The bathroom is a commonly used and renovated area of the home, but with an array of stylish faucets, tubs and vanities, keeping your bathroom trendy can be a constant battle between the new and outdated. If you are planning to refurbish or redecorate your bathroom space, consider these enduring bathroom designs that will add a classic touch that will never grow old.
1. Natural beauty
Embracing eco-friendly designs and natural materials in your bathroom space is a lasting trend that will remain a popular option for the way it transforms a sterile space into a refreshing refuge.
Natural materials such as stone, are an all time favourite that adds a warm and serene appeal to your bathroom. Neutral hues such as grays, creams and shades of brown nicely complement a bathroom environment that is eco-friendly.
Modern additions such as the vertical garden, can also enhance a green inspired design but as a simpler alternative, indoor plants make a suitable addition. Natural textures and wall features also add an organic element to your bathroom.
2. Wood finishes
Timber floors, wooden beams or bamboo touches are a bathroom design you won’t grow weary with. By combining a modern and rustic look, wood is the perfect addition to your bathroom space.
Dark timber creates a sleek, modern element in your bathroom but lighter panels of wood add a rustic and vintage finish to your bathroom. You can either use timber as a wall feature, or used throughout your statement pieces like on the vanity.
Monochrome in black and white, is a classic and elegant design that will never go out of style. Embrace black and white with elegant tiles and shower covers.
Covid-19 has many of us working from home to stop the spread of the pandemic. Although it can be exciting to design your home office, it is also essential to understand the importance of cleanliness when deciding the layout. A clean home office is vital to ensure you and your family stay healthy and for your peace of mind. One of the most important areas in your office is your desk. You might assume that it is clean because you are the only one touching it, but if you have a family, this area can become a way to transmit viruses. The following checklist will help you make sure that your desk and home office is as clean as possible.
Hiring home cleaning services when you work from home is one way to maintain a high standard of hygiene during these times. However, if you do not have one, here are some cleaning home office ideas to get you started.
One of the first things that you should do is to assemble your DIY cleaning tool kit. Commercial cleaning products are designed to eliminate viruses, but they are not always available. This list offers some natural solutions that you might already have in your pantry. Here is a list of some things that you might want to include.
Dry Products
Baking Soda
Bucket
Duster and dusting cloth
Lint Roller
Mop
Salt
Scrubbing sponges
Rags and microfibre cloths
Vacuum
Wet Products
Antibacterial wet wipes
Commercial disinfect products for surfaces
Lemon juice
Vinegar
How to make your own natural all-purpose cleaner
You might have noticed the list contain some ingredients that can be easily found around the home. These are great if you would like to avoid using harsh chemicals around your home. Below are two different recipes for an all-purpose cleaner you can try out at home:
Ingredients for all-purpose cleaner #1
Vinegar
Water
Lemon
Instructions: Mix together 1-part vinegar, 1 part water and lemon to boost your natural cleaning agent. Pour into a spray bottle for ease of use. Note: Avoid using this cleaning solution on granite as it may etch your stone.
Ingredients for all-purpose cleaner #2
½ cup detergent
½ cup vinegar
4 cups of hot water
4 teaspoon borax
8 drops of essential oil
Instructions: Mix together all the ingredients until combined. Once the water has cooled down, pour the liquid into a spray bottle to start cleaning.
How to deep clean your home office space
A clean home office design is the key to making house cleaning and office cleaning easier. Everything should be arranged in a way that it is easy to wipe down quickly. This is true whether you hire house cleaning services, or you will do it yourself.
One thing that you need to be aware of is that there is a difference between regular cleaning, deep cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning means removing dirt and dust from surfaces. Organisms, like viruses, can land on dust particles and travel throughout other areas of the house. Deep cleaning is a more thorough version of cleaning. For your home office, this may mean emptying your drawers and cleaning inside them or cleaning behind your furniture.
Disinfecting involves using products that destroy viruses and bacteria. All three types of cleaning are necessary to remove viruses from the home because dirt and dust give organisms many more places to hide. Here are a few tips for antiviral sanitation of your home office if you plan to do it yourself.
Keep your electronics dust-free
Your keyboard and monitor can be kept dust-free by using a microfibre cloth. You should never use wet wipes or products that are not designed for computer monitors because it can remove the protective coating. You should also never use a wet wipe on your keyboard because the liquid can get into the keys and damage it. Using a brush attachment on a vacuum can help you get dust from the cracks and crevices of your keyboard. This will also help to preserve its life span, too.
Tips for cleaning your keyboard – You can purchase an air duster bottle to blow out dust, dirt and crumbs that are stuck deep in your keyboard.
Regularly clean your desk with spray
It is recommended that you wipe down your desk with a spray that kills viruses at least once a day. If you are sick, or someone in your household is sick, it might be a good idea to do it more than once a day. Keeping your desk clutter-free will make the job easier.
Vacuum or sweep under your desk
You should vacuum or sweep under your desk at least twice a week to keep it clean. This is particularly important if you eat at your desk as crumbs and food scraps can fall to the ground.
