Month: April 2021

Categories
Heating & cooling

How to cool down a room

Easy ways to keep your cool

During the warmer months of the year, it is easy to feel uncomfortable in your home as the temperatures rise outside, especially if your air conditioner isn’t working or you can’t afford to install the appliance. Fortunately, there are several ways to cold down a room without relying on an air conditioner. Here are a few of the top ways to create cooler air and prevent heat from transferring into your home.

Curtains

Curtains work well for insulating your bedroom or living room by blocking heat that can transfer through the windows. Make a point of closing the curtains during the day when it’s the warmest to keep the room cooler. Blackout curtains work well for blocking out any natural light that may cause a room to overheat, and they also help maintain cool temperatures on warmer days. Opt for dark, thick curtains that don’t allow any sunlight into the space.

Windows

You should open windows at night when it’s cooler to allow fresh air into the room. This will create a cross breeze to ensure your room starts to fill with cool air and can prevent the need for fans or air conditioners. It will also prevent the space from feeling stuffy. 

Open window louvers
Open window for breeze / Source: Swift Eco Clean

Mattress

Sleeping low on the ground can also help you to stay cooler at night because heat always rises. Consider placing your mattress directly on the floor, especially if you have tiles on the floor, which can feel cool to the touch. 

If you live in a warm climate, consider investing in a cooling mattress that doesn’t retain a lot of heat. Mattresses are now more advanced and feature breathable cores and moisture-wicking covers to ensure you don’t sweat as you sleep. Cooling sheets and pillows will also prove to be useful and allow air to pass through to prevent your body from overheating. Cotton sheets are also an excellent option if you need something more cost-effective because of their breathable texture.

Switch off tech

The electronic devices you use in your room can generate a lot of heat throughout the day and night. Get into the habit of turning off your electronic devices when they’re not in use, which includes your computer, laptop, and any lamps or lights. This step will not only reduce the temperature in the room but can also allow you to reduce your energy usage throughout the season.

With your lights, it’s also important to switch to LED light bulbs, which don’t release as much heat as halogen bulbs. LED lights stay cool and are more energy-efficient to allow you to spend less on electricity. Keeping the lights off as much as possible will also make it easier to keep the temperature lower in the room.

Contact an air conditioning technician

Fans

If you want to learn how to cool down a room with a fan, make sure the direction of your ceiling fan is set at counterclockwise to make the cooler air circulate as heat rises. This creates downdraft to make it easy to have a cool breeze in the summer without using much energy. Many newer ceiling fans even make it easy to change the direction of the ceiling fans with a push of a button on the remote control to ensure you can do it in seconds. The counterclockwise directly also works well for all types of fans, whether you’re relying on a pedestal or desk fan to stay cool. A window fan can also circulate the air in the room and prevent warm air from entering the building when you want to leave your windows open on warm days.

Exhaust fans also work well for suctioning the warm air in the room and releasing it into the outside air. You can use these fans for when you’re cooking or for general use to prevent heat from the stovetop increasing the temperature in the kitchen.

Not only are fans effective, but you can also create your own DIY air conditioner, which is the best way to cool a room. Place ice in a large bowl and place a fan behind it to ensure ice-cold air blows across the room. 

Bedroom with ceiling fan
Bedroom with ceiling fan / Source: Seton Electrical

Dehumidifier

Many people don’t realize how effective a dehumidifier can be during the summer season when there are higher humidity levels. A dehumidifier will immediately start to remove moisture in the room and can cause the temperature to drop gradually. After a few minutes of the device operating, it can reduce the temperature in the room by a few degrees without having to rely on an air conditioner.

How to hire an air conditioning technician

When you’re looking to hire an air conditioning technician for inspections, installations or repairs, there are a few things you should do.

  • Read online reviews that are posted by other customers to ensure you find a professional you can trust 
  • Check that the AC technician is licensed within your state and has several years of experience in the industry
  • Ensure the AC technician has a physical workplace or office, as well as a professional website to ensure they’re reputable
Categories
Walls & flooring

How to lay carpet

Add another level of comfort to your home

Carpet can add a soft touch to any room and serve as the base for the rest of the room design. The right carpet can instantly transform a space. Aside from purchasing the carpet, hiring an installer is a major expense. If you are thinking about skipping this expense and doing it yourself, make sure you actually understand how to lay carpet. Failing to do so may end up ruining your new carpet or having to live with noticeable mistakes. If you want to do it yourself, here are some basic steps and considerations. 

Choosing the right carpet for your space

Carpeting is a big investment, and you will want to take this decision into careful consideration. This decision is about more than colour and pile. Here are some things you might want to think about. 

