Home Blog Page 167

Why Is It Essential to Hire a Professional Plumber Only?

0
Hire Professional Plumber

Whenever there is a plumber requirement, most of the people don’t really pay attention to the number of experience and professionalism of a plumbing company. However, whenever you think of hiring a plumber in Woodstock company, you must always gauge into their experience, whether the company and the employees are professional or not. It is of extreme importance. 

Plumbing issues are prevalent, and everyone needs a plumber once a while. Because these issues are prevalent, you must hire someone trustworthy, who will not just solve the problem for you but will find out the root cause of the issue as well. You don’t want your pipes to be jammed again and again.

And unless you get to know what is actually the causing the clogged kitchen pipes, you will never be able to get rid of the main problem. Anyone can do the temporary fixing, but it needs the experience to find out the root cause, and fix it then and there so that the same issue doesn’t reoccur anytime sooner. 

Different plumbing issues will need different types of services, and for that, you should lookout for a plumber in Smyrna company who will come with all the equipment and will fix the problem for you as soon as possible. 

Here are some of the reasons why you should hire a professional plumber:

Professional plumbers will give you a detailed review 

Whether there is a low water pressure issue or clogged drain, you need to know what the real issue behind this problem. A professional plumber in Smyrna will let you go through the issue, will explain everything, tell you the things that need to be done, and then work on it. Also, the plumber will share some information regarding how to avoid such issues in the future. Not every time you will face small matters, sometimes you might come across some severe underlying problems that only a professional can tell you about. 

Professional Plumber

Emergency services 

Professional companies are always ready for emergency services, as well. Some issues will need emergency service, and when you need one, you need to call someone who will come to your house as soon as possible. Also, most of the plumbing issues, such as toilet water overload, pipe burst, sink pipe blockage, these kinds of problems are considered to be urgent only. 

They work with the latest plumbing equipment 

At the point when you enlist an expert handyman, they convey the most recent pipes hardware with them to fix issues all the more effectively. Besides, very much prepared handymen are likewise ready to determine the hardest pipes issues by utilizing their aptitudes that they got from their preparation and experience. In this way, you ought to be guaranteed that the activity will be done successfully with experts in control. 

You will get numerous pipes administrations through an expert 

An expert handyman is in excess of an individual who is merely going to wind your channel or fix your spilling spigot. You are getting somebody who can offer helpful types of assistance at whatever point you need plumbing-related work for your home improvement venture or revamp your kitchen or washroom. From fixing breaks to supplanting funnels and introducing dishwashers, remain guaranteed that your home’s pipes need fit as a fiddle. 

Proficient handymen comprehend plumbing codes 

Last, however, not minimal, one of the most necessary motivations to employ an expert handyman is their comprehension of national, state and nearby pipes codes. Since when managing plumbing issues, any fixes that are made in your home need to hold fast to plumbing codes; with the goal that your home follows legal guidelines and remains sellable later on. In this manner, proficient handymen keep up-to-date on plumbing codes and assurance their work will be up to gauges.

If you are looking for a plumber, you may get in touch with Mr Rooter Plumbing of Atlanta for any kind of emergency plumbing issues.

Keep reading:

8 Home Projects You Can Do During the Quarantine

0
Home Project

The global coronavirus pandemic caused by COVID-19 has led to many people being stuck at home. Suddenly, all those things we could ignore easily when we could get out and about stand out much more when we are under quarantine. Fortunately, this can give us the inspiration and motivation to tackle those projects we always put off around the home. In this post, we will introduce 8 ideas for home projects to tackle during the lockdown.

8 Home Projects to Do When in Quarantine

Obviously, when it comes to projects at home, everyone will have different needs. Here, we introduce 8 of the most frequent home projects that are easiest to tackle during the COVID-19 quarantine.

Get out in the garden

Home Projects: Get out in the garden

Whether you are already fully green-fingered or not, getting out in the garden during lockdown is great for your mental health. For one thing, it allows you to be outside for an extended period whilst keeping to the rules and keeping yourself and others safe. Indeed, research shows that anxiety, depression, stress, and many other challenging emotions we might be feeling during the lockdown can be alleviated by gardening.

Whether you are into flowers, growing vegetables, or delicious homegrown soft fruits, there is plenty to try in the garden. If woodwork and construction are more your things, why not try your hand at landscaping or building a deck in a sunny spot? You can even use leftover flooring paper from decking work to keep pesky weeds at bay and make spring garden beds!

Do that deep clean

Home Projects: Do that deep clean

When we are out at work most of the time, those corners of dust and dirt might not get to us much. If we’re at home all day, things get a little bit harder to ignore. That makes quarantine a great opportunity to do the deepest of deep cleans. Research also shows you’ll soon feel calmer and healthier.

From dusting corners, ceilings, and baseboards to switching your air filters, sorting out your junk room, and cleaning out the closet. A good deep clean will improve the quality of the air you’re breathing at home. Cleaning is all the more important during quarantine anyway because of the ability of the coronavirus to stay on surfaces like metal and plastic for 3 days. Be sure to clean those high-touch spots daily.

Repair scrapes and scratches

Home Projects: Repair scrapes and scratches

Over time, wooden furniture and walls get into all sorts of scrapes. From door handles bashing into the wall to bike pedals scraping the skirting board. These sorts of bumps and scratches can become part of the furniture. However, there are plenty of simple tricks to sort out knicks and scratches around the home.