High traffic areas
It is a good idea to vacuum or mop high traffic areas at least once a day. Viruses can get picked up on shoes and transported into the house where they can travel to other areas of the home. This will at least reduce them and minimise their travel. It might be a good idea to mop your entrance every time someone comes in from the outside.
Tips for keeping your floor clean – Avoid wearing shoes inside your home and opt for comfy slippers to keep your feet warm indoors.
Lamp and dusting bulbs
Do not forget to dust your lamps and lightbulbs at least once a week. You also might want to disinfect light pulls and switches once a day too. These are items that are touched by many people every day, and they are an area that we often overlook when cleaning.
Keeping wires tidy
Keeping your wires tidy with cable ties or other organisers helps you keep them dust free and makes them easier to clean regularly.
Ways to disinfect your desk
In a 2018 study, it was found that desks are an area that harbours a large number of pathogens, even more than a toilet. Professional cleaning companies will often give a quick disinfecting wipe of items on the desk, but many will not move excess paper and clutter to do it. You should have a place for your files and papers that are off your desk. At the end of the day, it is a good idea to wipe the items down with wet wipes. Here is a list of things to be sure not to miss when cleaning your desk:
Clean under desk protector pad
Clipboards
Desk drawer pulls
Filing cabinets
Headphones and headsets
Message boards
Pens and pen holders
Phone
Printer and FAX (especially the keypad)
Wi-Fi routers and equipment
Supporting & hiring local cleaners
As you can see, home cleaning to control pathogens is more complicated and time-consuming than regular cleaning. Hiring a professional cleaning service might be the best way to make sure that everything is done on a regular basis. You can also hire a professional cleaner to tackle the cleaning for the rest of your home.
There are environmentally cleaning services that use green cleaning products for regular disinfect cleaning and experience in residential cleaning. Here a few tips to help reduce the spread of coronavirus when interacting with your home cleaning professional.
Keep your distance – When communicating, make sure that you keep the recommended distance from others.
Use email – Use email to transmit cleaning lists and instructions when possible.
Masks and glove – Make sure that your cleaners wear masks and gloves for both your protection and theirs. Leaving around hand sanitiser and soap is also a good idea.
Notify your whereabouts – Try and stay in one section of your home, while your cleaner is cleaning the rest of your house.
Contact local cleaners
Other things around your home to deep clean & disinfect
The focus of this article is on keeping your home office clean, but since your home office is part of your home, keeping the entire home and its surroundings clean is very important. Here are some other items that need disinfecting to prevent viruses from entering your home.
Car
Even though you should be avoiding leaving your home during this time, you need to be cautious about bringing the virus home with you and only grocery shop and run errands that are absolutely essential. Your car is one way that viruses could make their way into your home.
It might be a good idea to give the steering wheel, hand brake, and any other surfaces that you touch a good wipe down whenever you get into your car. Keep some hand sanitiser with you to clean your hands before touching your wheel. When you must go out, it is essential that you keep your car clean, too. Here are some areas of your car not to miss.
Carpet and seats (especially if you have pets or small children)
Dust between air vents
Indicators and buttons
Steering wheel and hand brake
Wipe off the dash and doors
Mobile phone
One of the dirtiest items that we own is our phones. We are constantly putting it down on dirty surfaces and then picking it up and putting it next to our face. Others pick it up when we show them something, and it is often passed around from person to person. You should use a special product made for cleaning phone screens. Just like your computer monitor, cleaning your phone with a regular wet wipe can remove the protective coating. It is a good idea to clean it several times a day, and as soon as someone else picks it up as possible.
Yourself
Keeping yourself clean is another essential factor. You need to keep your distance from others, wash your hands frequently, and develop an awareness of cleanliness of yourself and others. Staying home during coronavirus is essential. Keep an eye out for announcements from the government to learn more about how you can prevent exposure to Covid-19.
Lawn and gardening enthusiasts know how crabgrass can creep its way into your tended green space–and how frustrating this can be. Managing it proactively is important to keep your lawn looking its best. This blog post will share some tips on how to remove crabgrass yourself, so you can enjoy a lush, green lawn all year round.
How to identify crabgrass
Crabgrass is a weed that plagues many lawns in Australia | Source: Shutterstock
Crabgrass is a common lawn weed that can quickly spread and take over your healthy grass if left unchecked. Also known as crab weed, it thrives in warm climates and produces seeds prolifically throughout the year. This weed often takes root in areas of bare soil, compacted ground, or where the lawn has been disturbed and often requires more work and professional gardening help.
Crabgrass is a collective term for several species, but the most well-known is Digitaria sanguinalis, which was introduced to Australia in the 19th century.
Early detection is crucial in managing crabgrass effectively. Here’s how to identify this troublesome weed:
Colour: A distinctive yellowish-green hue, contrasting with the healthy green of your lawn.
Texture: Leaves are coarse and rough to the touch.
Leaves: Hairy leaves on the stem.
Why is it important to remove crabgrass?
If you think crabgrass is just an annoying weed with a funny name, you are sorely mistaken. It’s a serious threat to your lawn’s overall well-being as well as your property’s value, by extension. Left unchecked, this invasive weed can quickly take over your lawn, creating a patchy, unappealing sight.
