Author: Kyla Austin

Tips For a Successful Kitchen Remodel

Home Improvement No Comments

Kitchen Remodel is an excellent way to enhance the appearance and function of a much-used room in your home. A remodel can also increase the resale value of your property.

Kitchen Remodel

Set a realistic budget and prioritize needs and wants to stay within your means. Make sure to include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

The first step is determining your goals for the remodel. It’s crucial to understand what you want from the space, how you use it now and how that might change in the future. You can then develop a list of features that you will incorporate into the design, and begin the process of selecting materials and products that will achieve those goals.

Kitchens are full of details that can elevate the aesthetics and functionality, from glossy backsplashes to eye-catching drawer handles. These touches can add a lot of character to the space and can make it feel like your own. However, it’s important to balance the style with practicality. You don’t want a kitchen that looks amazing but is impossible to work in.

Another key consideration is your budget. A kitchen remodel can be expensive, and if you don’t set a clear budget from the start, it’s easy to go over. You may also find yourself paying for things that weren’t planned for, like running water or electricity to new areas of the kitchen. This is why it’s a good idea to have a cushion of at least 20% of your total project cost.

Structural changes are another common part of a kitchen remodel. These may include modifying walls, moving or adding partitions and expanding the kitchen’s footprint. This is where hiring a professional team is essential, as they will have the skills and knowledge to ensure that these types of changes are completed safely and correctly.

Once the structural elements have been taken care of, it’s time to install the flooring. This is generally a fairly quick and easy task, but it’s best to wait until after cabinets and appliances have been installed before laying the floor. This will protect the flooring from damage during installation and make for a smoother finish.

Appliances are the last big-ticket item of a kitchen remodel and can be a real pain to deal with. Choosing the right appliances for your kitchen is vital, and it’s also a good idea to consider refinishing existing ones rather than buying new. This can save you a lot of money and is often just as effective.

Redesign

While it’s wise to consider trends when deciding on your kitchen remodel, it’s equally important to make sure that your new design fits your style and needs. One way to determine what your tastes are is by visiting showrooms and home renovation stores. You can also attend neighborhood home tours to observe different kitchen layouts and designs.

Once upon a time, the “kitchen triangle” was a widely accepted concept that dictated where to place your sink, refrigerator, and stove in order to optimize work efficiency. While this concept remains popular, more recent kitchen concepts have incorporated zones for cooking, eating and storage that better reflect modern lifestyles.

Customize

When you’re remodeling your kitchen, it’s your chance to build a space that fits your exact needs. Think about what you use the kitchen for and how you like to entertain. Consider how much storage you need, whether you prefer a large kitchen island or more open shelves, and what your favorite colors are.

It’s important to choose a color scheme that coordinates with the overall design style of your new kitchen. This will guide you when choosing the cabinetry, countertops, and lighting. It’s also a good idea to make a list of all the features you want in your kitchen, including any gadgets that will add convenience and functionality.

A kitchen is one of the most frequently used rooms in a home. It’s the place where family and friends gather to share meals and enjoy each other’s company. Kitchen remodels not only improve the look of a house, but they also increase the value of it. However, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of creating a beautiful kitchen and overlook important details that will affect your budget. Be careful not to over-customize your kitchen, as this may limit its appeal to future home buyers. It’s also important to select designs and materials that can be easily maintained for easy cleaning and care.

Upgrade

A kitchen remodel is a great way to upgrade your home with fresh style and modern conveniences. However, it can also be a daunting project without the right support. Fortunately, with a little knowledge, you can avoid common kitchen remodel NY pitfalls and get your new kitchen sooner.

One of the best ways to add a touch of luxury to your kitchen is by installing smart devices. These gadgets make your kitchen more convenient and help you save money on utility bills. Other upgrades to consider include changing the lighting in your kitchen to create a different mood. Using soft white bulbs will give you a warm, golden glow while using daylight bulbs will brighten the space and create a clean, crisp look. Additionally, adding accent lighting is a great way to highlight architectural details like a beautiful island or chandelier.

From Cockroaches to Critters: How Exterminators Tackle Pest Problems Head-On

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When unwanted pests invade your home, you want them gone as quickly and effectively as possible. Many people call pest control professionals and Exterminator Springfield MO for help, but these terms do not mean the same thing.