Polly-filler is a great quick fix for small holes in walls leftover from old nail holes and general wear and tear. A whole range of techniques can also be used to remove scratches on wooden furniture. From a combination of lemon juice and vegetable oil to used coffee grounds, iodine, and shoe polish. There are plenty of things most people have at home that can make wood look like new.

Give your house a facelift

Home Projects: Give your house a facelift

With more time spent at home, we soon spot marks and dirt that passed us by when we weren’t stuck in all the time. Fortunately, this is a great opportunity to use up those dregs of paint we have stored up in the shed and never know what to do with. A simple lick of paint can transform a room with just one coat. 

You can also try creating a feature wall if you fancy trying something different. No need to head out for new paint either, just switch around the colors on a feature wall with some leftover paint from a different room. Be warned though, once you paint one wall you’ll start to notice those you haven’t painted even more. So be sure to choose your paint job carefully! 

Rearrange the furniture

Home Projects: Rearrange the furniture

So often people think the only way to give a room a new look is to completely remodel it. However, simply rearranging the furniture can transform a room. Things will have to get worse to get better when you do this though. Everything needs to go from its place through no man’s land, and into its new place whilst moving something else out of its way. 

That being said, the initial anarchy is well worth it. You’ll also have the chance to hoover places that probably haven’t been hoovered for years! Play around with things before settling on your final layout as you probably won’t want to do this home project again for a while. 

Re-organize the cupboards

Home Projects :Re-organize the cupboards

One of the major changes that quarantine has enforced on many of us is new ways of shopping for food. Ultimately, this means bigger shops less often. However, if we don’t know what’s in the cupboards we can end up with tens of one thing and nothing of another. For this reason, it’s a good idea to get everything out of the cupboards for a bit of a home stock take. 

With everything out of the cupboards, you can get another cleaning job done too. You’ll also be able to spend less on things you won’t use for ages because you’ll know exactly what you’ve got hidden away in the cupboards. 

Moisturize

Home Projects: Moisturize

We’re not talking about moisturizing yourself here – although moisturizing your hands more is a good idea what with all the hand-washing in soap required by COVID-19. What we mean is moisturizing things like chopping boards, cheese boards, and all your other wooden goods. Just give them a clean with a mixture of salt and lemon juice, then lather them in coconut oil and leave it to soak in. This helps to prevent cracking and keeps things hygienic.

Season your cast iron furniture

Home Projects :Season your cast iron furniture

Just like your wooden goods, iron furniture also needs maintenance. In normal times, this sort of home project can slip our minds. However, it is well worth it and doesn’t take long. Just give it a thorough wash with some soapy water and a decent scrubbing brush. If you have some, you could also apply a spray-on wax for a nice finish and to prevent rusting.

Quarantine helps all of us to look after one another. Unfortunately, this means more time spent at home. Fortunately, this is a great opportunity to try our hand at new things and get those jobs we always put off done. Follow these 8 home projects and you’ll soon have your home looking as good as new.

Explore More:-

Single Storey House Extension: 9 Brilliant Ideas to Add Extra Space in Your Home!!

0
Single Storey House Extension

Want to add some extra space in your house? Or just want to build an open sitting area in your existing home? A single-storey extension is a perfect solution for this situation. Whether your family is growing and you want some extra space for them or just want to reuse the land, these extensions are suitable for everything.  See some single storey extension ideas. 

While taking care of the Permitted Development rights, you can create a single-storey extension in your existing home. You can build many things in it such as a large open kitchen or a glamorous living room. These extensions are not only good looking but also increase the value of the property. 

So if you’re also looking for some budget-friendly single-storey extension ideas, you’re landed on the right page. In this blog, we have listed nine single-storey house extension ideas that will blow your mind. From Victorian style to the modern glass ones, we’ve covered all styles so that you can select your favorite one. 

9 Single Storey Extension Ideas

Below are some cool ideas which you can implement and create an enjoyable and comfortable space for you and your family. 

1. Create an Open Plan Living Space

 Open Plan Living Space idea

If you’re short on floor space and feel that your living space isn’t sufficient for your family, then you can extend it by creating a single-storey extension. Here, in this house in Oxfordshire, the homeowners created an open living space by extending the area. Now They have a spacious and covered inside/outside entertaining space. 

The total construction time of this project was just four months, and the total cost was around £68,000. 

2. Light-filled Kitchen Extension

Light-filled Kitchen Extension ideas

Look at this big and perfectly covered kitchen. This house is situate in the West Midlands and Penny and Douglas Dawson are the residents of this remarkable dwelling. They extended this home by replacing a small, dark kitchen with a light-filled, open place space.

This project was also completed in 4 months, and the estimated cost was £120,000. Before there was a small, dark kitchen, but after the renovation, space is looking much brighter and open. You can also do the same thing if you want an open concept kitchen. 

3. Contemporary Extension to a Listed Cottage

Contemporary Extension to a Listed Cottage idea

Homeowners of this beautiful countryside cottage asked Charlie Luxton to help them to create this incredible contemporary extension scheme. In this scheme, the area has opened up the living space of a listed cottage.

This contemporary project is locate in Wiltshire, and the total project cost is £258,600. This project took a little more time than the other projects, but its designs are justifying the time. doesn’t it? If your family is also growing and you want to extend your single-storey house, this is a pretty much cool idea. You can replace a tiny section of the house, and by taking more land, you can create bedrooms, kitchen-like areas. 

