When we set out to buy a home, it can feel like an impossible task. So many potential homes to choose from, so many factors to consider. There’s your budget, the location, whether it suits your family, and everything in between. The one thing you can’t predict is the feeling you get when you step through the door. The feeling is like trying on your wedding dress for the first time. You just know. No one can tell you how it feels or describe it to you; it’s just there. So what happens if you get that feeling, and the home is a bit of a disaster zone? You need perhaps more work than you had anticipated. Rest assured, here is an essential guide to making an older home feel brand new. Creating your perfect space. 

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Think about the exterior and structure

A big giveaway of a property’s age is the exterior look. A house or property can have the telltale signs of brickwork looking shabby, maybe some parts having broken away. There are the windows and the doors. All of which could look a little dated and in need of some attention. This is where you may need to consider getting some professionals in to take out any structural repairs. Or perhaps consider some new windows to make the property more energy efficient. This way you are giving your new home a little makeover while potentially saving yourself some money on your energy bills. 

Make use of original features

A lot of older properties have beautiful original features like exposed beams or fireplaces. These are a wonderful designer feature to any home and are worth restoring and keeping if you can. They make great talking points and can work well with a modern design. Original features can often be very difficult to maintain though, so you may want to get some help from experts who might be able to help you. Exposing and creating a fireplace needs more than just the fireplace itself, it is the chimney to think about and the internal structure. This is when getting a professional chimney sweep could help you to make more of it. Websites like https://www.jcs-homeservices.com/chimney-sweep-in-northern-va/ are worth looking at. Beams are also a great feature, but they may need treating thanks to rot. However, experts will tell you exactly what needs to be done, and of course, the costs involved. Original features are always worth restoring where possible. 

Add a modern twist

An older property may look desirable. But that doesn’t mean the kitchen and bathroom will be. Often in this kind of property, those features may not have been improved for some time. So it’s the perfect opportunity to add a modern twist to the home by adding a fantastic state-of-the-art kitchen and serene bathroom suite. These are the rooms that often add value to a property so don’t be too worried about losing your investment. 

Work with smaller spaces

Older properties often don’t have square or boxy rooms like new builds do. After all, it is probably why you fell in love with the place thanks to its quirky nature. But sometimes that means that buying furniture might not always be a possibility. It may not fit or even look right. This is when creating bespoke pieces to fit certain areas of a room could be ideal. Chairs or built-in seating with storage, for example. A carpenter can work on your design and measurements. It definitely will help you make the home a little more user-friendly. 

Make the home work for you

A lot of the time, in older properties, the layouts don’t work for modern living. So don’t be afraid to knock some walls down and make the internal space work for your family. Of course, the only thing to bear in mind here is any buildings that are listed. This is where you will need to speak to a conservation officer to ask what work you can and can’t do to the property. In most cases, any interior work is permitted. 

Don’t forget the garden and landscaping

Finally, the garden and landscape can be a big feature of the property. So make sure you spend some time updating it. Even if you keep things simple with a pretty flower bed and a well-kept lawn. It can instantly change the curb appeal of your new home. 

I hope this helps you if you have fallen in love with a home that needs some work.

Working out alone can be a daunting task, but when you team up with your partner, it becomes a shared journey of motivation, challenges, and, most importantly, fun. Sometimes, mustering up the energy to work out – especially as a couple – can be a bit… well, challenging. Here are some nifty tricks to help you two find that pep in your step.

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1. What’s The Game Plan?

Chat with your partner over a cup of tea or while lounging on the couch. What do you both want to get out of these workouts? Drop a few pounds? Flex those biceps? Or maybe just laugh and have a good time while moving? Once you’re on the same page, it’s game on!

2. It’s A Date!

You wouldn’t flake on movie night, would you? So, why skip out on a workout date? Pop it in your calendar, set a reminder, and make it as unmissable as your favourite TV show.

3. Our Jam = Our Gym

You know those songs that just make you wanna dance? Or maybe run, or jump, or do a silly jig? Yep, those! Put them all together in a playlist. It’s a fun little pre-workout activity that gets you both pumped up.