  • Lifestyle –This is the most important factor in the carpet purchasing decision. You might not want that carpet with the long pile if you have children and pets. Also, consider how well the pattern will hide stains. 
  • Plush piles vs loop piles – There are two kinds of piles; plush piles and loop piles. Loop piles are usually low and are typically what you find in office carpeting. Plush piles have cut ends and have a soft, luxurious feel on your feet. Short, loop pile carpets are often easier to clean than plush pile carpets. They are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. 
  • Colours – When it comes to colour, you might be tempted to go with something trendy, but trends come and go. Buying carpet is a longer-term decision, so you want to make sure that you will be happy with it in the future. Neutrals are a always a good choice.
  • Fibre types – If you want natural fibers, you will probably have to choose a rug to go on top of the carpet as an accent. Most modern carpets are made from synthetic fibers, but you can find some carpets that contain a percentage of natural fibers. The most common types of carpet fibers are acrylic, nylon, olefin, and viscose fibers. Viscose is made from natural plant fibers. All of these choices have advantages and disadvantages in terms of wear resistance, resilience, and resistance to fading. Each of these choices has an effect on the cost of the carpet per square metre. 
Bedroom with carpet
Carpeted bedroom / Source: Tradezmen

Materials and Tools

 The first thing that you need to do is to calculate the amount of carpet needed per square metre. You will want to purchase a little extra to account for any odd areas or mishaps. Once you have purchased the carpet, here are a few other carpet laying tools that you will need to do the job. 

  • Tackless strip
  • Tape
  • Tack strip cutter
  • Hand stapler
  • Wall trimmer
  • Top cutter
  • Hammer
  • Measuring tape
  • Knee kicker
  • Carpet knife
  • Stair tool
  • Razor knife
  • Power stretcher
  • Gloves

How to Lay Carpet

 As you can see, there is a lot of specialty equipment needed for laying carpet. There is also a difference between carpet installation and how to lay carpet tiles. Tiles might require special adhesive and a trowel. Once you have the tools assembled, you are ready to begin. 

  1. Prepare subfloor. The first thing you will need to do is to remove the old carpet and clean the subfloor surface. It must be smooth and clean. Remove any joint compound, paint, or rough areas. You will also want to give it a good sweep and vacuum. 
  2. Install tack strips. Now, you can cut the tack strips to the proper length and nail them about 1.27 cm from the wall. Make sure to wear gloves as they are sharp, and do not install them across doorway thresholds. The tacks can poke through and cut your feet. 
  3. Install padding/underlay. Roll out the carpet pad and staple it near the tack strips. Make sure to place the edges close together so that the surface is smooth. Staple the pad seams to hold them down. Use a carpet knife to trim the pad. 
  4. Measure and cut carpet. Roll the carpet out and notch the corners for trimming. This can be done on a garage floor or outdoor driveway, this is easier with two people. Trim the carpet to size. Now, bring it inside and lay it in the room.
  5. Lay and secure. Lay the carpet down and glue the seams. Trim around any obstacles. Attach the first edge of the carpet to the tack strip. Place the flat end of the knee kicker against the carpet and forcefully strike the padded end to stretch the carpet and cause it to grab the tack strips securely. Now you can trim any excess from the edges. 
  6. Stretch the carpet. Use the power stretcher to attach the carpet to the strips on the other side of the room and the corners. Use a binder bar to secure any areas where the carpet is not against a wall, such as a doorway threshold. Make sure the carpet is well-stretched and does not have any wrinkles or puckers. 

Contact a carpet expert

How to Hire a Carpet Installer

As you can see, laying carpet requires special equipment and knowledge. It is also physically strenuous work, and you will have to be on your hands and knees quite a bit. Also, if you do not do all of the steps correctly, the carpet can come loose or have wrinkles that represent a tripping hazard and look unsightly. These are many of the reasons why hiring a professional is a good idea in the first place. 

Carpet laying is considered a trade but is no longer licenced under the Home Build Act. Although you do not have to have a licence, you want someone who is experienced and has undergone an apprenticeship or training program. If the carpet is not installed properly, you may have to purchase a new piece of carpet and start over. When hiring a carpet installer, here are a few things to consider. 

  • Ask them how long they have been installing carpet 
  • Ask for references or to see pictures of their finished jobs
  • Ask if they offer any type of guarantee or warranty on their work 
Categories
Lighting & electrical

Upgrade your space: How to install LED downlights

Lighting is the most important element for setting the mood of a

Lighting is the most important element for setting the mood of a room. LED downlights have become increasingly popular as an energy-efficient and versatile lighting solution for residential and commercial spaces. While the benefits of LED downlights are clear, it’s important to emphasise proper installation for the best performance. 