4. Light-filled Extension to a Victorian Home

Light-filled Extension to a Victorian Home idea

Just by looking at it, you will know that this house is in a royal victorian style. The home situates in Greater London. Not only the house but its surroundings are mesmerizing, but after living in the house for two years, the homeowners wanted a space full of natural light. So, they added this single-storey extension. 

The building cost, material cost is £280,000, and the whole structure was ready in just 13 months. Instead of using traditional doors or windows, designers used colossal glass sliding doors to get a modern yet elegant look. 

5. A Timber-clad CLT Extension

single storey extension ideas

This is a CLT extension that has been added to a traditional home. It is a perfect example for those who want to fuse contemporary style with traditional. The single-storey extension constructs from a timber-clad in Hampshire. The large glass windows and doors with high roof lights are totally putting everything all together. 

With a material and construction cost of £250,000, this dwelling was ready in five months.

6. An Orangery Extension

Orangery Extension ideas

David Salisbury designed the extension builders Newcastle of this magnificent single storey house. He made it into an orangery-style extension with stones. The homeowners wanted to open the house, specifically the dining and kitchen areas. 

Natural light is the main key in this style of the house, which also provides fabulous views. The materials used to build the new space are similar to the existing house, such as bricks that are matching to the existing home, and the windows are also painted in Shaker cream shade. The total cost was around £85,000, including the materials, construction, and electrical work.

7. A Period – Style Extension

A Period - Style Extension ideas

This beautiful house belongs to English Heritage Buildings’ managing director Darren Hook. He wanted to extend the kitchen of the house and wanted to create a more extensive and light-filled space. But he also wanted to use the front space in his house, so he was looking for single storey extension ideas under £100,000, but surprisingly this gets complete in just £70,000. 

So if you’re also looking for some inspirational single storey ideas, this is such a brilliant one. Oak has been used in various parts of the construction, such as in the beams in the roof space to match the existing house. Smoothly pitched flat sections are creating a lower roofline underneath first-floor windows. 

8. A Glass Box Extension

A Period - Style Extension ideas

Want something that is entirely unique and luxurious? Look at this single storey extension, which is made from transparent glass. This is a Grade II-listed London home, and the homeowners wanted an open plan kitchen with a dining area. But according to the planning regulations, the brick extensions aren’t allows, so the designers suggested this structural glass box concept. 

Now the new kitchen fill with a lot of natural lights, and also the new shower creates on the first floor. The total project cost is £84,000, including the construction and materials, and the glass box. 

9. A Conservatory Extension 

Conservatory Extension extension ideas

If you don’t like the transparent glass box extension idea, look at this one. This is a Conservatory style single-storey extension that specially create to provide a second living room. The owners of this fantastic Berkshire residence requested for a traditional aesthetic looking extension with an orangery. So that the new roof will fill with sunlight and ventilation. 

The Pilkington Activ Blue glasses use in windows, and the doors are bi-folded that opens up in the deck and garden area. If you want to construct a similar design, it would cost you around £54,000, including optional planning, materials, design, construction, and installation.

A patio with chairs and a table in front of a house ideas
A glass walled patio with a dining table and chairs ideas
A house with a covered patio and outdoor furniture idea
A house with a large patio and a kitchen idea
A large dining room with a skylight above it idea
A patio with a red chair next to a red wall idea

All in One

Luxurious glass box or the traditional open single-storey extension, which one is your favourite? We pick all these ideas while considering the design rules and budget. Always check the Permitted Development rights or your local building codes before you start your construction. All these single-storey extension ideas are pocket friendly and also completes in 4 months to 12 months. 

Extensions are the best idea to increase space in the existing house. You can select between various styles, designs, and materials and construct your dream single-storey extension as per your requirements.

Read more:

Expert Tips to Enhance and Maintain the Curb Appeal of Your Home

0
Enhance and Maintain the Curb Appeal

When it comes to drawing in a potential homebuyer, a lot of effort goes into leaving a good impression, irrespective of whether you are selling your own home or working with a real estate agent. One of the many features most buyers take into consideration when they are looking to buy a new home is the outside appearance of the house.

There are a lot of things you can do that will make a significant difference when it comes to freshening your house’s exterior. Below are some of the best tips to enhance the curb appeal of your home.

Upgrade your Roof-Line Design

Upgrade your Roof-Line Design

A standard roof has a lifespan of approximately 20 years, so if your roof is approaching the end of its days, it would be a good idea to consider replacing it before you list your home, as an old roof could lead to water damage. Roofline Design is one of the most recommended companies in Leeds for replacing fascias, soffits, and gutters.

Install Exterior Lights

Install Exterior Lights

Installation of exterior lighting is both aesthetically pleasing as well as a great safety feature to have. In a recent survey, 85% of homebuyers put exterior lighting on their want list. Some areas to focus on when situating outdoor lighting include the pathway, doorway, patio, and the garage. These exterior lights would brighten up and highlight your home’s most striking details, and even help to keep it safer at night.

Reduce Landscaping Clutter

Reduce Landscaping Clutter

One should consider landscaping as a priority. Ensure to trim bushes, plant fresh flowers in flower beds, and add a fresh topping of mulch to exposed areas. Another thing you may want to pay attention to is making sure that all the boundaries between any concrete, grass, and flowerbeds are clean, as this creates a comparable difference between an untidy front yard and an organized one.

