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3 of the Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

Traveling the world is one of the most satisfying and pleasurable things one can do. It’s an amazing opportunity to expand your horizons, experience different cultures, and even better your own health.

When it comes to traveling, there are few better places to visit than in Southeast Asia. There are so many different and equally amazing places and cultures to spend your time in the region.

If you’re unsure of where to start your travels, continue reading on. We’ll walk you through some of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia so that you can ensure your trip will be one to remember.

1. Sapa

Visting Vietnam should be at the top of your list when it comes to traveling to the southeast Asian region. As far as Vietnamese stops go, you could do much worse than the quiet town of Sapa.

Sapa is built at the base of surrounding mountains, making it a must-stop location if you want to do some hiking and exploring in this part of the region. The nature around the town is quite stunning and is really the central attraction, though the town itself boasts many pleasures as well.

You can gather at the town market for a wonderful selection of souvenirs from local tribes. There are also many beautiful French colonial sites that can be pleasant to walk through and enjoy during your stay.

2. Phuket

If you can get your giggling about the name out of the way, you’ll have an amazing time in Phuket, one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations. This is the largest island in all of Thailand, and locals have used that space to host a wealth of resorts, shops, hotels, and vibrant nightlife options.

You can spend your afternoon on the beach or pick out a few attraction tickets and explore the local scene. Even on the beach itself there’s a lot to do, from massage tents to breathtaking cliff-based hikes.

There are truly few cities in Southeast Asia as tourism-friendly as Phuket. It should be near the top of your list to visit.

3. Komodo National Park

If you’re a fan of big lizards, you might have already heard about this archipelago located near the island of Flores. There are thousands of giant Komodo dragon lizards located in this area and the only place in the world where they are found.

Visiting the island is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature and wildlife lovers. Getting to see these lizards up close and in the flesh can be thrilling. However, precaution should be taken.

You should go with an experienced guide because while instances of attacks on humans are rare, they have happened.

Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia

The above are just three of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia. There are so many different cities and towns to pop into, but the above stops truly are a head above the rest. So what are you waiting for?

If you need more travel advice, tips, or tricks, just check out our blog for more.

How to Hire a Landscaper: The Only Guide You Need to Read

Is your home’s landscaping in dire need of some love? If so, you might want to skip the DIY phase and get some professional help.

Of course, this is easier said than done. Did you know that there are now over 500,000 landscaping companies in the United States? Even if you only focus on local companies, your search can seem like finding the right needle in a haystack.

Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide that should help you hire a landscaper that will suit your needs.

1. Identify Your Landscaper Needs

Many landscaping companies specialize in certain services. In other words, your first step should be to identify which services you’ll need.

For instance, landscape architects can plan and design your entire landscape. If you want someone to maintain what’s already there, you’ll need a landscape manager. For installing landscape features, you should hire a landscape contractor.

Finally, you have arborists and horticulturists. An arborist takes care of your trees, including planting, pruning, fertilization, and support. Horticulturists are plant experts — they’re the ones to call if your plants aren’t flourishing.

Once you know which company to hire, set a budget range. This is something every contractor will want to know before they get to work. Also, figure out how long you’re willing to wait for your yard to look like a work in progress.

2. Ask for Recommendations

The best way to choose between landscaping companies in your local area is to do your research.

Start by getting recommendations from your family and friends who live nearby. If they’re homeowners, there’s a good chance they used the services of a landscaper. You can also ask your neighbors — they’ll enjoy hearing that their yard looks nice.

Online reviews are another strong indicator of what you can expect from a landscaper. Once you find a landscaper you like, check out their online portfolio. You can also consult the Better Business Bureau for complaints.

3. Check Their Qualifications

In most states, landscaping contractors don’t need an occupational license to operate. That said, they still need business permits or licenses.

Competent contractors such as West Bay Landscape come fully licensed. This is something you should always check, even if a company is highly recommended. As good as their work may be, minimizing legal risks should be your top priority.

While you’re at it, make sure to check your contractor’s experience. Find out how many similar projects they’ve undertaken in the past. Ask them about the various parts of your project, such as permits and cleanup costs.

More on How to Hire a Landscaper

As you can see, hiring a landscaper isn’t that complicated of a process. As long as you follow this guide, you should be fine.

