Skipping Stone Design

Skipping Stone Design

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Designing with Large Area Rugs: How to Make them Work in Your Home

While you know that redecorating your home to give it a new feel is a refreshing experience, you likely didn’t know that there are scientifically proven health benefits to doing so.

Redecorating a room helps to improve mental health by giving the person who lives there higher self-esteem and lowering the risks of depression. It also helps people to move forward with the times ensuring they’re not mentally stuck in the past.

One of the biggest factors that makes a room great is an area rug. Since large area rugs are such a prominent feature in any room, there’s no getting around the need to find the perfect one. These central features to any room come in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors that tie the rest of the decor together.

Here, we’re going to give you a few pointers on how to choose a large area rug to go with any room in your home.

Do Your Research

Before deciding on what kind of rug you want to buy for any room in your home, it’s crucial that you do your research. This means that you’ll want to look at images on sites like Pinterest to get home decorating ideas. You can then emulate what you like and make more informed decisions about your rug purchases.

Another important thing to consider is your budget for redecorating your home. It isn’t worth going into debt because you want a ridiculously expensive rug. You’re also going to want to save for other parts of your home decor, so don’t spend all your money on one thing.

Instead, head over to this site and shop for rugs in a variety of styles at an affordable price!

Look at Varying Styles

There is an infinite amount of aesthetics for home decor, and therefore there are an infinite amount of rug types that you can choose from for your home. Some of the most common styles are shag carpets for that 80s groove, soft wool carpets that feel luxurious between your toes, and silk that gives your room an aristocratic feel.

When selecting a style of rug, whether or not you want it to be patterned is also a consideration. Solid color rugs are nice, but why not add a border to it for a multicolor scheme? Also, geometric and oriental rugs make almost any room look alive because of their creative and unique patterns.

Sizes and Shapes

Once you know the aesthetic you’re aiming for, you’ll need to take care of practical concerns regarding the size and shape of your area rug.

Before you can get shopping, get out a tape measure and figure out how much space you have to cover. Be sure that you’re precise with your measurements. A miscalculation of even an inch can look awkward, and you can’t cut part of a rug off.

You’re also going to need to consider the shape of your room when selecting a rug. Unless your space is a perfect rectangle, which is unlikely, then you may have to get creative. You can get multiple area rugs and lay them out across the space if you want to fill the entire floor up!

Consider Your Colors

It’s a scientific fact that color affects our mood. It puts us in specific states of mind, making us associate the space we’re in with certain emotions. This means that choosing the right color area rug is crucial in making your space somewhere you enjoy being.

Of course, everyone is different. We all have our own likes and dislikes, so simply getting an area rug in your favorite color and using varying shades of it for decor is a great way to go!

If you aren’t sure what you want, though, color psychology can help. For a calming, mellow space, blues are likely the right option for you. If you want to feel energized in a space used for productive purposes, yellow’s a great choice.

Decide on Your Decor

A lot of people forget to match different parts of their decor to each other, but this becomes incredibly problematic once the varying items are installed. For example, if you choose a bright pink area rug but fail to remember the forest green lamps you bought earlier, that all will clash pretty badly with your dandelion sofa.

This can also happen with patterns, and a lot of people accidentally mix and match in ways that become a terrible eyesore. If you have opposing patterns or make the room too busy by having too much going on, it can really make the head spin. Be sure that you have a good mix of similar patterns and corresponding colors.

That isn’t to say that you need to make everything exactly the shade of purple. There are productive and gorgeous ways you can mix and match your decor to make each piece both stand out and blend in.

Get Large Area Rugs

While redecorating is always a challenge, it’s also a lot of fun. Choosing an area rug for each room is one of the most fun tasks of all. After all, there’s a lot to explore and a lot of ways they can be used to give your home a fresh feel.

Now that you know how to choose the best large area rugs for every room in your home it’s time to learn more about decorating so you can draw everything together. Check out the “lifestyle” tab on our page to get more tips for living your best life.