This article provides homeowners with an in-depth look at the advantages of LED downlights and offers practical tips for their correct installation. Know what to do when undergoing LED downlight installation to transform your space.

Why choose LED downlights? 

an electrician installing LED downlights on a recessed ceiling
Get the right downlight types for your needs | Source: iStock

LED downlights stand out from other types of lighting because of their many benefits, like energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatile lighting options. Unlike traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, LEDs use 75% less energy yet last longer than other bulbs, resulting in reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills. 

They also have a much longer operational life, often exceeding 25,000 hours, and come in various styles and colour temperatures to suit different lighting needs.

Choosing the right downlight size and frequency for your space

Downlighting can provide general lighting or be used to spotlight specific features. They come in various colour temperatures, shapes, sizes, and finishes, and offer options to suit any need or preference. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind when selecting your lighting.

Downlight size

This refers to the physical diameter; choose smaller lights for compact spaces and strategically place them in larger areas. This approach makes for effective lighting without overwhelming the ceiling or undersizing the light in a large room.

Beam angle

Beam angles determine how light is distributed, with some lights having a more narrow scope and others covering a wider area. When spacing your lights, think ahead here for proper overlap and account for ceiling height, which affects brightness and spread.

Downlight placement

Proper placement of downlights is a must for balanced lighting. Typically, you divide your ceiling height by two and use this number as a spacing guide; for example, a 2.8-meter ceiling would require downlights spaced 1.4 metres apart.

Tools and materials you’ll need

While you may need a licensed professional to help out with installation, homeowners can prep ahead by gathering the necessary tools for a quick and seamless process. Having these accessories ready will help give a safe and efficient installation when your licensed electrician completes the setup.

Below are just some materials that might come in handy for preparing your space:

  • Lighting units
  • Transformer (for low-voltage lights)
  • Recessed lighting trim
  • LED light bulbs
  • Cordless drill
  • Hole drill bit or hole saw
  • 6.35 mm drill bit
  • File (for smoothing hole edges)
  • Wire connectors
  • Wire strippers or pliers

LED downlights installation: A step-by-step guide

a man fixing the ceiling LED lights
Make sure the LED lights are fixed to its position correctly | Source: iStock

LED downlight installation offers a large number of benefits, ranging from aesthetic preferences to quality-of-life improvements. This step-by-step guide on how to install LED downlights will walk you through the process, from initial preparation to final installation, ensuring a smooth and safe experience.

Step 1: Turn off the power and assess the space/positioning

a person switching off the lights
Switch off the lights for safety | Source: iStock

Before any electrical work, make sure the power in the area is turned off. Locate your home’s main electrical panel and switch off the circuit breaker that controls the area where you’ll be working. For good measure, you can use a voltage tester to confirm power is off in a specific area.

Step 2: Fitting the downlight

For this step, you will need a cordless drill, a hole drill bit or hole saw, a file, and measuring tape. Start by identifying the spots on the ceiling where the downlights will be installed. Use the hole drill bit or hole saw to cut out the marked sections

Once the holes are cut, use the file to smooth the edges, creating a clean and precise fit for the downlights. Proper fitting is essential so the lights exactly match the ceiling and can function as intended.

Step 3: Wiring the downlights

a male electrician installing LED lights
Prepare all the tools and materials needed for the task | Source: iStock

You can do the first two steps by yourself or hire a professional for a faster and more efficient process. However, it’s highly recommended to hire a licensed electrician to ensure all electrical connections are safe and compliant with local codes. They will run the necessary wiring through the ceiling, connect the downlights to the power source, and secure all connections using wire connectors.

Step 4: Installing the LED downlights and trim

After wiring is complete, fit the downlight housings into the prepared holes. Secure them accordingly and make sure they’re snug and stable before being used. Attach the recessed lighting trim to give a finished look and insert the LED bulbs into the fixtures. 

Step 5: Testing the lights

a close up shot of the LED lights in a room
Elevate your room’s ambience with LED downlights | Source: iStock

When the downlight installation has been secured to your liking, turn the power back on at the main electrical panel. Test the lights to see if they work properly and its the brightness is to your liking. Check for any flickering or dimming issues and make adjustments as needed.

Step 6: Cleaning up

Remove any debris, tools, and materials used throughout the installation process. Clean the work area thoroughly so that no leftover materials or hazards are left behind. Wipe down the downlights and surrounding area to remove any dust or stains.

Plan for regular maintenance to keep your downlights in optimal condition. Dust the fixtures periodically to prevent buildup, and check for any signs of wear or damage. Replace bulbs as needed and ensure all electrical connections remain secure. Regular maintenance will help extend the life of your LED downlights and maintain their performance.