One final thing to keep in mind: cover your bases. Before you hire a landscaper, go over the contract to make sure you understand each point. By doing your due diligence on time, you’ll save yourself trouble in the future.

Want to know more about the various ways to spruce up your yard? Interested in other tricks that will help you make your property more eco-friendly? Check out our Tips section!

How Much Does Professional TV Antenna Installation Cost on Average?

In 2019, about 16 million homes in the United States were using digital antennas to receive broadcast stations. Indeed, the number of households around the country that have been opting for antennas instead of cable or satellite TV subscription has steeply increased in the past decade.

For those looking to enjoy top-quality, uncompressed signals by tuning in to over-the-air television broadcasts, a professional TV antenna installation may be necessary. That’s because while HDTV antenna installation may seem like an easy process, it usually isn’t. The project often involves handling electrical equipment high up on the roof of a house.

In this definitive guide, we’ll tell you all you need to know about professional TV antenna installation, including its average cost. Read on to learn more.

What Factors Determine the Cost of Professional TV Antenna Installation?

The overall cost of professional antenna installation depends on a variety of factors. Below are some of them.

The Type of Antenna You’re Installing

One of the main determinants of the total cost of TV antenna installation is the type of antenna you intend to install. Generally, indoor antennas are easier to install. Many homeowners are usually able to install these antennas on their own, thus saving on labor costs.

In most cases, however, indoor antennas aren’t suitable. Installing an outdoor antenna typically yields better results. As you’d probably expect, outdoor antenna installation costs are usually higher than those of indoor antenna installation. Talk to a seasoned TV installer to find out more.

The Cost of the Antenna

Where you’re installing a new antenna, the overall cost of antenna installation may include the cost of the unit itself. Many professional TV antenna installers also sell top-quality TV antennas.

TV antennas can range dramatically when it comes to cost. Some of the factors that determine the price of an antenna include:

  • Antenna type
  • Materials used
  • Size of the antenna
  • Manufacturing quality

The signal type in your area will determine which type of antenna to go for. If the signal in your area isn’t strong, you may need a larger outdoor antenna. Top-quality materials boost the durability of the antenna.

The Location of Your Home

Antenna installation costs vary depending on where your home is located. Homes in hilly areas, black spots, and places with low signal strength will typically need larger, more powerful outdoor antennas. Actually, calculations of the signal power are for professionals and a reason to order custom term paper to make it clear for others. But let’s be simple here. That increases the overall installation cost.

Keep in mind that your technician will also need more time to access your site, do additional testing, and position your antenna higher. This also contributes to higher costs.

The Type of Building

The type of house you live in can also significantly affect how much you pay for antenna installation. Standard rates are typically based on standalone, single-story houses. These homes are comparatively easier for antenna installers to access as their roofs are lower and walls accessible for cabling.

What if you live in a townhouse or a multiple-story home? Well, installation in such a home will most likely be complex. More equipment and cabling will also be necessary, so you may need to pay more.

Number of TV Points

For first-time TV installation, you’ll most likely need extra TV points to be installed so you can watch TV in different rooms in your home. These additional TV points mean extra labor, cabling, splitters, and other components. This contributes to higher installation costs.

Whether You’re Installing Signal Boosters

If you live in an area that has a weak signal, you’ll most likely need to install a TV antenna booster or amplifier to raise your signal to the right level. A TV amplifier may also be necessary where you intend to split the signal to several wall points. Because TV amplifiers are additional pieces of equipment that add extra steps in the antenna installation process, the cost of installation will go up.

Whether You Want Wall Mounting

Getting your TV wall mounted isn’t a must, but you may want to get it done during the installation of the antenna. There are many reasons you may want to get your TV mounted on the wall, including ensuring that the antenna wall point is spot on. Wall mounting can also enhance your TV viewing experience by making sure that you get the best viewing angles.

Of course, this extra service can push your overall TV installation price slightly higher.

Qualifications and Experience of the Installer

You can, of course, get some cheap TV antenna installation services around if that’s what you want. However, be careful who you entrust the installation project to. Be especially wary of installers that charge suspiciously low prices.