Many property owners are curious to know how to get rid of crabgrass in their lawn because it produces a massive amount of seeds, which also readily germinate and spread. This rapid proliferation allows it to outcompete other grass species and rob them of water, nutrients, and sunlight. This, in turn, weakens your lawn and makes it more susceptible to disease and damage.
In addition, crabgrass also makes a shallow, mat-forming root system that fails to anchor the soil effectively. As a result, it increases the risk of erosion and creates uneven surfaces that can be dangerous for foot traffic. This ‘mat’ also prevents air and water from reaching the soil, further degrading the quality of other desirable plants.
Removal methods: how to get rid of crabgrass
If prevention is no longer an option, here are four tips on how to eliminate crabgrass (in your lawn or otherwise):
1. Proper lawn maintenance
Trimming your lawn keeps it healthier | Source: iStock
Lawn mowing pros recommend mowing your lawn frequently and maintain the recommended lawn grass height. Deep watering once a week is better than light daily watering. If the soil feels moist, you don’t need to water. This will keep your grass healthy and strong, making it harder for crabgrass seeds to gain purchase.
Avoid fertilising in summer, when crabgrass is most likely to sprout; the nitrogen in fertiliser actually encourages growth. Pay close attention to local weather conditions as they play a big role in lawn maintenance.
Cover bare soil around your lawn with mulch to prevent weeds from popping up. And if you have a gardener or landscaper who looks after your lawn, ask them to rinse off their gear before they start working. This will help prevent the spread of crabgrass seeds from other areas.
2. The organic method
In Australia, you can explore effective natural methods on how to get rid of crabgrass to help reclaim your lawn.
First, reseed any bare spots in your lawn as soon as possible. Don’t let those patches sit around! Get them reseeded right away to prevent crabgrass from taking root.
Second, keep your lawn tall. Aim for a grass height of about 7.5 cm. This will shade out crabgrass and make it harder for it to thrive. A professional lawn mower can help you keep the desired lawn grass height.
Lastly, mow your lawn regularly, especially in the summer, to slow down crabgrass growth.
3. Pre-emergent herbicides
Use herbicides to keep crabgrass from sprouting | Source: iStock
Pre-emergent herbicides, which come in granules or liquid form, create a protective layer on the soil surface, stopping crabgrass before it can sprout.
To be effective, you need to apply these herbicides well before the growing season, such as when you fertilise your lawn. After applying a pre-emergent herbicide, water the lawn thoroughly. However, you might need to apply the herbicide a second time, depending on the situation.
Always follow label instructions and use the correct amount for your lawn size to get the best results. If you’ve recently reseeded your lawn, wait at least three months before applying any pre-emergent herbicides.
4. Home remedies
You can try a few home remedies to tackle crabgrass. Sprinkling table salt can help, but be careful not to use too much, as it can damage the soil. You can also pour boiling water directly on it.
A known crabgrass killer (and other unwanted lawn weeds) is a white vinegar and soap solution. Mix four litres of white vinegar with a few drops of soap, then spray it on the crabgrass. This can gradually kill it off.
How do I prevent crabgrass growth in my lawn?
A healthy lawn is the best defence. Below are some practical tips:
Proper lawn maintenance is key to creating an environment that’s less inviting to this pesky weed.
Regular mowing at the right height helps keep your lawn thick and strong, making it harder for crabgrass to get a foothold.
Deep watering once a week, rather than light daily watering, encourages deep root growth, making your lawn more resilient.
Avoid fertilising in summer—the hot summers in Australia makes crabgrass grow much more quickly, and the nitrogen in typical fertilisers just fuels the infestation.
As a last resort, you can opt for artificial grass. It eliminates the problem entirely by replacing your natural lawn, thus removing the environment where crabgrass thrives. That said, artificial grass can be a significant investment and may not be suitable for everyone.
Say goodbye to a weedy lawn!
From natural remedies to professional advice, we have explored all the ways on how to kill crabgrass and enjoy a lush, green lawn. A lawn without a single crabgrass plant is not only visually appealing, but it’s also healthier and more resilient.
Pre-emergent herbicides are your best bet for preventing crabgrass before it sprouts. But don’t just get the first weed killer for crabgrass that you find.
For existing crabgrass, selective herbicides, like those containing quinclorac or triclopyr, target crabgrass specifically, leaving your desirable lawn grasses unharmed. Always read the label carefully and follow the instructions for safe and effective use.
Other post-emergent herbicides, such as those containing fenoxaprop p-ethyl and mesotrione, are also formulated to control related species.
Will vinegar kill crabgrass permanently?
Vinegar can help stop crabgrass, but it’s not a permanent solution. This is because it kills the above-ground parts of the weed but won’t necessarily kill the roots. For long-term control, you’ll need to combine vinegar with other methods, like regular mowing and re-seeding bare spots.
Is it better to pull or spray crabgrass?
Pulling crabgrass can be effective for small infestations, but it’s time-consuming and difficult to remove all the roots. For larger infestations, many landscapers and gardening professionals recommend crabgrass herbicides, which are a more efficient solution. However, it’s important to choose a selective herbicide, such as those mentioned above.