4. Adventure Time!

Repeating the same stuff can get a tad boring. How about a salsa class one day and maybe a brisk morning walk another? Mix it up! Adventures await!

5. A Little Health Check

You ever have those days when you’re just… blah? It might be more than just a mood. Sometimes, our bodies need a little extra TLC. For guys, low energy can be linked to testosterone levels. You could look into online TRT that some folks use. But, hey, always chat with a doc before diving into anything new.

6. Your Partner’s Hype Squad

Some days, your partner might not be feeling the workout vibe. That’s where you swoop in with a pep talk! And guess what? When your energy dips, they’ve got your back too.

7. A Little Treat Never Hurt

Did you both nail that tricky yoga pose? Or maybe jogged that extra mile? High five! Now, how about some ice cream or maybe a cosy movie night? Little rewards make everything sweeter.

8. The More, The Merrier

Ever thought of joining a fun fitness group? There’s something super cool about sweating it out with a bunch of folks cheering you on. And hey, a little friendly competition never hurt anyone.

9. Keep The Laughs Coming

Turn that workout into playtime. Maybe a goofy dance-off? Or a game of tag? The key is to chuckle, giggle, and have a blast.

10. A Quick Check-In

After a few weeks, take a breather and chat about how things are going. Maybe you both loved Zumba but weren’t into Pilates? Cool, switch it up. It’s all about finding what makes you both tick.

In conclusion, working out as a couple can be an enriching experience that strengthens not just your muscles but also your bond. With these tips, working out as a twosome is less of a chore and more of a blast. So go on, lace up those sneakers, grab your partner’s hand, and dive into the fun world of couple workouts!

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The curb appeal of your home is the first thing people will notice when passing by your property. First impressions are formed in seven seconds, and once this impression is made, it can be challenging to overcome this. Your home is your castle, as they say, and you should be proud of your house. Creating a good first impression and boosting your home’s curb appeal should be part of this strategy.

Improving your curb appeal means looking at all the different factors outside your home that can impact what people think when they see you home and how you feel each day when arriving back.

These tips can help you improve your curb appeal and give you a home you are happy to return to every day.

Clean It Up

Before you make any drastic changes, give the whole place a good clean-up first. This can instantly give you a facelift. Get rid of any rubbish that is building up, jet wash the exterior of your property, and clean brickwork, windows, and doors, as well as your garage too. Pay attention to any areas that collect dust and dirt, including cutters, drains, edges of pathways, etc, and you’ll be surprised at the difference it will make.

Spruce up The Fence

If you have fencing around your property, give it a facelift or carry out major repairs. Fix broken panels, repair holes in metal fencing, or even change up the type of fencing you have if yours isn’t up to the task anymore. You can get a wooden fence or an iron fence, build a wall, or use steel or vinyl. A fence really adds charm to the character and security of your home and helps to keep any children and pets safe when playing outside.

Add Feature Lighting

Lighting can really help you add an extra dimension to your outdoor aesthetics, but feature lighting can create a focal point and help you set the tone for what people will expect in your home. Feature lighting can enhance certain areas, such as footpaths or your doorway, and provide an extra layer of security for guests and residents arriving home after dark.

Tidy The Lawn

Think neat edges, manicured grass, and maintaining its lushness. If you have a lawn at the front of your property, it needs to set the tone for how you live, and an unkempt lawn can give out all the wrong ideas. Keep your lawn neatly trimmed, remove any weeds, and ensure it grows healthy all year round.

Add Plants

Plants can give any property, inside and out, a boost. And if you want to make your garden more attractive or even a plain yard, plants can be exactly what you need. Plus, they don’t even need to be real. Artificial plants can work just as well. Add them to borders, plant pots on paths, around the front door, or by gates and fences. You can even make features in your lawn to help your plants stand out a bit more.

Improving the curb appeal of your home isn’t just for visitors or potential buyers if you’re looking to sell your home. It can also help you to enjoy coming home and improve your happiness and enjoyment of where you live too.

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Is your small bathroom feeling a bit too cozy for comfort? You’re not alone. Many homeowners find themselves struggling with the challenge of a limited bathroom space. 