Self Storage Tips: What You Should and Shouldn’t Store in Your Unit

Whether you need some extra space temporarily or long-term, renting a storage space is a good solution. However, not every household item is ideal for unit storage.

If you have valuables or sentimental items that you’re considering for storage, it’s necessary to discern whether they are safe in a storage unit. There are some belongings that may need extra packing before they’re put away.

If you’re ready to pack up, make sure to review the important self storage tips listed below.

Don’t Pack Perishables

Perishables are anything that goes bad quickly. This is usually food, but it depends on how it is stored. Canned food is not perishable because it has a long shelf life and is usually allowed in storage units.

These items are not allowed because they can spoil and create bad odors or lead to pest infestation. It will not only be unpleasant for you but can affect other units as well.

Don’t Pack Living Things

It may seem rather obvious that living things don’t fare well in a storage unit, but some new renters are unaware. Whether it’s an animal or a plant, it’s typically not allowed. There have even been cases where people have tried to use storage units as a living space.

Don’t Pack Hazardous Items

Packing hazardous items can endanger everyone. The list of hazardous items may include some things you didn’t realize. For example, flammable or explosive items like gasoline, or even paint, cannot be stored.

This category also includes weapons, illegal goods, and anything toxic. Basically, anything that can harm others.

Websites like this Canadian self storage one will detail what is and is not allowed in their storage units.

Do Pack Household Items

Household items are ideal for a self storage unit. Most general items are perfect for storing away. This includes basic things like shelving, books, furniture, office equipment, and kitchen things.

These items can be stored if you’re moving, have an extra guest staying for a while, or just making a life transition.

Do Pack Seasonal Items

Seasonal items are also perfect for self storage. Anyone with a full household, or a small living space, knows how much room winter clothes can take up. Conversely, you can free up space for winter by packing away your summer clothes at the end of the season.

Do Pack Electronics and Appliances

Although some electronics or appliances may be considered “valuables,” many are relatively cheap. Whether they’re older models, used, or just commonplace, a storage unit can be a good place for the if you’re running out of room at home.

It’s important to note that electronics and appliances fare better in climate-controlled storage units.

More Self Storage Tips

Before you pack up your goods, don’t forget to double-check these crucial self storage tips. Also, make sure to ask your self storage unit company for their particular rules and guidelines. Some companies may vary.

For more useful tips about self storage and beyond, you can check out the “tips” section of our blog.

5 Easy Tips for Fitting Your Interior Design into Your Home Budget

Every year, people spend billions of dollars on decorating and renovating their homes.

If you’re planning to make some changes to yours, you might be worried about the huge impending costs. You don’t have to be. With the right planning and preparation, you can renovate on a budget.

In this post, we’ll give you some easy tips to follow.

How to Keep Your Interior Design Costs Under Control

A beautiful home doesn’t have to break the bank. Read on to find out how to decorate yours on a budget.

1. Make a Wishlist

Start out by making a wishlist for everything you’d want for your home.

Once you have a list of items that you want, rank them in the order of importance to you. It’s inevitable that some of them will have to go, so this will make those decisions easier and less painful.

Then, compare your budget to your wishlist. See what you can afford to keep, and eliminate the things you can’t.

If you skip this step and go straight to planning or shopping, you’ll end up spending far more than you need to.

2. Have a Buffer

Any mortgage broker will tell you that home projects always come with some unexpected costs. There could be extra fees for contractors or other services, or a small maintenance task could turn into a huge remodeling job.

No matter how detailed your budget is, you can’t guarantee that everything will go to plan. That’s why you need to have a buffer in your budget to keep safe.

If you budget for every last penny that you can afford to spend, any extra costs that take you by surprise will throw a wrench in your plans. Instead, allow for an extra 10-20% if possible. That way, you’ll be prepared for anything and everything.