Contact local electricians

How to hire an electrician

Now that you know how to change downlights and what is involved, hiring a professional who can do the job right the first time makes sense. In Australia, each state has different licencing requirements for electricians, but all agree that you should not install lights without the proper training and credentials. Here are a few questions you should ask before hiring an electrician. 

  • Are you licensed to install lighting in my local area? 
  • Can you provide a certificate of proper installation, if needed? 
  • What is your plan for installing the lighting, and will you work with me to achieve a design that I am happy with? 

Brighten up your space with LED downlights!

When done correctly, changing LED downlights can greatly elevate your home or workspace by providing superior lighting that enhances the overall ambience and functionality of the space. 

While it is possible to install LED downlights yourself, hiring a professional electrician can make the process much more convenient and hassle-free. With the necessary expertise and experience to handle all aspects of the installation, they can make sure your LED downlights are installed correctly and safely, allowing you to fully enjoy the benefits of enhanced lighting in your home or workspace.

FAQs on installing LED downlights

Do you need an electrician to install led downlights?

While installing downlights yourself is possible, hiring a licensed electrician for the actual wiring and electrical connections is often recommended. The installation process involves working with electrical systems and ensuring proper placement and fitting, which can be complex and safety-critical.

Are downlights expensive to install?

The cost of installing downlights can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type and quality of the downlights, the complexity of the installation, and local labour rates. Generally, the cost includes both the price of the downlights themselves and the fees for professional installation.

What happens to LED downlights if the wrong dimmer is installed?

Using the wrong dimmer with LED downlights can lead to several problems, including flickering, inconsistent dimming, and reduced lifespan of the downlights. Incompatible dimmers may cause the LEDs to flicker or not dim smoothly, and can lead to overheating or inefficient operation, potentially shortening their lifespan.

Categories
Wellbeing

5 ways to optimise workplace culture

Strong workplace culture is paramount to a thriving company. While a supportive workplace can boost morale and productivity, a stressful environment can quickly turn a workplace into a negative and sometimes toxic place. A positive work environment promotes a successful business and a supportive workspace for employees to grow and thrive. 

Furthermore, building a solid team can positively affect your business’s value against other industry entities by reducing employee turnover and increasing productivity. It might seem trivial, but happy employees boost productivity and staff retention – which inflicts a positive impact on productivity, revenue and enquiry. Employees are the face of your business – if they’re happy, customers are more likely to return after having a positive experience.

A company’s workplace sets the tone of employee productivity and company loyalty, so a nurturing space should always start from the employer and management and filter through the workplace. Workplace culture is one of those “make or break” scenarios. If you have passionate, productive employees, then it will lead to a successful team. If not, it can be disastrous. If you’re looking for ways to optimise workplace culture in your business, here are a few ideas: 

Design a recognise and reward program for employees

Employees thrive on recognition. As an employer, especially for small businesses, employee recognition can fall by the wayside. However, it’s a missed opportunity. When employees are recognised for their hard work, milestones, and general success, they will feel valued. When employees are valued, their productivity and loyalty to the company increase. Additionally, when employees feel more valued in the business, they will feel secure and optimistic.

Implementing a Reward and Recognise Program can mean offering verbal and written recognition. This can involve financial incentives, facilitating peer-to-peer recognition habits or providing additional growth opportunities. Whatever avenue your business can facilitate, recognition of employees sets the foundation for a positive work environment. It encourages productivity and lowers staff turnover – it’s a win-win. 

Encourage employees to speak out

Like recognition, employees also need to feel like they can voice questions or concerns and know they’ll be listened to. Transparency within a business allows an open platform for communication and builds trust within a team. Having a transparent team might encourage team members to share their successes and challenges or improve communication tools to share information. This will build a bond between employees and promote stronger relationships within the team. It will take time for employees to transition to a transparent mindset. However, this needs to start with the employer and management team. Again, a business’s success is built on the security of its employees. 

Group of employees sitting around a rectangular wooden desk discussing things
Source: More than Books Bookkeeping, Payroll and BAS

Promote Flexibility 

Providing employees with the opportunity to implement flexible working hours improves job satisfaction and decreases employee turnover. Flexibility changes everything from an employee’s perspective. Having a work-from-home option or even time -in-lieu can eliminate many complications that would typically arise. School drop off/pick up schedules, morning traffic, or anything else that might pop up from full-time workers. When employers give back to employees, employees, in turn, respond with positivity. It can seem like something small, but employees will feel appreciated and valued by implementing flexible working strategies. Modern technology is advanced enough that flexible working schedules are easier to implement without employees needing to be in the office. 

If flexible working strategies are harder to implement within your business, try incorporating some time-in-lieu – this will make a massive difference within the workplace culture. 