Add Some Potted Plants

Add Some Potted Plants

Potted plants are a simple, cost-effective, and quick way of advancing Curb Appeal as they add some life to your home because of the beautiful colours they offer. Work with different pot sizes and colours to create your desired style and add a few below your windows. Many sellers have had their homes sell quickly after improving their curb appeal with this simple trick.

Revamp your Front Door

Revamp your Front Door

See your front door as a design statement. Not only does your front door tell a story about the condition of your home, but it also acts as a welcoming feature. You can look at painting your door the famous shiny black, or hunter green, which predominantly appeals to buyers with traditional tastes. Colors such as bold red or blue are for fans of modern styles, while canary yellow gives an impression of brightness and cheer.

Give your Home a Homey Touch

Give your Home a Homey Touch

See your front door as a design statement. Not only does your front door tell a story about the condition of your home, but it also acts as a welcoming feature. You can look at painting your door the famous shiny black, or hunter green, which predominantly appeals to buyers with traditional tastes. Colors such as bold red or blue are for fans of modern styles, while canary yellow gives an impression of brightness and cheer.

conclusion

Don’t let your entry be an afterthought! Polish your welcome with a colorful statement door, a whisper of greenery, and a path less worn. Let your curb appeal sing your home’s unique tune, welcoming all to a haven within.

Read more:-

Improve Your Bathroom’s Aesthetics with Bathroom Wall Panels

0
Bathroom Wall Panels

Are you tired of looking at the old, dirty tiles of your bathroom? Bathroom wall panels will help instil a feeling of luxury and calmness into your bathroom. They are highly cost-effective in comparison to the massive aesthetic improvement that you get from it. Water-resistant wall cladding methods are more suited to the wet environments of your bathroom. Wall panels are hard-wearing, water-resistant and stain-resistant, making it fully hygienic. They are way more affordable than titles and add a premium look to your bathroom. Wall panels are your cost-effective solution to revamp your bathroom from drab to fab.

Tongue-and-groove System

You can now rub off your fear of finding the perfect trim to match your new panels. The Tongue-and-groove system incorporates a unique interlocking system that provides a professional and seamless finish to your bathroom. It will hardly take you seconds to install your wall panels.

An Alternative to Tiles

Tiles are an infamous breeding ground for bacteria, damp and mould, ruining your narcotic bathroom aesthetics and adding hours to your tedious cleaning routine. Bathroom wall panels are the ideal way to say no to the pink grime, blackened grout, and shabby look of your bathroom. They provide you with a modern, smooth, and seamless look that even exorbitant high-end tiles will fail to offer. They are way more cost-effective than tiles due to their large size and low maintenance.

A white toilet sitting next to a walk in shower

Create the perfect look for your bathroom

Wall Panels run a wide range of options to suit everyone’s view of creativity. They are incredibly versatile, flexible, and come in a variety of colours, textures, designs, and finishes. They replicate some of your favourite materials for bathroom cladding:

  • Marble
  • Stone
  • Quartz
  • Tiles
  • Slate
  • Wood

You can install them across your bathroom walls, inside the shower, behind a bath, or use them as a backsplash for sinks. You can either opt for a single significant statement piece or choose a block of bold decorative pieces. 

Hide a host of sins

Bathroom wall panels hide uneven walls or imperfections and bring new life to your bathrooms. You can simply glue your panels over the wall, thus making your installation process easier and quicker. Unlike tiles, they can be built onto any surface or material even over pre-existing tiles. With wall panels, you can quickly renovate your bathroom without any mess. 

Reasons why bathroom wall panels are worth the investment 

  • Say goodbye to your buckets of the grout. Bathroom wall panels are installable without the need for grout or adhesives. Over time the grout will make your tiles appear dirty, whereas wall panels will provide you with a seamless finish that will last a lifetime.
  •  They are fully waterproof, thus cutting down the time spent over tedious scrubbing and cleaning routines. All you need to do is wipe it with a damp cloth. They will prevent the growth of bacteria and mould in your bathroom.
  • They come in a variety of styles, colour, and designs. You will find something that suits your needs perfectly. You can either opt for a subtle, classic appearance or add a blast of freshness to your bathroom with a bold, bright range of wall panels.
  • Installing shower tiles can be a laborious and lengthy process. Repeating cutting and trimming tiles to fit the contours of your showers can be a frustrating process. Anyone with DIY skills can install a bathroom wall panel. They are quick to install and cover up any irregularity of your bathroom.
  • PVC bathroom wall panels act as a potent insulator that traps the heat. This provides you with an innately warm bathroom and lowers heating costs. It will protect your bathroom from getting darn cold during the winter season.
  • Bathroom water panels do not allow water to accumulate. With no grouting and breeding ground for mould, your maintenance gets easier. They are almost zero-maintenance and highly cost-effective. 
A bathroom with a black tub and a mirror

 The easy installation and affordability make bathroom wall panels increasingly popular. They provide you with the real, sleek look of tiles without the hard work. They are also customisable, enabling you to create your unique bathroom designs. With bathroom wall panels, your bathrooms will stay in a pristine condition for years without any heavy maintenance.

Discover more:

Types of Solar Inverters

0
Types of Solar Inverters

A solar inverter is a very essential component of a solar system. Just like what a brain is to the human body, a solar inverter allows for monitoring the system so that the system operators can observe how the system is working. The sole purpose of it is to alter the DC power to AC power. After the panels themselves, inverters are the most important. If you are considering buying a solar panel system for your place, the main decision you make is the type of inverter you want to install.

