Skipping Stone Design

Skipping Stone Design

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These Are the Common Types of Decks for Your Home

From throwing BBQ parties to relaxing in the evening sun, decks let you do so many great things. They can also add value to your home. In fact, according to Remodeling Magazine, the right wooden deck can increase the value of your home by $9,000.

But if you’re looking to build a deck, it can be difficult to know which decking options are right for you. Which deck types will let you make the most out of the space you have?

Keep reading for a guide that’ll explain some of the different types of decks, as well as which types of houses they pair well with.

Wraparound Deck

If you’re a fan of old-fashioned porches that extended around most or all of a house, a wraparound deck could be the perfect choice for you. Yet unlike a porch, you can extend different parts of it out. This creates ample space for you.

Aside from large amounts of space, you’ll also get to decide between whether or not you want to bask in the sun or lay in the shade at any point during the day. You’ll also enjoy excellent air circulation that’ll prevent things from ever feeling stuffy.

Multi-Tier Deck

If you have a large property, a multi-tier deck can be a good way to take advantage of it. It can also be great if your lot has many different elevations.

Multi-tier decks let you maximize the space you have. The different levels also allow you to create areas with distinct feelings. One area of the deck can be a sitting or lounge area, while another section can be for cooking and dining.

Attached Deck

An attached deck is a type of deck that extends off of your house. In this sense, it’s like a patio. However, it’s made of wood in most cases.

An attached deck can increase the amount of living space your home has, but you need to make sure that you give it the necessary deck care and repair for it to look its best.

Detached Deck

A detached deck, as its name suggests, is the opposite of an attached deck: it’s a deck separate from other buildings and constructions. In many ways, it resembles an island or oasis.

You can position detached decks on rocky areas, uneven terrain, or areas with poor drainage. This makes them flexible for different situations. Adding shrubs, flowers, and other landscaping will make them pop. As detached decks will draw the attention of people visiting you, make sure that it looks its best.

Types of Decks for Every Home

When you decide that you want to build a deck, it can be difficult to decide from the many different types of decks. Yet after reading this guide and considering your own situation, you’ll be able to choose the perfect one to complement your home.

Do you have a better understanding of the different deck types now? What style will you build? Leave a comment and let us know!

If you enjoyed reading this article, check out some of our other blog posts to find some other home-related guides and tips.

Different Types of Gate Styles: What’s the Right Choice for Your Home?

Every year, homeowners spend $9,000 or more on renovations.

From kitchen remodels, to installing new floors, a homeowner’s to-do list is never-ending. Luckily, gates are one type of renovation that can completely change the look of your home, without breaking the bank.

However, with all of the different types of gates available, it can be difficult to know what one you should choose. To help you out, we’ve created this short but complete guide about all about gates. Instead of making a choice, you’ll regret it, you should be able to buy your gate with confidence!

Read on to learn what type of gate will compliment your home.

How to Buy a Gate Like a Pro

Before you start diving into the different types of gates, it’s helpful to ask yourself a few questions. For instance, what’s the purpose of your gate? Are you getting your gate for security reasons, or are you more interested in a decorative gate design?

Next, think about gate features you might be interested in, such as automated gates. Moving on, you’ll want to visualize what your gate will look like if you were viewing it from the road. Finally, take a moment to measure the gap you’re going to fill from wall to wall, or post to post, so you know exactly what size gate you need.

Best Gate Materials

Moving on, you can also narrow down your search by getting specific about what materials you’re looking for.

Here are a few of the most popular gate materials:

  • Wood
  • Aluminum
  • PVC
  • Wrought Iron
  • Vinyl
  • Chain Link
  • Bamboo
  • Farm style
  • Composite

Each gate material comes with its list of benefits. For instance, if you get a wood gate, you’ll always have the option to paint it if you want a different color later on. Or you could choose to go with a vinyl gate that won’t become weak even during the rainiest of seasons. When you know what material you want, it’ll be easier for you to choose the perfect design options.

Features of Standard Gates

If you want to get a standard gate style, the gate will be made using the same materials as your fence. For instance, if you have a wrought iron fence, you’ll want your standard gate to be wrought iron as well. A standard gate uses a single door design for entrance.

