Author: Hannah

Categories
Plumbing

How long does a battery sump pump run?

If you are getting a sump pump installed, having a battery backup system installed with it is also necessary in case of a power outage or a breakdown.

When you talk about disaster prevention in your home, one of the most important things you have (which is often ignored) is the sump pump.

When your sump pump breaks down, the consequences can be chaotic – which can lead to thousands of dollars in property damage.  In addition, you will also have to pay increased insurance premiums to cover for the intensive repair work.

Prevention is undoubtedly better than the cure, which is why investing in a sound battery backup system for your sump pump makes plenty of sense!

Why is a battery backup system important for your sump pump?

Many homeowners buy replacement pumps and store them in case of a problem. Sure, that is a good idea, and you might already know why sump pumps sell like hot cakes during floods and storms.

However, you should also understand that your replacement pump would not amount to much if your original pump fails or breaks down while you are out enjoying your holidays. Or if you are asleep during a power outage and are hit by a stormy night.

That is exactly where a sump pump battery backup system will save your life. Regardless of a power outage or a malfunction, a battery backup system will always kick in to keep things rolling.

There are three qualities that come in battery backup systems – good, slightly better, best. However, the best system usually costs more than your average battery backup.

But, they are a vital investment because those systems provide an extended run-time and equipped with an equally sophisticated charger, prolonging the overall durability of the device.

A battery backup ensures your home will stay up and running during an outage / Source: Mattrix Constructions

How long does the battery backup last?

That primarily depends on the amount of water coming into the sump basket; this is what usually determines the number of times the pump will run.

For example, if you get a 40-amp/hour battery system, it will provide up to 53 hours of backup pumping water at an efficiency rate of 2,300-GPH per five minutes.

However, if you encounter tremendous water problems – where the machine has to run once per minute, the very same powerful battery backup system will only last for 12 hours. That isn’t quite enough when you talk about a power outage in case of a storm or flood.

But even so, you could always opt for a bigger battery system – preferably one that keeps two batteries fully charged at the same time.

Contact local plumbers

This is why most primary pumps fail

The usual suspect behind primary pump failure is a power outage – not a technical malfunction within the pump itself.

Moreover, some common events can further deteriorate or cut off the electric supply to the machine itself. For instance, you could just as easily forget to plug in the pump, or a lightning storm could trip your GFCI outlets.

That is not to say that people don’t encounter problems with the pump – it certainly can malfunction even if the power stays on.

However, this problem is far too common in machines that are smaller, and do not have the capability to pump heavy amounts of water from a storm or water from melting snow.

Generally, these smaller units are also inexpensive, which means they aren’t exactly designed with durable materials.

This can further lead to deteriorated pump efficiency. So there are two problems with cheap pumps, they will function longer but will burn out just as easily, or they will run fine but will not eject water effectively.

Source: Modern Living Constructions

How to know when your pump dies

More often than not, a lot of homeowners are completely oblivious of pump failure till it is too late – and the damage has already been done.

However, there are a couple of ways you can foresee some of the problems and ensure nothing happens to your sump pump. Take a look:

  • Get an alternate current sump pump that comes with a controller. These devices are usually fitted with an alarm system that notifies you when the system malfunctions or when there is a power outage. The same hails true for most top rated battery backup systems.
  • There are companies that provide emergency text message service, sending the text on different phones. For example, they will send you a notification for “high water warning”.
  • There are also devices that are equipped with a local alarm system fitted atop the sump basket. These are awesome when you are at home, and there is a power failure.

Wrap up

So there you have it – all the reasons you will ever need to invest in a quality battery backup system for your sump pump. Don’t wait till the last minute; the consequence of a sump pump failure is pretty dire! Speak to a professional plumber now to find out prices to install a sump pump.

Categories
Design & decor

How to: Use bedroom décor to improve sleep

Sleep plays a substantial role in your health and wellbeing. People are not able to take the required amount of sleep every night. According to the Sleep Health Foundation, the amount of inadequate sleep in Australia was around $66.3 billion dollars in 2017 to 2018. So, how do we improve our sleep?

Researchers believe that the bedroom has a substantial impact on an individual’s sleep. Despite how frustrating having sleeping issues can be, one thing you can look forward to is refurbishing your bedroom décor. The idea is beneficial in several ways.