While their goal is to remove pests, an exterminator relies on chemicals that could be more harmful than necessary, while a pest management professional looks at why the infestation happened and finds ways to prevent it from occurring again in the future.

What is an Exterminator?

exterminator

An exterminator is a professional who has been trained to control pest infestations in homes, businesses, and other environments. They use a variety of methods to eradicate pests, including chemical treatments, traps, and other preventative strategies. Exterminators also provide recommendations to clients on how to prevent pest problems in the future, such as by improving sanitation or repairing cracks and gaps.

Because pests can cause serious damage to buildings and disrupt normal operations, they are often considered to be a health hazard and need to be eliminated immediately. Some extreme measures, such as fumigation and roach bombing, are used to achieve this goal. However, these methods are often less effective than other options and may require the home or business to be completely evacuated during the process. Fortunately, other forms of pest control are available for more moderate infestations, such as using granular insecticides to kill insects and baits to attract rodents away from areas where they tend to gather.

Another part of an exterminator’s job is to monitor the effects of the various treatments they use. This is particularly important when it comes to pesticides, as many of them are highly toxic and can have long-lasting effects on the environment. In order to ensure that their customers are safe, exterminators must always follow safety guidelines when applying these chemicals.

While some people see this type of work as a dirty job, it’s actually quite interesting and satisfying for most exterminators. They spend their workdays in all sorts of places, investigating a wide variety of different pest problems and finding solutions for them. This is a very diverse and challenging occupation, but one that most exterminators find more fulfilling than white-collar office jobs.

In addition to the standard pests, some exterminators also work with a wide range of other animals. For example, if a home is infested with raccoons or other wildlife, these professionals can help to remove them by using humane trapping techniques and relocating the animals to an appropriate habitat.

Other exterminators are more specialized and focused on controlling specific types of pests. For example, if a customer has an issue with cockroaches, this specialist may employ a more targeted approach by spraying targeted areas of the home with a special formula. This is a much more precise method than simply blasting the entire home with an insecticide, which can result in unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals and unnecessarily damaging the environment.

Exterminators Work in a Variety of Settings

An exterminator’s job is to rid homes and businesses of pests, including insects such as ants and cockroaches, rodents such as rats and mice, and other creatures such as birds and wildlife. They diagnose infestations and use a variety of techniques, including chemical treatments, traps, and exclusion methods to control pests. Exterminators also work to prevent future pest problems by improving sanitation and sealing cracks and crevices where pests may enter a building.

An experienced exterminator will know the best way to eliminate different pests, based on their behavior, strength, and location. For example, to eliminate cockroaches, an exterminator will likely place baits in strategic locations where the bugs gather. These baits contain chemicals that the roaches will be attracted to, but are too strong for them to consume on their own. The exterminator will also set traps for rat and mouse infestations, and may recommend landscape changes to remove vegetation that would serve as an easy shelter for these animals.

The most important skill an exterminator must have is the ability to accurately assess and diagnose pest infestations. They must have a clear understanding of the biology of each type of pest to develop effective treatment plans. This knowledge allows them to create a comprehensive solution that addresses the root causes of the problem, rather than just killing the pests.

It is important for exterminators to be able to communicate effectively with their clients. This includes being able to explain the process involved in exterminating each type of pest, as well as providing recommendations on how to prevent future infestations. Exterminators also work with a wide variety of clients, from homeowners to large corporations. They must be able to adapt their approach to each type of client, and communicate effectively in order to ensure the success of each service.

Another essential skill that an exterminator must have is the ability and training to perform fumigations, when necessary. This is often reserved for serious pest infestations that cannot be controlled by other means. A termite infestation, for example, is usually only cured by fumigation, in which the exterminator will enclose the home in a tent and release a gas that poisons or suffocates the insects.

Exterminators Use Chemical Treatments

Exterminators use a variety of chemical sprays and baits to control pest infestations. They are trained to take numerous safety precautions when applying these chemicals, especially in residential areas. They wear protective clothing and respirators, and ensure that non-target organisms and people are not present during application to prevent unnecessary exposure. They also ventilate the area after application to allow any fumes to dissipate. In addition, they may instruct homeowners to remove food items from exposed areas, cover children’s toys and pet food bowls.