Moving a fridge isn’t as simple as it may seem, special precautions need to be taken to ensure the move is made safely and securely. If possible, we recommend hiring a professional moving company to avoid potential damages. However, this isn’t always an option, so here are our tips on how to move a fridge safely.
If you’re determined to move with a hired truck, follow this easy step-by-step guide for you to overcome the following common problems:
Before the heavy lifting begins, the refrigerator needs to be ready. The day before you’ll need to empty, defrost and clean the fridge in preparation to be moved. Take an ice scraper and a spray to clean the fridge freezer and ensure it is completely dry before proceeding, this will prevent any avoidable damages during the move. The fridge will need to be switched off the night before.
Avoiding food waste
In the weeks leading up to your move, take a quick inventory of your refrigerator’s contents. Organise your meals to use up everything in the fridge to avoid throwing anything away. Note that some non-perishable food can be kept for a few days at room temperature (mustard, jam, etc.) You can safely store them in cupboards.
Moving a fridge downstairs
Moving the refrigerator downstairs can be very tricky, so knowing how to move without hurting your back is essential. Here are some critical tools to assist you with the move:
A dolly
Ropes and/or ratchet straps
Packing material
Duct tape
Make the fridge as light as possible before trying to move it. Clean the inside and remove the shelves. Wrap the shelves in bubble wrap or packing paper and store them safely. Another option is to leave the shelves in the refrigerator and tape them. Be sure that the tape you use does not leave marks to save on extra cleaning at your final destination.
Secure the doors with straps so that they don’t open up during transport. Tape the power cord so that it doesn’t get caught up during transportation.
Many hands make light work, so recruit friends to help – it’s at least 3-person job to move a fridge downstairs. Tip the refrigerator away from the wall then slide the dolly underneath. Go downstairs slowly, moving the fridge taking it one step at a time bottom first.
It’s essential to keep the fridge standing upright. The refrigerator has a cooling element in the back that is designed to work standing upright. If the fridge is laid flat, the fluid in the element can travel against the grain, causing permanent damage to the fridge.
Transporting your fridge onto the moving truck
After securing the doors, wrap the fridge with two layers of bubble wrap and tape it from top to bottom like you are taping a cardboard box. Safe taping is essential to keep the bubble wrap on the fridge during the transportation. Your fridge is now ready to be moved!
Prepare a dolly or hand-truck; we recommend you to move your fridge using these two handy tools. Place the dolly underneath the fridge and fasten it to the fridge using a rope or ratchet strap with a width of 6-8cm. It is ideal to have someone supporting the dolly and someone else pushing from the back side of the fridge to get it on safely.
Bear in mind that you should keep the fridge vertical while carrying and moving it. The question has been debated for a long time. Is it better to carry your fridge horizontally or vertically? It is difficult to definitively decide without studying the specific design of the fridge and without information on the refrigerant used during the cooling cycle. One thing is sure: the risk of damaging your fridge will be lower by transporting it vertically or at an angle greater than 45°.
Be very careful while carrying the fridge up or down the stairs, communicate well with each other and don’t rush.
Should you hire professional fridge removal services
Just like moving a washing machine, keep in mind that a fridge is a heavy household appliance that can weigh up to 120kg. Fridges do not have handles for you to get a grip on while lifting and moving.
To avoid all the difficulties of moving your fridge on your own, you can hire professional removal services to help you out. Oneflare professional removalists are covered by insurances and experienced enough to know what to do from the get-go.
Others safety tips on moving a fridge
Take care to keep the refrigerator as vertical as possible during transport. Do not tilt the refrigerator on its side as this can cause permanent damage to the cooling mechanisms. Wait 2-3 hours before restarting your fridge to allow the liquid to flow back into the compressor.
Read the refrigerator’s manual for important safety tips and warnings before moving to avoid potential problems – remember every fridge is different.
All fridges have moving instruction visuals on their cardboard packages. These explain the do’s and don’ts very well so pay attention to those instructions.
When you are renovating your bathroom and installing a new shower, you will need to choose the material that will be used for the shower base. You have a few options to choose from.
What is a shower base?
If you do not want the currently trendy wet room style, then you will need a base for your shower. Some bathrooms feature a walk-through style area that is completely tiled, but if that is not the look you want, then you may wish to install a cubicle-like setup with a shower base in it.
There are a few specific benefits to choosing a shower base option over others. First, it is easy to install and very easy to clean – since there are no grout lines, the cleaning process is quick and painless. Additionally, you will not have as many problems with the waterproofing failing, something that is common with tiled shower floors. A shower base is great if you do not have a lot of space in your bathroom, and if you want an updated look without a lot of renovation work, this is a good option as well.
Types of shower bases
There are different types and styles of shower bases available on the market. You may want to choose the most common types of base, which is square in shape. You can, though, choose angles and curves as well. Some are designed to fit well in the corner of the room, making it easy for you to use as much space as possible. You can also choose from a range of colours, giving you a bit more design freedom. Also, these bases tend to be safer than other options if you choose one with a non-slip surface.