3. Be Strict

It can be easy to get carried away and start spending extra money on things you hadn’t planned for.

When you fall in love with certain furniture or decor, you might end up throwing caution to the wind and forgetting about your budget altogether. To avoid this, refer back to your budget before every purchase to keep yourself in check.

4. Shop Around

Don’t just go for the first thing you see. Shop around and weigh up your options.

When you’re comparing prices, make sure you factor in any extra costs, such as delivery and installation fees. Take the time to check out lots of different suppliers, and you’ll eventually find options that match both your vision and your budget.

5. Reuse and Repurpose

You don’t have to buy everything brand new. You can find some incredible second-hand pieces that will add character to your home.

You could even repurpose old furniture to make new pieces of your own. Either way, you’ll save money.

Get More Easy Tips

At Skipping Stones Design, we’ve got hundreds of easy tips for homeowners. Whether you’re looking to build, decorate, buy or sell your home, we can help you.

See our tips page for more advice on how to make the most of your home.

How to Get Rid of a House That Won’t Sell: 10 Options You Can Try

Zig Ziggler the business guru often spoke and wrote about selling. He said it was about transferring feelings. When you are struggling to sell a home, you are as well to consider how much your own feelings are restricting your objective choices.

Selling your home isn’t always as easy as it sounds. Read this guide to learn how to get rid of a house that won’t sell and get the money you deserve.

How to Get Rid of a House That Won’t Sell

If your home is not selling then you have to check whether you are expecting too much. It might be about money but that’s not the only thing to consider. Take a hard look at the options.

1. Find the Right Price

Finding the right price is not easy. Find out what other properties have sold for in your area. Make sure you are comparing like with like.

If you cannot find a comparable home than make some adjustments to take account of the number of rooms, size of the plot and other features. A reputable agent should be able to advise you about what sale price you could expect.

Be careful not to be seduced by estate agents who hope to seduce you by suggesting higher than realistic sale prices. Some agents will do this to win your business and then seek a price reduction later when the house does not sell. Compare the price suggestions of several agents before committing to an agent.

Sometimes the right thing to do is to reduce the selling price. You may have to accept that your house is not worth as much as you hoped.

2. Check the Marketing

Take a hard look at the marketing effort that has gone into your house sale. Be critical about the whole package. Try to view it as a prospective buyer would.

Ask friends and family to investigate marketing. Can they find internet listings? Does the house seem attractive and do descriptions appeal to potential buyers?

3. Don’t Sell, Yet

When you come to the market is very important for a quick and rewarding sale. If you have any choice about when to sell, try to avoid times that will be difficult.

Avoid times when vacations will distract people from buying. Avoid trying to sell at a time when there is a national or local period of uncertainty.

Typical problem times are election periods or when world events are unsettling political or economic stability. Local employment problems or home building activity can also create local housing market disruption.

4. Make Improvements

It’s always important to get feedback from prospective buyers, especially if they did not buy the house. They can give you insights into the problems with the house as they see it. After all, it’s the prospective buyer’s view that matters.

What would have made the house more attractive to the buyers? Is there something in particular that turned them off? These are not necessarily problems you cannot overcome.

If you have got some funds you might find it more cost-effective to invest a little in improving the property to make a sale. If this is less than a potential price reduction it will be a good investment.

Be careful not to be sucked into making major investments that are unlikely to get a return but there are many small changes you could make if you have feedback indicating that they would make a difference.

For example, you might have feedback that the rooms appear small and dark. A quick re-decoration with light colors can create a clean, light and surprisingly room expanding effect.

5. Accent the Positive

Are the benefits of your home being accented effectively? If you are worried that your house is not selling you are probably more focused on your home’s flaws. There is another way to think about this.

If your home is apparently suffering from a major negative, try to present the positive side of it. If your home is near a rail line and so is affected by noise, make sure you address this head-on. Acknowledge the problem but make big noises about the double glazing you have fitted to counteract the noise.

