Categories
Gardening & landscaping

Sod vs artificial grass: Which is better?

When you are deciding to build a house or any other structure; the most important question that comes to the mind is, what type of grass should I install? There are many kinds of grass that you can use, like sod grass or artificial turf.

To decide which is the best option for you, you should consider whether to go for sod or artificial turf. The qualities of the two must be known and especially the characteristic that makes them different from each other.

Qualities of artificial turf

The artificial turf is not synthetic grass that has a texture that is identical to the natural grass. It is made of man-made or synthetic fibres which are most famously used in sports arenas. It was first seen in a stadium in Huston, Texas.

When installing a lawn you have a choice between artificial or natural turf / Source: Protek Design

1. The height is always the same

As this grass is synthetically made; the height always remains the same. The length of it depends on the demand of the customer. It is the same from the time of making, throughout the installation process and even afterwards. It never changes in height.

2. The grass can be moved easily

Unlike other grass types which can’t be moved from one place to the other;  artificial turf can be lifted or removed easily. The easy removal makes artificial turn ideal for maintenance of either the turf or the ground on which the turf is laid. Then it can be put back on without any hindrances.

3. Colour is consistent

As the artificial grass is not disturbed by natural elements in nature like air, water and sunlight; the polyethylene grass never changes in colour. It remains the same throughout the lifetime. You have the choice of selecting any tints and shades of green, and the manufacturer can make it for you

4. Low maintenance

Artificial turf requires little maintenance and isn’t reliant on water, air or sunlight to grow.  All you need to maintain synthetic grass is sweeping away the debris on it with the help of different kinds of rakes.

Attributes of sod grass

The first choice and most popular real grass option is the sod grass. It is actually a grass but manufactured and then installed on the ground. Sod grass has amazing abilities to grow because it has all the attributes of the typical grass but is enhanced.

1. Appearance is Identical

All of the sod grass that is manufactured is of the same appearance. If you grow the grass by seed, the grass may grow unevenly or not at all through seeds. An advantage of all varieties of sod grass is that they are identical.

2. The texture is the same

The different types of sod that you can purchase have a wide range of textures and colours. They range from full dark green to lighter shades. But the type that you will order will have the same texture and colour of all the bulk order. The density of the grass can be thick to less dense.

3. Appropriate quantity of fertilizers

All types of sod grass need a specific amount of fertilizer. The application of fertilizer is necessary when the soil is to be prepared for the installation. Immediately after the establishment, the sod needs it also. But quarterly or yearly fertilizer is needed for the rest of the sod’s lifetime.

4. Equal Growth Rate

When the sod is mowed; it re-grows at the same rate. It is essential to mow it properly with sharp blades and cutting at the appropriate height. The only reason for the disruption in the height is if the grass has a disease. If you’re not a green thumb, consider hiring a lawn mowing service to get your grass looking cut and clean.

Source: Old School Landscaping

Choosing Between Sod & Artificial Grass

There are other factors that you have to consider when selecting between the artificial turf and sod grass. Both the grasses indeed have some qualities that make you confused. Ultimately, the decision is yours! You should consider basing it on your ability to maintain the grass and your vision for your lawn.

1. Sturdiness over time

The sod grass is sturdier than artificial grass. If one blade of artificial grass is broken or pulls out of the base, it can’t be repaired, and the whole turf has to be replaced. Replacing and repairing sod grass is easier, but the rates can vary.

2. Impact on the environment

A small area of sod grass has the ability to generate a high amount of oxygen. It can also keep the environment cooler as compared to areas where other kinds of grass are seeded. The artificial turf is produced by using human-made materials which need more energy and resources.

How much will you need to budget?

You must think that sod grass needs more money than artificial grass. But that’s not the case; sod grass needs ordinary soil to be installed. The ground for artificial turf has to be made accordingly, which can cost you more than the other.

Contact local gardeners

Which will last longer?

Although both sod and artificial turf will last long is depends on how well you maintain your grass. Without it, neither if the two can survive. Sod grass has the capability to repair itself; therefore, it can last longer than the artificial turf.

Wrap up

Turf and sod both have their pros and cons. Choice of one over the other mostly depends on the purpose of use. The location, along with personal preference, also influences the decision. At specific areas or climates, turf would be better suited than sod and vice versa. Deliberation on the features of both would help make a better and more suitable choice.

Categories
Real estate & moving

How to pack your house for a move

Moving house can be stressful, especially if it’s a long-distance move. You need to take care of the practicalities and deal with the emotional impact of leaving your familiar surroundings for a new place. It’s important to plan the move carefully and keep track of all your possessions.

You need to make the arrangements well in advance to ensure the move happens smoothly and on schedule. A competent moving company can help you through the process and ensure your possessions reach your new home unharmed.  In this article, we share our best moving house packing tips.

How to plan your move

Planning a move is relatively easy, but executing the plan is a little more complicated. The key to a successful move is to create a strategy and stick with it. You should also make sure your family is aware of the plan and understands their roles in the moving process. This is especially important if you have children.

Choose who carries out the move and how

People who move are often on a limited budget and have recently made a big financial commitment to a new property. They want to save as much money as possible and assume that a DIY move can help them do that. Unfortunately, that can prove to be very problematic and end up costing more money, especially if you have to make multiple trips in your own vehicle to carry out the move. Here’s what you can do instead of handling the entire move yourself:

  1. Consider back-loading – In this option, your possessions will share space with other people’s belongings during the move. You only pay for the square metre area you use during the transport. This can help you save a significant amount of money.
  2. Handle the packing – Most moving companies will pack your possessions for you at an additional cost. If you’re on a tight budget, you can skip this service and pack your belongings yourself. You can source free packing materials from several places like your local schools, local shops, friends who have recently moved, recycling centres, etc.
  3. A full move – If you’re on a tight schedule and need to carry out the move as quickly as possible, you should consider hiring the complete service. The movers will handle everything – packing, loading, transporting, unloading, and unpacking. Some movers will also disassemble large furniture and reassemble it if required.
Removalists offer different levels of service depending on your needs / Source: Jake Fast Removals

Once you have made your choice regarding the moving service, you need to find a reliable mover with a good reputation, get quotes, and schedule the move at a convenient time. It’s important to book a mover at least three weeks before you intend to move, especially if you plan on moving during summer. Last minute moves are often expensive and cumbersome.

How to pack your possessions

The next step is to sort through your possessions and organise them into three different sections. Moving is an excellent excuse and motivation to get rid of things you don’t need.