Here are a few tips to get the perfect standard look:

  • Have gate same height as the fence
  • Brace gate diagonally
  • Strategically place the latch system

Your latch system should be installed on the inside of your standard gate. You’ll want the latch to be out of the reach of children, but also difficult for someone passing by to access.

Automated Specialty Gates

Do you have a large piece of property that could benefit from an automated gate? Automated gates are a convenient way to impress your guests before they ever step foot on your property. You could install a large, ranch-style automated gate, that includes things like your family’s last name!

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Automatic Gates

You’ll want to make sure that your automated gates are large enough for big vehicles, like trucks, to pass through. Next, consider pedestrian visitors who might not want to wait for the automated gate to open.

It’s polite to have an alternative entrance for visitors that are arriving by bicycle or foot. You can always lock the alternative entrance at the end of the day for security.

Swing vs. Slide Gates

Next, let’s look at the differences between swing gates and sliding gates. There are 2 types of swing gates, single, and double swing gates. If you’re working with a tight budget, you should get single swing gates. One way you’ll save is that you can automate your single swing gates using only 1 automatic opener.

Moving on, sliding gates are a great option if you’re working with a tight space. Sliding gates also offer an added layer of security since they can’t be pushed open once they’re fully closed.

Lastly, sliding gates are less susceptible to wind. If you live somewhere with a lot of storms, your swing gate could wind up being forced open from high winds, whereas a sliding gate won’t.

Benefits of Security Gates

Are you buying a gate mainly for security purposes? If so, you’ll want to consider the price. Low priced security gates are usually cheaply made, and won’t be able to keep your home safe. Whereas reasonably priced, and expensive security gates tend to have the right fixings to make your gate sturdy and strong.

For instance, a security gate that’s bolted into your home’s brickwork will be more secure than a security gate fixed to the door frame. Lastly, consider how corrosion resistant the gate is. To get a long-lasting gate, look for galvanized steel options.

Different Types of Pool Gates

Do you need a gate for your pool? Here are a few different types of pool fences and gates to consider:

  • Aluminum Pool Gate
  • Glass Pool Fence
  • Mesh Pool Gate
  • Wrought Iron Pool Gate
  • Wood Pool Gate

While wrought iron pool gates provide a classic look, wood gates give you more options when it comes to designs.

Beautiful Garden Gates

Last but not least, you should also consider getting a garden fence gate to add an aesthetic appeal to your home. Depending on your space, swing gates tend to look the best for gardens.

However, the style of the gate doesn’t matter as much as the color. If you have a bright garden with lots of light-colored flowers, you’ll want a gate that compliments those colors.

For instance, orange, yellow, and pink are all wonderful color choices for garden gates. However, black metal garden gates can also look great, especially if your home has red bricks.

Exploring the Different Types of Gates

Learning about the different types of gates is a great way to start your shopping experience. The more you know about the materials, designs, and benefits each gate offers, the easier it’ll be to make the right choice.

Remember to envision what your gate will look like to someone passing by on the road. Go ahead and stand outside and start picturing your dream gate now.

Then when you know what you want, order your gate and get ready to complete your home’s look! For more ways to make your home shine, read another one of our articles.

Thinking Of Changing Up Your Roof? You Need To Know Roof Designs

Your roof is one of the most noticeable parts of your house. If it’s looking drab or just needs a fresh look then there’s a lot to consider.

Whether it’s finding the right roof to fit your house design or weighing your options based on cost and convenience, we’ve got answers.

Before you move a muscle, you need to read about these roof designs!

Transform Your Home

Changing the style of your roof can have a dramatic effect on the look of your home. That’s why it’s important to consider your home’s design before rushing into a new roof.

You also want to consider how much your new roof will cost by getting a roof pricing estimate. Some roof materials are easy to replace and inexpensive to fix. Others may be inexpensive to install but require a lot of upkeep.

Let’s take a look at some of the popular roofing options for you to choose from.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt 3-tab shingles known to be a very popular roofing option. You most likely have seen an asphalt roof in your area. They offer a textured appearance in a variety of colors and are known to be fire-resistant.