Inverters convert direct current (DC) into the output of a solar panel into usable alternating current energy (AC). The inverters give analytical information to help in identifying operations for maintenance to fix any potential issues.

Types of Solar Inverters

String inverter

A photo of a solar power station with a sky background

This type of solar panel is arranged in a form of a string and many strings are allied to one single string inverter. These inverters are a good choice for installations where the panels are arranged on one single plane to avoid facing in various directions. Each string holds the DC power where it is altered into AC power. They can also be used along with power optimizers. Power optimizers have numerous benefits. They are not very expensive. A string inverter is a very good choice to pick among inverters.

Microinverters

A close up of a metal object on the ground

Just like power optimizers, these inverters are module-level electronics because one inverter is fixed on every panel. These inverters a very good choice to pick if you are planning to install a solar power system at your home or even for commercial purposes. They have many other benefits. They optimize each and every solar panel independently. They are most purchased inverters. In case you have an incomplete shade situation, they transmit more energy.

Hybrid inverter

A room with Hybrid inverter on the wall

Widely known as the multi-mode inverter, this inverter slows plugging batteries into the solar power system. The battery is interfaced by it through the direct current (DC) coupling method. The charging and discharging of the battery is managed by the electronics.

Central inverters

A large white machine that is sitting on a white surface

These are larger inverters and support additional strings. The strings are united together in a combiner box. The DC power rushes towards the middle inverter which is in turn transformed to AC power. These inverters are not used in homes. They are mostly used for commercial purposes.

Battery based inverter

These inverters are also known as unidirectional because they include both an inverter and a battery charger. Due to innovation in quantum physics, many alterations are being made to them day by day, resulting in advancement. They offer you a nonstop operation for various loads based on the grid condition. They also detect the battery’s status and control how it is charged.

A row of white electrical equipment sitting on top of a field

Solar power systems are densely used nowadays. If you are looking to install a solar power system any soon, click here for solar deals in Adelaide.

Keep reading:

Kitchen Lighting Ideas – Tips For Better Lighting

0
Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Summer is with us, which can only mean one thing; it’s time to refurbish the kitchen! Kitchen professionals say that spring and summer is the best time to install a new kitchen or renovate an old one. It’s always nice to add something new to your kitchen in order to welcome the new season. The best part is that you can easily transform your kitchen without doing a whole remodel.

Try these lighting tips to bring some sparkle to your kitchen while improving its functionality.

Go for gold

Gold Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Although it’s not a commonly used combination, gold and white strike the perfect balance between modern, bold, and fresh. Look for white pendant lights with gold accents to add some unexpected bling to your kitchen. Hang them over your island to create the ultimate modern space.

Rose gold

Rose gold Kitchen Lighting Ideas

You can never go wrong with rose gold. The staying power of this metal/ color means that you don’t have to worry about your light fixtures going out of style. Rose gold light fixtures come in all sizes and shapes, and they’re easy to find in places like Elektra lighting and electrical. The most popular are ceiling lampshades and geometric pendants.

Throw some shade

shade Kitchen Lighting Ideas

If you have shades in your kitchen, you can also update them to match the new style you want to create. For instance, if you want your kitchen to look chic and modern, use neutral shades. This doesn’t have to mean that they have to be dull. White shades with black accents are toned down yet stylish and contemporary.

Highlight your sink with lighting

Highlight your sink with lighting Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Sometimes you need more than one light in your kitchen ceiling to highlight the different areas in the space. While a pendant or chandelier above your kitchen island is a no-brainer, you may want to hang another light fixture above your sink as well, for good measure.

Hanging orbs

Hanging orbs Kitchen Lighting Ideas

If you’re looking to jump on the minimalist bandwagon, then you should definitely hang a few indistinct orbs from your ceiling for a sleeker look. The great thing about cool orb lights is that they’re not overwhelming and they offer the perfect combination of class and functionality. Opt for glass orb pendants to maximum effect.

Pare it down

Pare it downKitchen Lighting Ideas

One can easily overdo it with light fixtures, and unless you’re going for a dramatic look, then it’s definitely worth it to keep it clean. Modest ceiling lights will help you achieve the perfect modern aesthetic.

Statement chandelier

Statement chandelier Kitchen Lighting Ideas

This list wouldn’t be complete without the classic statement chandelier. This striking piece is a great way to completely transform your kitchen aesthetic with the addition of just one item. Part of what makes statement chandeliers so popular is the fact that they come in all types of different designs, colors, shapes, and textures.

Depending on your kitchen aesthetic, your chandelier could consist of dazzling crystals, a constellation of antlers, or bamboo shoots. Although a statement chandelier can take up a lot of space, it shouldn’t feel flashy unless you pair it with a lot of other clashing elements. For best results, pair a statement chandelier with a minimalist aesthetic and an open-plan design.

Task lighting

Task lighting Kitchen Lighting Ideas

No kitchen is complete without proper task lighting. As the name implies, task lights are designed to illuminate certain areas of your kitchen so that it’s easier to complete tasks.

While the focus is mostly on functionality, task lights can be stylish too. Task lights work best when placed in high-traffic areas where you prepare food, such as underneath the cabinets. Strip lights and recessed lights both make excellent task lights.