Your bedroom is not just a dominant place in your house to keep all your personal belongings. An individual spends most of the night in this single room. From the luxury lighting to the traditional furnishings, you must be conscious of everything. Keep on reading to learn how to improve sleep.

Bedroom decor can have a strong affect on sleeping habits / Source: DK Lifestyles

Things that affect your sleep

Here are some points to help you redesign your room. Learn how to improve sleep by acknowledging the significant obstacles and exclude them.

Electronics around you

Studies state that 75% of children and 89% of adults are most likely to carry electronic gadgets in their bedrooms. Such devices, like smartphones, laptops, and tablets, can harm our sleeping behaviour.

It happens because these electronics emit a blue light, which disrupts the circadian rhythm of people. It is the natural process that significantly estimates the sleep-wake cycle. As a result, the human body starts to think it needs to stay awake, and you later face difficulties in coping up with sleep.

Mattress in your bedroom

It is not essential to own a luxury mattress for your bedroom. Your primary focus must be on the quality of it. New beds are reported to have better sleep and lower stress as compared to sleeping on standard beds.

A mattress is a lifetime investment that can transform your health and body. Be sure to test out mattresses at a store or purchase one from companies that allow you to return it if you’re not satisfied. Beds can be an expensive investment, so be sure to look out for different mattress specials and deals to find the best one for you. A right bed will add to your hours of adequate sleep and keep you healthy and productive all day.

Room temperature

Whenever you slip in your bed for sleeping, the body temperature drops slightly. Henceforth, it is essential to have an adjustable bedroom temperature too. If this does not happen, your body does not relax, and you often have a hard time falling asleep.

Sleeping takes time. Researchers believe temperature has a stronger effect on sleep in comparison to light. In case you feel like struggling for a night of sleep, think of adjusting your thermostat. It may help you in relaxing back into a blissful slumber.

How to improve sleep with bedroom décor?

After a long, disturbing day, the essential thing you need is comfort. Most probably, people spend around eight hours in their bedrooms. These hours majorly impact the way an individual behaved the other day. For this reason, focus on your bedroom and plan to decorate every corner in the right manner.

Choose a worthy headboard

Often people believe that headboards are just for the decorative purpose. However, they create a sense of support to the room owner. Try to select a bedding style that has a stylish but sturdy headboard. Most probably, the wooden ones are preferable as they look comforting, and you can settle yourself on them smoothly.

Another option includes upholstered headboards as they can be soft and supportive. You can look forward to a headboard with Benson for Beds voucher codes as it offers a five-year guarantee.

It’s important to select a sturdy and supportive headboard for your bed / Source: Of Object Home

Select the appropriate colours

Colours have a substantial impact on the mood of an individual. Often the colour red attracts people from a far-off distance. It is why emergencies always prefer this shade. Similarly, blue and green and soothing and friendly colours. They create a sense of relaxation to the viewer.

Learn how to improve sleep by choosing the right wall paint for your bedroom. Preferring lighter shades in the room makes it look bigger and comfortable. However, darker ones can give a warm ad intimate guise to the room.

Focus on the air quality

Poor air quality in your room will lead to a night of poor sleep. Your bedroom has a lot of sources of indoor air pollution. People often overlook these and end up in trouble.

Take great care of the carpets, furnishings, upholstery, insulation, as well as the heating and cooling system. Try to introduce plants and fresh flowers in your bedroom. Make it attractive, appealing, and comfortable for a restful sleep.

Contact local interior designers

Exclude all electronic devices

The concept of a TV screen in your room may entertain you and assist you in watching your favourite shows effortlessly. Yet, it steals your sleep at night. The lights and sounds eventually stimulate your mind and keep you from resting.

Similarly, other electronics stated above also prevent you from sleeping all night. Try to ban these devices in your bedroom at least an hour before slipping in your bed. Activate the “do not disturb” mode in your phone while sleeping and block unwanted notifications all night.

Wrap up

Clutter is also a worthy cause for disturbing your sleep. A neat and tidy bedroom makes the best of a relaxing night. You must know how to improve sleep with a décor that you can handle and maintain.