In addition to using sprays, an exterminator can also use bait stations and traps. These are more targeted methods of controlling pests and can be especially effective against cockroaches, fleas, ticks, and rodents. These methods are also less harmful to the environment than spraying.

During a pest control visit, an exterminator will examine the infested area to identify the type and source of the problem. They will then discuss the appropriate options for treatment with the customer. In many cases, the exterminator will provide a detailed written report to document their findings and recommendations.

Aside from the obvious health hazards associated with bugs and rodents, these pests can cause major damage to a home or business. Rodents can chew through electrical wires, causing fires and other costly problems. Cockroaches can leave behind powdery black feces in kitchen cabinets and dark, humid areas of the house. And mosquitoes can spread dangerous illnesses, including encephalitis, West Nile virus, malaria, Zika virus, and Dengue fever.

Pest control is an important part of the overall safety and well-being of a person or business, but it’s not a perfect solution. Even with regular treatments, pests can develop resistance to insecticides over time. That’s why it’s important to follow an exterminator’s advice and use preventative techniques, such as proper food storage, cleaning and sanitation, and exclusion methods to keep the pests out for good.

Exterminators are often self-employed or work as part of a large pest control company. Those that are self-employed often set their own hours, while those that are employed by a company may follow a specific schedule. Both types of exterminators spend a lot of their time on the job searching for and identifying pest infestations. They may even need to enter sewage systems and garbage disposal sites in order to locate the sources of pests.

Non Toxic Deodorant

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Non Toxic Deodorant uses safe ingredients that work with the body to minimize odor without blocking pores, inhibiting normal sweat and hormonal functions, or causing skin irritation. They avoid synthetic fragrances, aluminum and other chemicals that can irritate the skin and disrupt hormone function.

Deodorant

While some individuals experience a detox phase when switching to natural antiperspirant, with patience your body will adjust. These products are cruelty-free, Leaping Bunny certified and packaged in reusable glass jars with sustainable, ethically sourced beeswax.

Aluminum-free deodorants allow the body to sweat as it should – a vital detoxifying process that is often blocked by conventional antiperspirants. These deodorants typically use natural ingredients like baking soda and coconut oil to absorb odor-causing sweat, as well as other plant-based extracts that help keep you fresh. They also tend to be free from synthetic fragrances and other common skin irritants. If you’ve been prone to armpit rashes in the past, an aluminum-free deodorant may be best for you.

One of our favorites is this deodorant from the brand that’s practically worn by everyone (think: Santal 33). This quick-drying, all-natural stick glides on smoothly with a refreshing scent made with orange blossom, lavender, and eucalyptus oil. Its formula is nourishing with shea butter, coconut oil, and arrowroot powder, but it’s the aluminum-free baking soda that makes it truly stand out. Baking soda can be irritating for some people, so opting for an aluminum-free deodorant that uses another ingredient to absorb odor-causing sweat is a good choice.

Another popular option is this all-natural deodorant from Native, whose products have become a go-to for many consumers who want to switch to a nontoxic formula. This all-in-one formula comes in a clear glass jar and features a baking soda-free formula that also contains arrowroot powder, coconut oil, shea butter, and other plant-based extracts. The company is renowned for its commitment to sustainable materials and eco-friendly packaging, and they donate 5% of profits and are a 1% for the Planet member.

A more budget-friendly aluminum-free option is this deodorant from Megababe, which is formulated with powerhouse ingredients like saccharomyces ferment filtrate, sage leaf, and aloe vera to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing on the underarms. Its formula also contains corn or tapioca starch for safe, food-grade moisture absorption as well as candelilla wax and shea butter to hydrate and nourish the skin. This brand is committed to sustainable, ethical production practices and carries a B Corp certification.

Paraben-Free

Your clean beauty routine is complete without the presence of parabens, which can clog pores and cause irritation. Our selection of nontoxic deodorant is formulated with your skin type in mind, so you can feel confident and smell great all day long. From Leaping Bunny certified brands to eco-friendly and zero waste options, you’ll find a variety of deodorants that offer odor-fighting protection while nourishing your underarms with natural ingredients.