  1. The “keep” section – This section consists of all items that you need and value. These items should have a place in your new home and serve a purpose. For example, if you have a baby grand piano that no one plays, you should consider selling it or donating it instead of transporting it to your new home. On the other hand, if you have an antique clock that fits in perfectly with your new home’s decor and has sentimental value you should include it in your keep section.
  2. The “donate or sell” section – This section is reserved for non-essential items that are in good condition. You can either donate these items to a local charity or sell them on online marketplaces like Gumtree and eBay. Selling the items will give you some extra money at a time when you have a large number of expenses.
  3. The “discard” section – Some items are just too damaged or worn to sell or donate. You need to dispose of these items safely, especially household cleaners, medications, abrasives, and other such substances. Come up with a solid disposal plan for all of your possessions in this section and discard them thoroughly before you’re due to pack for your move.

How to pack for a move

After you’ve sorted through your possessions, start the packing process. It’s a good idea to spread this out over a few weeks instead of rushing through it in the final week before you move. Here are some tips on how to handle the packing for your move:

  1. Collect the material – The first step is to collect packing materials like cardboard boxes of different sizes, as well as specialised boxes for glassware, dishware, electronics like televisions, etc. You’ll also need packing tape, box cutters, plastic wrap, packing paper, bubble wrap, ropes and strings, permanent markers, and labels. You can find all of these items online or in your local stores. Some moving companies provide a certain amount of free packing materials to their customers once they have a confirmed booking
  2. Pack one room at a time – You should keep the unpacking process in mind before you start packing your possessions. If you pack one room at a time and label all boxes properly, you’ll have an easier time unpacking at your new home. Packing one room at a time is also less stressful and ensures you don’t miss anything. You can maintain a list of all possessions in the room, so they’re easier to track during transportation.
  3. Pack non-essential items first – Pack non-essential items that you won’t need during the weeks leading up to the move first. If you pack the essential items, you’ll be forced to look for those things in your packed boxes repeatedly which can cause undue stress. Make a list of items that you won’t need during the weeks leading up to the move and pack them well in advance.
  4. Label everything and place a list of items on the box – After you’ve finished packing a box, label it carefully. The label should contain the name of the room, the name of the person those items belong to, whether the items are fragile, and a list of the items placed in the box. The latter will be useful if you need to retrieve something from the packed boxes as you won’t need to open all of them to look for something. You can refer to the list to see if the item you need is on it.
  5. Keep track of essentials – Essential items can easily become lost during the packing and moving process, so it’s important to keep track of them. These items include medications, documents like medical reports, identification papers such as passports, school paperwork, insurance paperwork, etc. They should be stored where you can easily find them.
  6. Pack essentials – Pack the most essential items a day or two before the move and make sure you have an overnight bag with your toiletries, change of clothes, medication, chargers and mobile devices, etc. This means you won’t have to deal with unpacking immediately after the move.

How to pack fragile items

There is absolutely a right and wrong way to pack fragile items. First things first ensure your cardboard boxes are still strong and sturdy. Reusing boxes from your last move might seem like an easy way to go, but cardboard boxes have a shelf life like anything else, so make sure they are still strong enough for your fragile items.

A good way of ensuring your fragile items arrive safely is to pack your bedding in with these items. Perhaps a doona in the bottom of the box, and a couple of pillows between pieces will ensure any knocks are absorbed in the bedding, and not in your breakables.

For glasses, mugs and cups ensure they are all wrapped separately. This can be a time-consuming task, but ensuring the glassware isn’t touching other glassware will significantly increase the chances of it arriving safely.

How to pack books

Depending on how many books you have to pack up, you may want to think about having several smaller boxes rather than one big box to pack your books. Packing smaller boxes means they will be easier to transport by yourself or your removalist.

When loading up the moving boxes, start with the largest and heaviest books first, then follow up with the smaller and lighter ones. Spread the big heavy books across your packing boxes to make loading and unloading easier.

Keep the books laying flat to avoid damaging or putting extra weight through the binds and don’t be afraid to leave some space in the top of the box, and you don’t need to pack it to the brim.

Source: Deneo’s Removals

How to pack clothes

Sometimes the easiest way to move something is not to pack it into boxes at all. If you have a dresser or chest of drawers that are filled with your clothes, don’t empty it. Let your movers take it as it is and you won’t need to worry about unpacking at the other end either.

Before you start packing make sure your clothes are clean and throw away anything you’ve meant to ditch for a while now. The last thing you want to do it pack a bunch of clothes you’re never going to wear again.

If you have the time beforehand, pack away any seasonal clothing that you know you won’t need before the move starts.

Also, pack yourself an overnight bag of things you’ll likely wear on the couple of days around moving day. This will prevent you from having to sift through boxes to find something to wear once you’re in your new place.

If you have clothes already hanging, invest in garment bags or enclosed boxes to move these items. A few different sizes of vacuum seal bags will be a great space-saving way to get your clothes safely from A to B.

If you have suitcases or luggage handy, use these to fill with clothing and shoes. If you do need to pack clothing into boxes (folded and wrapped in tissue paper or sheets) be sure to use smaller boxes as clothing can be very heavy.

How to pack the kitchen

Packing a kitchen is often one of the most time-consuming jobs during a move. You need to take the time to pack fragile items properly and organise everything in a way that is easy to unpack at the other end.

If you still have the boxes from when you bought your appliances then repack them into these to move. If not, ensure all small parts are secured (a ziplock bag is a great way to keep small parts altogether, and they are easy to label) and that they are stored with the appliance. Bubble wrap and newspaper are both greats ways to keep appliances safe during a move.

See above for packing fragile items.

Keep all your silverware together to prevent them from getting loose and potentially damaging other items in your boxes. Wrapping them all together within a towel or big jumper is a great way to keep them all together.

Pots and pans are best in a large moving box as they can be awkward shapes and sizes. If each pan has a lid, store them together, and if you have small items that can be wrapped and added inside the pans, this can be an excellent way to save on extra packing boxes.

Any other small or miscellaneous items can be wrapped in newspaper and tucked into the boxes with the larger items in them. Save this til last.

Contact local removalists

How to organise utilities for the new home

The last thing you want is to live without gas, electricity, and water when you reach your new home. Arrange for these utilities in advance to ensure everything is in place when you move in. You should also arrange for telephone, internet, and television lines if needed.

You will also need to change your address with the post office, insurance companies, banking institutions, car licenses, and other such important aspects of your life. It’s a good idea to make these changes early because you need some time to settle into your new home after your move.

How to handle the day of the move

The day of the move can be stressful and chaotic, mainly because you need to ensure your entire family is coordinated. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Go to sleep early the night before and wake up early.
  2. Make sure that you, your partner, and your children have a healthy breakfast.
  3. Keep games, iPads, toys, and other such items at hand. They will ensure your children are engaged during the move.
  4. Call the moving company and confirm the pickup time.
  5. Supervise the loading of all items and make sure the movers handle boxes with fragile possessions carefully.
  6. Do a final walkthrough of your home to ensure you haven’t missed anything.
  7. Say goodbye to any neighbours and friends before you move.