Materials
Most types of shower bases are made of polymarble or acrylic. Some are made of steel, glass, or ceramic, which might be more difficult to find. Keep in mind that some surfaces can be very slippery as well, making them less safe overall, especially for children and the elderly.
Shower bases are easier to clean than tiles as they don’t have grout lines / Source: CK Contracting
Polymarble shower bases
Polymarble shower bases are commonly used as they are solid and long-lasting thanks to being coasted in a 2mm hard gel-coat resin. They are also stain, scratch and chemical resistant, and easy to clean.
Polymarble is also easy to refurbish, revive worn surfaces by simply sanding or buffing the surface. They are also usually a more expensive option.
Acrylic shower bases
Acrylic shower bases are light and durable, and a cheaper alternative. They are extremely low maintenance and easy to clean – you simply need to wipe down the the surface. However, acrylic bases generally come in set sizes, so custom dimensions and drain locations isn’t always possible.
Contact local bathroom renovators
Installing a shower base
As far as installation goes, because shower bases need support and a mortar bed for proper installation. So while it is possible as a DIY job, if you’re not a confident renovator, it’s best to turn to a professional.
Cost of installing a shower base
When costing out a shower base, take into consideration the material, shape, and size. You can pay anywhere from $150 to $1000 for the shower base alone, and then must factor in the cost of installation.
This article is going to cover the three steps needed to make sure you remove insulation from your home in a safe and effective manner;
How to prep this attic cleanup
How to safely vacuum the area you are working in.
How to properly dispose of this product.
Attic insulation needs to be replaced immediately if there are signs of rodent infestations. They can spread disease and cause structural problems to your property. Removing the old insulation can be quite a pain to do alone, but if you follow these guidelines, the process will be a lot easier.
If you are doing it by yourself, you need to make sure you focus mainly on your own safety before anything else, whether you are removing loose attic insulation for replacement with new, removing due to water damage, or just changing insulation types! Everyone should know how to remove their own home’s insulation if need be, because if you don’t know how you might end up spending too much money for something that can be done for free by yourself.
If you plan on DIYing your insulation removal, ensure you have the correct protective gear / Source: Enviroflex Insulation
Insulation removal equipment
Fully covered clothing
Gloves
Goggles
Large garbage bags/trash bags
Tarp or blanket
Vacuum
Ladder
Respirator/dust masks
Proper safety attire for your attic cleaning
Before we begin, let’s go over the proper safety attire. When it comes to insulation, it is important to keep your body protected and keep insulation inhalation to an absolute minimum. You need to protect yourself by wearing the right equipment, dressed in a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and both your safety goggles and respirator. Attic insulation can be dangerous if you aren’t wearing the clothing for the job.
Step one: Know the type of insulation you have
The very first step in removing loose attic insulation is to determine what kind of insulation you are dealing with. It is important to figure this out because many older homes contain an insulation that has a grey, almost paper-like appearance and is very harmful to your health. If you cannot identify the insulation you are working with you need to find out if the insulation is comprised with asbestos by using a testing kit. If so, the best option for you to remove the insulation is to call for a local insulation expert to remove the insulation. View our Asbestos removal cost guide if you think you might have asbestos in your home.
When getting ready for insulation removal it is important that you don’t allow any damaged, mildewed, or mouldy insulation to fall and settle throughout your home. To prevent anything from going wrong, make sure that all the doors/attic opening are closed and place down your tarp in the area you are working in and tape it down to secure it.
To work in the attic safely, you should lay down some large wooden boards across the joist so that you are able to walk throughout the attic while removing the insulation. You will want the tarp to be placed in the area you will be unloading the insulation into the garbage bags. You need to have a clear path from where you are unloading the garbage bags full of insulation to the exit so that you aren’t spending too much time handling the bags, keeping minimum interaction.
Step two: Cleaning, vacuuming and disinfection
Before you start this next step, make sure that your clothing thoroughly covers all of your skin and you are wearing gloves and a respirator/mask. You will start by vacuuming all of the loose insulation throughout a small area and empty the canister into the garbage bags until the area is clear of loose insulation, then move on to the next area of the wall. With a wet-dry vacuum you are going to need to dump the insulation remnants from the vacuum canister into the trash bags every five minutes or so while vacuuming. After all of the attic walls are cleared, you then need to vacuum all of the attic joists thoroughly.
Contact local insulation experts
To start this, you’ll want to begin the process at the farthest end of the attic and make your way to the exit going backward. Getting stuck in a corner while you are stirring up insulation into the air is the last thing you want to do. Make sure you also check it twice along the floor joists to guarantee that all of the tiny insulation pieces aren’t infiltrating the air.
If you don’t own or have access to a shop-vac, then another option for you is to rent a HEPA filtered industrial vacuum. They are much higher powered than a standard shop-vac and will get the job done in much less time. It does this because it does two jobs at once; it sucks up the loose insulation and has attached a hose that routes the insulation from the vacuum straight to the trash container or garbage bags outside. This will keep the area you are working in a little bit neater and keep air infiltration to a minimum.