Create an engaging environment 

We’ve said it before – communication is everything within a business. If there is communication, a team builds a sense of camaraderie, inducing a harmonious and cohesive workforce. 

Your employees were hired for a reason, and as an employer, it’s your job to harness those qualities. Employees respond well to meaningful work. Feeling like a valuable part of the team and sharing a sense of purpose can increase work engagement four-fold. If employees are motivated, they are more likely to learn faster and feel more satisfied within their role. 

Communication is a massive part of this process. It’s an employer’s responsibility to connect employees to a purpose within the business. This starts with communication between an employer and their employees. 

An engaging environment promotes purpose, positivity and enables employees to build supportive relationships within the workspace. This can lead to establishing a sense of personal and professional growth. 

If you’re looking for ideas to create an engaging environment, try starting a conversation with your employees. Find out what their strengths are and how they see themselves growing within your business. 

Providing feedback to employees

As an employer, it’s essential to give your employees feedback to promote personal and professional development.

Providing employees feedback – whether it’s positive or constructive – will induce worker confidence. When giving feedback to employees, try and schedule this as a regular, one-on-one meeting. One-on-ones enforce a sense of equal opportunity for each employee. It also allows the employer to sit and listen to any queries or concerns with their employees. At the same time, highlight their strengths and providing opportunities for improvement. 

Promoting employee success can be essential to boost morale. However, taking the time to speak with each member of your team individually is important. One-on-one’s can provide clarity, highlight any opportunities for improvement and address any issues. While it’s good to do this regularly (one month is a reasonable amount of time), it’s also crucial for employees to feel they’re in a safe space. Meetings in a private yet informal area can help your employees feel relaxed in a non-threatening environment. When your employee feels they’re on the same page as their employer and feel heard, it can boost confidence, motivation and productivity. 

Contact local office administrator experts

A business is more than an asset for employers – it’s a pinnacle part of their lifestyle and livelihood. A successful business starts with a positive, cohesive and motivated team who believe in their company and the work they do. Having a strong workplace culture is the foundation of a thriving business and promotes productivity and employee longevity. Positive work culture is the starting point of a flourishing, successful business. Every employer needs to take into account a company’s future growth and development. As an employer, you may be thinking about the future of your business. If so, it’s vital to seek a professional Business Valuation company that can help you with your next business-related decision. Whether it’s business, residential or commercial, a full-service valuation company can provide comprehensive business and property valuations for all requirements and purposes.

Categories
News & updates

4 ways to get more reviews

For any business – operating online or offline – reviews are an integral part of acquiring new customers. Research shows that as many as 91% of consumers will read online reviews before making a purchase decision.

1. Add it to your signature

Sometimes it can be tough to remember to request reviews, you’re busy running a business! Think about high traffic places customers will see the request, somewhere you can easily link to reviews. Start with your email signature, and consider where else you might place it.

2. Use our Sync Accounts feature

Did you know on Oneflare you can sync your accounts to all appear in one place? Showing reviews across multiple sites (like Google and Facebook) helps boost your credibility and trust with potential customers. 

3. Use Word of Mouth (literally)

Reviews are an important part of any business’ marketing strategy, and its important to consider other avenues. Websites like Word of Mouth can be a great option for a quality small business looking to harness their good referrals. With over a million hits each month, Word of Mouth provides a platform where businesses can be promoted based on merit, and not how much they charge.

4. Simply ask!

If you’ve done a great job, most people are more than happy to leave a review – but sometimes they’ll need a reminder. Think about your timing when asking for a review, consider if you’ve completed the job yet, and whether you’ve developed a good relationship with the customer.

You could consider setting up an automated email after the final invoice is paid asking for a review, or manually sending a request every few months to recent customers. For those starting out, consider asking any friends or family who you’ve performed a service for to write you a review to get the ball rolling.

Categories
Top tools

Verified Badge

Businesses with a blue verified badge on their profile are more likely to be trusted, and hired.

Obtaining a verified badge on your profile shows customers that Oneflare has checked your identity, and confirms you are a trustworthy business – giving potential customers extra confidence in hiring you. It’s just another way you can show value, credibility and stand out from unverified competitors.

Register business

How to get verified

You can get verified on Oneflare with just a few simple steps. Once you’ve registered, you simply need to log in to your account and: 

1. Confirm your business details and we’ll check their validity against the Australian Business Register (ABR):

  • Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • Business name
  • Business address

2. Upload your personal identification and we’ll confirm your personal details:

  • Australian driver licence, or a passport; and
  • Current photo of yourself

Frequently asked questions

Categories
Walls & flooring

How to mount a TV on a wall

How hard is it to DIY mount a TV onto a wall?