Qualified, seasoned TV antenna installers may not necessarily be expensive, but they hardly ever charge rock-bottom prices. In return, you get the following:

  • Antenna installed at the best possible location: Only a professional knows the most appropriate point to install your TV antenna, so you get optimum height and reception
  • Correct antenna and mast securing: Outdoor TV antennas are continually battered by the elements. A professional contractor knows the most suitable way to mount the antenna, so it withstands the elements.
  • Minimal damage to existing structures: A seasoned contractor knows how to drill into walls, install roof flashing, cut into tiles, and so on without causing much damage to the building. You want to avoid future complications, such as parts of your roof leaking.

What is the Average Cost of Professional TV Antenna Installation?

As you’ve seen, TV installation costs can vary depending on many factors. In 2020, antenna installation costs range from $190 to $368. The national average is thus $279.

Regardless of the reason you’re installing a TV antenna, it’s best to get it done by a professional. Sure, you may have to incur the cost of professional TV antenna installation, but the benefits are well worth it. Not only do you get the project done more quickly and safely, but also enjoy a much better TV viewing experience for a long time.

Would you like to read more great articles just like this one? Please keep visiting our website.

What Is Overseeding and Why Is It Good for Your Lawn?

Is there anything more pleasing than looking out at your backyard to see a luscious, vibrant green lawn as a homeowner? Probably not. There’s something to be said about keeping your lawn healthy, thick, and green year-round – it’s no easy feat.

This is where the technique of overseeding comes in handy if your region faces harsh winters and summers. Learn more about this lawn care technique in this blog…

What is Overseeding?

The overall goal of overseeding your lawn is to grow thicker, vibrantly colored, drought and disease-resistant grass. During this process, grass seed is planted on top of existing turf. The beauty of overseeding is that this can be done without having to tear up or remove the turf or soil below.

Generally, overseeding aims to improve the density of turf, improve grass varieties and amp up the color of your lawn. So if your lawn looks a little tired or worn down after winter or summer, overseeding could help. Also, if your grass is disease or insect prone, overseeding could help combat this.

Topdressing

This is sometimes another step that may be needed after overseeding a lawn. A top layer of material is laid down on top of the turf after it has been overseeded or aerated. If your lawn has been overseeded, it will be topped with a mixture of sand, seed, and fertilizer. If it’s been aerated, it will be topped with a mix of soil, sand, and fertilizer. What is lawn aeration? Check out this lawn aeration company for more…

What are the Benefits?

Overseeding is most beneficial to older lawns. This is because they have been grown with the wrong type of turf to start with. Ultimately, this means they’re more likely to become infected with disease, require more water, and fertilizer.

With this in mind, the benefits of overseeding a lawn are second-to-none. It can help to fight off disease, insect infestations, drought, and heavy amounts of traffic. It also saves you money in the long run as you don’t have to spend on pesticides, fertilizer and extra water. Finally, your lawn looks healthy, luscious and inviting, year-round.

What to Consider Before Overseeding

The older the turf of your lawn, the more likely it is to deteriorate and die off completely over time. So it’s only natural to consider overseeding with an improved, ”younger” grass seed mixture. Overseeding is also handy for amping up areas of your lawn that look patchy, unhealthy, and threadbare.

However, it’s super important to analyze why your turf has deteriorated- other than just age. There may be a pre-existing condition that leads to the death of a newly overseeded lawn, too. Some top considerations to keep in mind:

  • What is the pre-existing soil condition like?
  • Does my lawn have proper drainage?
  • Does the soil have efficient air circulation – is aeration required?
  • Are the soil and turf receiving enough water?
  • Does my lawn receive enough sunlight to remain healthy?
  • Have I chosen the correct grass variety for my region?
  • Are there any issues with soil compaction?

If you don’t know the answers to these questions, it may be worthwhile contacting a professional landscaping company. Essentially, you’ll need to correct any underlying issues before overseeding your lawn.

Find Homeowner Advice Just a Click Away

If you’re looking for a little more than overseeding, such as homeowner advice on home care, home construction, style, decor, and design- you’re in the right place!

Alternatively, explore the rest of this website for all the advice on lifestyle, travel, health, and budgeting tips you need.

Thinking of Building Your Own Home?

If you are thinking of building your own home, then there is a lot you need to know and consider at the design stage.

Thomas Studio, based in Hereford in the UK provide a host of information, their guide being sure to help you on your way to building your own dream home.

The Things You Need To Know

• You’ll need to understand just what building a house entails

• What the major decisions are when choosing to self-build

• How to pick the right house plan layout

• How to work out how much floor space you need

• Just what the cost to build a house per square foot is

• All about the home building process

Hidden Costs

There are lots of hidden costs in the process of buying land and building your dream home, and you need to understand about all of these before you start the process.