As far as lifespan, asphalt 3-tab shingles can last up to 20 years while asphalt architectural shingles have a life span of 30 to 50 years. They have the shortest life span and are known to be prone to damage during strong winds and storms.

Their popularity most likely stems from their affordability combined with their durability. They are also very easy to install. You can find some higher quality shingles today that will last up to 50 years.

Architectural Shingles

These shingles are also made of asphalt and are recyclable. The main difference is that the architectural shingles have an extra tab or layer which not only helps improve their durability but to some, their aesthetic appeal.

Wooden Shingles

Wooden shingles or shakes have been around for centuries and remain common today. You can expect this durable material to last around 30 years. They are typically manufactured using hardwoods or composite wood materials.

Wooden shakes tend to be thicker than shingles and also last longer. Using wooden shingles or shakes for your home can add a rustic or natural look. Unfortunately, they don’t last as long as other roofing materials and have a lifespan of around 20 years. They are also combustible and not a good choice for areas where brush and forest fires are prevalent.

Metal Roofing

Metal is not only an aesthetic option for your roof but it is also the most durable option. Metal roofing is resistant to cracking and corrosion. They also heat up and melt snow to avoid build-up in areas that have harsh winters.

Metal roofs can last between 40 and 80 years, although roofing costs for metal tend to be more upfront. They come in a variety of appealing colors that won’t fade.

Slate Shingles or Tiles

Whether your choosing slate shingles, clay roofing tiles, or concrete tiles, this roofing material is known to be the most durable of all. Their life expectancy can range to 100 years or more.

One downside of slate, clay, and concrete materials is that they are very heavy and can put a strain on your home. You should consult with a structural engineer before opting for this type of roof. This roofing material also can be quite expensive as compared to other options.

Roof Designs That Are Right For You

There are many roof designs to choose from when it comes to transforming your home. Whatever roof materials you choose to add to the style of your home, be sure to consult with a professional to find your best option.

We hope this overview will help you when selecting the best roofing option for your home. Check out other great home designs and ideas on our site.

How to Fix a Broken Drain Pipe Underground the Right Way

Do you have a drain pipe that is broken underground? This can be a difficult repair to make since you can’t see it or may have trouble accessing it. However, if you’re able to locate the area where the leak is you should be able to dig up the pipe and repair it without having to call a plumber.

Keep reading to learn how to fix a broken drain pipe underground.

Locate the Leaking Pipe

If you have a pipe that is leaking underground you should be able to locate it by looking for wet areas, extra green grass, or sinkholes that are starting to form. If the damaged pipe is carrying wastewater you might notice a foul odor in the air.

If the pipe that is broken is connected to your sprinkler system then you will be able to tell its general location. The sprinklers that are attached to the broken pipeline will either not have as much pressure or any water coming out at all.

If the damaged pipe is in an area that you are unable to access, you should have a professional use spray in place pipe which doesn’t require the pipe to be dug up for repair.

Next, you will need to have the water main shut off. You should have access to the water main or you may need to contact the city if your home is on city water.

Cut Off the Broken Pipe

Once the water has been shut off you can begin digging a hole to reach the broken pipe. Once you have reached the pipe, identify the area that is damaged, and mark the area that needs to be repaired.

Then, starting six inches away from the mark on both sides, use a hacksaw to cut through the pipe. Be careful to keep your cutting a straight as possible. Once you have removed the piece of pipe, use it to measure the length of the new pipe you will need.

Replace Broken Section

Use PVC primer on the outside of the end of the new and existing pipe. Then apply the PVC primer on the interior of the PVC coupling. Allow the primer to dry before applying the PVC glue to all the areas that have the primer.

Then push the half of the coupling onto the new pipe, wait about one minute to make sure it is stuck well, and then push the other half of the coupling onto the new existing end of the pipe. Wait at least two hours for the glue to fully dry before turning the water main back on. Allow the system to run for about 20 minutes to ensure that everything is working well before you fill the hole back in.

Learn More About How to Fix a Broken Drain Pipe Underground Today!