Moving home can be a stressful and time-consuming process so it’s a good idea to get all the help you can find. Hiring a moving company may be the best option for you, especially if you want to move across state lines or over long distances. You’ll save a lot of time and effort in lieu of some added expense.

Categories
Cleaning

7 ways to help create an allergy-free home

Some people have seasonal allergies, while others are allergic to food, pets, or even dust. The quality of a person’s life can be greatly affected by his or her surroundings, and the moment that breathing becomes difficult, it feels trapped and suffocated. Some allergies can’t be avoided, if you identify any allergy symptoms, here are some simple tips to help you have an allergy-free home.

1. Clean the air: Install an air filter

An air purifier can be a helpful approach to rid your home of dust mites, pet dander, and other irritating particles in unfiltered air. In severe cases, where a person’s allergies can affect his or her ability to breathe, resulting in an asthma attack, an air purifier can be a saving grace.

If there is a smoker in the home, even if he or she smokes outside of the house, the residual smoke clings to the clothing, skin and hair, and is still brought into the house. An air purifier can be a great way to help eliminate and reduce second-hand tobacco smoke.

There are smaller stand-alone units available, as well as larger units that attach to another unit within the house. Either type of purifier can help eliminate the number of bacteria, virus, and other harmful particles that are found in a typical home.

2. Dust allergies: Install a HEPA filter

Vacuuming on a regular basis is a great way to rid your house of dust particles, pet dander, and other indoor allergens that become trapped in the mattresses and pillows or other upholstered furniture around the house. If you want a deeper clean, then a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is a great way to go.

This type of vacuum cleaner is better at removing more particles, to an almost perfect 100 percent, that will provide you with fewer allergens overall within your home. The particle size that these filters pick up is smaller than that of what an average vacuum can pick up, thus allowing for more harmful particles to be eliminated.

3. Mould allergies: Regular bathroom cleaning

Mold and mildew can build up rather quickly in a moist environment, like that of the bathroom. To eliminate this problem, regular cleaning can make a big difference. This can include small changes, such as hanging moist towels properly and eliminate bath rugs that collect moisture on the floor. You can even squeegee water from the walls of a shower to rid excess moisture from getting trapped in the caulking around the edge of the bathtub.

Regularly cleaning your bathroom can help with reducing allergens in the air / Source: Iconic Renovations & Co

Another helpful tip is to install an exhaust fan that can either run after the use of a shower or bath, or one that runs while you are using the shower. The vent that covers the fan should be cleaned with hot water regularly, as dust has a tendency to build up, especially with the residue of moisture.Proper ventilation also prevents mold spores.

4. Skin allergies: Regular wash

Dust and other particles love to settle on soft fabric, this can include your curtains and the soft fabrics on your bed. If the weather is nice, you can shake out any bedding outside to eliminate a lot of built-up dust before you place the fabric in the washing machine.

Changing your bedding sheets more frequently can also aid in reducing indoor allergens. For children who sleep with a lot of stuffed animals, these too can be thrown in the wash to help reduce the buildup of dust.

After you have washed soft fabrics in your home, don’t forget to also change the filters that are attached to your dryer and those that filter the air of your home. Your home filter should be replaced with the change of the seasons if you suffer from indoor allergens in the air.

5. Pet allergies: more covers & space

If you have a beloved pet that sheds a lot and you find yourself constantly having allergies as a result, you may want to consider bathing your pet more frequently. There are shampoos that are great at eliminating the allergen of pet dander. Some pet owners choose to spray their pets with a dander spray or even use a special cloth to wipe away any excess dander.

Try having a couple of rooms that your pet is not allowed in, in order to give yourself a needed break from extra housework and a room with uncontaminated air. In some extreme cases, as dander sinks within the carpet, you could consider installing hard flooring for easier floor maintenance.

For soft materials, such as couches, try having a designated blanket for your pet to use that can be frequently washed. Allergen-free covers are also great at preventing dander from embedding itself within the exterior of a soft material, such as a blanket.

We love our pets, but sometimes they can cause allergy irritations / Source: Auntie Aggies Pet Minding Service

6. Other allergy elements: humidity level

If the humidity level is high in your home, this can increase the moisture level that clings to your windows in the winter time when you are heating your home. As a result, mold can start to grow not just on the outside of your windows, but also within the glass and the outside screen. Check the humidity levels in your house by following this simple guide.

Regular window cleaning is a great way to help watch out for the development of mold. If your home does not have a dehumidifier built directly into an air purifying system, you can purchase a dehumidifier for your home and place it in the most humid part of the house.

Contact local cleaners

7. Detox your home with green cleaning products

Allergens to strong chemical smells can be hard to avoid when wanting to maintain a clean home. There are more natural and green ways to help clean your home and cut back on the chemicals used, resulting in physical reactions.

Some natural ways to clean your home can include baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, tea tree oil and even a mild dish soap. Using less chemically strong products to clean your home can greatly help a person who has a strong revulsion to chemical cleaners. Learn how to detox your home with these natural ingredients.

Maintain a healthy and allergy free home

Being able to comfortably breathe in your home is important if you, or someone within your home, suffer from asthma and allergies. Regular maintenance of your home, although important, can become exhausting if you feel as though it never ends. Try some of these tips to help aid in having an allergy-free home and one that you don’t have to go outdoors to escape from.

Categories
Inspiration

Write for us

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  • Home improvement, building or renovations
  • Outdoor maintenance
  • Automotive maintenance
  • Cleaning or pest control advice
  • Ideas or advice for pet owners
  • Real estate & moving
  • Health & wellbeing
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Note: If you have used Oneflare, we would be glad to receive your review and any before/after pictures of the project.

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  • 100% original and unique content
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Categories
Wellbeing

Australia’s top 7 landscape photographers

Our news feeds thrive on popularity and an endless stream of cat videos, cats and more cats. Inject a new type of adventure, awe and beauty into your Instagram feed with our take on Australia’s top 7 landscape photographers:

1. @jasoncharleshill

Style: Travel, adventure and lifestyle photography
Followers: 570k

Source: @jasoncharleshill Instagram

Jason’s work is inspired by the natural world around us. You’ll find some of Australia’s best off beat destinations on his account so be prepared to fall in love with the great outdoors all over again with his landscape and travel photos from Australia, New Zealand, Kenya and more.