Thinking to mount a TV to the wall, but you don’t know how to do it? Don’t let it worry you too much. You can mount a TV to the wall easily enough, and not only does it look good, but it also frees up space in the home to put other things. You do, however, have a few factors you need to consider, such as:

  • Choosing the right location
  • Using the right tools
  • Finding the stud in the wall for the mount
  • Sourcing an appropriate mount

Mounting a TV isn’t difficult, but you should understand these things going into it. 

Source: Houseace

Who can mount a TV to a wall?

Mounting a TV to a wall is not a project that you need special skills or licensing to do. However, it can be a timely and costly problem to fix if it is completed incorrectly, so consider if you have the right skills to complete it yourself. 

Does the TV size impact the mounting process?

The TV screen size does matter because you don’t want to come home one day after work to find the TV in a crushed heap on the floor. 

Check the weight that the mount can handle along with its rating for the size of the TV. To be on the safe side, you may want a mount that can support more than the screen size. You can mount a large-screen TV, but you should beware of the mount size and the weight support that it offers. 

Wall mounting a TV can dramatically improve the views. You may be wondering how high to mount a TV. For a 42-inch screen TV, you want it about 140cm from the floor. For a 55-inch TV, you want it about 155cm off the floor. 

Materials and tools

  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Screwdriver
  • Tape measure
  • Drill and assorted bits
  • Stud finder
  • A wall mount kit

Contact local handymen

How to wall mount a TV

  • Find and mark the wall stud: Using a stud finder, you will quickly and accurately locate the studs. This doesn’t work as well on plaster or lath walls, but it works well with drywall. Beware, however, that pipes and conduits may run through the wall. You have to use the stud finder to check to see that it runs vertically, which indicates a stud. You will also want to locate multiple studs to measure between them as an added precaution.
  • Line up the bracket: At this point, you will use the level to ensure that your marked spots are level. You will need to make sure that you have lined up the brackets correctly. Having a friend on hand may help to keep them steady for the next part. Instead of marking the points with a pencil, you could optionally use painter’s tape because it makes it easier to see. 
  • Drill holes: You will have four holes marked on the wall and ready to drill. Keep in mind; these holes should only be large enough for you to mount the screws in the wall. As you hold the mount up to the wall, you will use the level to make sure that you have it level. 
  • Attach the mounting bracket to the wall: Before you begin, remove the stand from the TV. The mounting plate attachment holes can be found on the back of the TV. In some cases, they may have screws or plastic, which need to be removed.
  • Attach hanging brackets to the TV: You will want to attach the hanging brackets to the TV because you will have greater access to the control panel. 
  • Mount the TV: Finally, mount the TV to the wall. Check to see that the mount remains stable and doesn’t wobble. Again, it’s best to have multiple people because of the cumbersome load that you have to handle. Now you may be wondering how to mount a tv without cables showing. Most people install it as close to the outlet as possible to hide the wires. 
Source: Nathalie Hailey Interiors

How to hire a handyman

Mounting a TV is not something that you want to get wrong, so hiring a handyman to do it for you might make more sense. Licensing happens by the local state and territory officials, which can vary slightly for each place. Be sure that the electrician can produce the license if you request it. They should also have a few years of experience to ensure that they know what they’re doing. Licensing matters, but having insurance matters too because if they make a mistake, such as drilling into a wire, you want coverage from liability. 

Categories
Gardening & landscaping

How to level a lawn

Knowing how to level a lawn yourself can come in handy if you notice that your lawn is not level and it takes away from your enjoyment of your home, detracts from its beauty and can cause water to pool in places or flow towards your home’s foundation. Levelling a lawn that is already laid is not too difficult for the average homeowner to do if you do a little research. Plus, levelling a lawn can make it much easier to do regular lawn maintenance. Levelling your lawn can help it grow better, look more attractive, and enhance your home’s aesthetics and curb appeal and your property’s overall value.

What causes an uneven lawn?

There are several reasons why your lawn could become uneven, such as: Uneven thawing in spring

  • Drainage issues
  • Depressions in the soil
  • The gradual settling of a new lawn
  • Children and pets playing on the lawn
  • The thatch in your lawn
  • Repeatedly mowing the lawn using the same pattern
  • Not collecting lawn clippings after mowing
  • Chinch bugs
  • Moles and other pests
  • A sprinkler system

How to prepare to level a lawn

The first step to take before beginning to level your lawn is to assess just how bumpy it is. This will determine if you can just step on the bumps to flatten when the ground is damp and soft in spring, use topdressing or a more aggressive method. If the bumps are severe and widespread, you will need to gather some tools. The last step for preparing a lawn to be levelled is to mow it as low as possible.