For example, when you are purchasing a piece of land, you need to be able to ask the right questions before you start as well as fully understanding your needs and options.

Whether you are experienced at buying plots of land or are a first time self-builder who wants to buy land to build your own home from scratch, you really do need to understand what is involved.

The guide provided by Thomas Studio will provide you with a whole lot of answers to the many questions in understanding what is involved in the self-build process. It is a sad fact that many self-builders fail, simply because they don’t carry out all the necessary research.

There is no doubt that designing and building your dream new home is a complex process and it can be a daunting one too. However, with the right support and guidance, you can be sure to reach your goal, that of a perfect dream house and in just the location too.

One of the biggest issues to consider is what your new home has to provide, how you like to live and how this new home can meet those needs. Only when these needs and the options you have available are known is it possible to move forward.

Many self-builders want to build a ‘green home’, one that is easy on the environment and uses sustainable components. Often, they also desire a better build quality than that provided by traditional volume house builders.

However, constructing a green home will more often than not increase the overall project costs. You therefore need to be fully aware of all of the implications and hidden extra costs when using green technology and green building materials in your home.

The good news is that whilst the construction costs are often higher for green self builds, the running costs tend to be lower. You can also sometimes obtain grant payments which will offset the initial investment.

Designing and building your own home

So, what are the hidden and ‘unknown’ costs in the self build process.

Stamp duty is still payable, not to mention the clearing and excavation of the site.

You also have to be aware that the type of soil will influence such things as the type of septic system, not to mention the depth of the foundations.

One of the biggest issues is working out the actual cost to build a detached home. Once you have a good idea of the overall cost, you will want to hire a contractor that can deliver the project on budget.

That however is not as easy as it sounds as contractors are known to maximise their profit by using cheap materials whenever they can. It is therefore necessary to decide what quality design standards you want adhered too. Once decided, these standards can be written into the building contract, thus ensuring you get the standard of build you require.

There are advantages of building a custom home though.

One of the biggest advantages about building your own home is the fact that, when properly planned, that it can be very enjoyable and rewarding process. What you need is a guide to make sure you ask the right questions at all stages and who will point you in the right direction throughout the entire process.

About Author: Rudy is an outstanding author and blogger. He loves to write on various topics especially on Home improvement.

5 Top Reasons Why Solar Panels Are Good for Your House

Are you thinking of installing solar panels in your home as a way to reduce your bills and make your house eco-friendly? Using the sun’s energy is good for the environment, but it’s also a great way to increase your property value and even earn some tax credits.

Even if you live somewhere cloudy, your solar panels will still produce energy to power your home. This is one of the best investments you can make as a homeowner.

Keep reading to learn why solar panels are good for your home and budget.

1. You’ll Save Money on Utilities

For most homeowners, saving money on utility bills is the best reason to use solar panels. You’ll cut your costs drastically, and have eco-friendly electricity, home heating, and hot running water at all times.

Solar panels are a one-time investment and they’ll still produce energy even on cloudy days. Talk to your local solar provider to learn more about this incredible system.

2. They Produce Eco-Friendly Power

Solar energy is environmentally-friendly because it uses a renewable source of energy, i.e. the sun. Panels don’t use coal, water, fossil fuels, or any other non-renewable resources. As long as the sun shines, your solar panels will produce and store energy.

There’s no need to exploit any land or natural resources to power your home. Solar panels function like independent power plants.

3. You’re in Control of the Costs

Solar panels will give you total control of your home energy production and costs. You don’t have to rely on public systems and be affected by power shortages. You can also control how much energy your panels save for rainy days or for nighttime use.

Finally, as you’re off the grid, you won’t be subjected to rising energy costs, especially if you have a business or a big property.

4. They Increase Your Property Value

One of the best reasons you should use solar panels is to increase your property value. When potential buyers hear about lower home maintenance costs and renewable energy, they’ll be more motivated to buy. Plus, you already did the hard work by installing the panels so they don’t have to.

5. You Can Earn Tax Credits and Rebates

Aside from being the most economical energy solution for your home and budget, solar panels can help you earn tax credits and rebates. Depending on your state, you can get a significant sum of money back along with solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) that you can sell to utility companies.