These are the basic steps for how to fix a broken drain pipe underground. Start by identifying where the area is that has the broken pipe, and then shut off the main water to your home. Once you have located the area, dig a hole to locate the pipe or call a professional if it’s not in an area you can access.

Mark the damaged area of the pipe and then cut it at least six inches away from the damage on either side. Then apply PVC primer and glue to the new pipe, existing pipe, and the coupler. Once all the pieces are assembled together let dry for two hours before turning on the main water.

For more useful household tips or information be sure to visit our website daily!

3 Tips For Keeping Your House Tidy

When it comes to keeping your house tidy, some people can admit that they have more room for improvement than others. It can be difficult to keep up with housework when you’ve got multiple members of your family leaving behind trails, particularly if you’ve got a busy schedule. An untidy house isn’t doing you any favors, however.

Not only is it unsightly, but it can even lead to a pest infestation. Additionally, statistics show that people who have well-kept houses are less susceptible to stress. A clean house means a clean state of mind.

So, how do you start tidying your house so that you can start reaping the benefits? Take a look at some of the best tips for keeping your house clean.

Always Make Your Bed

It may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things; however, making your bed is one of the most effective ways to make your house look much cleaner than it is. Since your bed is the center of your bedroom, an unmade bed will make your entire room look messy.

Get into the habit of making your bed every morning. If you hate tucking in your sheets, then consider only using a duvet. A duvet makes it much easier to change the cover each week rather than having to worry about sheets.

Once you get into the habit of making your bed every morning, it will start to become like second nature. You’ll start to appreciate it over time and won’t even remember life before a made bed!

Clear Out Your Sink

It can be tempting to leave your dishes in the sink after eating and telling yourself that you will worry about it later. However, the reality is that leaving your dishes until later can lead to much more work.

Rinsing your dishes off immediately after eating is much faster and less messy. A sink full of dishes isn’t only unpleasant to look at, but it can be downright smelly.

If you don’t want to attract critters or scare away your guests, then get into the habit of always keeping your sink clear.

Do Laundry Every Day

If your laundry basket is frequently overflowing, then chances are you’re not doing laundry often enough. Try to get into the habit of doing your laundry at least once a day. This is especially important if you have multiple members in your family. The more laundry that gets piled up, the more that it is likely to get neglected.

If you hate doing laundry, then don’t leave it until the last minute. Small daily loads are much less exhausting than having to do it all at once!

Eco-Friendly Living: A Homeowner’s Guide to Sustainable Home Design

Does the rising cost of energy have you concerned? You aren’t alone.

More and more people are beginning to add tech to their homes to make their lives easier. Unfortunately, this comes at the cost of using more power. Luckily, there are things you can do to cut down on your power drains.

If you want to do more for the environment and save money on power, sustainable home design is worth the effort. Follow the tips below to build a sustainable house.

Switch to LED Light Bulbs

Most people don’t think of light bulbs when they think of saving energy. After all, they’re small bulbs that don’t give off too much light.

Unfortunately, they use more power than you think.

Switching to LED light bulbs can save you money on energy bills. They use less power and last much longer. Any extra money you spend buying one will be made up and then some.

LED bulbs also have the advantage of being configurable. You might not want the standard color for light bulbs in your home. You can configure LED bulbs to change color and shine at a different warmth.

Collect Rainwater

Gardening is more popular than ever. It’s a great way to grow your own food and make your yard look incredible. Unfortunately, it can be a water hog.

If you get adequate rainfall in your area, you can use a rainwater barrel to harvest rainwater to use for your garden. Set up a barrel next to your home and use your gutters to direct rainwater into your barrel. You can hook up your garden hose to your rainwater barrel to take care of your plants.

You do need to be careful if you decide to use rainwater for other things. Many locations have restrictions on rainwater usage. Learn about your local laws to make sure you don’t do something against regulations.

Use a Smart Thermostat

If you’re like many households, your home doesn’t have people in it during every part of the day. People go to school and work. It’s a waste of energy to heat and cool your home during those parts of the day.

A smart thermostat solves this problem. These thermostats allow you to program settings that automatically change your home’s temperature throughout the day.