Source: Marzia Design

Materials and tools

There are a number of tools and material you will need when you are levelling a lawn. A comprehensive list of them includes:

  • Hand rake
  • Landscape rake
  • Leaf rake
  • Levelling rake: Used to break up small clumps of dirt, remove stones and create a smooth, level surface.
  • Push broom
  • Shovel
  • Topsoil
  • Wheelbarrow
  • Lawnmower
  • Topdressing
  • Grass seed
  • Levelling mix (composed of soil, compost and sand). Levelling mix is a good solution when a lawn has a lot of shallow, widespread, uneven areas.
  • Water
  • Sand

How to level a lawn

The best way to level a lawn when fixing widespread shallow indentations is to use a thin layer of topdressing with a levelling mix made of sand, soil and compost and spread it all over the lawn. For small indentations covered with healthy grass, use a shovel to cut and lift the turf patches. Put some soil mix to level the indentation, step on it, water it lightly, compress it and put the grass patch back down. For deeper indentations, use a garden rake to de-thatch the lawn, put some sand, soil and compost in a wheelbarrow and blend them to make a levelling mix. Use the shovel to put scoops of the levelling mix in the low areas. Spread it evenly using a rake to ensure it is a few centimetres thick.

Using a push-broom or a levelling rake, work the levelling mix into the grass thoroughly. If it is done properly, the levelling mix should almost be invisible. Water the grass to help the levelling mix go under the grass and become stable. Monitor the lawn and repeat the process of sprinkling top dressing in the remaining low spots and depressions once the grass has recovered and begun to grow. If your lawn has extremely deep depressions, you can fill them with soil to make the area level, resell the filled areas, and wet them to promote healthy, new grass.

The best way to level a lawn is to do the process in spring while weather conditions are mild. This gives the lawn ample time to recuperate before the summer heat begins to beat down on it. Using fine mason sand or play sand mixed with some topsoil and a bit of compost makes sure the grass is not smothered and killed but drains adequately and gets the nutrients it needs for thick, healthy growth. Avoid over-watering. It can wash the levelling mix away and undo all of the work you have done to make your lawn level. The key is to take your time and do the levelling gradually. This will get rid of the large and small indentations while allowing the grass to grow lush, green and healthy.

Contact local lawn experts

Can sand be used to level a lawn?

Sand can be used to level a lawn, but it must be used carefully and judiciously. It can be used to level low areas or fix areas with thatch build up quickly and easily. The sand can help provide proper drainage, but too much sand can leave the grass dry as the water will flow right through it, and sand does not retain the nutrients grass needs to grow. Some experts recommend using a loamy sand-soil mix made with 70% sand. This mixture is nutrient-rich and creates a good lawn levelling top dressing. Masonry sand is fine enough to easily go through the grass and blend with the topsoil, level the lawn and allow for healthy grass growth.

Source: Northern Beaches Creative Gardens

Getting professionals involved

In most instances, the average homeowner can take the steps necessary to level their lawns themselves. However, in some cases, if you want to make sure your lawn will be levelled and the cause of the unevenness problem properly addressed, you may need to call in a professional. One such instance is when the area of your lawn that is uneven is near where there are water pipes. This could mean that the unevenness is the result of a leaking water pipe, or you may have drainage issues. 

Landscaping and lawn care experts have the tools, training, expertise and experience to let you know if the problem with unevenness in your lawn is caused by damaged water or drainage pipes. However, if this is the case, you will have to call a plumber to fix the damaged pipe first. In that case, levelling a lawn requires more than just lawn maintenance. When levelling a lawn that is already laid and there may be plumbing problems, hire a professional. 

How to hire a landscaper

Licencing and qualifications

Three of the most important things to look for when hiring a landscaper is to make sure they have the proper licencing, qualifications and experience. In Australia, landscape contractors may need up to 6 years of training and take university taught landscaping related courses like horticulture and landscape construction to become certified in the field. Plus, they must gain experience by working with a licenced landscape contractor performing basic landscaping tasks. Landscapers master must lawn care and know-how to safely handle pesticides, fertilizers, planting, landscaping, garden design, and build fences and other non-habitable structures.

Categories
Cleaning

How to kill bed bugs

How do you know if you have bed bugs?

Bed bugs are often hidden and only come out in the dark, making them difficult to spot and making it necessary to know what bed bugs symptoms to look for in your home. One of the main signs you have bed bugs in Australia is discovering bed bug bites on your skin when you wake up each morning, particularly on your arms and legs. The bites can cause swelling and the formation of blisters. You may also notice small spots of dark or brown blood present on your sheets or bedding, which bed bugs leave behind. Bed bug symptoms often include small red bites on the body that looks similar to mosquito bites and itch. The bites are easy to identify because bed bugs bite multiple times in the same spot, creating a bed bugs rash. Bed bugs bite when you’re sleeping before retreating to the mattress or bedding where they hide.