Step three: Insulation disposal
The third and final step in removing your attic insulation is the disposal of it. Disposing of the loose insulation you’ve collected in the garbage bags is important because of the damage that insulation can do to the environment if released. This is why you should contact your city’s waste management center to determine what the best option for dumping your insulation. It might even be as simple as leaving it out to the road with the other household trash bags, but there might be a specific dumb site that they refer you to go to for disposal.
Blown in insulation
Once you finish cleaning up the attic and remove the old insulation, it’s not a bad idea to add in more insulation if you don’t mind working up a sweat. To make sure you use enough insulation and seal up the attic bypasses, it’s still recommended to hire a local insulation professional for a long-term payoff. A proper insulation helps to save energy bills.
Your home is a reflection of your personality. For some, the home is a functional, safe and comfortable space. For others, it is a canvas to display their personal style, sophistication and flair. Whatever your philosophy, the furniture, fabrics and soft furnishings you choose to surround yourself with go a long way in showcasing your unique style vision and establishing the atmosphere and identity of your home.
An often overlooked ingredient of a cohesive interior design is the window furnishings. Too often, homeowners can get wrapped up in selecting the right couch, the right coffee or bedside table, the right rugs and lighting and even house plants, but seem to neglect the impact window coverings can have on the feel and composition of a room.
Often, the choice of Roman blinds over roller blinds can mean the difference between an open and relaxing social space awash in gentle natural light and an intimate and insulated private sanctuary made for rest and relaxation. Even the types of materials used, like sheer vs. block-out fabric, can change a room.
In this article, we’ll show you how to use blinds strategically when considering the décor of your home. We’ll take a look at how putting just a little thought, planning and design savvy into types of window blinds and other furnishings can transform any space in your home and what, specifically, you should consider when deciding on the right blinds for your space.
Window blinds: Types and features
1. Upholstered white pelmet in a bedroom
Source: Supplied
Pelmets are placed on the top of the window to cover the curtain or roller blind. These rectangular coverings are typically made of wood and are normally painted the same colour as the surrounding walls, in order to help them blend into the space.
However, many homeowners and designers have found that using a contrasting tone on pelmets adds an eye-catching pop of colour to a room, subtly accenting the existing colour scheme of the room. Upholstering your pelmets in a textured or luxurious fabric is another great way to take your window design up a level.
2. Dark blue translucent roller blinds in a dining room
Source: Supplied
Roller blinds are sheets of fabric attached to a roller which has been placed behind a pelmet. One of the most common blind types around, they’re popular for their functionality and application. Roller blinds can be installed just about everywhere with relative ease and are easy to use.
In terms of functional considerations, roller blinds can be motorized, spring-loaded or operated by a small chain. However, when it comes to the aesthetics of roller blinds, the weight of the fabric used has a tremendous impact on how much light is let in when the blinds are drawn. Sheer fabrics effectively diffuse any light coming into a room, while block-out fabrics, just as advertised, block out all the light from entering a room.
Often, the two are paired, giving homeowners a choice of how much light to let into a room. A gauzy sheer blind is typically placed behind a thicker block-out blind. The type of fabric used and the pattern and colours employed will also change the effect of a roller blind in a room.
3. Roman blind with turquoise lining and thick fabric in quartz colour
Source: Supplied
Simple and classic, Roman blinds, much like roller blinds, are fixed above the window and lowered to block out light. The main point of difference is in the way Roman blinds are raised, using a string which folds the material into distinct pleats instead of a roll of fabric. As such, Roman blinds are usually constructed of a thicker material than roller blinds, which isn’t to say you can’t find them in sheer fabrics.
Roman blinds are a popular choice for bedrooms thanks to their elegant design and ability to block out light, but can be used in practically every room of the house. Think depth when considering Roman blinds. Their hobbled and/or pleated construction add a sense of depth and dimension to the window frame and an added sense of dimension to the room.
4. Light venetian blinds in a bathroom
Source: Supplied
Venetian blinds are made of thin horizontal rails that can be manipulated to control how much light passes through. Commonly made from wood or aluminum, the range of colours and designs is slightly more limited than other types of blinds but is still extensive. For example, you can’t really apply a print to venetian blinds the way you can with roller or Roman blinds, which use sheets of material.
Timber Venetians have been enduringly popular thanks to their incredible versatility. Natural wood has a timeless, classic elegance and sophistication, can fit in with just about any décor or colour scheme and because timber Venetians are so popular, they’re super easy to find.
Contact local blinds experts
Aluminum Venetians are often employed when looking for something sturdier and more durable, but that doesn’t mean they lack style. They’re highly functional, with simple, clean lines that will complement a room. Often you’ll find aluminum being used in more ‘professional’ spaces, such as offices and studies, whilst timber is used in more intimate and social spaces, such as bedrooms.
5. Brown timber shutter in an office
Source: Supplied
Like venetians, shutters are comprised of horizontal wooden rails which allow you to control the level of light in a room. Shutter rails (or louvers, as they are known) are thicker than those found on Venetian blinds and are generally bigger and more sturdy-looking. Shutters give a home a solid, traditional feel and can also be used as a semi-permanent room divider. As a result, plantation shutters have been popular across the globe for centuries.