2. @mattcherub

Style: Adventure and lifestyle photography
Followers: 138k

Sourc: @mattcherub Instagram

From the eyes of this Melbourne based photographer, the best moments of life are the ones you least expect. Whether it’s on the edge of a cliff or top of a mountain, check out Matt’s account for a daily dose of inspiration to find your own adventure and embrace the beauty around you.

3. @jarradseng

Style: Travel, music photography
Followers: 201k

Source: @jarradseng Instagram

Jarred is a Perth based photographer and former music editor that shares his passion for music and travel through photos of the wild world as he sees it. If you’ve ever doubted Australia’s enticing playground, then look no further. Jarred has made a mark around the world, with multiple awards under his belt and his snaps will remind you of what it’s like to be alive and full of wonder.

4. @lukeshadbolt 

Style: Action sports, lifestyle and travel photography
Followers: 122k

Source: @lukeshadbolt Instagram

Growing up around the ocean does great things for you and in this case, Luke’s awe of the ocean makes for an amazing photographic experience. Feel small again with incredible water photography that won Luke the 2014 titles of Surfing Australia’s Surf Photo of the Year and Bodyboarding Photographer of the year.

5. @whereswalle 

Style: Surf and oceanic photography
Followers: 24.8k
Recent destination: Melbourne, Australia

Source: @whereswalle Instagram

Based in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Steve is a self proclaimed ‘ocean frother’, capturing the sea’s rugged and raw beauty. His appreciation for the natural environment won him the Wyland Prize recently for his collection of ocean pics in the twilight. With no signs of slowing down, join Steve as he catches his next wave.

6.  @kattgao

Style: Travel and lifestyle photography
Followers: 40.2k

Source: @kattgao Instagram

Jetting between skylines, Katt combines the excitement of a new city with the familiarity of your local favourite. Capturing colourful sunsets, dreamy horizons and angled skylines, you’ll see Sydney in a new lens and find some light hearted humour along the way.

7. @tscharke

Style: Travel photography
Followers: 90.8k

Source: @tscharke Instagram

Luke Tscharke (pronounced like “Sharky”) us a Tasmania based photographer that shares his perfectly captured pics of lush landscapes of the apple isle. Whether it’s rolling waterfalls or pristine beaches, Luke’s photos will have you booking your next trip to Tassie.

Celebrate talent and expertise by sharing your favourite Australian photographers or connect with a photographer and find out more here.

Categories
Real estate & moving

How to move a piano

Ever needed to move a piano only to realise it’s quite a big undertaking? Musical instruments are usually quite delicate and have some intricate parts and attachments. Most of them are small and relatively easy to transport. For example, you can place a violin or cello inside a secure case and carry it to the destination. Unfortunately, not all musical instruments are as easy to transport and items like a piano or harpsichord require special arrangements. Here are our top tips on how to move a piano.

Why is moving a piano so complicated?

It’s not as easy to transport a piano because it is an odd shape, is bigger in size and heavier than most musical instruments.  Pianos might look sturdy and solid on the outside, but they have a very delicate mechanism inside that can be disrupted at the slightest bump or movement. Pianos have delicate, little felt hammers, tightly wound strings, awkwardly positioned pedals, keys and some of the other mechanisms.

To prevent damage during the move, it’s a good idea to hire a professional that has experience with moving a piano.

How much does it cost to move a piano?

Hiring a professional removalist is a wise decision, not to mention a worthy investment. By seeking the assistance of professional movers to help you transport your piano with tender care and avoid injuries. Cost can vary depending on the size of your piano, destination, whether the piano needs to go upstairs need to be navigated and the type of piano you have.

It is best to entrust the safe handling of your specialised instrument to a moving company that specialises in piano removals for the following reasons:

  • Weight considerations. Pianos weigh from around 150kg to as much as 600kg or more. With this in mind, pianos should not be moved long distances or out of the house on its casters, as these casters are for moving short distances across the room. Casters can deteriorate over time and if this happens and you try to move your piano yourself, it can tear your carpet or gouge your hardwood floors.
  • Financial factors. You might think that having expert piano removalists will cost an arm and a leg. However, requesting a quote may change your mind, as there are varied factors involved in moving such a fragile acoustic instrument.

Pianos do not typically come cheap, and some pieces are considered antique or beloved heirlooms. Moving a piano yourself will most probably mean that it won’t be covered by insurance; however, when professional removalists do it, they can offer you insurance.

  • Equipment concerns. Pianos have intricate workings with roughly 12,000 individual parts. Piano removalists have years of experience, skills and knowledge about pianos and their proper handling requirements. From possible dismantling to applying the safest possible techniques to turn a piano, to getting it out of the door and safely into a moving truck, these specialists will know exactly what to do to avoid or minimise damage.

If you intend to move the instrument on your own, you should arrange for some assistance from your friends and family.

Pianos can be a complex and expensive item to move / Source: In Design International

How to move a piano

Moving a piano requires careful planning and execution. It is important to get the instrument to its destination without any harm. Here are some tips that can help you move different types of pianos.

What do you need?

Before you attempt to move the piano, you need to make some preparations and ensure you have everything you need. Here is a list that can help you:

  • Get help. A team of people capable of lifting heavy loads to help you move. You can’t move a piano on your own without assistance.
  • Protect it. A sheet or plastic wrap to cover the piano and protect it from dust and debris during transit. Also consider taking protective measures for things such as hardwood floors, carpet and walls.
  • Get some wheels. A moving dolly is absolutely essential if you want to move your piano. They are essentially flat load-bearing boards with wheels attached.
  • Keep your piano steady. You need furniture straps to keep the piano anchored to the moving dolly and then to the floor of the moving truck. These straps will ensure the instrument doesn’t shift around during transit.
  • Hire a truck. You can’t move the piano without a moving truck, so you’ll need to hire one before you pack the piano. It’s a good idea to reserve a moving truck a few weeks in advance to ensure there are no problems in the scheduling.

Do not attempt to move the piano on its wheels because that will damage the instrument permanently. The wheels attached to the piano are designed for small distance moves on smooth surfaces.

Protect your piano

You can consult your professional piano mover regarding ways to protect your piano before they move it, but here are some basic reminders that you can take note of:

  • Do not leave the key in the lid. This is to make sure that any keys to lock the piano don’t get lost during the move.
  • Place a drying agent inside the piano if it is being stored. If a piano is left in a humid environment, the wood can warp and crack over time.
  • Clear the path where the piano will most likely pass. Also, leave enough space surrounding the piano for the movers to be able to move freely without stepping on or tripping over your other belongings.
  • Ensure your removalist covers the piano with thick, quilted pads to ensure your piano is protected while it is being moved.