6. Try Being a Landlord

If you can’t sell your home at the moment, you could put off the need to sell by becoming a landlord. A tenant could pay rent and help mitigate the cost of not selling. It’s even possible that today’s tenant could be tomorrow’s buyer.

A short-term tenancy need not stop you from selling but it could sweeten the pill of a delayed sale. If you have to move out and can afford to do so without selling your home this temporary solution can help back the log jam. The rent you earn could also pay for you to rent a home in the place you want to move to.

Being a landlord is not a simple matter. If you have no experience of being a landlord, you may find it easier to rent through an agent. They can deal with management issues and advise on insurance, regulatory obligations and help with the legalities of leases.

7. Holiday Let

An alternative to being a landlord is to rent your home as a holiday let. This would be especially applicable if your home is in a desirable area. It doesn’t have to be in a resort as many city locations are suitable for visitors vacationing in a city.

8. Sell to We Buy Any House

You could sell to a buyer who offers, “we buy any house” solutions. They buy a house in any condition and rapidly. It could be just what you are looking for.

Finding a buyer with cash and the ability to complete a sale with no chain may be the beak you need. It allows you to progress with a purchase and to move on from your old house.

9. Change Agents

Are your agents doing a good enough job? Check their work and ask for details of any marketing activity they have done. If they are not doing a good job check the terms of any agreement you have with them and consider changing agents.

Is photography professional and showing off the house to the best effect. Is marketing reaching relevant buyers? For example, if your home is suitable for first-time buyers, is the agent appropriate for that niche.

10. Short Sale

A short sale is when your selling price is not sufficient to cover the value of a mortgage you have on the house. Discuss any short sale with your lender. This might be an option you don’t want to take but sometimes there is no alternative.

Think Again

Stop wondering how to get rid of a house that won’t sell. If something is inhibiting people from buying, try changing something.  You may interest a new set of buyers.

Browse our blog site for more tips for homeowners.

Advantages of Having a Fitted Wardrobe in Your Bedroom

If you’re thinking of ways to improve your bedroom, you might have to consider installing a fitted wardrobe. It might be costly, but it’s worth the price. You can choose from several designs and styles. You can also customize the size and other details depending on your preference and needs. These are the other benefits of choosing a fitted wardrobe.

view of bedroom with spherical pendant lamp

It’s permanent 

Once the wardrobe is in your bedroom, it will stay there for good. You don’t have to think about how you can redesign your bedroom later. You know that the fitted wardrobe will look good in its permanent location.

You can decide every detail

Not everyone has the same needs in wardrobes. You can determine how many panels and drawers you need. You can even have a jewellery box inside if you want. The wardrobe can be a reflection of your personality. It also helps you keep all the things you need in one place. You won’t have a messy bedroom anymore because your clothes are all over it.

The room looks more appealing

Imagine having a sliding wardrobe in your bedroom. It spruces up the usual look of your room. If you invite guests to come over, they will feel fascinated with this addition to your room. You can even redecorate your room around the fitted wardrobe theme.

You can save space

Since the fitted wardrobe gets attached to a wall, it means that it won’t occupy more space in your bedroom. Therefore, it’s perfect for those who live in a small bedroom. You can add other things now since you saved enough space with the fitted wardrobe.

It’s a durable investment

You can hire quality installers for a fitted wardrobe. They will help make sure that the wardrobe lasts for a long time. The quality of the materials used along with the construction detail will help ensure that the wardrobe lasts long.

You can increase the value of your property

Fitted wardrobes are becoming a trend. It’s easier for you to sell your house at a higher price later when potential buyers see that you have a fitted wardrobe. It means that there’s no need for them to invest in a quality closet. They already get one upon buying the house.

Given these reasons, it’s time for you to consider installing a fitted wardrobe. It would look great in your bedroom and you will feel excited to have one.