As per the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), there has been a noticeable decrease in the average size of new homes in the United States in recent years. This means more and more people are dealing with smaller bathrooms.

But the good news is that there are numerous practical solutions to maximize the available space and make the bathroom feel more open and inviting. From upgrading your bathtub to embracing a monochromatic color scheme, these ideas can transform your small bathroom into a more spacious, functional, and enjoyable part of your home. 

So, let’s get started.

1. Replacement Tubs 

The bathtub is often the largest fixture in the bathroom, and if it’s taking up too much space, it can make the whole room feel cramped. But here’s the solution: go for a smaller, more space-friendly tub. Here are a few fantastic choices:

• Compact Corner Tub – Imagine a tub that fits perfectly in the corner of your bathroom, leaving lots of extra space. With this tub, you can still enjoy a relaxing soak without making your bathroom feel crowded.
• Sleek Freestanding Tub – A freestanding tub is a fantastic option for a more modern look. It’s not attached to any walls, creating a sense of openness. Plus, it looks stylish and luxurious.
• Walk-In Tub – Another smart choice is a walk-in tub, designed with accessibility and space-saving in mind. You can step in them easily, and they come in various sizes to fit your bathroom perfectly. 

When considering such a transformation, we suggest getting in touch with a professional replacement tub service provider with experience providing high-end results. These professionals can offer various helpful solutions, including tub installation, old tub removal, and custom fitting, to make your bathroom renovation a breeze.

1. Large Mirrors 

In small bathrooms, big changes can come from small choices, like choosing a large mirror. When you install a big, beautifully framed mirror, it does two amazing things. First, it reflects light all around the room, making it brighter and airier. 

Second, it creates a visual illusion of a much larger space. It’s like stepping into a spacious palace, even if your bathroom is cozy.

And here’s the neat part: you can place this mirror above your sink or vanity, which isn’t just practical for your morning routine; it also adds a touch of elegance to your space. 

1. Floating Shelves 

Another smart solution for small bathrooms is floating shelves that seem to float mid-air, not heavy or bulky like regular cabinets. These open shelves can hold your towels, toiletries, and even some fancy decorations without occupying too much room. 

It’s like magic – your things are there when you need them, and they don’t clutter up your bathroom.

The secret to success here is picking shelves with modern and minimalist designs. These designs keep your bathroom fresh, clean, and, most importantly, spacious.

1. Walk-in Showers 

Imagine a shower that’s not just a part of your bathroom but is seamlessly integrated into the floor, with no steps or barriers. That’s precisely what a walk-in shower offers.

This shower design is all about accessibility and style. It’s like entering a luxurious oasis, where you can simply walk in and start your refreshing shower experience. 

However, walk-in showers aren’t just about ease of entry and a statement of modern bathroom design. They create a sleek, minimalist look, and the absence of barriers makes your bathroom feel even more open and spacious.

1. Glass Shower Enclosures 

Swapping your old, clingy shower curtain for a stylish glass enclosure is like a breath of fresh air for small bathrooms.

This upgrade doesn’t just add a touch of luxury to your bathroom; it does something amazing with light. The glass in these enclosures lets light flow freely through your bathroom. It’s like having sunshine inside, making the room feel more open and airier.

And the best part? It’s sleek and modern. This glass enclosure doesn’t just keep water where it should be; it gives your bathroom a high-end look.

1. Monochromatic Color Scheme 

In small bathrooms, the power of color is immense. Embracing a monochromatic color scheme is like painting your bathroom with a single color but in various shades – its simplicity and brilliance combined.

Think of your bathroom painted in soft blues, gentle grays, or serene whites. This calm color palette creates an open and peaceful atmosphere. But the magic trick here is that sticking to one color in different shades creates an illusion of more space.

1. Space-Saving Toilets

Space-saving toilets are like a smart space hack, helping you make the most of your bathroom without sacrificing style or comfort. These toilets have a smaller footprint and are perfect for small bathrooms. 

But don’t be fooled by their size; these toilets provide the necessary functionality. They flush just like their bigger counterparts and are just as comfortable. They come in various styles, so you won’t have to compromise on looks either. 