Now that you have a basic knowledge of the different options to furnish your windows, it’s your chance to take a fresh look at your home and explore the possibilities blinds or shutters offer. The right blinds will make your house more comfortable and more you.
There’s no doubt that synthetic turf in Australia is impressive water and money-saving investment. It commonly comes in plenty of types and sizes and has multiple applications in commercial, residential, and sports activity areas. It is also known for enhancing the quality of life and giving a new frame to the unused areas into lively spaces.
Installing it your own is not that easy as it seems. You need to follow detailed instructions and tools that are required to work for this real experience. So if you are all set to make that area look great once again, then don’t forget to check out these many common artificial turf installation mistakes to avoid.
Most of us have heard this before, but we simply can’t emphasize it much. So make sure to double-check the measurements. Calculate the installation for at least two times from different angles while ensuring that you have enough turf to cover that area.
Mistake 2: Unsuitable base material
Experts generally recommend utilizing ¼” to 3⁄4” layer of crushed drain rock as the base material. Its coarseness helps in determining the drainage level of your new fake lawn. So better pick a grainy material if that area has severe drainage issues. In addition, you can even use rocks like pea gravel to create a sliding surface.
Mistake 3: Not paying attention to the grains
Generally, blades of every fake lawn available have a natural directing pattern. Make sure to pay full attention to the selected grain. Prefer laying the turf sheet in the same direction of that pattern so that there are no apparent closures. To achieve satisfying results, turf experts recommend making the grain face towards the viewer.
Mistake 4: Buying the grass sheet in batches
Purchasing the synthetic turf from separate vendors can be bizarre. Because all of the pieces bought at different times might have a little colour and tone variations, which can be observed when compared with one another. Preferably, get it once rather than buying half now and later.
A fake lawn looks the best only when it is settled down on a plain and smooth surface. In any case, if the bottom surface has uneven wrinkles or bumps, then surely it will make your lawn looks less attractive. So make sure to remove the rocks and roots that can act as a roadblock component. Even bring a plate compactor in action to the base layer and keep rolling it until it becomes completely smooth.
Mistake 6: Don’t let the base flatten too much
As mentioned earlier, a compact surface is a must. Follow a 1% pitch angle towards the centre as it will make the artificial turf look more appealing, natural-looking while allowing water to drain from the core area.
Contact local landscaping experts
Mistake 7: Not using a weedicide
One of the most prominent benefits and why a majority of individuals prefer to install synthetic turf is that there’s no need to spray/use weed sprays for it. However, it is mandatory to apply a block layer underneath it to keep the bugs and insects at bay. It also prevents other plants and bushes from growing alongside the turf.
Mistake 8: Save those leftovers for repairs
Once the installation process finishes, throwing away the scraps is one of the worst ideas. Set out those leftovers for minor cuts or repairs. Besides, you can even utilize them as sample reference when you look forward to buying fake lawn sheets in the future.
When the Christmas season rolls around, our homes are adorned with colourful lights and festive decorations to mark the joyous occasion. Holiday music plays in the background and the oven is kept warm for the Christmas ham. December is a memorable time, but keeping the costs low and bills lean can sometimes be a challenge.
To keep the silly season hassle-free and cost-friendly, check out these expert tips on how to have an energy efficient, environmentally considerate and family-friendly Christmas without compromising your holiday budget.
The Christmas tree: Real or artificial?
Plastic trees are ubiquitous in shopping centres and Christmas stores but rather than setting up an artificial tree, putting up a real tree is an environmentally friendlier alternative.
Consider using a more environmentally-friendly real Christmas tree for your festive decor / Source: Shutterstock
Real trees add a natural and refreshing element to your indoor or outdoor space – not to mention a uniquely festive scent in the air. For a super sustainable option, plant the tree in your backyard when Christmas is over and watch it grow for future use. It will give you time to nurture and enjoy the plant year after year. If you are looking for a single use tree, real plants are also easily disposable and biodegradable, breaking down naturally in the environment.
Energy saving appliances
Cut excess costs on your energy bill by being mindful of your oven – try to cook several items on your Christmas menu together rather than turning your oven on and off multiple times a day. Christmas is also a great excuse to indulge in a candlelight dinner, saving costs and ramping up the festive atmosphere in your home.
Robert from Tyrenian Group emphasises that keeping the filters of your air conditioner clean can minimise your bill.
“Air conditioners need to be able to breathe and dirty filters can block 20-25% of the air flow, meaning the machine has to pump air harder, using more energy,” he says.
Light up for less
Part of the joy of Christmas is the abundance of glowing, twinkling lights that seem to appear as if by magic every season. For a cost-saving and eco-friendly option consider using LED lights when the holiday season rolls around.
LED lights are considered more efficient as they emit more lumens for every watt. This means LED lights shine brighter despite having lower watts than the incandescent bulb, ultimately cutting costs on your energy bill. They’re also environmentally friendly as they radiate less energy from the bulb as heat and maximising the energy conversion into light. In addition, some LED lights can use a solar cell as a power source, so you wont have any electrical fees to pay at all.