List the details that you want to see in your fitted wardrobe. You can get inspiration from magazines or online home design websites. You can also determine what you need so the planning process will go smoothly. Of course, you need to have a clear budget. The person doing the wardrobe can work within the amount you’re willing to pay. Since it’s a long-term investment, you have to spend enough money. Don’t try to cut the cost since it could adversely impact the quality of the wardrobe and it might not last long.

 

 

Glass Pool Fencing on Gold Coast

Everyone knows that Australia is home to some nasty critters, and there is no reason why it’s a surprise. The climate provides excellent chances for numerous reptiles, creatures, and more. Not only that, but if you have loved ones or children, you want to know they’re safe, and that your pool is safe from intruders, and so much more. That’s when you’ll want to consider glass pool fencing, especially if you’re in the Gold Coast area. In this guide, we’re going to talk about how you can find and buy the best glass pool fencing on the Gold Coast.

Standards of Quality are Important

If you’re looking to build a glass pool fence, you need to know that every single panel must conform with Australian standard regulations, which state that they can’t be manufactured with equipment or in processes that are outdated, and that are conventional. Otherwise, you can also make sure that each glass panel is properly certified with the highest grade possible.

Consider Your Thickness

If you’re looking to get the most out of your glass panels, you want to ensure that your panels on average are anywhere from 6mm to 12 mm in thickness. If you’re wanting extra security, you can even choose thicker panels. Most people recommend thick panels, because they’re more durable, and can hold up to not only extreme punishment and abuse, but also from the various weather ailments that plague the Gold Coast area.

Size of the panels also matters on how choose you want to make your thickness of each individual panels. The larger the panel, the thicker it should be. This is because you’ll avoid breakage a lot more, and every panel needs to be big enough that people won’t try to climb over them and hop into your pool for security measures.

Framed or Frameless?

This is a matter of personal choice really. Some people think that framed glass panels are more secure, but that’s merely an illusion. Anything that’s glass can eventually get broken. Therefore, it’s important to know that framed glass panels, while being only a little bit more secure, can add some design elements, but it doesn’t give you the full visibility of having beautifully crafted frameless panels. That being said, you need to know this could actually make your pool more visible to people, and attract attention to your area. Not only that, but if you’re at the wrong angle, you may not see someone fall into the pool due to the fact that frames are in the way.

Conclusion

Total Vision pool fencing offers high grade quality panes of glass specifically designed for your pool or hot tub area and you can find more info here. This allows you to have full visibility, and have the elegance and style of living in luxury, even if you don’t. If you have any questions, they have accredited registration and licenses in order to professionally install any of your glass pool fencing solutions as well. The company is a family owned company and they’ve been around since the early 2000’s.

 

The Added Benefits Of Adding A Security Surveillance System To Your Home

Are you wondering the best way to protect yourself from a home invasion?

It’s an unfortunate reality that home invasions are as common as they are today. In fact, studies have found that more than 3.7 million homes are broken into each year in the United States alone.

When we consider this fact, it’s easy to see why it’s become so imperative to take measures in protecting your home. All in all, the best way to protect your home is to install a security surveillance system.

This type of system is effective for deterring invaders from entering your home in the first place. However, a security surveillance system also carries a number of other benefits to homeowners as well.

If you’ve been considering installing a security surveillance system, you’re going to want to read this. We’re sharing six incredible benefits that such a system will have on your home and your peace of mind.

1. Deters Intruders

It’s safe to say that a security surveillance system is the best way to deter intruders in the first place.

The sheer presence of security cameras is going to encourage intruders to step away from your home. In fact, a study conducted with criminals found that 11 of the 12 criminals admitted to being deterred by connected homes.

After spotting surveillance, a criminal is going to move onto another home that is not evidently under surveillance. This is especially helpful to homes that are located in unlit areas and those that are not in close proximity to their neighbors.

The fact of the matter is simple: security footage today is incredibly advanced. Intruders are increasingly aware of this fact and they’re going to do everything that can do avoid being captured on camera.