1. Open Shelving Units 

When dealing with a small bathroom, you’ve got to be clever about storage. But what if your storage could also show off your style? That’s where open shelving units come into play. These open shelves allow you to display your favorite decorative items while keeping your bathroom organized and functional. You can show off your fancy soaps, charming candles, or cute plants.

But it’s not all about looks; these shelves provide functional storage. You can keep your towels, toiletries, and bathroom essentials where needed. 

Conclusion

In the world of small bathroom renovations, it’s the little changes that can make a world of difference. From replacing your tub with a space-efficient design to the elegant charm of open shelving units, each idea discussed above contributes to a more relaxed and functional bathroom. 

Remember, with careful planning and the right choices, you can maximize your limited space while creating a stylish and comfortable retreat. 

So, why wait? Roll up your sleeves and start your small bathroom transformation today! 

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Water damage in your house can be stressful and costly to deal with. From small leaks to major flooding, water can quickly cause extensive damage if not addressed promptly and properly. Given that Clearwater Beach has an extreme risk of flooding over the next 30 years, residents of this community are especially advised to stay vigilant. 

In fact, there are 3,895 properties in Clearwater with a significant risk of being severely affected by flooding in the coming decades. 

Let’s explore five effective ways you can deal with water damage in your house. Being prepared and knowing what to do can help minimize the impacts and get your home dried out and restored as quickly as possible. 

Additionally, it’s worth noting that for families in Clearwater living on a median income of $54,182, and with 10.7% of them living in poverty, mitigating flood damages becomes even more crucial to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

1. Stop the Source of the Leak

The first priority when discovering water damage is to halt the flow. Whether it’s a malfunctioning appliance, a leaky pipe, or nature’s elements breaching your home, addressing it promptly is crucial.

For instance, if you reside in a coastal location like Clearwater, Florida, that faces occasional severe weather events, you may have to deal with unique challenges when it comes to water damage. 

Knowing whom to call in such situations can make all the difference. If you’re unsure about the source of the leak or how to best address it, consider getting in touch with Clearwater water damage restoration services. 

They have the expertise to tackle these local challenges effectively and efficiently.

Homes in this region, more than others, can also benefit from being prepared and knowing the right steps to take. 

Here are some tips to handle the situation: 

• For appliance leaks, turn off the appliance at the source. 
• Shut off the main water valve if facing a major leak. 
• Use towels to soak up standing water and wring them out in a bucket. 
• If external factors are causing water to enter, secure openings like windows or doors.

2. Remove Excess Water

Once the water source is stopped, the next step is to remove any standing water. The goal is to get rid of as much excess moisture as possible to prevent further damage.

• Use a wet/dry shop vacuum to suck up water from floors, carpets, and hard surfaces. Empty the tank frequently.
• Place buckets or pans under dripping or leaking areas to collect water.
• Remove any wet items like furniture cushions, rugs, towels, clothing, etc, and take them outside to dry.
• Lift curtains and drapes to allow air circulation and drying.
• Pull up the damp carpet and pad carefully if possible.
• Open closet and cabinet doors to allow airflow to dry out contents.
• Run dehumidifiers and fans to help dry out the area.

Removing standing water quickly is key to reducing the possibility of mold growth and additional water damage. Act fast to collect and discard excess moisture.

3. Inspect for Damage

Once excess water has been cleared out, it’s time to inspect for any damage caused by the water. Look carefully for these common types of damage:

• Warped or bulging floors, walls, or ceilings: Water can cause wood and drywall to swell and warp. Push on suspect areas to check for sponginess.
• Peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper: Moisture will cause adhesive and paint to lose bond. Check walls for any lifting or bubbles in the surface.
• Mold or mildew growth: Look for fuzzy white or black growth on surfaces, which indicates the presence of mold.
• Cracked or delaminating tile: The plywood underlayment can swell, causing tile and grout to crack or lift up.
• Damaged furniture: Wood furniture may swell or start to fall apart. Check for loose joints or cracking.
• Rust on metal: Exposed metal surfaces like nails or pipes may start to rust if exposed to moisture.
• Rotting wood: Any untreated or poorly sealed wood can quickly rot from excess water exposure.
• Damaged drywall: Drywall soaks up water like a sponge and can become soggy, crumble apart, or grow mold.