Wall Scones

Wall Scones Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Wall scones are a type of ambient lighting that helps you highlight certain décor elements, such as artwork that you may have displayed on your kitchen walls. Low-voltage fixtures come highly recommended when installing wall scones.

Track lighting

Track lighting Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Since it hangs overhead, track kitchen lighting provides the perfect illumination for the whole kitchen. It’s a great alternative to chandeliers if that’s not your style, and you can customize the positioning of each light to suit your space.

Open shelf lights

Open shelf lights Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Everything is open-plan nowadays, even kitchen shelves. If you have a similar kitchen layout, consider installing LED strip lights to highlight and show off all the dinnerware and glassware that you’ve painstakingly collected over the years.

Learn more:

Top 11 Ways to Clean Stove in Your Kitchen

0
Ways to Clean Stove in Your Kitchen

Even if you just fix meals a couple of times a week, your stove will store remnants of any meal you produce. At the seemingly endless task of keeping cooktops clean, even with a regular wipe down, the most specific housekeepers can get distracted. An overflowing oil build-up or pot could present a difficult mess to try to remove. The cleaning of conventional stovetops is notoriously difficult. Their size, shape, and often caked-on reminders of long past meals can make all of the world’s elbow grease appear like a waste of time. Cleaning your stovetop can save you money, as usual, it will help the unit to last longer.

Nonetheless, there is no need for harmful chemicals that can destroy surfaces and make you feel sick. Most people are now turning to green methods to clean their stoves. Here are the top 11 ways to make your cooking surfaces sparkle like new without you breaking a sweat again. Also, refer to the owner’s manual that came in with your stovetop before you start.

1. Use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

Use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide

There are few other cleaners packing this amount of power. Brush off your oven and discard any remaining debris. Sprinkle with baking soda over the entire surface and then drizzle with peroxide. Note as the baked-on gunk fizzles and breaks down. When the stains have been removed easily clean and dry.

2. Clean with ammonia

Clean with ammonia

While ammonia isn’t ideal for cleaning up things, nothing better tackles the baked burners on grime. With this approach, there is less work for you to do. Simply through the removable burners in a zipper-top container, add ammonia, and then seal. Leave everything overnight on your veranda. The very next day, wash them off and see how they sparkle.

3. Try olive oil or vegetable oil

Try olive oil or vegetable oil

This approach calls for you to spill a little olive or vegetable oil out onto your stove. Then brush the oil into the caked-on messes using a cloth. Then use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe it all off. That also definitely works on your stove hood.

4. Use boiling water

. Use boiling water

If you don’t have any additional items around the house but need to quickly clean your stove, try boiling water. Pour the boiling water gently and cautiously onto the filthy floor. When you let it sit until it cools, the rough stuff will literally wash away. If required, scrub stubborn areas with a bit of soap on a sponge. It is a simple and environmentally sustainable approach since it uses ingredients that are entirely natural and chemical-free.

5. Use white vinegar

Use white vinegar

White vinegar is the perfect cleanser. This is used by loosening stains and streaks to clean glass stovetops.

In an unused spray bottle, simply mix one part of white vinegar into two parts of tap water. Next, spray and wipe the solution onto your glass stovetop. Vinegar acidity helps eradicate the grime. You can use this mixture in your kitchen for daily cleaning and sanitizing.

6. Use baking soda or dish soap

Use baking soda or dish soap

In the small bowl, combine the same parts of soap with baking soda. Mix together until a slightly foamy texture creates a frost-like consistency.

Then use the mixture generously to drip the pans. Scrub the pans down to release the grime. Transfer the drip cups into zip-top bags for about one hour, then move the cups from the bags and remove the gunk.

7. Try lemon and Baking Soda

Try lemon and Baking Soda

Lemons have the characteristics of removing natural fat, and baking soda has natural antibacterial properties. Baking soda contains extremely fine particles which help to remove baked-on stains but which are gentle enough not to scratch the glass.

Sprinkle just a pinch of baking soda onto a glass stovetop. Then wipe off the surface using a lemon slice. To clear any traces of the baking soda particles and lemon pulp, clean the region with a damp cloth.

8. Try Salt and Baking Soda

Try Salt and Baking Soda

Blend one baking soda tablespoon and a salt tablespoon. Next, add one tablespoon of water and mix the paste together. Dip a rag into the gunk mixture and scour off. Pour overflows on the mixture. It absorbs liquid and makes a breeze clean.

9. Clean with Soap and Water

Clean with Soap and Water

Remove electric burners from the stovetop for this method. Rinse any residue from the coils using a cloth and a little mild dish soap and water. Blend a thick paste of equal parts baking soda and water for any cooked-on food debris which does not come off, and then implement it to the troubled spot. The burner is scrubbed and rinsed after about 20 minutes. Replace the burner after it’s dry to the full.

 10. Use razor/scraper

Use razor/scraper

For those scorched-on stains difficult-to-remove, consider using a scraper. What you need to do is literally keep the razor blade to the stove at an angle and scrape the residue securely away. When you’ve done chipping off your burners the scorched-on stains, you can easily clean away any residual residue as normal.

 11. Use oven cleaner

Use oven cleaner

Oven cleaner works fine for gas stovetop cleaning. Place the removable parts outdoors or in a well-ventilated area on a newspaper and spray with a commercial oven cleaner.

Keep them powdered for a few hours or overnight. Next, clean the burners in soft, soapy water. Just use the rough side of a sponge on uncoated grates. For coated ones, choose a soft cloth. Let the items dry, already when you replace them entirely.