Consider opting for LED lights for your festive decor / Source: Shutterstock
Within recent years, manufacturers have begun to make Christmas LED lights in a huge assortment of sizes, designs and colours, in both twinkling and non-twinkling styles.
To get the most out of your bulbs, try:
Placing it in an open area, rather than an enclosed space, to prolong the lifespan
Setting timers on your string bulbs or turning off your lights when you sleep and leave your home
Different types of LED Christmas lights
If you’re a bit of a sentimentalist and you love the idea of an old-fashioned Christmas, you may prefer the sight of vintage-looking fairy lights over more contemporary lighting designs. Todays fairy lights however, are made with energy-efficient LED bulbs, so you’ll be able to use them year after year without having to constantly change bulbs. LED fairy lights come in both indoor and outdoor varieties and can be used to create all sorts of designs on the front of your house.
Another popular style is LED icicle lights. These are strung along a primary cord and hang down in a cascade of glistening bulbs. They’re especially attractive when hung from the eaves of a roof, archway or doorway. LED lights are also used in lighted lawn ornaments depicting snowmen, reindeer, Santa, and all sorts of popular Christmas cartoon characters. These come with either white or multi-coloured lights and can be hung on a wall or set up in your yard.
Installing outdoor lights
Light up your outdoor areas with installations that are specifically designed for the outdoors. Check the packaging for the weather rating of the lights and ensure you are installing light bulbs that are outdoor friendly, hardy and long lasting.
“Don’t run power leads on the ground or through your garden. If you have eaves, fasten weatherproof plugs underneath the eaves or feed the chords through the window,” he says.
Outdoor hooks and screws are prone to corrosion and rust so when installing your outdoor lighting feature, play particular attention to its sturdiness and avoid old screws or unreliable hooks. Opt for electrical tape or clips that can be used to hold down your Christmas lights.
When you are setting up your lighting feature, ensure your backyard power board is not overpowered and prevent plugging in more chords than the power board can handle. A safe rule is to avoid plugging in too many double adaptors. If you notice one of your lights are dim, replace the light bulb as it can drain the power of the entire feature, dimming the other lights.
Putting your home on the market isn’t just as simple as packing up your things and letting the real estate agents take over. You also don’t have to go to extremes and spend tens of thousands in renovations either.
There’s a lot of little to-dos around the home and garden that can be ticked off, so you not only attract potential buyers but have them pay the best price for your property as well.
1. Professional cleaning
We don’t mean a good once-over with a dusting cloth, we mean getting in there and cleaning it from top to toe. Oven cleaners will remove all the grime that you’d never be able to remove yourself, while house cleaners will have all other areas of the property sparkling clean.
Get professional carpet cleaning, and let a grout cleaner take care of the tiled areas. Don’t forget the window cleaner for glass and sills. If you’ve got a pool, that’ll need cleaning too. It sounds like a lot, but if there’s ever a time to get the professionals in, it’s now. The return on investment could be well worth your while.
2. Gardens and outdoor areas
Start at the bottom and work your way up. Get a pressure cleaner for the tiles and pavers to clear off any mould or discolouration that’s built up on them. Polish and waterproof any wooden areas like decks or pergolas. Next, remove weeds and dead plants. Add more mulch to the garden beds and trim the hedges and bushes.
If you have overhanging branches or dead trees, now is the time to have a tree lopper come in. We’ve got all the gardening help you need, and if you have the budget to really do up your outdoor area, we’ve got landscapers and decking specialists as well.
3. Address maintenance issues
Address any small issues that you’ve been ignoring, such as having a painter come in to cover chipped paint and marks on the walls. Stained carpets and cracked tiles will need addressing as well. If you have loose or rusty fences, have them replaced by a fencing expert. If your gutters are in a state of disrepair, get a guttering professional to clean and repaint them.
Contact local real estate experts
4. Banish pet smells
We know you love your pets but potential buyers might not love the smell of them that lingers in the carpets and curtains. Even more smells will come from your furniture like couches if you choose to leave it inside the property. It’s a good idea to air the house well before inspections and to use smell-absorbing products like room sprays. If you decide to remove your furniture and leave the property empty for inspections, we’ve got removalists near you to help.
5. Furnishings
When selling, your home should feel cosy, but neutral / Source: Mo Mo Concepts
Furnish your home in an appealing way, but make sure it isn’t cluttered or overly personal. Neutral décor with the basic furnishings will work best. Potential buyers want to see as much of the floors as possible and they want to be able to image how their furniture will look in the room, so keep things simple but stylish. It’s worthwhile getting home staging to come in with props and expert interiors knowledge to have your home looking its best during showings.
There are a lot of photographers who specialise in taking professional photos of your property. Usually, the real estate agent you work with will organise this for you or will at least recommend someone to you. Agent In A Box recommends getting professional photos taken to maximise your chances of getting attention from potential buyers.
Wrap up
Once you’ve completed all of these, you’ll be ready to put your property on the market. We’ve got top real estate agents to help you throughout the whole selling process.
