is good to consider the pros and cons of the window design. Some of the main types of windows, based on how they are opened, include;

• Sliding windows
• Casement
• Awning windows
• Picture window
• Bow windows
• Double or single hung windows

Types of windows depending on the placement;

• Transom windows
• Clerestories
• Dormer
• Skylight
• Corner windows

How to Choose a Window Design

1. Consider the Architectural Design

Different homes have different designs. One should choose the windows depending on their style. Some have wall-length windows while others may have smaller windows of different shapes.

2. Purpose of the Windows

The main purpose of a window is to let in the light. But windows may also be part of the home decor or can serve as doors to the patio especially if one opts for the glass sliding windows. Ventilation is also important. A window should enhance the ventilation of your home. Choosing the right window design will ensure that you achieve this.

3. Window Frames

Selecting the right window frames for your house will enhance its exterior outlook. You may also paint the frames. But ensure that the colors blend well with the entire house and theme of your home.

4. Interior of the House Design

You should choose a window design that complements the interior design of your house. The window design will also depend on the room. For some rooms, you may need to install big windows to let in light and also as a form of deco. In other rooms such as the washroom, the windows should provide light but also ensure privacy is maintained. Incorporate a variety of shapes and sizes of the windows to enhance the beauty of your house.

5. Maximize the Focal Point from the Interior

Through the windows, you can enjoy the outdoor scenery. If you have a beach house, you may opt to design windows such that you enjoy the beach and ocean view. The same case applies to beautiful vegetation or other sceneries outside your home.

6. Energy Efficiency

Modern technology provides you with options that can help in saving energy costs. If you are building your next house now, or you wish to remodel your house, consider replacing the windows with modern roller shutters or any other design of your choice.

7. Floor Plan

Remember, the house will be furnished. It is good to consider the floor layout as well, to make it easier to furnish your house. Choosing a good window design and size will ensure that the functioning of the room remains intact.

8. The sun Orientation

Your architect should help you design a house depending on the sun’s movement. For instance, too much light in your bedroom in the morning due to large windows, or the glare of sunshine in the living room in the evening can be prevented if the windows are installed at the right places.

How Window Designs Influence the Interiors

Before you choose a window design, you should also consider how it will influence the interiors. A window also influences the lighting, ventilation, and house decor theme. Good window designs also enhance the curb appeal of your house. Depending on the type of room, a window design can enhance the privacy of a room too.

How Window Designs Influence the Exteriors

The main exterior of your windows has influenced the general appearance of your home. Depending on the design you choose for your house, it may bring out a unique view of your home. Some designs are perfect for lounging too.

Conclusion

Remember, different types of windows may be more expensive to install. Windows may also contribute to energy leaks or moisture leaks if not installed properly. Windows are also inlets to sun rays which could contribute to fabric damage and fading. Some windows are more difficult to clean than others. All these are some of the tips that can help you to choose a good window design. But above all, consider the security of your home when selecting a window design. That way, you will be able to decide on the type of window to install.

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