Category: Inspiration

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.

Categories
Pets

Celebrate your dog’s birthday

The nature of our relationship with a furry friend can feel heart-warmingly personal, so the desire to celebrate your pup’s special day is no surprise. Whether it’s an actual birthday or the day you brought pet home from the shelter, there are many ways to spoil your canine companion. From custom portraits to birthday cakes, here’s how to celebrate your dog’s special day.

Organise a birthday bash

We have birthday parties all the time, so why shouldn’t dogs?  A party is a perfect opportunity to allow your dog to socialise with your friends’ dogs, while you mingle with your (human) friends! Create a menu by offering some healthy doggie snacks, such as steamed carrots or peanut butter biscuits.

Come up with a few activities – a backyard kiddie pool water park will be a hit during the summer, or an agility course will fit perfectly with the higher energy pups. The sight of your dog with his new best friends will make you feel warm and fuzzy inside, so let us connect you to an expert photographer who can capture that feeling.

Three dogs sitting at the park
Source: Company For Dogs

Pamper your pooch

Perhaps you’re after some more personal portraits of you and your four-legged friend, so why not pamper your pooch? Grooming your pet can leave a pup looking ever-so handsome while the photographer captures your friendship in the best light.

Spoil his belly

Baking a dog birthday cake can be suitable if you’re throwing a party, but it can also be a nice way to treat your dog otherwise. It’s not every day your pet gets to eat cake… And it’s not every day that you get to make one for them! There are plenty of healthy recipes out there – many of them containing simple ingredients such as apples and carrots – and make sure there is absolutely no chocolate.

If you feel you’re not exactly the biggest MasterChef in the kitchen, it will be just as special if you buy a bunch of your pet’s favourite treats from the store and let him slightly indulge on his special day.

Be adventurous

If your pup has good recall, take him for a walk on your favourite off-leash hiking trail, or try hiking somewhere new. The off-leash experience gives your dog the chance to feel super liberated and adventurous for the day.

No matter what you have planned for this special day, make sure it’s filled with excitement, adventure and love. There’s no doubt your dog will be exhausted at the end of the perfect day, so finish off the special day with a warming belly rub. 

Categories
Outdoor living

Outdoor furniture for your patio

You have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to patio furniture. When designing a space that is to be comfortable, relaxing, and inviting, the type of furniture you choose will make a big difference in the success of this space. Before you invest consider a few great options that you may not have thought about.

Types of outdoor furniture

Take a look at some of the options available outdoor lounge furniture. Which of these pieces will work best in your space?

  • Invest in swings if you want a space that is going to be charming and relaxing. You can choose from one to three-seaters. Some will have an adjustable awning to help you to control the sun. 
  • Tables are an important component of many outdoor spaces. Be sure to choose something that is at a comfortable level, sturdy and durable enough to handle the outdoors. It should accommodate the number of people you hope to have seated there.
  • Lounge chairs are almost a must-have in most outdoor areas. There are many styles to select from including those for one, two or more people. You may want to choose those that have more of a reclining option. You can also invest in chaise lounges for this space.
  • Think about investing in a day bed for this space. There may not be a better place to take an afternoon nap than on a daybed out in the sun.
wooden table and chairs on an uncovered patio
Source: MRM Pty Ltd

Outdoor furniture materials

  • Plastic is a common option for the outdoors because it is affordable and it is versatile. You will likely find all of the pieces you need available in this format.
  • Aluminium furniture is better for smaller spaces; it’s weather-resistant, very lightweight and great for entertaining purposes. You’ll be able to rearrange and swap out aluminium furniture to suit your needs. 
  • Wrought iron goes great with gardens, but is very heavy and prone to rust – it might not be worth that kind of extreme trade-off. If you have to use wrought iron, place it mostly in covered areas
  • Stone and concrete furniture are great, but they’re heavy – and will only really be appropriate for single-purpose patio areas.
  • Wooden furniture is often thought of as very traditional. It can be a very good option for those who want something natural and yet durable. 

Finding the right wood

If you decide you want to go with wooden furniture there are so many great options to choose from. Here, we’ve listed some of the more popular choices.