Documenting any water damage found is essential for insurance claims and restoration work. Take photos or videos of affected areas for your records.

Take active measures to facilitate drying within the first 24-48 hours after water damage for best results. Lingering moisture will only make restoration more difficult and expensive.

4. Monitor for Mold Growth

As excess moisture lingers in the home, the risk for mold growth escalates. Mold can begin forming in as little as 24-48 hours in wet conditions. 

Be vigilant in checking for signs of mold, including:

• Visible fuzzy or slimy black, green, or white growth on surfaces
• A musty or earthy smell in affected rooms
• Allergy symptoms like runny nose, headaches, sore throat or itchy eyes when in the home
• Small black or brown dots along baseboards, drywall, or paneling

If mold is spotted, take proactive measures to kill and remove it:

• Mix 1 cup bleach per 1 gallon of water and scrub onto moldy surfaces. Ensure the area dries fully after bleaching.
• Use concentrated mold killer sprays and follow product instructions.
• Wear protective gear like goggles, gloves, and a mask to prevent breathing in mold spores.
• Carefully bag and dispose of any porous materials like drywall with mold growth.

Preventing mold from taking hold is much easier than removing an established mold problem. Stay vigilant and act at the first sign of mold to prevent it from spreading.

Conclusion

Dealing with water damage effectively requires quick action and smart restoration methods. Following these guidelines can help minimize the impacts on your home and possessions. Stopping the water source, drying quickly, monitoring for mold, making repairs properly, and inspecting the restored areas are all critical steps when recovering from water damage. 

If damage is extensive, don’t hesitate to call in professional water damage restoration services. Many companies specialize in responding quickly, extracting water, drying properties effectively, and properly restoring homes to pre-loss condition. 

With the right techniques and help when needed, your home can recover fully from a water damage event.

If you find that allergies are making your life hard work at the moment then there are a few things that you can do about that. This guide will show you what steps you can take to kick your allergies to the curb, today.

Shut your Windows

One of the first steps you should be taking is shutting your windows, and locking out any breeze. If the pollen count is very high then you can choose to install a HEPA filter over your air conditioner. You can also install a flat panel on your furnace, so keep that in mind.

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Consider an Alternative

If you want to get the best result out of your allergy treatment then one thing you can do is consider alternatives. Look into what else is out there and find out if there is anything you can do to treat your allergies with natural supplements. Online, you can also build your own vitamin pack, which could be an option if you don’t feel as though you are as physically healthy as you could be.

Wash Up

Every time you walk into your home, you need to wash your clothes and your hair. This may sound like a monumental task but at the end of the day, it could make a major difference to your health. Take a bath and make sure that you are always mindful of how you could be contributing to the allergens in your home. 

Wear a Mask

Wearing a mask is a great way for you to keep allergens from getting into your airways. It also helps you a lot when you are unable to avoid certain allergens, so be mindful of that. You can get respirator masks from most stores and they are ideal when you are doing work in the yard or when you are getting the vacuum out.

Eat Well

Studies have found that children who eat a lot of fresh vegetables, along with fruit and nuts, experienced fewer allergy symptoms. Researchers are working hard to try and find the link, but one thing is for sure, a healthy diet is good for your whole body. Make sure that you are adding at least one portion of fruit to every meal if you can, and if you can’t, have it as a smoothie.

Rinse it Out

Nasal rinses are great, as they clear mucus from your nose and they also ease congestion and itching. Buy a rinsing kit or make one using a nasal bulb. You will need to use salt free from iodide, and then mix that with a teaspoon of baking soda. You can then put this into an airtight container, and use it whenever you are ready. Put one teaspoon of your mixture with 8 ounces of distilled water. Lean over a sink and then proceed to rinse out one nostril at a time. This is a great way for you to get the result you are looking for out of your allergy treatment, so keep it in mind.