Determine the type of piano

You need to plan the way you move a piano according to the type of piano you own. Pianos are made up of different sizes and designs, and they differ in weight and weight balance. This is an important aspect to consider if you intend to move the instrument yourself. For example, upright pianos are quite top-heavy, so they can easily become unbalanced during the move. Here are some facts you should know about the different kinds of pianos before you move them:

  1. Spinet piano – This piano is relatively easy to move because it’s smaller, is more compact in shape and isn’t as heavy. Most spinet pianos are around three feet tall and 58 inches long. They weigh around 130 kilograms, though some might be heavier.
  2. Studio upright piano – This piano is more difficult to move because it’s generally quite top-heavy. It is easy for the piano to slip during the move because of its weight distribution. Most small studio pianos are around four feet tall and can weigh about 180 to 300 kilograms.
  3. Large upright pianos – Large upright pianos are of the same width as spinet and studio pianos, but they’re heavier at the top. These instruments are generally around five feet tall and weigh around 500 kilograms.
  4. Grand piano / Baby Grand – Grand pianos usually come in different sizes and aren’t commonly found on residential properties. Smaller grand pianos weigh around 225 kilograms while large ones can easily weigh around 600 kilograms.

Insure your instrument

Most piano manufacturers will advise you to get insurance when moving a piano. Even if handled by professionals, you will still have peace of mind and have that feeling of security when you have insurance cover in case of any untoward incidents.

Research the kinds of insurance you should get. Find time to discuss these with your piano removalist and ask them what coverage they can offer you. See if they cover insurance in transit and/or in storage.

There are usually three types of insurance that are important when having your piano moved: worker’s insurance, property insurance and piano insurance. Since not all piano removalists have all three types, it is crucial to check the removalists’ insurance documentation before the big move.

This legal document will show you the different kinds of insurance available, what is covered and what happens if there are any damages during the move.

Ensure your piano is properly protected for any move / Source: Safe Removalist

Plan your route through the house

It’s not easy to transport a piano from its current location to the moving truck. This is one of the most challenging aspects of the move, which is why you need to plan it carefully.

  1. Look for the shortest route from the piano to the moving truck. Walk through your home and consider the shortest route.
  2. Measure the size of your piano and then measure the size of the doorways leading to exit as well. Your shortest route to the exit might not have big enough doorways to allow the instrument to be carried through.
  3. Clear the route of any clutter because the last thing you want is to trip over when moving a piano.

Move the piano

Once you have planned your route and have all the equipment you need, it’s time to pack and move the piano.

  1. Close the lids at the top of the piano and over the keyboard. Lock these lids securely in place to ensure they don’t open during the move.
  2. Wrap the piano with furniture fabric or a sheet and secure the sheet with some furniture straps or rope.
  3. With the help of your moving team, carefully push the piano onto the furniture dolly. You can create a small ramp that connects the floor to the dolly to make things easy.
  4. Once the piano is securely on the dolly, tie it to the surface to ensure it doesn’t move during transportation.
  5. Push the piano along the route you planned and make sure you compensate for any changes in balance. It’s a good idea to use your muscles instead of gravity to move the piano along.
  6. Push the piano up the ramp and into the transport truck.

Once the piano is in the truck, use furniture straps to secure it to the floor of the vehicle, so it doesn’t move around during the journey.

Take time to tune

After all the moving around, you will want your piano re-tuned. It is best to schedule a tuning a couple of months after the move to give your piano enough time to get settled into its new environment.

Factors such as weather, atmospheric pressure and humidity can affect the tune of your musical instrument, so have a tuner visit you and re-tune your piano once it has become acclimatised to its new environment.

Such a delicate and cherished instrument should be given proper attention and treatment during your move. Enlisting the expert assistance of professional piano removalists will help you make sure that your piano will be transported with utmost care. The knowledge that it has been safely and securely installed in its new home will be as sweet as music to your ears.

Categories
Plumbing

How to find a water leak

It’s safe to say that it is important to find a water leak in your plumbing as soon as possible. Clearly, no one wants to deal with the damage caused by broken pipes and costly repairs to damaged components, but let’s look at how to find a water leak quickly and easily.

Signs of a leak

There are some key indicators indicating that you could have a water leak in your home. Some are quite common and others not so much:

  • Often, when you have a leak in something like a sink, you may notice a subtle or even drastic increase in your water bill. This will be noticeable when your meter reading occurs.
  • You can feel or even see signs of mould forming in hard-to-reach areas or providing an optimal environment for growing that kind of stuff.
  • The bubbles in the paint or wallpaper are a good indicator that something wet is flowing to the other side.
  • If you think your hot water system leaking, try laying out a paper towel at the base of the unit. If you do have a leak you’ll see changes on the paper towel and know you’ve got a problem.
  • Ceilings can begin to sag or warp when water has accumulated in a given area for a period of time. This is particularly common in flat-roofed houses.
  • Flooring may start to sag or crack, which is also a good indicator. There is often a musty or earthy smell that can be difficult to eliminate. You can even find muddy or damp areas in the yard or around the house that seem wet.
  • Sometimes finding a leak underground is really tough to do. Further into this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to find a water leak underground.
Source: Simoes Plumbing & Maintenance

Water leaks in the walls

Walls and floors can be severely damaged by leaks and moulds. Once the mould has begun to grow, the affected area will almost always have to be replaced entirely. In addition, this may require major renovations in an affected area, which is often expensive, especially in the case of structural damage.

How to find where a leak is coming from

A water leak is a serious problem and there are many ways it can happen. On top of water leaks from your plumbing structure, there are many devices and appliances that use water and carry the risk of leakage at some point, for example, a sink or tap. It is reasonable to say that the greater the amount of water associated with a leak, the more important the repair will be.

How to detect a leak in the washing machine

Did you come across some water underneath your washing machine? Looks like your washing machine is leaking. Here’s a list of all the various possible causes and also at what point in the cycle they can happen.

  • Threaded fittings on either drain, tap or fill hoses might be loose
  • Drain hose might not be installed properly into the home drain
  • Internal hoses in the washing machine might be faulty
  • Corroded clamps or cracked hoses are common causes of washing machine leaks

The compression chamber of a washing machine fills with water and expels air to the pressure switch to indicate the level of water in the tank. Over time, the compression chamber of your machine may be clogged with impurities. Due to this plug, the unit will not be able to check the water level and the washing machine will continuously fill the water device until it leaks.

How to find a water leak from the fridge

Is your fridge leaking water? We will list some of the probable causes of water leak from the fridge.