  • Redwood has a reddish hint to its colour. It lasts a long time and is completely resistant to rot and termites.
  • Cedar is lightly-coloured and splinter-free. This softwood weathers well, and will also repel insects and mould.
  • Teak is the toughest material out there – it can last up to 50 years and is super-durable.
  • Jarrah is reddish or pink in colour and is a durable, solid wood.
  • Shorea has many of the same toughness qualities as teak but is cheaper.
  • Roble is a long-lasting, very light wood.
  • Eucalyptus is one of the more attractive woods out there and is very resistant to rot.
  • Pine is very resistant to rot and very cheap. It’s yellow and brownish in colour. However, you’ll need to bring pine furniture indoors during the winter – it’s susceptible to the elements.

Patio furniture covers

Due to a patio’s proximity to nature and the elements, the task of maintaining and protecting the furniture can become a bit challenging. Make sure to invest in furniture covers to keep your patio looking beautiful for the years to come. Polyethylene covers are popular as they are completely waterproof, easy to clean and prevent dust and dirt from settling on it. You can also find covers that are resistant to UV rays which will help protect your furniture from sun damage. Standing umbrellas are also a great way to create protection from UV rays on days when the sun is shining. 

Daybed and wooden table on a white patio
Source: Dk Lifestyles

Patio lighting

When the sun winds down, your patio should shine, serving a functional capacity and influencing the mood of its occupants. There are a plethora of lighting options you can choose from to light up your space.

Patio and Deck Lighting

Patio and deck landscape lighting systems illuminate certain features of your home, making them come alive; they also serve as safety devices. The directions of the beams of light, their mechanics and special benefits make them a great option.

Down and Up – Lights

Both down and up-lights offer dramatic effects when mounted in strategic locations. If you want to set a pleasing tone, install up-lights into the floor of your deck or patio and down-lights as an overhead feature. Downlights are softer and more intimate than the direct glare of a naked light. Its also a lot easier on the eyes as it softly blankets the entire area of the patio. 

Strip Lights

These are ideal for a variety of lighting solutions. Its low profile and integrates discreetly while offering powerful brightness along edges and soffits. LED strip lights are the smart energy-efficient way to illuminate your deck and access areas.

Spotlights

LED module spotlights are directional lights fitted into fixtures in the loft or along walls. Spotlights are compact and powerful. They work marvellously for highlighting features such as the pool or barbecue areas. Spotlights should be placed discretely above or below your desired spot so that they are not a bothersome distraction.

Floodlights

Floodlights are designed to light up specific areas of your landscape. They will light up a good portion of your patio and are best served by the garden, pool and barbecue areas. Ideally, these powerful lights should be mounted very high and directed downward. They provide added security to your home and are great for extended nighttime entertaining.

Categories
Roofing

Square vs round gutters: Which is better?

Gutters are a critical part of every home, ensuring that water is properly drained from the roof to the ground. When searching for new units, it can be difficult to select the correct model that fits your requirements and budget. There are two types of gutters available today: square and round. Surprisingly, all gutters are not built alike and have many different characteristics. When comparing the different types, keep the following tips and information in mind.

Square gutters: Advantages & disadvantages

As suggested by their name, square gutters have a square shape that provides a modern profile suitable for all building types and architecture. Square gutter units are available in two different models: lo-square and hi-square. Lo-square gutters are 110 mm in height, and hi-square gutters are 130 mm in height. Hi-square versions typically cover the edges of most roof sheets and tiles in order to improve their appearance. Lo-square units are neater in appearance than hi-square gutters, and they’re more economical.

Rain gutters can add to your home’s overall aesthetic / Source: Better Homes Professional Painting Home Maintenance

Both versions of square gutters offer high water capacities that can easily manage large volumes of water. If you live in a particularly wet and rainy area, then this is a good option for you. Unfortunately, in lighter rainfall areas, square gutters easily clog over time. However, these clogs can be mitigated by adding a gutter guard to break up the fine debris.

Square gutters are most commonly made from Colorbond, galvanised steel, or Zincalume; and they can be purchased in a variety of colors to match the exterior décor of your residence. Square gutters are extremely durable and will last many years with proper maintenance. There are many accessories that can be added to square gutters, including: gutter mitres, fixing brackets, stop ends, and gutter guards.

Round gutters: Advantages & disadvantages

Commonly referred to as “half-round gutters,” when viewed from an angle, these units have the appearance of a circle that’s been split in half. Half-round gutters can be built to have a straight back, or created in a semi-circle. This type is excellent for Spanish, Tuscan, and modern homes due to their clean look and smooth geometry that matches the architecture.