If you want to go a step further, invest in a zone-controlled HVAC system. These systems will allow you to program the temperature of each part of your home. If you have a part of the home that you hardly used, there’s no reason to keep it the same temperature as the rest of the house.

Buy Energy Efficient Appliances

Your appliances are one of the most significant energy drains in your home. They’re on all the time and take a lot of power to run. If you’re using old appliances, you’re using more energy than necessary.

Luckily, there have been many advances made in energy management for everyday appliances. If you buy a new appliance, it will use much less energy than your old ones. Make sure any new machine you purchase has an energy star certification.

You don’t need to replace all your appliances straight away, either. Wait until you need to replace one of your appliances with a new one. You can gradually replace your home appliances with energy-efficient ones as your old ones start dying.

Invest in Landscaping

Making a sustainable house doesn’t only involve home improvements. There are many things you can do with your yard that helps your home contend with the elements.

If you live in a chilly environment, you’ll face cold winds that keep your home colder in the winter. Sustainable landscape design will help by blocking that wind from hitting your house. Well placed shrubs and bushes will stop your furnace from working so hard.

The same is true for the summer months. The more sunlight that hits your home, the hotter it gets in the summer. Placing trees around your house that blocks sunlight will keep your home cooler during the hot summer.

Invest in Solar Panels

It used to be that investing in solar panels cost a fortune and never paid for itself. Luckily, things have advanced a lot since those times.

Solar panels are less expensive than ever. For people planning to stay in their home for a long time, solar panels are an investment that will pay for itself over time. If you want to save money and go green with sustainable building design, switching to solar is the perfect option.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to putting together a solution with solar. Get in touch with residential solar companies in your area so you can get an estimate. They will figure out your energy needs so that you can get the right number of solar panels for your roof.

Use Passive Solar

Unfortunately, not everyone has the money to invest in solar panels. It takes a large investment to build a system that powers a modern home, and it might take too long for some people to recoup their investment.

The good news is that you can still take advantage of solar energy to build sustainable homes.

Passive solar design is the process of using the sun to help heat and cool buildings. It uses building materials that reflect and absorb sunlight to control the amount of heat that enters a building. When used correctly, you can reduce the need for standard heating and cooling methods.

Windows also play an essential role in passive solar systems. By adding larger windows to your home, you can increase the amount of sunlight that enters your house.

They don’t just allow you to get by with less artificial lights. They allow sunlight to do the hard work of heating your home during winter months.

Invest in Sustainable Home Design Today

You don’t need to redesign your entire house to make it more sustainable. You can implement many of the ideas above on a budget, so don’t wait to start the process. It won’t take long for you to see why sustainable home design is worth investing in.

Do you want to learn more home improvement tips? Head back to our blog to discover our best advice.

A Guide to 10 Different Types of Mold Hiding in Your Home (and What to Do About It!)

There are many different types of mold, and some species seem to prefer indoor environments. Unfortunately, breathing in mold spores and mildew can lead to respiratory problems or allergies. As such, getting rid of mold is a top priority.

In this article, we’ll review some of the most common types of household mold to discover what they look like, where they’re typically found, and how to destroy mold spores before they spread.

This information could help you keep yourself and your household safe from the slow-acting dangers of mold.

1. Aspergillus

Mold is often associated with basements, bathrooms, and other areas of a home that are typically damp or dark. However, mold can grow in all sorts of unexpected places that are even the tiniest bit damp. A closet is just one example.

If you’ve ever wondered, “What’s up with the mold in my closet?” then you may be wondering why you’re dealing with an Aspergillus mold. There are actually over 100 distinct species belonging to this type of mold.

Identifying Aspergillus can be tricky. It comes in nearly all colors, including white, yellow, green, and dark brown. This mold tends to grow in chain-like patterns, spreading slowly across surfaces.

Unfortunately, Aspergillus can be particularly toxic, especially when allowed to grow and proliferate. If you spot any strange white or colored dots on clothing, shoes, ceilings, or walls you may want to begin considering mold remediation services.