  • In the bottom of your refrigerator is a gutter. As time goes by, litter becomes lodged and clogs the drain. If this is the case, the water will overflow and leak inside your fridge. We advise you to clean the gutter and its drain with hot water.
  • At the back of your fridge, between the compressor recovery tank and the chassis of the unit, there is very often a rubber valve. If it is dirty or clogged, the water will eventually overflow into the refrigerator. We advise you to clean it and replace it if it is damaged.
  • If the door seal is deformed or damaged, warm air will infiltrate and indirectly create frost. This frost will then melt and may create a small puddle on the floor under the freezer door.
  • The fridge might be placed uneven stopping the water from running into the drain hole.

How to find a water leak in the ceiling

Water leaking from the ceiling is not a good sign and you should act with caution.  Depending on whether you have neighbours on the floor above or not, the leak can have three origins. If it is a private house, it will probably come from the roof, unless you have pipes between the ceiling and the roof. If you are living in an apartment building it is possible that it is from the neighbours above.

In case of water leakage from the ceiling, you must first identify the source of the leak. If it is a “human cause”, and the source of the leak has been found and dried up, you can simply contact your neighbour to take over the repairs. On the other hand, if you do not understand the origin of the leak, you must as soon as possible call a professional.

First of all, be aware that under no circumstances should you repaint or cover a ceiling that has been leaked and whose cause has not been identified and repaired. You may experience new leaks that will damage your ceiling again.

How to detect a leak from an air conditioner

An air conditioner leaking water is one of the most common malfunctions encountered by owners of this type of appliance. What is the cause of this?

Water production is a normal phenomenon for an air conditioner in good working order. This water must normally be evacuated continuously through the exhaust pipe of the air conditioner. If the hose gets clogged, the water can no longer be drained, causing the condensate pan to overflow. If you cannot immediately act on the leak, turn off the device to prevent the moisture generated from damaging the wall.

How to find a water leak from the base of the toilet

If your toilet is leaking, try to find the source of the problem before calling the plumber: sometimes, changing a simple seal may be enough. However, there might be other causes for this issue.

  • The tank of the toilet might have condensation on the outside
  • The connection of the toilet tank to the base might have loose seas or bolts
  • Water supply has a leaking pipe
  • The filling valve is faulty
  • The base is loosely connected to the floor

Leaking pipe from the dishwasher

Is your dishwasher leaking and you do not know why? To facilitate research, it is best to look at where and when the leak occurs.

  • Check the water inlet tube of your dishwasher. You can pass your hand with paper towels on the fittings to find more easily traces of water.
  • The rinse aid is used to drag the debris during the rinse phase and speed up the drying process of your dishes. Be careful because the rinse aid has a tendency to foam. This foam could create an overflow, and therefore a leak
  • Door seals might be worn. Clean these seals regularly and replace them if they are defective.

What to do when your shower is leaking through the wall

This type of water leak may easily go unnoticed. The signs aren’t easy to notice but it can be detected if you look closely. Here are some tips on how to find a water leak inside a wall;

  • Decreased water pressure in the shower while the rest of the house is fine
  • If there is a floor beneath your shower, you might see water dripping from the ceiling

It is highly recommended to hire a professional plumber from a professional plumbing company as they have the tools and equipment that act as water leak detectors. The endoscopic camera makes it possible to efficiently inspect the leaking pipes and sewers; Thermal cameras are mainly used for locating leaks and faulty insulation but also for the search for leaks in heating systems and inaccessible pipes.

Contact local plumbers

What to do if you find your hot water system leaking

First things first, you need to know if your hot water system is actually the source of your water leak. As we’re dealing with hot water, sometimes the leak can evaporate before we notice it. Here are some tips to help in the event that you find your hot water leaking.

  • Try laying out a paper towel at the base of the unit. If you do have a leak you’ll see changes on the paper towel and know you’ve got a problem.
  • Once you’ve established you’ve got a hot water system that’s leaking, be sure to cut the power to the unit immediately.
  • Then go ahead and turn off the water supply to the unit also, this will prevent any major flooding risks once you begin working on the unit.
  • Now, test the cold water inlet and hot water outlet. Any leak from this location is an easy fix, however, be sure to do it as soon as possible.
  • Check the temperature and pressure relief valve. Again, any leak from here is generally an easy fix.
  • Check the heater drain valve, this should be watertight. If it is not, this is also an easy fix.
  • If you find the leak to be minimal and you have experience fixing small plumbing issues yourself, consider carrying out any repairs you need by yourself.
  • If the problem is major, or if emergency repairs are needed it’s best to consult a professional plumber.

How to find a leak underground

Finding a leak outside can be a difficult thing to explore yourself due to the specialist equipment that’s required. To find out if you need to get expert help to find your leak underground, follow these steps:

  • Turn your water off at the mains tap.
  • Take note of the water meter reading when you turn it off, write it down.
  • Leave the water off for 30mins and come back to re-read the meter.
  • If the number has changed you’ll know you have a leak underground somewhere.

To find where the leak is specifically and to fix the problem, it’s recommended that you employ an expert plumber to help.

Categories
Heating & cooling

6 steps to prepare your air conditioner for the warm weather

The warm weather brings about a ton of excitement and anticipation for the things that come along with it. You’ll soon be able to enjoy evenings on the patio, early morning walks, and afternoons in the sun.

While dragging the lawn chairs out of the shed and dusting off the cooler can be quite easy, there are a few tasks around the house you’ll need to prepare for.

Your air conditioner is something you should look into and is ready to take on the heavy workload when the heat arrives. Failing to perform a clean your air conditioner could lead to major damage in your unit that might be unfixable, not to mention the cooling vents and ductwork inside your home.

Here is a 6-step checklist to go over before turning on your air conditioner this Summer. Not only will these steps help preserve your air conditioner, but they can also help you save money on your cooling costs:

1. Check your air filter

It’s recommended by most manufacturers that the air filter on your air conditioner be changed every three months or so. Read the requirements on your AC unit to know what to plan for with your specific machine.

The air filter’s job is to collect as it enters the machine and to keep it from blowing into your home. Because of this, the filter can quickly become dirty with debris that might affect the way it operates. If you fail to change the filter at the recommended 3-month mark, this dirt could end up causing damage to your machine, affecting the quality of air that comes out on the other end, and causing your machine to overwork.

It’s important to check your air conditioner’s filter regularly / Source: Tapair

Even if you change the filter on time, it’s recommended to keep an eye on it every few weeks and to keep an eye out for any dirt that might accumulate. Get familiar with where your filter is and how to change it when you first purchase the air conditioner to prevent any ongoing issues in the future.

2. Consider a programmable thermostat

A programmable thermostat can end up saving you energy and money in the short and long-term if you decide to swap out an older model.