An example of a round gutter / Source: Franco Bros Roofing

In addition to being aesthetically-pleasing, half round gutters deliver superior water carrying abilities as a result of their larger diameter. Also, they require less maintenance due to their smooth, rounded shape. Therefore, there is fewer chance that debris will block the flow of water. Additionally, these units are much better at naturally flushing out debris during light rain than square gutters.

Also made from Colorbond, galvanised steel, or Zincalume, half round gutters are available in many different colours. They are extremely durable and offer a large number of accessories, including: stop ends, internal and external gutter brackets, and external corners.

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Roofing

Cleaning your gutters

It is one of the most dreaded chores you can do around the home. The fact that the gutters fill with debris that needs occasional clearing means you probably put off getting it done until its too late or you’re forced to do it.

The issues that arise when you don’t clean the gutters can be severe since the rain gutters were designed to help your home’s structure. If the gutters are left clogged, you could end up with the unpleasant task of paying for some very expensive roof or home repairs.

Why gutter cleaning is important

When it rains, the water runs from your roof into the gutters and down to a designated area. Some people allow rainwater to make its way down to the stormwater system, while others have special catchment areas for gathering rainwater. No matter what you choose, it is vital that your gutters are free of blockages and obstructions at all times. If you neglect this, water will build up inside the gutters and eventually overflow. The overflowing water can get into your ceiling, inner walls, and even the inside of your windows. This can cause devastating structural damage to your home.

Source: Roof Leak Services

In areas where fires are a common hazard, gutter cleaning is an essential part of reducing this risk. Proper, regular cleaning also ensures that your gutters and downpipes last longer and eliminates common breeding areas for insects, like mosquitoes. For the most part, gutters only need cleaning once a year. However, in areas where tree growth is dense, cleaning may need to take place as often as every three or four months.

Certain gutter cleaning services go the extra mile and clean your ceiling cavity too. This reduces the risk of allergies from dust mites and removes rodent breeding areas.

If you regularly clean out your gutters, you will be able to avoid:

  • Wearing your gutters out before their time
  • The opportunity for water to enter your home unwanted
  • Debris blocking down pipes and drains
  • Creating an environment for vermin and insects like mosquitoes and mice
  • Having possible dry debris available for fuel during fire seasons

Setting a schedule for gutter cleaning

If you have a large number of tall trees that overhang your home’s roof, this can be the biggest culprit for a dirty gutter. The idea is that if you have a half a dozen trees that shed their leaves, you are going to want to clean them out at least once a year after all the leaves have fallen for the season. Although, it is recommended that you at least inspect and clean accordingly a few times a year. If you have gutter guards, you might only need to inspect the gutters annually and clean them every other year or so.

Should you clean your gutters or hire someone?

If you are physically able to clean your own gutters, then you can save yourself the additional cost of hiring someone to do it for you, and do it yourself. The task of cleaning out the gutters only requires that you have access to a pair of gloves, a hand rake or garden scoop, and a ladder tall enough to comfortably and safely reach the gutter.

If for some reason you do not wish to clean your own gutter or are not physically able to do it, then hiring someone to do the cleaning is a must. Be sure to hire someone who is either licensed to perform work on your home like a handyman or landscaper. If you do hire a professional and do not already have gutter guards in place, ask them about installing some. This will drastically reduce the need to clean the gutters as often in the future.

Professional gutter cleaning services

When calling in the professionals, these are some of the services you can expect:

  • Leaf and debris removal from the roof, gutters and downpipes
  • Gutter and downpipe flushing where necessary
  • Cleaning of the ceiling cavity
  • Checking for any damaged roof tiles while conducting roof cleaning
  • Complete waste removal once cleaning is complete
  • Gutter guards supplied and fitted
  • Ensuring your gutters are bird-proof
  • Repairs to damaged roof tiles
  • Full report on roof condition

Choosing a gutter cleaner

The most important question to ask before hiring a gutter cleaner is whether their company and all its staff are fully covered by insurance. Make sure that they follow all the safety guidelines when doing the job.

Shop around for quotes and, when doing so, make sure that each company is offering the same, or at least a similar range, of services. The cheapest option is not always the best, so make sure you read through all the terms of their service. Check if they remove the waste collected in the gutters. You may ask them to leave it behind if you want to use it as mulch. Ask them if they have a satisfaction guarantee, how soon they will be able to clean your gutters and if they offer any kind of emergency service.