Many conventional antiperspirants contain chemicals that raise health concerns, including skin irritation and potential hormone disruption. They also often contain synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive underarm skin and may be washed into water systems, where they can negatively impact aquatic ecosystems. In contrast, our collection of nontoxic deodorant is free of aluminum and baking soda, talc, parabens, phthalates, and other common allergens, ensuring they’re safe for your underarms and the environment.

Weleda Citrus Natural Deodorant is a vegan, paraben-free option that provides 24 hours of odor protection while offering a fresh scent that will have you feeling like you’re walking through an orange grove in the sun. This organic deodorant is made with essential oils and extracts, so you can rest assured that it’s gentle on the body. If you’re new to all-natural products, this deodorant is a great place to start because it offers the same roll-on convenience as traditional antiperspirants and is easy to use.

The brand behind this nontoxic deodorant is committed to reducing their environmental impact and strives for 100% plastic-free packaging. Their products are made using all-natural ingredients that are organic, cruelty-free, and plant-based, while the company donates 1% of their sales to environmental charities. The company also works with sustainable sourcing and uses recycled paper for all their product packaging, making them a zero-waste option that’s perfect for anyone who’s looking to minimize their environmental impact.

With a minimal choice of stick and spray deodorants, Poofy Organics offers an all-natural, baking soda-free formula with arrowroot powder, activated charcoal, caprylic/capric triglyceride, shea butter, coconut oil, candelilla wax, magnesium hydroxide, and a blend of essential oils depending on the scent. The brand’s organic ingredients are USDA-certified, and the company supports a number of different cancer charities/organizations, so you can feel good about shopping with this family-owned business.

Vegan

If you’re vegan or simply want to minimize your exposure to animal products, there are several natural deodorants that meet these criteria. These deodorants are free of baking soda, parabens and other chemicals found in conventional antiperspirant. Many also contain arrowroot powder and essential oils for effective odor control. They’re formulated with safe ingredients and can be used by men and women alike. These plant-based options are also available in a variety of formulations including stick, cream and spray, so you can find the perfect product to suit your personal preferences and needs.

Many vegan deodorants are packaged in recycled and/or biodegradable materials such as glass, paper and coconut matter. The use of these materials eliminates single-use plastic waste, and it aligns with a lifestyle that prioritizes environmental responsibility. Some of these brands are also known to support local manufacturing and fair trade. They may require a bit of trial and error to find a formula that works best for you, but the long-term benefits to your health and the planet are worth the effort!

Pretty Frank has a wide range of non-toxic skincare products, but their deodorant is particularly noteworthy. This organic option is free of aluminum, baking soda, parabens and synthetic fragrance and is formulated with plant-based ingredients like arrowroot powder and magnesium hydroxide to prevent sweating. It is available in unscented or a variety of scents, including lavender, citrus and ginger.

Schmidt’s is another vegan brand that offers Ecocert Certified natural deodorants in a selection of unisex scents. They are also free of aluminum, parabens and baking soda (which can irritate some people), and are formulated with plant-based ingredients like odor-fighting magnesium and essential oils. If you have sensitive skin, consider their baking soda-free option formulated with arrowroot powder instead.

Salt & Stone is a unique deodorant brand that incorporates seaweed extracts and hyaluronic acid in their formula, which helps moisturize the skin while fighting odor. Their deodorants are also formulated with probiotics and are made without alcohol, parabens and phthalates. This option is suitable for both men and women and comes in a resealable glass jar, which is easy to store and keep clean.

Cruelty-Free

If you’re making the switch to non-toxic beauty products, you probably know that it takes time to find the best natural deodorant that works. Whether you prefer a stick, cream or spray, the following eco-friendly options are vegan, cruelty-free, and free of aluminum and baking soda. Many also offer a zero waste option and are made with sustainable, organic, fair trade ingredients.

This natural deodorant from Pure Chimp uses activated charcoal and arrowroot powder to absorb sweat, neutralize odor and keep you fresh all day long. It’s also alcohol and palm oil free, and comes in a glass jar that is fully recyclable. Plus, this British brand is committed to a sustainable business model that supports people and planet.