Bedroom time is the quiet and soothing hour of your overall day. Henceforth, focus on your bedroom space and avoid turning it to a sanctuary. Here’s a recap of the tips mentioned in this article:

  • Remember to dim lights of your room to make a peaceful ambience for the slumber.
  • Maintain room temperature degrees for extra comfort and choose your mattresses, sheets, and pillows wisely.
  • Reduce all the noises and try to surround yourself with soothing scents at night.
  • Always focus on your bedroom, and it’s every corner if you ever face trouble while sleeping.

Try adding these tips slowly into your bedroom so it’s not overwhelming to your current routine. 

Categories
Heating & cooling

Foam insulation: Advantages & disadvantages

Insulation is becoming a standard installation in many homes. Since insulation comes in a variety of types, the choice can be difficult. If you’re considering foam insulation in your house, read on for the advantages and disadvantages to help you make the choice.

What is foam insulation?

Most commonly available in spray form, foam insulation is constructed from polyurethane or soy for environmentally-friendly variants. The substrate can be sprayed onto any surface that needs insulating. After dispensing of the product, it fills gaps and creates an airtight seal that is resistant to water.

Similar to other kinds of insulation, this is designed to block heat in the summer and trap heat in the winter which reduces HVAC usage and therefore, electricity bills and your environmental impact.

Source: Shutterstock

Foam insulation benefits

The greatest benefit of using foam insulation is the effectiveness of the product as it can seep into all the holes and small spaces that standard insulation is unable to do. This significantly improves home sealing. Given its superior filling ability, the insulation prevents insects, rodents, and other vermin from entering. Additionally, it has a higher R-value than the alternative. Furthermore, many types of foam are also fireproof.

The environmental benefit is there are no small particulates that can get into the air like with fibreglass. Also, there is no itchiness with foam insulation. Additionally, it does not absorb water so mould growth is unlikely. Finally, this insulation can improve the structural integrity of your home because it contains similar properties as glue.

Contact local insulation experts

Foam insulation disadvantages

Despite many benefits, there are a few drawbacks which much be considered:

  • Spray foam costs significantly more than the standard insulatio
  • It is a much messier process for installing around the house
  • If too much is sprayed, the walls or ceilings can buckle. Therefore, it is always recommended that foam insulation must have professional installation
Categories
Real estate & moving

10 things to know before buying your first investment property

Property investment can be a very lucrative business. You chosen a dream investment property, got an approval for a loan or opted for a contract for deed, but is it the right decision? There are numerous examples of people making significant gains and profits through a real estate portfolio. But it can also be a highly risky use of your money. And regardless of the size or type of property, your plan to invest in it will almost certainly require a substantial initial and ongoing spend. That’s why it’s essential to take additional care when investing in property to ensure you minimise your risks as much as possible, protecting your hard-earned cash.

Here are a few things you should know and consider before investing your money in the real estate market.

1. The price is right

Any real estate investment aims to grow your capital through the increase in the value of your property. Central to this is selecting the right property at the right price. But it’s not always clear cut. A cheap property may have tremendous growth potential, but it may also be in an area when the market is merely affordable. Likewise, a high-end property may hold its value, but it also may not offer much growth.

2. Ensure you have the money to support the investment

Property investment can be very lucrative, but the gains are usually measured over the long-term. You don’t want to be forced to sell a valuable property early because you don’t have the capital to support it. Before making any investment carefully consider the short and long-term running expenses to ensure your budget can handle it. When reviewing your financial status and capability to fund any expenses for your future investment property, be mindful of any remaining personal loans you may have, as they may affect the amount the bank will allow you to borrow.

Source: Buildtech Homes

3. Seek help you can rely on

Turning a profit from an investment property can, at times, be a full-time job. A property manager can help ease the burden doing everything from managing the day-to-day issues to helping you select new tenants and reviewing rental costs. The best thing is they are usually paid as a percentage of rent collected, so if you’re not making any money, they won’t cost you any.

4. Study the market

Real estate markets are often operating in a microcosm with prices on one side of a street being slightly higher than the other, for instance. When looking to maximise returns, every little edge, you can get matters, so it’s important to study your rental market carefully before you buy. You can start researching online, but local knowledge is hard to beat.

5. Select the right mortgage

There are a variety of different mortgage and financing options available when it comes to buying properties. Finding the right model is not always as simple as selecting the cheapest one as the way the financing is structured can affect tax deductions. Consider all the options and your circumstances to find the best financing deal in the long run for your investment.