2. Stachybotrys

If you’ve ever heard the term “black mold”, then you may already be somewhat familiar with Stachybotrys. This is perhaps the most famous type of household mold and one of the most toxic as well.

As its colloquial nickname suggests, this type of mold grows in large black clusters. It tends to grow in moist, humid environments and grow on wood, tile, stone, and fabric. Exposure to Stachybotrys can lead to severe sinus and respiratory issues.

When left untreated, this type of mold infestation can also contribute to recurrent headaches, nose bleeds, and fever.

3. Cladosporium

This mold is one of the most prevalent. This may have something to do with the fact that it can grow in both warm and cold environments. It’s often found in fabrics and may only become noticeable due to it’s gray and whitish coloration.

Well, that and it also produces sinus allergies in those who happen to breathe it in. If you come into contact with Cladosporium, you may experience throat soreness, eye irritation, or sneezing fits.

4. Acremonium

Acremonium typically has a white or pink appearance and can be quite powdery. It tends to grow in areas that are often wet or moist. This includes condensation drip pans, the inside of dehumidifiers, and the linings of windows.

While this type of mold may appear unassuming and relatively safe, it’s one of the most dangerous molds to inhale or contact. Exposure to Acremonium can lead to serious health problems, including immune system disorders.

5. Mucor

Mucor spores appear as tiny white papilla-like fingers that often cover in the inside of HVAC systems and water ducts. These tiny spores grow to form thick patch-like groups that can easily spread via the air.

While this type of mold may look fragile and relatively harmless, it can cause severe upper respiratory issues. Regular HVAC maintenance and cleaning, alongside annual mold evaluations, can help prevent this mold.

Individuals with prolonged exposure to Mucor molds can develop mucormycosis. This is a condition that can affect the skin, respiratory system, and even the brain. As such, it’s crucial to always stay vigilant against household mold.

6. Trichoderma

Trichoderma is an allergenic mold that is relatively common. It can be found in homes and inside our bodies, especially in individuals with trichomonosis. But Trichoderma affects the skin and nails in particular.

It can be white or dark green and it often grows in clusters that tend to build upon each other as a kind of wall. This mold can grow inside of a carpet, behind wallpaper, or inside of walls. This makes it a particularly challenging mold to get rid of.

7. Alternaria

This mold is quite similar in appearance to Stachybotrys and Aureobasidium. It’s most often noticed due to its dark green, brown, and black coloration. It is most commonly found in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Though it’s not recommended that you touch any of these molds with your bare hands, some have noted that Alternaria has a velvet-like texture. This could make it easier to identify, though you’ll likely need heavy-duty antifungals to get rid of it.

8. Fusarium

Most types of mold require warm, dark, and damp conditions to flourish. Not Fusarium. This pinkish mold can thrive in cold temperatures, as long as it also has a source of moisture.

It often grows in cloth materials like carpeting, drapes, and upholstered furniture. When left to continue growing, it can cause both external fungal infections (the hair, skin, and nails) and internal respiratory infections (sore throat, coughing).

9. Chaetomium

If your roof has ever suffered massive leaks or if your upstairs bathroom has overflowed, you likely understand the scramble to dry your walls and ceilings as quickly as possible.

Unfortunately, even the most effective dehumidifiers and fans can take too long to remove moisture from these components. This can ensure the eventual growth of Chaetomium, a type of mold that tends to live in water-damaged households.

While this type of mold begins life looking very similar to mucor, it eventually darkens. If allowed, it can become a black stain that contributes to fungal infections of the skin or fingernails.

10. Aureobasidium

Have you seen the inside of an old, abandoned building and noticed that the walls looked like they were streaked with dirt? Damp conditions and decay are a wonderful way to welcome Aureobasidium into the mix, and this mold is quite distinctive.

Aureobasidium tends to grow as patches of dark green, black, or even brown mold. It produces dark spore centers that spread outward in a film-like fashion before establishing other centers.

This can give window frames, walls, and ceilings a dirtied appearance. Contact with this mold can result in irritation of the eyes, fingernails, hair, or skin. As such, it’s crucial to eradicate this mold as soon as it appears.