What causes bed bugs

Bed bugs are known to come from another infested area outside of the home and can travel in suitcases, on used furniture, and even on visitors’ clothes. In multi-room buildings, they can easily travel in between different rooms. They also tend to hide on porous materials, including backpacks, blankets, and purses. Although bed bugs can spread to any home, maintaining a cleaner setting can prevent the bugs from hiding and infesting. One of the leading bed bugs signs is if you notice their shells left behind on various porous surfaces in the building.

Source: Shutterstock

Materials and tools required to get rid of bed bugs

  • Bed bugs spray: Many products kill bed bugs upon contact, including 91 per cent isopropyl alcohol.
  • Encasement: Using a mattress cover on your bed will contain the bed bugs and prevent them from spreading. Their inability to leave the encasement will cause the bed bugs to starve after a few weeks.
  • Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments work well for killing bed bug infestations, specifically dust-based pesticides that you can apply to small cracks and holes present in the building.

How to kill bed bugs

  • Strip the bed: Start by stripping the bed of the comforter, sheets, and mattress cover. Immediately place all the bedding in a trash bag to contain any bed bugs or eggs that can easily fall out onto the carpet. 
  • Wash all bedding and clothes: Throw the bedding in the washing machine and wash everything in hot water. All clothes that are in proximity to the bed also need to be laundered in hot water. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil can also kill the bed bugs.
  • Vacuum: Vacuuming the mattress and carpet will remove any bed bugs and eggs that are present. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to contain the bed bugs and prevent them from falling out of the vacuum. A vacuum with a head attachment will also make it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas where the bed bugs may be hiding. If you want to learn how to find bed bugs, look in hidden places that are dark and offer shelter. Vacuum the mattress and surrounding carpet every day for two weeks to ensure you suction any eggs that the bed bugs leave behind. Dispose of the contents in an outside trash can.
  • Spray the affected area: Spray the mattress and affected area with pesticide after confirming the bed frame is free of bed bugs.
  • Traps: Installing traps at the base of your bed’s legs can make it easy to collect all the bed bugs present in the room.
  • Extreme temperatures: If you’re looking for natural treatments to get rid of bed bugs, high temperatures are known to kill bed bugs in the building if you’re unsure where they may be present. This is ideal for larger infestations or when they’re present in multiple rooms in the home. Avoid only heating the room where the infestation is present, which can cause bed bugs to relocate to a cooler room in the building.

Contact local pest control experts

How to prevent bed bugs

One of the best ways to prevent bed bugs from finding their way into your home is to be cautious with the types of items you bring into your home. Avoid purchasing used furniture at yard sales or thrift stores because bed bugs may be hiding near the upholstered materials’ seams.

It’s also important to use a mattress cover on each bed in the home, which can prevent bed bug infestations as they look for a place to hide. Vacuuming your mattress regularly will also reduce the risk of bed bugs laying eggs. Washing your bedding in hot water every week will also kill any bed bugs or eggs that may have entered the home.

If you travel, avoid bringing your suitcase back into your home once you get back from your destination. Leave your suitcase in the garage and throw your clothes in the washing machine to ensure any possible bed bugs don’t find their way into one of the bedrooms where there’s a higher risk of an infestation.

Source: Shutterstock

How to hire a pest control expert

If you’re looking for a pest control expert, find someone with several years of experience in the industry. They should have a thorough and detailed process instead of just spraying the property with pesticides. 

It’s also necessary to find someone who is licensed, making it necessary to search for their license with the state. They should also have qualifications that prove their reputable and use advanced commercial equipment. Ask for references to ensure you can talk to their customers and determine if they’re satisfied with the services performed.

The business should also have a website and a physical location where they operate to ensure you hire a legitimate company.

Categories
News & updates

Updates to the Business Profile

Over the last few months, you might have noticed enhancements to the way your Business Profile looks. This new, more streamlined layout makes it easier for you to navigate, and quickly edit your business – helping keep your information relevant. 

Read on to find out exactly what’s changed. 

What’s new?

We’ve been busy adding to and updating the business profile to help you better showcase your business. Here are the new fields you can now customise using our web browser or iOS app: 

  • Opening hours
  • Social media links
  • Payment methods
  • Unique Selling Points 

You also now have the ability to reorder images in your image gallery, another way of putting your best foot forward and giving you more control over how your brand looks online. 

Check out the new look Business Profile now. 

What’s next? 

Watch out for more upcoming updates! We’ll be adding these new features in our Android app very soon, plus some exciting other new features we can’t wait to unveil.


If you have questions, feedback, or suggestions about what you’d love to see next, you can always reach out to your Account Manager or email us at [email protected].