6. Leverage equity

If you already have existing properties, then leveraging the value tied up in them can be an excellent way to fund further investments. If you have a $500,000 property with only $100,000 left on the mortgage, then you have $400,000 equity you can leverage. Leveraging an existing property also opens up the possibility to leverage against the investment property further down the line and has potential tax benefits.

7. Negative gearing

Negative gearing allows you to claim tax relief if the investment amount is larger than its income returns. This can enable you to make a technical loss on the investment property while creating an overall profit by offsetting other taxable income. Negative gearing isn’t a good reason on its own to buy an investment property, but it can help with structuring your finances and budgets.

8. Limit unexpected surprises

Unexpected surprises can be catastrophic for an investment property. A sudden large spend on maintenance work can make a massive dent into your finances. Limit your risk of being surprised by having the property professionally inspected before making any commitments.

Source: Constructive Building Consultants

9. An investment not a home

An investment property is a business, not a home. It’s important to keep this in mind when renovating and decorating. Everybody has unique tastes and styles, but an investment property has to be able to appeal to anybody. Simple and neutral tones are perfect as they are inoffensive and have wide appeal.

10. Long-term thinking

Property investment is not a short-term cash generator. Your property can often take years or decades to show the type of large profits you seek. The investment will usually require further spending and time commitments along the way. Keep this in mind when making your financial and life plans.

Categories
Automotive

Used vs new car parts

When the time comes for a replacement part for your vehicle, you are often faced with a choice. Should you go for a used car part that’s cheaper and readily available to get your car up and running again? Or, should you head down to your local dealership, pay a premium price and wait a little longer for it to be delivered and installed?

The critical difference is, you know you’re going to get a high-quality part if it’s new. You’ll also receive a manufacturer’s warranty. It seems like the new part is the most obvious choice.

However, this isn’t always the case as you’d be surprised just how resourceful a second-hand part can be. A used car part is not only super cost-effective, but they are also more readily available. Choosing a second-hand part is often the faster option in most cases, and some even come with a warranty.

Source: Deluxe Detail

To help you decide between a new and used part, here are the pros and cons.

New car parts

There are three avenues to explore when purchasing a new car part. You can choose from either Genuine, OEM, or Aftermarket; each coming with their own set of pros and cons.

  • Genuine parts are parts which are supplied by the manufacturer of the vehicle and will generally come branded or packaged. High-quality, comes with a warranty, easier selection. However, it is usually more expensive, limited availability, and may take longer to arrive.
  • Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) come from the same company which manufactured genuine parts; however, this partner company is usually employed by the original automaker to produce parts as OEM. Quality guaranteed comes with a warranty, easier selection, and usually cheaper than Genuine. However, it can be more expensive, take longer to arrive, and quality isn’t always guaranteed.
  • Aftermarket parts are that have not been manufactured or sourced directly by the original automaker. Usually the cheapest option of the 3, a more extensive selection of brands, parts and prices, and in some cases, quality is equal or better than OEM. However, may not come with a warranty, potentially made from lower-quality materials and poorly constructed, and can be challenging to make the right choice with such a wide selection.

Used car parts

Pros

  • Cost-effective: Second-hand car parts are less expensive compared to new car parts and is one of the main reasons why people opt for used parts.
  • Increased availability: There is no shortage of used parts sellers, so there’s always plenty of choice and availability for the parts you seek.
  • Competitive prices: Because you have so many options to choose from, sellers are generally quite competitive with their prices, meaning you can get a lower price.
  • Large variety: With plenty of choices in brands, parts and prices, you’ll have your car up and running in no time at all.
  • Environmentally friendly: It might not be something you’d normally consider, but opting to buy a used part over brand new reduces the need for new parts to be made. This means fewer resources are used when being manufactured and therefore reducing your environmental impact.

Cons

  • Quality isn’t guaranteed: How does the saying go? “You get what you pay for”. To avoid purchasing a complete lemon, we’ve given a list of questions to ask before you buy a used part below.
  • Overwhelming selection: With so many brands, parts and sellers available, especially online where parts can be purchased from Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and eBay, it can be an overwhelming experience.
  • No warranty: Not all used parts come with a warranty, so it pays to purchase a used part from a credible supplier and always ask for a warranty.
  • Mechanics may decline installation: If a used part was to fail, resulting in a crash, who’s responsible? With concerns about liability, warranty and insurance, your mechanic may decline to install a second-hand part.
  • Unknown history: Purchasing used parts from auto wreckers or online sources may not always have the history of the part. Not knowing the history of the part you’re buying puts you at risk. What’s the remaining lifespan of the part? Has it been in an accident?
Source: Tlc Automotive Services

Essential tips for buying second-hand car parts

If you plan to go down the path of buying a used car part, there are a few questions to ask to ensure you receive a high-quality part and not a lemon.