This way, you’ll pay off some of your initial investment, and even get some extra money back into your wallet. Ask your state or local Department of Energy offices to learn all about it.

Now You Know Why Solar Panels Are Good for Your Home

Now that you know why solar panels are good for your home and your wallet, it’s time to have them installed and enjoy all the benefits.

Need more home decor and home improvement tips? Read some of the other articles we have on these topics and stay tuned for more industry news and trends.

Getting a Clear Picture: What Is the Best TV Antenna Placement?

The TV antenna is making a comeback.

Wait a minute, hold on, isn’t that obsolete technology? With everything digital nowadays, what’s the reason for the sudden surge in popularity?

The answer, ironically, is also because everything is digital today. Most people pay for streaming services such as Netflix, Disney Plus, or Hulu. What streaming offers and what cable offers overlap and with the rising costs of cable TV, there are plenty of reasons to cut the cord.

On the other hand, over-the-air TV is the perfect complement to streaming services. With the right antenna placement, you can access free local channels that you won’t find on Netflix.

Yet, even with new tech in antenna, such as signal amplifiers, you still need to find the right spot for your antenna. Here are some tips to help you position your antenna to pick up the best signal possible.

Map It Out

Before buying a new TV antenna, you should begin by knowing the locations of the TV broadcast towers in your area. This will give you an idea about the type of antenna you need. Your distance to the tower will determine whether you should buy an indoor, outdoor, amplified, or non-amplified antenna.

You can check out this handy TV coverage map to help you get started.

Also, some antennas are directional or unidirectional. This means that they have to be oriented toward the local transmitting tower to receive a signal. Identifying the location of the tower can guide you in pointing the antenna in the right direction.

“Take Me Higher”

If there’s one rule that’s true about finding the optimum placement of your antenna, it’s that higher is better.

Even if you have an indoor antenna, you should try to put it as high as you can in the room. In some cases, you might have to use a long coaxial cable to install the antenna in a different, higher-level room, like the attic.

If you have an outdoor antenna, the ideal site is on top of the roof. This will give you the best reception and access to more channels.

Three Important Words About Antenna Placement: Line of Sight

TV signals are like a sniper’s bullet. They need a clear path to reach the target. If there are fewer obstructions between the tower and your antenna, you’ll have a clearer reception.

So what counts as obstruction? Thick walls, ceilings, trees, and buildings will interfere with the broadcast signal. Some electronic devices, such as consoles and computers, may also sabotage the transmission.

This is why placing the antenna near the window, away from electronics, will often give you the best results. There are also antenna models that are flat and square-shaped. You can mount this type of antenna on the window by securing the four corners with adhesive.

You might have to try a few different windows or external walls to figure out the sweet spot. Just remember to keep the pathway from the tower to the antenna unhindered and you should be good to go.

Picture Perfect

As a cord-cutter, you can only enjoy your freedom from the shackles of cable companies if you’re getting high-quality TV signals. These tips about antenna placement should provide endless hours of entertainment and keep you from going back to cable.

For more lifestyle tips and tricks, please continue to browse our website.

The Only Storage Unit Size Guide You Need

You finally decided to rent some storage place to conquer the ever-growing pile of things with nowhere else to go.

The truth of the matter is you’re not alone in your pursuit of extra space. Not by a long shot. As it were, one in 11 Americans are actively renting storage space.

The question is: how do you pick the size of your unit? After all, nothing can be more horrifying than showing up with your stuff to find out that your rental unit is too small to fit everything.

This is where a storage unit size guide is worth its weight in gold. Keep on reading to know all about the standard sizes, and which would best suit your needs.

Storage Unit Size Guide 101: Take Inventory

In order to pick the right storage unit size, you’ll need to take a thorough look at your inventory—that is everything you want to put in storage.

Use a measuring tape to get the dimensions of the larger items in your inventory. This will help you determine the smallest space you can pick without worrying that your bigger items won’t fit.

Once you have your dimensions down pat, you can use the size guide to select your perfectly-sized storage units.

Standard Unit Sizes

There are standard unit sizes readily available in the market and at most facilities. All —usually— come in with a height of eight feet.

However, the width and length of the unit can vary tremendously, from closet-sized units to small-house-sized units.

1. 5×5 Storage Unit

This is the smallest standard-size unit that you’ll find. It’s basically the size of a small walk-in closet.