Ways to Clean Stove in Your Kitchen

 Final thoughts!

Prior to attempting any of these techniques, please ensure that the stove is cool. Wipe any loose crumbs off with a damp paper towel. With these helpful cleaning tips, your cooktop might look new again. Remember to clean it to avoid having to do a thorough, deep clean again after every use. Baffling your stovetop regularly helps make deep cleaning easier. Continue to clean the burners frequently so that the oils do not build up and damage your machine.

The longer you delay the cleaning of your cooktop, the more you can build up grime. Keeping it clean is important from a functional and aesthetic point of view. Without regular maintenance, hood vents and fuel ports can jam up, causing damage.

Continue reading:

Top 10 Flooring Trends For 2025

0
Flooring Trend

Thinking it may be time to renovate your flooring? An illuminating survey revealed that a whopping 30% of homeowners dislike their flooring more than any other feature in their homes. The cornerstone of any stylish space, floors can make or break a room, and getting them right is the key to harmonious interior design. If you’re considering a home renovation, why not start from the ground up and get inspired by the top 10 flooring trends. 

1. Engineered Wood Flooring

Engineered Wood Flooring

A low-maintenance and affordable alternative to traditional hardwoods, engineered wood flooring’s stock is on the up. A hybrid wood floor of sorts, the flooring type comprises of a plywood core finished off with a solid wood plank. This makes it cheaper than its hardwood counterparts, while maintaining the strength, look and feel of the much sought-after material.

Engineered wood comes in a wide variety of species and finishes, from deep mahogany to airy ash. It’s also highly sustainable due to its economical use of solid wood per plank. A distinct engineered wood flooring trend among designers has been a shift towards wider planks. This trend expands a room, creating a wider and more open space perfect for modern and traditional homes alike.

2. Environmentally Responsible Materials

Environmentally Responsible Materials

The modern homeowner is becoming more conscious of the impact their choices have on the environment. Eco-friendly flooring has been a hot topic throughout the year, veering towards natural, sustainable flooring over synthetic products. 

A rapidly developing option for those looking to lower their carbon footprint has been bamboo flooring. Easy on the eye as well as the environment, this organic renewable material is great for modern décor. Its noteworthy durability also makes it perfect for high traffic areas around bustling family homes. 

Other non-toxic and responsibly sourced flooring materials, such as linoleum and cork, have also surged in popularity. Particularly on-trend, reclaimed wood flooring has made its mark. Filled with rustic charm, the natural wood is taken from old buildings and barns before being recycled and given a new lease of life as luxury flooring. A trend that’s here to stay, eco-friendly flooring is indicative of an overall attitude shift in interior design.

3. Wood-Look Flooring

Wood-Look Flooring

While some flooring trends ebb and flow, the hearty look and feel of wooden floors is timeless. The price of solid wood flooring makes it a distant dream for some homeowners, with more affordable options available to capture the essence of a wood floor. From porcelain tiles to luxury laminate, there are an array of convincing designs available which evoke the extravagance of the real thing. Expertly designed to mimic natural tones, faux wood flooring is easy to clean and maintain. Many are also built with scratch-resistant properties. The most popular types of wood-look flooring have been soft wood tiles, LVT and laminate. When done right, you won’t be able to tell the difference. 

4. Terrazzo Floors

Terrazzo Floors

Terrazzo has made a comeback throughout home décor over the past few years and has rooted itself as one of this year’s hottest flooring trends. An abstract Avant-Garde option for contemporary and mid-century homes alike, the decorative speckled styles have skyrocketed in popularity. Favoured by many as an alternative to granite or more costly marble flooring, terrazzo offers a wide-ranging palette of tones and fragmented textures. 

5. Blonde Is Back

Blonde Is Back

A throwback to its 80’s heyday, blonde hues have made a resurgence into flooring design. Many are choosing to give last year’s popular grey the elbow, opting for vivacious, lively tones instead. 

Cheerful blonde flooring provides a much-needed breath of fresh air to many homes, offering natural light and creating additional space. If you’re looking to make a pokey room look larger, blonde hardwood flooring is the way to go. 

6. Waterproof Flooring

Waterproof Flooring

Hectic family homes need flooring they can rely on to last the long haul. Between spillages and muddy paws, your floors can go through a lot. Flooring for busy homes requires specific features to combat these threats, namely water-resistance. This year has been the year of waterproof flooring, favoured due to its minimal maintenance and liquid-repellent properties. 

Particularly prominent in high areas of moisture and condensation, such as kitchens and bathrooms, waterproof flooring is built to endure the impact of water without suffering damage.  The days of basic tiling being the only waterproof option for these areas are long gone. Advanced flooring technology has produced waterproof LVT, traditional vinyl, and laminate flooring to suit all tastes. Expect the rise of waterproof flooring technology to continue with the advent of bigger and better technologies.  

7. Black And White Flooring

Black And White Flooring

This year has ushered in the return of black and white flooring, with many homeowners choosing a unique twist on the classic design. As well as chequered black and white tiling and monochrome floors, contemporary styles include brash graphics and patterns. A clash between the old and the new is certainly on-trend, tweaking this vintage style for modern sensibilities. The influence of the traditional Art Deco movement is also plain to see, with geometric patterns and lines underpinning many of current year’s black and white floor designs.