Are you buying from a credible seller?

Thanks to the internet, there are now many avenues to purchase a used part. However, there are just as many counterfeit products available on the market. It’s best to buy used parts from a reputable and trusted seller to ensure you are not wasting your money on low-quality parts.

Know what part you need

Before you go out and buy a second-hand part, find out exactly what you need. If you’re unsure of the part you need, do not hesitate to contact your mechanic or speak to a professional. This way, you can avoid unnecessary delays and costs on purchasing the wrong part.

Have your vehicle details ready

With such a wide selection of parts and brands to choose from, it is essential to have your vehicle’s make, model and year ready to go. Also, having your car’s VIN will ensure you purchase the right part for your car.

Ask for a warranty and how long

It goes without saying if you’re purchasing a used part always ask if there is a warranty and how long does it last. Most credible sellers usually offer a warranty or at least the option to purchase one.

Find out the history of the part

Attempting to find the history of a used part from a Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace purchase is near-impossible. Without knowledge in the automotive industry, it can be difficult to tell if it has been in an accident or the remaining lifespan. However, you can minimise your chances of getting a counterfeit part by purchasing used parts from a trusted local supplier. Make sure the seller is capable of giving you the history and expected life.

Categories
Real estate & moving

New home essentials

Are you moving into your first home or apartment? Firstly, congratulations. You are officially entering the most exciting phase of your independent life. But as you may already know, moving into your first place isn’t all rosy and merry. It involves lots of planning and hard work. It is a time when you start thinking about new furniture and accessories, lighting, kitchen essentials, and many things that you’ve never really cared about before.

Owning a new home or apartment means involves making the living space comfortable and welcoming for you. But don’t freak out. We understand that pulling that off isn’t the easiest thing to do and for that, we have prepared a shortlist of your first-home needs. This list will help you inject some class and functionality to your new home. Be our guest:

1. Bedding

Home is where you lay your head. That is why a bed, a mattress, a pillow, and some bedsheets should be the first items you acquire for your new apartment. You will also need a mattress topper and any other bedding that will make your place feel like home. Just don’t entertain the thought of sleeping on the floor even for a day.

Source: Helicrete Pty Ltd

2. Cleaning essentials

Stock up on cleaning essentials in advance. These include:

  • Cleaning products

Of course, you do have your preferred cleaning products. Purchasing your cleaning products before moving in will take another thing off your list. Ensure that you buy enough paper towels, disinfectants, glass cleaner, and a multi-surface cleaner of your choice.

  • Vacuum cleaner

A vacuum cleaner is essential, but don’t buy one before you know the type of flooring in your new home. Choose the vacuum cleaner that is suitable for your new floor, and that is efficient for the size of your home. A robotic cleaner, for example, would be more ideal for a big house than a handheld vacuum cleaner.

  • Broom and dustpan

You will be sweeping around the compound, in the backyard, and sometimes indoors. A vacuum cleaner might not be very ideal for the job. Get a handheld broom and a dustpan for that. The size of either of these tools will depend on the size of your new home.

  • Mop

You will need to polish your new home occasionally, so ensure that you have a sponge or string mop for this.

3. Kitchen essentials

If your kitchen isn’t as modern as you would want it to be, you may have to invest in kitchen remodelling. Kitchen renovations can improve the functionality or feel of your kitchen. Remember that the kitchen is the heart of every home, regardless of its size. This is the place where you will be making your meals, where your family will be gathering at least twice every day, and where most of your fond memories will be made. You need this particular space within your home to function smoothly and operate with ease. Inclusive to kitchen renovations, it’s recommended that you also look for other kitchen essentials during your move. Some of these include the kitchen’s use, design and feel, including a coffee maker, a stove, a toaster, a microwave, some pots, a blender, a mixer, among other cookware. A fridge and some dishes will be important as well.