How can a programmable thermostat save you money? Well, you can set it at different levels for peak hours of the day. For example, you can set it at a lower temperature around 1 p.m. every day, but relax the levels for the middle of the night when everyone is asleep and traffic is at a minimum.

If you have ever heard your air conditioning unit turn on in the middle of the night as everyone is wrapped up in blankets and thought about the energy (and money) you’re currently wasting, then a programmable thermostat is a good investment for your home.

3. Clean the coils

The exterior coils on your AC unit can be affected by a similar thing to what can happen to your air filter (which we talked about above). Dirt, debris, moisture, and dust can build up on the coils and negatively affect the overall operation of the machine.

Depending on the size of your AC unit, you can clean your coils in a few different ways. It is recommended that you hire a professional to clean the coils on your unit but, if done with care and patience, most people should be able to do it themselves.

Use a household detergent or commercial cleaner and use a light spray to cover the coils. You can then use a hose to lightly rinse the coils. If needed, use a rag to gently clean the coils. Repeat this process until the coils are clear of debris and clean.

4. Clean the fins

The fins on an AC unit do two things: they keep the unit safe from damage (weather, lawnmowers, weed whackers, and more) and they move the warm air away from the machine. They are crucial in preventing your machine from overheating and keep air flowing in and out.

You can actually purchase an AC Fin Comb that can help keep the fins clean without causing any damage. The fins are delicate so you must proceed with caution when touching them unless you want to face large AC repair costs.

Visit your local hardware store, purchase a fin comb (if your machine didn’t come with one) and be careful when even touching the fins on your AC unit.

Source: Split Systems Down Under

5. Check the drain line.

The drain line will remove any condensation that builds up in the coils and carry it away from the machine. If the drain line becomes clogged, your machine could stop working and you may need to hire someone to take a look at it.

If you continue to check the drain line on a regular basis, you should be able to keep it moving smoothly and prevent any blockages. By flushing one cup of bleach down the drain at the start of the season (before turning it on), followed by a cup of water, it should move any small build-ups and prevent anything larger from happening.

You should only need to do this at the start of the season and the end of the season unless you notice a blockage begins to build up.

Contact local air conditioning experts

6. Final check: Air vents, ductwork, and area around unit

The final thing I recommend you do is to do a check of all the parts involved in the cooling process in your home. This final step could uncover any small damages or blockages that could lead to larger issues in the middle of the Summer when you really need your machine to work properly.

  • Is any and all exposed ductwork in working shape? Do you notice any wear or small damages?
  • Are all air vents in the home clear of items and ready to blow out cool air when the machine is turned on?
  • Is the electrical wiring in good shape with nothing exposed?

You’re ready to ‘cool down’

If you’ve reached this point of the article with no issues, then you should be ready to cool your home when temperatures begin to rise.

If you notice any potential damage or blockages with your air conditioning unit, I recommend you seek out the help of an AC professional. Small issues can be fixed early on but leaving them for too long could lead to expensive repairs, or even having to replace your unit.

Air conditioning units are expensive machines that operate at a high pace. If you continue to take care of your unit by doing regular cleaning and maintenance, then it will repay you with a steady, high-quality cooling. Failing to do this could result in frustrations and expenses you’d rather avoid.

Categories
Design & decor

How to decorate your walls with poster printing

If you’re trying to impress your guests when they come over to your place, make sure to decorate your interiors accordingly. Working on the wall colours is not the end of the story, as you have to focus on other ways to make that colour pop up. Wall colour will only speak when there are posters on them. Posters can emphasize more on the wall background and will portray a picture of your style or personality. So, next time you want to improve the condition of your interior design, then focus on the right posters you have to choose for the same.

Poster design trends

There are a myriad of poster designs that pop up with an internet search, including many intricate and detailed designs. Often simplistic design is a better choice, even when your heart goes for a complex one. Everything depends on the background wall, its colour, and more. To top it all, if the walls are textured, then the poster designs will vary quite a lot. The choice of poster printing depends a lot on other criteria.

Mix & match for the right options

Just because you have only one free wall, that doesn’t mean you have to go for a big portrait of a poster. Why not try to place multiple mall posters to create more as a collage feel? It is promising and can emphasize your personality and style well.

  • You can take your photographs from various trips, laminate them into some smaller posters, frame them and place them to a wall.
  • It helps in creating some perfect memories, whenever you look at those frames, and will oomph up your wall design.
Personalised prints allow you to display your favourite memories / Source: Sakari Design

Now let’s look at colour

There are two ways to use multiple shorter posters to decorate a wall in an Australian household. You can either opt for the black and white pictures or coloured posters.

  • The black and white pictures are perfect for the whiter wall shades. Even if you have beige or other subtle colours in-wall, these black and white pictures are perfect.
  • Then you have colourful posters to be placed on lighter shade walls. For example, if you have a light sea green wall, then colourful smaller posters can lift up the value of the place.

If you have a dull coloured wall, then putting up framed posters can enhance its beauty to a whole new level. It is incredible how few simple pieces of artwork can change the entire look of your dull wall.

Less is always more

Always remember that it is time to give a minimalistic approach to a style. If you are planning to revamp your old place, it is always wise to not go anywhere else and embrace simplicity. These designs focus more on balanced posters and furniture rather than dealing with the colours, textures, or shapes of the walls. So, keep that in mind as well, while using posters to decorate the interior walls of your place.

Art prints vs posters

Like everything else, there are acceptable and awful banners and workmanship prints. In any case, the principle distinction between them is that workmanship prints are typical of better quality and are more novel than banners. This is on the grounds that banners are made on a mass scale and everybody winds up having indistinguishable or nearly indistinguishable duplicates of a similar picture.

The best craftsmanship prints are distinctive on the grounds that they are made by authentic craftsmen. Getting them can likewise be a method of supporting rising nearby specialists in your general vicinity.

These aren’t the main advantages in picking workmanship prints over banners. Keep reading to find out more.

The benefits of choosing art prints for your home

The uniqueness of various workmanship prints absolutely makes them famous among inside planners and mortgage holders. Be that as it may, they have more advantages, including:

  • They come in different styles that can supplement any inside style or room
  • They can improve your mindset and even increment office confidence
  • Craftsmanship prints are moderate, not normal for gathering unique bits of workmanship – yet at the same time offer a decent degree of uniqueness
  • Gathering workmanship prints is a decent method of putting away recollections since the photograph collection has gotten obsolete for the majority of us

How to use art prints to style a home 

The entirety of the advantages above are magnificent motivations to utilize them to style your home – however, how might you use craftsmanship prints to style a room?

1. Set the mood

One of the advantages referenced above is the number of choices you get from craftsmanship prints. This empowers you to discover a craftsmanship print that you like and one that will coordinate your inside plan.