Schmidt’s EcoCert deodorant is a trusted name in the natural deodorant world, and their baking soda-free formula is vegan, cruelty-free and non-GMO. It’s also formulated with coconut oil and shea butter to nourish underarm skin, while magnesium hydroxide is an effective deodorizing ingredient. It’s also safe for sensitive skin and comes in a range of pleasant fragrances.

Another popular choice for natural deodorant is Green Tidings’ unscented cream. It’s a vegan, baking soda-free option that contains a mix of natural essential oils, shea butter, and candelilla wax to nourish underarm skin. It’s a small, family-run business that sources their ingredients ethically and sustainably. Their reusable, recyclable packaging is also made from post-consumer recycled content.

The scented deodorant from Fat and the Moon features Mayan tree-resin copal, which is known for its antibacterial properties, in addition to lemongrass and vetiver root. It’s certified Fair Trade and vegan, and the company donates 1% to a nonprofit that helps restore aquatic ecosystems. Their other products are made in a Southern California solar-powered facility and use low-waste packaging.

Another affordable choice for a non-toxic deodorant is Tom’s of Maine. Their unscented formula is rated highly by the Environmental Working Group, and it’s available at most drugstores across the country. It’s a good idea to be prepared for a transitional period when switching to natural deodorant, as it’s common to experience an initial increase in body odor. This is because your body is adjusting to the absence of chemicals that block your sweat glands, and it’s expelling built-up toxins and bacteria. The transitional phase usually lasts a few days to a couple of weeks, and it’s helpful to practice good hygiene and wear breathable fabrics during this time.

Getting Started With Deck Installation

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Deck installation can be an extensive project that requires a lot of time and effort. But it doesn’t have to be stressful if you follow these tips.

Determine what you’ll use your deck for, as this will inform the structure and layout of your deck. For example, a deck intended for entertaining will require different furniture than a deck designed for relaxing.

Deck Installation

Determine Your Needs

A deck is a major investment, so you’ll want to find a contractor that has a track record of building beautiful outdoor living spaces. Before you hire someone, ask for an estimate and a scope drawing. It’s also a good idea to double-check their credentials and licenses. You should also find out whether they have insurance and what payment methods they accept. A trusted builder should be able to answer all of your questions satisfactorily.

Once you’ve selected a potential contractor, schedule an in-person consultation. This is similar to a job interview, and it’s an excellent opportunity for you to ask detailed questions. During this time, you can ask about their experience and past work, as well as learn more about their philosophy on deck installation. You can also ask about their fees and payment terms to see if they match your budget.

Before beginning the project, make sure that all plant debris is removed from the site. This can save a lot of headache down the road. Also, you’ll need a level for checking the slope of soil and determining where to place your footings. You’ll also need a shovel or spade to dig holes for posts, and a post hole digger to remove deep posts.

When installing the deck boards, leave a gap between each board to allow for expansion and contraction due to weather changes. This will help the boards last longer and prevent them from becoming ruined over time. You can also use netting or lattice to keep vermin from taking up residence under your deck. You’ll also need a rubberwood mallet and a finish hammer, which has a smooth face so it won’t mark the boards.

Plan Ahead

Getting started with a deck installation requires careful planning and preparation. If you haven’t already, remove any objects or debris from the area around your home that could block access to your backyard. Your contractor will need to be able to get into the yard easily so they can begin work. The next step is to ensure the soil in your yard is prepped and ready for contractors to start building. It should be graded to slope away from your home to promote drainage and to avoid standing water under the deck.

Foundation piers must be installed to transfer your deck’s weight into the soil. They should be spaced out and set at least 4 feet apart to prevent frost heaving. Traditionally, concrete is used to anchor the piers. However, some builders are now using 12-inch Sonotubes to form a footing that can be poured in place.

Once the frame is in place, you can install the deck’s surface. It’s important to stagger your planks and use proper fasteners for a strong and lasting finish. It’s also a good idea to use a level as you go along. This will help you keep your planks straight and even.