Your kitchen is the heart of the home / Source: Modern Living Constructions

If your budget allows, it will be best to purchase a complete kitchen tools set. All the items you need for the kitchen will be included in the set so you will not have to worry about forgetting anything essential. While at it, ensure that your dishes are stylish and beautiful. The last thing you want is to serve guests with horrible-looking dinner plates or cups during the home warming party.

4. Living room essentials

If you are tight on budget, you can leave the living room for later. You will survive comfortably with nothing in the living room, or even without a living room all together. But if you have the money, or if you have a dream of one day living in a cozy and welcoming space, then you will need to budget for a few items. Some wall décor, a couple of couches, a TV, a small TV cabinet, a coasters table, some table lamps, a few tables, and a carpet will be great for a start.

5. Bathroom essentials

A shower curtain is a must if you don’t want to damage the new home’s floor. Self-care items such as toiletries and oral hygiene products are also essential. Other bathroom items include soap, a bath mat, a showerhead, and rings. Believe it or not, the bathroom could be the first room you use as soon as you move in.

Wrap up

There are many new home essentials that we could not cover in a single article. The important thing is that with the items we have discussed, you will be good to go. You will later need to shop for lesser essential items such as house plants, décor items, and a home theatre system, among others.

Categories
Plumbing

How to know if your sewer line is broken?

All homeowners want to keep their houses in perfect shape. But, no matter what, you can’t avoid plumbing repair once in a while.

One of the most common plumbing repairs has to do with your sewer line, especially if your house was built in the era of 1970. Because those houses contained cast iron pipes and, by and large, they have outlived their utility. It is imperative to identify the issues with your sewer line and fix them at the earliest. If not, you could be risking the health of your family members along with your property. You can’t afford to ignore the following signs if you don’t want to turn a minor sewer line issue into an ultimate catastrophe:

1. Sewer gas odour

Sometimes you can’t see a problem in your drain line because the damaged pipe is out of our sight. But you can smell the problem. We are talking about the foul odour. Sewer pipes are impenetrable because, naturally, nobody wants to smell the scent of sewage. So in the normal condition of a pipe, no foul odour is supposed to come out.

If you are using the room spray frequently and the odour refuses to go away, it’s time to find an expert plumber and have your sewer line inspected.

2. Mould issues

If you notice mould on your wall, ceiling, or floor, it could be the sign of a crack in your sewer pipe. Mould could be the offshoot of some other problem. If mould is growing at a rapid pace, then the sewer pipeline is more likely to be the culprit behind it. This is it is the ample humidity level for mould to grow.

Apart from damaging your interior, exterior, and foundation, mould could also trigger health problems. Therefore it is essential to be looked at immediately.

3. Slow drain

Bathtubs, sinks, and toilets are the places where the slow drain is more evident than any other part of the house. Slow drains are not always due to the leakage in the sewer line. It could well be caused by tree root penetration, hair, and such blockages.

However, some homeowners make it a point to buy cheap chemical cleaners to clean their pipelines. But far from being an easy fix, these chemicals end up harming your pipeline even more. You should instead try green alternatives.

If you continue to face issues regarding slow drain, then the odds are your sewer line could be in for a bigger fix. That’s the time when you should contact a professional without further ado.

Source: Oncall BSI

4. Rodent problem

Rats like to live in sewers. And if there is a loophole in your main sewer line, rats could easily find their way to your house. To be more precise, an opening of about 7 to 10 centimetres is enough for an average size rat to earn an entry in your home.

Rats are known to spread dangerous diseases like plague and hemorrhagic fever. So all of sudden if you find rats marching in your house, you can take it as a sign of a crack in your drain line.

5. Gurgling sound

If you notice a gurgling sound in your toilet right after flushing, it could be because the air from an outside source is going into your sewer line. However minor it may sound, there is no way you can ignore it. Because you never know what would be the scale of this tiny issue in the future. It is the hallmark of a smart homeowner to nib in the bud a plumbing issue right in the beginning. That’s the best way to keep your sewer line repair costs at the bare minimum.

6. Grass turning extra green

Is there a specific portion in your garden that is greener than the rest of the backyard? If so, ask yourself whether you are using any fertilizer in that fraction. If the answer is no, then it could be a clear cut case of sewer line leakage. As a homeowner possessing a garden, you must know that the sewer line water works as a quality fertilizer.