You can make use of shading to differentiate and complement a portion of the room or pick an indistinguishable craftsmanship print that flawlessly fits into your style. From dim to brilliant and from theoretical to nature, there is a craftsmanship print for everybody out there.

You can likewise use craftsmanship prints to mirror the room itself and set its pace. For instance, you could discover craftsmanship prints portraying waves or the sea for the restroom and find tranquil mountains or night falls for your room to assist you with unwinding before bed.

Contact local interior designers

2. Make a focal point 

For most homes, the TV goes about as the point of convergence in the front room with all the furniture encompassing it. This can be a disgrace since what is a dark mirror isn’t as fascinating as a bit of charming artistry.

You can utilize craftsmanship prints to occupy guests’ consideration away from the TV to your connecting with craft prints by setting them deliberately in the focal point of the room. The equivalent should be possible in your room by setting them over the bed or in a lounge area over a divider inverse the eating table.

By making them a point of convergence in the room you can change the style of the room, however, you can likewise cause the space to feel greater in light of the fact that it distracts from the room’s corners or dividers (for the most part where the TV is put).

Since many Australians are now spending their time on DIYs and renovating their home, make printed artwork your next DIY project. If interior design isn’t your thing, speak to one of our interior designers for tips on how to transform your home.

Categories
Building & renovations

Top features of an eco-friendly home design

Right now, people are trying to design their homes as eco-friendly as possible. Not only does it help reduce your impact on the planet, but it also can help save your household money in the long run. So, if you’re moving into a new home or you’ve decided to renovate, it’s the perfect time to consider going green. Here, we’ll take you through the main features you can add to make your home eco friendly.

Why build an eco-friendly, sustainable home?

It’s more cost effective and easier to build an eco-friendly home costs a than renovating an existing one. However, there are still many changes and updates you can do to make an existing home more sustainable. Benefits of an eco-friendly home include:

  • Lower utility bills.
  • Your lifestyle actually contributes to make the environment better, helping to minimise the production of greenhouse gasses and carbon dioxide in your home.
  • Better flow of air around your home
  • Low maintenance home

Features of an eco-friendly home

Bamboo flooring

Wood is one of the most popular flooring materials in modern homes. However, the problem with wood, at least as far as flooring goes, is that it isn’t a particularly renewable material. It takes years and years for new forests to grow, and deforestation is a key issue facing our planet today. On the other hand, bamboo grows pretty quickly and makes a great flooring material as well. Therefore, instead of going for traditional wood flooring, going for bamboo is a great move if you want to design your home in an eco-friendly fashion. You can also consider using bamboo for your cabinets and countertops.

Use recycled or sustainable materials

Most of us buy furniture in retail stores. However, companies that make that furniture usually don’t care too much about the effect their work has on the environment. Take a look at it this way – almost all readymade furniture is made of particle board which is one of the least durable board products out there. On the other hand, if you decide to turn to experts who make custom furniture, you can ask them to provide you with furniture made out of sustainable materials. On top of that, if you turn to local experts, you’ll also be reducing transportation waste. This option can be expensive, so as an alternative aim to look for local suppliers who sustainably source their material.

Where possible, use locally sourced and sustainabe furniture and materials / Source: Ryan Linnegar Photography

This methodology of sourcing sustainable or recycled products should be applied across your entire home – especially when it comes to building materials.

Plant life

No matter if you’re renovating or designing your new home, you’ll always be looking for ways to decorate it. While paintings and beautiful lampshades are something you can always go for, you might also want to think decorating with plants. Plants can filter air in your home, getting rid of any harmful chemicals from it. Moreover, these can help you reduce noise and stress. Of course, there are plenty of amazing potted plants that are guaranteed to add some style to your home.

For bonus sustainability points, consider planting a veggie or herb garden so you can grow your own food.

Led lights

Chances are you’ve already heard that LED lights are an absolute must when going eco-friendly. LED bulbs make a great option since they both last longer and use less energy than traditional bulbs. In fact, according to recent reports, by switching to LED lights, you could actually end up saving about 20% on your energy bill. Of course, with everyone going for LED lights, you can now find these in almost any shape or colour. This makes LEDs a perfect option for spaces like pool areas and kids’ rooms.

Use sunlight

Where possible, install solar panels to make use of the sun’s energy for your heating, cooling and lighting. Solar is a sustainable energy source, and will also save you money in the long run.

Another great way to make your home green is to let in as much sunlight as possible. This will both reduce your energy bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Also, if there are any small rooms in your home, sunlight is always going to help you make them look larger. One of the best ways to let sunlight in is to install a few extra double-glazed windows. If you opt for these, you’ll use your cooling and heating equipment less and thus reduce your energy bill even more.

Harness sunlight in your home as a sustainable source of energy, heat & light / Source: Source Architects Pty Ltd

Making your kitchen eco-friendly

There are plenty of ways to make their kitchens green. Firstly, as we’ve already mentioned, you can use materials such as bamboo for your kitchen cabinets and countertops. Here are a few other ideas for making your kitchen eco-friendly:

  • Start a compost to reduce your biodegradable kitchen waste and improve the sustainability of your home and zero-waste living
  • Install a rainwater tank
  • Use recycled glass for your splash-back – as opposed to the standard glass or quartz

Making your bathroom eco-friendly

The bathroom can be one of the most non-environmentally friendly rooms in a house because of high water use, chemical cleaners and other issues. Your bathroom, however, doesn’t have to be harmful to the environment with these environmentally friendly ideas.

Ditch the chemicals

Many bathroom cleaners contain bleach and other chemicals that are bad for the environment and your health. Opt for natural, organic cleaners instead. Even many regular supermarkets now have “green” cleaners that use orange oil, tea tree, lavender and baking soda to clean, disinfect and freshen your bathroom. You should also steer clear of pesticides by purchasing organic towels, wash cloths and bath robes.

Hire a green plumber

Hire a green plumber to make your bathroom use less water. A green plumber can inspect your plumbing and fix any leaks that are wasting water. In addition, a green plumber can install a grey water system that uses your sink, shower and laundry water to flush the toilet.

Water efficient fixtures

Your toilet, sink faucets and shower heads release a lot of water. You can reduce your water usage by installing low-flow toilets, sink faucets and shower heads. These low flow fixtures work just as good as their water wasting counterparts, they’re just kinder on your pocket book (because your water bill will be cheaper) and more friendly to the environment. You can probably instal the sink faucets and shower heads yourself if you’re handy, but you might want to hire a plumber to instal the toilet.

Solar water heating

Solar powered water heaters are a great way to reduce your energy consumption. If you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of sun, you can instal a battery backup or gas powered backup to heat your water on overcast days.