Avoid These Different Types of Mold

If you’re familiar with the different types of mold found in the home, you have a better chance at spotting spores and getting rid of them before they become a problem.

Mold tends to favor dark, damp places and it can grow on almost any surface. Be sure to keep your home and household safe and clean by keeping an eye out for these common types of mold.

Did you enjoy this article? Then be sure to check out our related health articles now!

This Is How to Tell If You Have Roaches in Your Home

Are you worried that your home may be infested with cockroaches but aren’t sure?

A roast infestation is not only gross, but it can also be a huge problem for your home and your health. Cockroaches can trigger asthma, and some of them carry bacteria that can cause illnesses in food. They can also cause issues in your plumbing and damage your doors and walls.

But, how can you tell if you have a roach infestation?

Check out this guide to learn how to tell if you have roaches in your home.

1. There are Feces

Many people spot roach feces in their homes before realizing what they actually are. These feces don’t look like normal animal feces. Rather, they resemble coffee grounds.

They vary in size, and they’re dark in color. Some are the size of a grain of rice, while others are closer to the size of a pepper flake. Check the corners of your homes and the back of your cabinets, as these are areas where roaches tend to leave their feces.

Roaches can harbor over 33 types of bacteria, so be careful when cleaning them up. Wear a face mask and gloves, and use a vacuum cleaner to get loose feces on your carpet. After cleaning up the feces, wipe up the area with a disinfectant cleaner.

2. Strange Odors

Is there a mysterious odor in your home that you can’t put your finger on?

Some people describe the odor of roaches as garbage-like or musky. Typically, this odor is strongest in wet areas of your home, such as the basement or bathroom, as these places are where roaches tend to congregate.

While cleaning up these areas may help to get rid of the odor temporarily, you’ll still need to get to the root of the infestation.

3. You Have Allergy Symptoms

Cockroaches contain certain proteins that many people are allergic to. Even if you don’t normally suffer from allergies, roaches can still trigger an allergic reaction.

Here are some symptoms to watch out for:

  • Trouble catching your breath or wheezing
  • Stuffy nose
  • Feeling of tightness or heaviness in your chest
  • Itchy, red eyes

If you suffer from asthma, you may notice that you’re having to use your inhaler more than normal. Even just a couple of roaches can trigger an allergic reaction, so closely monitor your symptoms.

4. Disappearing Food

Does it seem like food is always mysteriously disappearing from your home? Unless you have a bunch of hungry teenagers ravaging your cabinets, there’s a good chance that roaches are the issue.

Roaches are not picky eaters, and they’ll feed on everything from food crumbs to wallpaper paste. They also sometimes go after dog food. Using tightly sealed containers to store your food can help prevent roaches from breaking in, but it won’t make them leave your home.

This is why you’ll need to call an exterminator to get rid of them. If you have problems with eagles or other animals, a pest control company can also help with this. You can check out the best eagle pest control to learn more.

How to Tell if You Have Roaches: Time to Say Goodbye

Now that you know how to tell if you have roaches, it’s time to say goodbye to them once and for all. With the right exterminator, your home should be roach-free in no time.

Be sure to check back in with our blog for more pest control tips and tricks.

3 Tips For Setting Up A Bedroom For Your Elderly Loved One

Whether they’re living with you or staying in their own home, as you have loved ones that start progressing in age, it’s wise to take a more active role in their care and comfort to ensure that they’re getting the things that they need.

One area that you might consider checking out for your aging loved one is their bedroom. Depending on their living situation, like if they’re in an assisted living facility, they might be spending quite a bit of time in their bedroom. If this is the case, you’ll want to help them make their space as safe and welcoming as possible. To help you in doing this, here are three tips for setting up a bedroom for your elderly loved one.

Make It Easy To Get In And Out Of Bed

For many older adults, it becomes increasingly necessary to use the bathroom in the middle of the night. Knowing this, you should try to do everything in your power to make it easy for them to get in and out of bed on their own.

To do this, AgingCare.com recommends installing bed rails on each side of the bed so that your loved one can get some leverage when trying to get out of bed. Additionally, bed rails can make it easier to steady themselves as they get back into bed as well.