Though you might get fresh vegetables from your garden, for the time being, any delay in the repairs will pose an unimaginable threat to your property and health.

7. Foundation cracks

Foundation cracks are perhaps more threatening than any other sign discussed above because they suggest that your house’s sewer line craves for immediate attention. You can spot foundation cracks at places like pavement, driveway, foundation slabs, and sinkholes.

There are various types of foundation cracks. But the most dangerous of them include horizontal and stair-step cracks. However, it does not mean you can take other cracks any lightly.  Regardless of the type, as soon as you notice a foundation crack, you should get in touch with a professional because being ignorant could lead to more structural damages.

8. Insect infestation

If there is a gradual upsurge of insects in your house, then it could also be an indication of a broken sewer line. These insects typically contain cockroaches, sewer flies, and palmetto bugs. Cockroaches are prone to trigger allergy, particularly among kids.

As a temporary solution, you can use different means to kill the insects, but the bugs will keep finding their way back to your house. A permanent solution lies in fixing the drain line once and for all.

Wrap up

If you are currently noticing any of these signs in your house, it’s time for a thorough inspection from a certified plumber. You never know, the repairs that seem small today, might not remain small tomorrow.

Categories
Outdoor living

Different uses for firewood ash

The amount of ash produced after burning firewood depends on the quality of the wood. Not being aware of the ways they can use ashes in their gardens, a lot of people throw their ashes out. You paid money when you purchased the best firewood supplies in Sydney. So, why not use it?

Burning one firewood cord can leave more than 10 kilos of ashes. The amount the ash produced can also depend on the heating appliance, fuel source, and even your burning skills.

The ashes you get should not go out with your trash. Let’s see how you can sustainably use your ash.

A fire can provide warmth and ambience to any indoor or outdoor space / Source: A.S Projects

Amending garden & lawn soil

Ash left in your stove or fireplace is a source of magnesium, calcium, and potassium. All these three are essential for the health of a plant. You can use ash to increase the pH level of the soil in your garden. However, you need to know how and when the ash can be useful and when it can’t be. The timing to add ash into your soil, depends on the pH level of the soil. You can use a soil test to determine the pH level. pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for most of the garden and lawns plants. Keep in mind that some plants grow well in soil having a lower pH and some in soil with higher pH.

When can you add wood ash?

You can add ash when the pH level falls below 6.5. pH below 6.5 reduces the availability of calcium and magnesium.

When you cannot add wood ash

  • Avoid adding ash when the soil is alkaline. Alkaline soil has a pH level of more than 7.0. Adding ash can also be bad for the health of plants and can potentially kill some of your plants. When soil pH levels are too high, some plants are unable to take up the nutrients. This is particularly bad for the health of fruits and vegetable plants.
  • Don’t mess with the pH if the pH level is in the range of 6.0 to 7.0.
  • Azaleas, rhododendrons, blueberries and there are several other acid-loving plants. Avoid applying ash around these plants.

Using wood ash

You can use both lime and wood ash to increase soil pH. Both work in different ways. Limestone can take more than six months to change soil pH. On the other hand, being water-soluble, ash starts changing the pH level of soil rapidly. Soil with pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 can take 10 kilos of ash per 100 square metres Annually. Adding more than 10 kilos can also cause short-term salt injury. So, add ash to your lawn soil carefully.

Don’t forget to use gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection while adding ash to your lawn soil. It’s best to garden with ash on a windless and dry day. Mix soil and ash before planting and avoid letting ash settle on your growing plants.

Repelling slugs

You can sprinkle wood ashes around plants that are susceptible to slugs. This will repel slugs by irritating their moist bodies.

Melting ice & providing winter traction

You can spread wood ash on driveways. This will provide traction by melting ash. This will cause no damage to animal paws. However, ashes might get tracked into your house.

Cleaning metal & glass

You can use hardwood ash to quickly remove grime, grease and tarnish silverware, glass, grills, ovenware, and stovetops. You can also remove gummy residue left by labels and stickers.

When you are looking for firewood supplies in Sydney, buy firewood from a reputed supplier. Ash is not waste, simply a byproduct. So, you can absolutely use it around the house.