Usually, it can hold tall narrow items like lamps, or one piece of furniture that’s narrow at the bottom. You can also add in from six to eight boxes stacked on top of each other.

2. 5×10 Storage Unit

Quite similar to the previous size, it can still be considered to be the size of a walk-in closet.

However, you can actually manage to add two large pieces of furniture as well as 10-15 boxes, due to the added five feet of space.

3. 5×15 Storage Unit

Once you hit 15 feet of space, the space becomes equivalent to the size of a small bedroom. Quite the upgrade from “closet” spaces.

It can hold multiple furnishings for a regular 500 sq. ft. residence, if you exclude any major appliances.

4. 10×10 Storage Unit

Now, we’re officially in the bedroom-size territory. The 10×10 storage unit is almost equal to one bedroom.

This storage unit can hold furnishings for a 750 sq. ft. house and you can store all the major appliances as well.

5. 10×15 Storage Unit

An upgrade from its smaller sibling, the 10×10 storage space, this storage unit is the size of two bedrooms.

If you have —an average of— 1,000 sq. ft. residence, you can store your appliances and a solid chunk of your furnishings in this storage space.

6. 10×20 Storage Unit

Taking the space of (almost) three bedrooms, this 10×20 storage unit can hold the furnishings and appliances for a 1,500 sq. ft. residence.

In addition, this storage unit is the start of suitable storage units that can hold vehicles. In this unit’s case, it’ll have to be compact vehicles. Our recommendation is to keep your car’s dimensions in mind.

7. 10×30 Storage Unit

This storage space is the last on the list of readily-available storage spaces on the market.

The 10×30 storage unit is the size of a boat, a commercial trailer, or even must full-size vehicles.

Storage Unit Sizes: Unlocked

We know how daunting it can be to try and pick the right storage unit for the uninitiated.

However, with this storage unit size guide, you can select the perfect storage unit to meet your needs (and no more).

Yet, if you’re hungry for more home improvement tips, make sure to check out our tips section for all the advice you can possibly want.

Are Memory Foam Mattresses Good for Low Back Pain?

Is your lower back pain making it difficult for you to sleep? Wondering “are memory foam mattresses good for back pain” or is there some other mattress you should be buying?

When it comes to sleep, the type of mattress you use means everything. That’s because each mattress type is designed to provide proper comfort and support to a specific type of sleeper. This means it’s easy to buy a mattress that isn’t great for the type of sleeping support you need.

But no need to worry, we’re here to help! In this article, we’re sharing everything you need to know about shopping for mattresses for low back pain. So you can rest easy knowing your sleep will never be disturbed by your mattress.

How to Choose the Right Mattress

There are 3 types of mattresses available for people: innerspring, foam, and adjustable. The one you should buy depends on what needs you’re trying to meet. Here are some standard life scenarios that should help you decide which one to choose.

Side Sleepers

If you sleep on your side, you’ll want a mattress that can easily conform to your shape. This means you’ll most likely want an innerspring mattress with built-in pressure support, or a soft foam mattress that’s specifically designed for side sleepers.

Stomach Sleepers

For stomach sleepers, you won’t want memory foam. That’s because the feeling of sinking into the bed will most likely feel smothering. Instead, opt for a firm foam or denser innerspring, as it’ll provide the best support for you.

Sleeping With a Partner

Do you share your bed with a partner who tosses, turns, and moves around all night? If so, you’ll want to get a mattress that’s good at dampening motion. Medium-firm mattresses and memory foam mattresses are pretty good at addressing this issue, but they may be less comfortable for you as a result.

Consider Your Shopping Method

Are you someone who prefers to see and feel a mattress before buying? If yes, then you should buy your mattress in the store. It’s a great way to know exactly what you’re getting, although it can be easy to feel overwhelmed in the store and buy something you’re not exactly in love with.

And if you hate shopping in-store, you can always go the online route. There are plenty of options available, and you can easily use filters to narrow down your top choices.

You can even buy one of those amazing beds in a box! Not sure what a bed in a box is or why you would buy one? Read a Bed in a Box review or two to learn more about how well they work.

Are Memory Foam Mattresses Good for Low Back Pain?

Now that you’ve considered all the ways to choose a mattress, you’re probably wondering which option is best for low back pain and if memory foam mattresses can address that issue. In short—yes!