Get The Right Lighting Options

As people age, their eyes need more and more light in order to adequately read and see their surroundings. As a result, the lighting needs of your loved one might be different than what you need for yourself or what’s typically included in a bedroom.

According to Lucy of ResidenceStyle.com, it’s a good idea to install motion activated lights in bedrooms of elderly people. Then, if they enter the room in the dark or need to get up from bed at night, the lights will automatically come on for them. You may also want to put overhead lights on a dimmer so they can choose the exact brightness they need at any given time as well as adding a lamp near their chair or bed for task lighting.

Choose Safe Flooring

The flooring of your loved one’s bedroom can help to keep them safe from slipping, tripping or falling. Not only should the floor not be slippery for them to walk on, but AgingInPlace.com, shares that it should also help to anchor furniture and other items so they don’t easily move either. This means that you’ll likely want to keep rugs out of the room, as they can be more of a hazard than a help.

If you think your elderly loved one could use some updates to their bedroom, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you create the perfect bedroom space for them.

3 Ways to Rescue Your Restaurant From Failing Amid COVID-19

The global outbreak of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a health crisis that has been an unprecedented obstacle for people who aspire to start a small company and experienced business owners. Social and economic conditions caused by COVID-19 have been uniquely challenging for people who plan to enter or are already in the foodservice and restaurant industry. For many restaurants across the United States, business may be slow because fewer people go out to eat, as they’re afraid they may contract the virus if they go out in public.

 

Furthermore, many restaurants have been relying on drive-thrus or carryout and delivery services because lockdown orders and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations forced them to close off their dining rooms from customers indefinitely.

 

Some restaurants continue to enjoy steady business and success during the pandemic by adapting their operations and methods of servicing their patrons to the new normal created by the virus. Listed below are three ways for business owners to keep their restaurants afloat and save it from failing amid COVID-19.

 

 

Get the Best Restaurant Equipment

It’s nearly impossible to run a restaurant or foodservice business when you lack adequate equipment. For this reason, restaurant equipment is a significant startup cost. Essentials include furniture, flatware, barware, and glassware. Large purchases such as ovens, fryers, grills, coolers, walk-in freezers, refrigerators, and other appliances are critical for commercial cooking and proper food storage.

 

When choosing refrigeration products, purchase energy-efficient equipment from a reputable brand, such as True Manufacturing Company, a commercial refrigeration industry leader. True refrigerators and other commercial refrigeration products can suit any restaurant, catering company, food truck, or foodservice business.

 

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Furthermore, janitorial supplies, disposables, and sanitizing and cleaning equipment are necessary purchases, as restaurateurs must do their best to limit and stop the spread of the coronavirus among their staff and patrons.

 

Implement Technology Into Business Operations

Technological equipment is of equal importance as physical equipment, especially at a time when online orders may be surging. One way to avoid hard times and failures during this pandemic is to have a website and an online delivery system that’s easy for your customers to navigate. This way, you can efficiently serve patrons who may engage in curbside pickup options, as well as your customers who want your food but might be nervous or unable to leave their homes.

 

Business owners can harness technological options that are convenient for customers and benefit the productivity of their staff members. Restaurateurs can use technology to manage OKRs, for instance. OKRs—objectives and key results—are a goal-setting framework that enables restaurateurs to define and track objectives and outcomes for a specified period. Using OKRs, you can measure your team’s performance at achieving set goals, and determine which strategies are useful and which ones need changing. Visiting workboard.com, for instance, you can discover OKR software offered by Workboard and get an idea of how effective OKR solutions can be for your business.

 

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Reach Your Customers and Attract New Ones Through the Internet

Considering how high the use of digital devices and the Internet is, it’s crucial to enhance your brand visibility with an online presence. Prioritize customer engagement and post content tailored to your target audience that they’ll find relatable, exciting, and useful.

 

Investing in new operational strategies and implementing the tactics mentioned above can help your restaurant or foodservice business weather the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, enhance long-term operations, and increase profits and success. Through hard work, adherence to CDC guidelines, and technology implementation, restaurateurs can show their customers and community members that running a successful restaurant amid this pandemic is possible.