Categories
Gates & fencing

Garden privacy ideas

Whether you want to avoid nosy neighbors, live on a busy road, or simply want to avoid prying eyes, there are options to achieve more privacy in your yard without breaking the bank. For example, you could consider installing a privacy fence or planting high hedges. Here is a look at some budget-friendly options for restoring privacy to your garden.

There are two aspects to privacy:

  1. Visual privacy not only protects you from prying eyes, but it also allows you to work or relax without being distracted by whatever may be going on outside your designated private space.
  2. Noise privacy is just as important as visual privacy. The constant noise from traffic and other forms of noise pollution can have a negative effect on your health and well being.
A fence or plant barrier can provide privacy from prying eyes / Source: Bondi Landscapes Design & Construction

Both visual distractions and noise pollution need to be addressed if you want to reclaim your garden as a private oasis. The only way to achieve visual privacy is to erect a barrier above eye level wherever it is needed.

Fencing material to reduce noise

In order to dampen or eliminate noise, the barrier must also be insulated. Sound travels in a straight line, so a barrier that is above eye level (1.8 metres is usually enough), will also help dampen sound. However, some fencing materials have better sound insulating qualities than others:

  • Aluminium fencing offers relatively poor sound insulation but provides visual privacy
  • Timber fencing offers good sound insulation, but only if there are no gaps between the palings. Thicker timber offers better insulation. Lapped palings cover gaps and doubles the thickness of some of the surface area of the fence.
  • Acoustic plywood panels provide even better noise insulation than solid timber.
  • Acoustic foam “bricks” provide the highest level of protection against noise.

If noise is primarily a problem just on one side of your garden, consider spending more on a superior fencing material on that side of the yard and choosing another, less expensive fencing material for the rest of the fence. Timber, acoustic plywood and foam bricks can all be painted to match or you can find inexpensive and virtually maintenance-free aluminium or PVC fencing in a complementary colour.

Enhancing privacy with plants

While plants and trees will not reduce noise pollution, it will keep others from seeing in. High plants, trees, and shrubbery enhance a sense of security and privacy.  

Source: Yarra Eco Pty Ltd

While they may have only a psychological effect, planting trees and shrubs or a vertical garden against an existing fence or along the border of your garden may be all it takes to make you feel a sense of greater privacy.

Categories
Construction

Ideas to make your deck kid-friendly

A home with a deck allows the entire family an opportunity to relax in each other’s company. However, the decking needs to be made safe and secure so that there are no unfortunate accidents, especially in homes having small children. In this article, you will find several tips to make your deck child-friendly, while retaining its stylish looks.

Using high-quality decking materials

At the time of the deck construction, invest in the best materials, even if it means paying a little more. This pays off in the long run, keeping your loved ones safe from harm. Hire a qualified, experienced deck builder, who can make your decking sturdy and durable, and can give you a guarantee on the work done. This person also knows which council permits are required for residential decks, and can help you get all the approvals.

Source: The Bearded Builders

Checking for sharp edges on the deck

Wood is a popular choice for decks because of its appearance, provided it is free from splinters and sharp edges. You can ensure this by sanding the wood immediately after installing the decking, then again before it is oiled or stained for upkeep once every two years. With this taken care of, you can stay worry-free whenever the children play on the deck.

Using balustrades

Elevated decks require a railing or balustrades for safety, even if they are only a short distance above the ground. Adjacent balustrades should not be so far apart that a child can squeeze through the opening and fall out, or get stuck halfway through. Choose balustrades with a height tall enough to prevent children from climbing over. All these precautions will keep your little ones safe and secure on the deck.

Installing child gates

Some people avoid installing child gates on their home decks, thinking that they are a waste of money. The fact is that child gates are absolutely essential at the top and bottom of the deck stairs leading to the ground, and good to have even if your deck does not have steps. Keep in mind that the child gates have to endure varying outdoor conditions, so choose long-lasting materials. These are available in a range of designs, allowing you to match the deck design to the rest of your home. Children can have a nasty fall even with only a couple of steps, so it is better to be safe than sorry.

Deck maintenance

Besides proper construction, regular maintenance is required to keep your deck in good shape. Carry out a thorough inspection at least once a year, so that you can locate any issues and take care of them well in time. This includes looking for rotting, warped or splintered wood, as well as loosened balustrades. Clean and oil the deck at least once every six months, and your deck maintenance costs will be kept under control.