Before installing your railings, check with local code officials to make sure your deck complies with the required safety standards. Your inspector will want to see framing plans and a sample cross section of your deck for approval. Most villages and cities require a permit to build a deck, so it’s best to obtain one as soon as possible. Once you have a permit, your contractor will be able to begin construction. It’s also a good idea at this point to apply for an electrical permit if you want to include any lighting or power outlets.

Hire a Contractor

Some decks are better left to professional construction expertise, particularly if they’re intricate or multi-level structures. Ask potential builders about their work history and see if they can provide references from past clients who’ve been happy with their finished product. Choosing a contractor who values clear communication and fosters trust between client and builder can lead to a more efficient project with the right outcome.

The quality of a deck can depend on the type of materials used, so it’s worth asking contractors about their preferred brands of tools and materials. The answer may speak volumes about the contractor’s level of skill and capabilities.

You’ll also want to know if your contractor can handle permitting, as most regions require permits before homeowners put up decks. Some builders offer permit services to save their clients time and hassle.

A contractor who doesn’t have the necessary credentials or insurance should be a red flag for any homeowner. Ask prospective builders to bring proof of license and insurance coverage to your first meeting. It’s also worth finding out if they have a surety bond in case something goes wrong during your project.

The best contractors will be able to answer any questions you have. You should feel comfortable discussing all aspects of your project with them, including budgeting and scheduling. If they make you uncomfortable or fail to answer your questions, consider hiring someone else.

Choose the Right Materials

The materials used for a deck affect not only its appearance but also its stability. Choosing the right materials can minimize the risk of structural issues and ensure that your deck will look its best for years to come. A well-maintained deck made with the right materials will provide a comfortable, safe space for family and friends.

Wood decking remains popular among homeowners due to its natural beauty, warmth, and durability. Cedar and pressure-treated wood are easy to work with and can be stained or treated with weatherproofing chemicals for added protection against moisture. However, it’s important to keep in mind that wood decks require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and structural integrity.

If you’re using cedar or other woods that will not be stained, consider sealing them with a water-resistant product to help protect them from weathering and the sun’s UV rays. Composite decking is an alternative that provides the warm, inviting look of wood without the need for regular staining and sealing. It also resists rotting and mold growth, making it an environmentally friendly option.

When installing your deck boards, it’s crucial to leave a gap between them so the wood can expand and contract with seasonal moisture changes. A gap should be at least 1/4″ wide. To achieve this, use spacers that match the thickness of your nails (e.g. 8d or 10d). If you choose to make your own spacers, use a template to ensure that each one is the same size.

Before you start installing your deck boards, you’ll need to lay out the pattern of the deck by constructing batterboards and pounding stakes. It’s a good idea to purchase a long, flat tape for measuring and stretching lines. A carpenter pencil is also a useful tool for laying out the deck’s layout, especially if it has a flat carpenter tip that won’t stretch.

Preserve Your Deck

A deck can enhance your home, increase its resale value and make outdoor living more convenient. It is important to plan ahead, hire the right contractor and keep up with routine maintenance to ensure that your new deck will last a lifetime. A few simple maintenance steps can prevent major problems, such as rot and insect infestation, mildew growth and loose treads on stairs. It is also essential to protect your investment by maintaining a schedule for cleaning, staining and sealing your deck.

During the deck installation process, be sure to remove all brush and debris from the area where your footing pad will be placed. This will allow the soil beneath to grade properly and promote drainage. If necessary, the soil may need to be amended with a sandy mix to promote proper compaction. A professional can help you determine how deep to dig the footing pads and how much soil needs to be removed.

Be sure to use an oil-based wood preservative with UV inhibitors to help your deck withstand the elements. Unlike paint, oil does not lay on the surface of the wood and penetrates deeply into the pores to keep water from attacking the timber. The wood preservative should be reapplied at least once a year to keep your deck in top condition.

Sweep your deck frequently to prevent leaves and other debris from collecting. Maintain a 2-foot distance between your deck and overhanging branches or shrubs to reduce the amount of debris that can fall on or into the deck. Clean food stains and bird droppings immediately to avoid permanent damage to the wood. If possible, move or relocate potted plants periodically to ensure adequate airflow around them.

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