8. Hexagon-Shaped Tiling

Hexagon-Shaped Tiling

Large-format tiles, in general, are among the most popular flooring options, with hexagonal patterns growing in prominence. Hexagonal tiles exude style and freshness, creating a unique and artistic foundation which contrasts well with both abstract and straightforward décor. They represent a low-maintenance way to add a splash of character to any room in the home. 

Whether subtle neutrality or daring bold designs are more your speed, hexagonal tiles are a jack of all trades. Designers have utilised this versatile flooring design in inventive ways, producing everything from glazed terra-cotta textures to brooding matte black colours. 

9. Distressed Woods 

Distressed Woods

Distressed wood brings nature into your home. Well-suited to traditional country homes, this tantalisingly luxurious material is often made from wood kept in its original state. Naturally distressed floors carry the grains and swirls caused by their environment. Not all distressed floors come from their natural state, however, with many made to imitate this texture. 

Most go through artificial styling to capture the aged look, creating a wonderfully organic aesthetic. Nevertheless, this is a homely, rustic style which fits in well among with farmhouse decor and country homes. The natural look ranks among the top flooring trends and distressed wood certainly fit the bill. 

10. Whitewashed Hardwood

Whitewashed Hardwood

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the authenticity of a hardwood floor. Whitewashing has been among the biggest hardwood flooring trends, creating a relaxed, breezy feel alongside the strength and durability of the solid material. This trend is typically paired with dramatic, darker decorations, sharply contrasting the airy floor with flashes of moodier accents. Those looking for modern, texture-laden floors jam-packed with character are turning towards the whitewashed flooring trend and beyond. 

Discover More

How to Clean and Maintain Your Cabinets?

0
How to Clean and Maintain Cabinet

Have you ever thought about how important role your cabinets play in your home? Cabinets are a piece of furniture that not only helps you to store a lot of things but also improves the aesthetics of your room. Just imagine how bad your home would look if the condition of your cabinets is not of the top level. If you are not sure how you can take care of your cabinets, check the following guide offered by Toronto kitchen cabinets company. Here, we have explained all the tips and tricks that will help you to clean and maintain your cabinets properly. 

How to Clean and Maintain Your Cabinets

Caring for Your Cabinet

Your cabinet only needs a little love and care to last a lifetime. Caring properly for your cabinet involves regular cleaning and polishing. You should also make sure that your cabinet does not get damaged by the cleaning equipment of your house. The variation of color and graining makes the wooden cabinets so beautiful. 

As wood is a natural product, if you don’t clean your cabinets properly, the stains can reduce the shine and the natural characteristics of wood.  Hand wipe the wooden furniture every day to bring the natural character of the woods out. 

After Installation

After installing the cabinets, make sure to wipe down the wooden panels with a soft and damp cloth. Dry the cabinet immediately with another clean and soft piece of cloth. Always wipe the wooden cabinets in the direction of the wood grain. Once the cleaning is done, apply a thin coat of polish. It is always better to use the polish that does not contain any wax or silicone. Also, make sure to follow the instruction of the manufacturer by heart. If you complete this step right, the polish will protect the woods of your cabinet from minor scratching, excessive moisture and staining. 

Clean and Maintain Your Cabinets

Basic Cleaning

The build-up of grease and grime is one of the main culprits that reduces the quality of the wooden cabinets severely. To remove the build-up of the sticky grease, you should damp soft cloth with warm soapy water and wipe the cabinet clean. You should do this cleaning once every week at the very least. You should clean the cabinets more if you have a super active kitchen. 

Also, don’t forget to wipe the residual moisture away immediately after wiping down the cabinets with soapy water. If the routine cleaning schedule fails to remove the grime, you should make a paste of the baking soda and water and use that to scrub the stains until it disappears completely. A simple mixture of vinegar and water is yet another option that you can avail while cleaning the cabinets. 

Repairing Scratches and Nicks

Most of the cabinet manufacturers provide their customers with a touch-up kit which can help them to maintain the beauty of their cabinets. Read the directions of using the kit carefully to make sure you are taking the right steps. 

Wipe down the Spills Promptly

Some stains are really difficult to remove and can cause prolonged damages to your cabinets. If you spill something on your cabinet, make sure to wipe that down immediately. It is better to use a bloating technique to remove the spill from the cabinet than using a wiping technique.

Avoid Excessive Moisture

Wooden cabinets often expand and contract due to the extreme heat and humidity in the atmosphere. This can damage the finish of your cabinetry and make it look dull and horrific. To make sure that this does not happen to you, you try to control the temperature and humidity of your homes all through the years. 

Maintain Your Cabinets

Avoid Light Damage

Direct exposure to the sunlight can have a damaging effect on the woods of your cabinets. This is especially true for the cabinets that are made with the natural woods. Even the laminated and thermoformed wood cabinets can also get damaged from the prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. 

Don’t Use Harsh Cleaners

As the name suggests, harsh cleaners often contain harsh chemicals that can damage the cabinetry of your wooden cabinets. If you don’t want that, you should wholeheartedly avoid cleaners that contain citric acid, ammonia, or bleach and other organic solvents.

Conclusion

So, these are some of the tips that you should follow for cleaning and maintaining your wooden cabinets. If you follow them by heart, the wooden cabinets can last for a lifetime. If you are not sure whether you can handle such cleanings, you can always get in touch with the professionals of Toronto kitchen cabinets company.  

Discover More