Memory foam mattresses are great for low back pain because they conform to your body, which provides your body with the necessary support you need. Latex mattresses can also address this issue pretty well.

But it’s important to know that there isn’t one mattress that works for all low back pain. So consider those other topics above before you make a final decision.

Ready for a New Mattress?

A good night’s sleep is priceless. So if you’re spending your nights tossing and turning because of your low back pain, you should absolutely invest in a mattress to address that.

And now that you know the answer to “are memory foam mattresses good for low back pain,” you can start shopping for options that work for you.

Was this article helpful? Looking for more information? Browse the rest of our website for even more insights!

Conservatory Vs Extensions – Which is the best option?

 

If you are looking at creating more space in your home, there are two main options open to you: building a conservatory or adding a home extension.

These options both have their merits and disadvantages, and the one you will likely choose will depend on your personal taste, need, and budget. However, when you take the time to compare both options, you will find that one trumps the other in terms of features, function, form, and even cost.

So, in this article, let’s delve in and provide the information that will help you make an informed decision on the one to pick for your home.

What is the difference between a conservatory and an extension?

If you are looking for a way to create more usable space in your home, both a conservatory and an extension will serve that purpose. Either choice will give your home a unique, new look, while also affording you and your family the much-needed space. But what are the differences between the two?

Conservatories:

  • Conservatories are typically attached to the back of the house, but where there is no space at the back, any other position will work.
  • Conservatories are primarily built of glass, with the structure being about 80% glass and 20% other material like steel, wood, or aluminium.
  • A conservatory is usually built to match the structure and style of your home, and in such a way that it looks like an original part of the house and not an afterthought. Even the windows and doors are specifically selected to match what is already on the house.
  • Conservatories come in all manner of sizes, shapes and styles, but has to be smaller than the house so it doesn’t look like something that was added after construction. That said, you can always find a conservatory installation that suits your preference and budget.
  • A conservatory will provide your home with access to the natural rays of the sun, making the room ideal for virtually any purpose – as a living space, working space, gaming room, or even indoor garden – based on the thermal properties of the glass used.

Extensions:

  • An extension is usually built anywhere on the house and can be built upwards (in the loft or attic), downwards (in the basement), or anywhere else you need the extra space as long as there is land or unused space to accommodate the construction.
  • An extension is usually constructed from the exact same material used in constructing the house, making it seem like an original part of the actual structure.
  • Regardless of where the extension is constructed, it can be used for virtually any purpose, except as an indoor garden. The extension can be used as a living room, bedroom, bathroom, home office, game room, kitchen, and so on.
  • Depending on the laws in your neighbourhood, an extension may require that you apply for and receive planning permission before construction commences. You will however, require building approval or its equivalent before you can add an extension to your house.
  • Because of the materials and scale of work, constructing an extension will cost a lot more than constructing a conservatory, and this can be a critical factor if you have budget constraints.

How to decide whether to build a conservatory or an extension

If the main purpose of your home improvement project is to create usable space, it may be difficult to decide exactly which of the two to go for, unless your personal taste and budget is making you lean towards one direction.

But where there is nothing to influence your decision and you don’t know which way to lean, consider the following factors.

What will the space be used for?

Your choice of whether to go for an extension or a conservatory could be influenced by the purpose for which you are carrying out the home improvement. For example, if you simply want an extra room for practical purposes, then you may want to consider investing in an extension, but if you want extra space that can serve dual purposes, a conservatory is a right way to go.

Where will the new room be located?

Another important factor that will play a role in your decision is the location of the extra room. Typically, an extension is constructed to be completely indoors, although there are cases when an extension is constructed separately from the main house. However, if you want a place where you can enjoy warmth and comfort during the day, then an east-facing conservatory, or a north-facing conservatory is what you want. And because a conservatory is made primarily of glass, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the outdoors, something that may not be possible in an extension.

Which one looks the best?

Another factor to consider is aesthetic value. Admittedly, both options will increase the value of your home and afford you more usable space, but if you are really interested in form, then a conservatory will add more aesthetic value to your property than an extension.

What is your budget?

Finally, the amount of money you are willing to spend on the project will play the biggest role in your decision making. As already established, building a conservatory is not as expensive as building an extension. The number of materials used in constructing a conservatory is smaller and less expensive than that of an extension. So if you are looking to create usable space without breaking the bank, want you want is definitely a conservatory.