2. Allows for Footage of Your Home

Did you hear a noise that is seemingly coming from your front door? Or, what about a commotion near the side of your house?

When this happens, it’s safe to say that tending to these areas in person can feel daunting. When we perceive danger, it’s only natural to freeze and experience a degree of panic.

With a security surveillance system, you can simply check the cameras to see if anything or anyone is present. This helps to provide peace of mind without actually having to subject yourself to any potential dangers.

Most security surveillance systems nowadays connect to your smartphone device. This will allow you to easily view your cameras from your phone app. If you’re able to physically see that someone is there, you can take the next step and call the police.

3. Can Check in on Children and Pets

When you’re away from the home, having a security surveillance system will allow you to check in on your home.

This is especially helpful for those that have pets or young children at home. While young children are not to be left unattended, this can allow you to check in on your children whilst they are under someone else’s supervision.

This can provide peace of mind to homeowners that are away from the home and away from their pets.

4. Allows for Footage for the Future

In the unfortunate circumstance that a break-in does happen, your security footage will record this break-in.

This means that you will have a photo of the invader that you can provide to the police. From here, the police will take extra measures to locate this person and to provide additional protection to your home.

This is why having good quality security cameras is so important. Cameras such as ADT cameras are known to be one of the best quality options for video surveillance. Pictures are incredibly clear and easily accessible on your smartphone device.

5. Save Money on Homeowner’s Insurance

Did you know that having a security surveillance system isn’t just beneficial to the safety of your home?

Instead, this type of system will actually provide a significant benefit to your wallet. When it comes to homeowner’s insurance, having a security surveillance system is going to save you a large degree of money. Today, lenders understand that this type of surveillance adds an extra layer of protection to your home.

This is because homes under surveillance typically result in lower home insurance premiums. This type of savings could yield enough to even cover the cost of a security surveillance system altogether.

6. Greater Peace of Mind

At the end of the day, not having to stress over the safety of your home is priceless.

This is especially true if you live in an urban area, are single or have young children to care for. To know that your home is protected and that invaders are going to be deterred from your home will provide invaluable peace of mind.

With this, you’re going to find that you sleep more soundly and feel more comfortable in your daily life at home.

Arm Yourself With a Security Surveillance System

In today’s day and age, having a security surveillance system is becoming more commonplace for homeowners.

In part, this is because homeowners are willing to go the extra mile to protect their home. This is all the while residents are home, at work or away on an extended vacation.

But, it’s also due to the fact that this type of system has become more cost-effective. While this type of surveillance was once a prospect for the rich, it’s now become relatively affordable to the average homeowner.

The truth is, security surveillance systems are affordable and incredibly effective at deterring home invaders. Not only will invadors be more likely to avoid targetting your home, but you’re also going to benefit from lower home insurance costs and the ability to survey your home on a daily basis.

All in all, the benefits of having a security surveillance system are immeasurable. If you’re looking to read more about everything to do with homes, be sure to bookmark our page!

Bathroom Update: 5 Key Benefits of Renovating Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are reclaiming their throne!

Kitchen renovations are stepping down and bathrooms are stepping up. Studies show a bathroom update is the first choice for 81% of homeowners.

So, why are kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms making their way to the bottom of the to-do list? People are realizing the impact a less expensive, small scale bathroom renovation has to offer.

All across the country, homeowners are transforming their ordinary bathrooms into extraordinary spaces. On top of enjoying the space more, they also are saving money, improving reliability, increasing their home’s value, and more! Read on to learn the 5 key benefits of remodeling your bathroom.

1. Increase Value with a Bathroom Update

You can add value to your home with both major and minor bathroom renovations. A minor bathroom remodel would include things like replacing the tub, floorings, fixtures, and vanity. To add in even more value, you would want to go a step further by adding in an extra coat of paint.

If your main goal is to add value, rather than enjoy the space, you’ll want to plan accordingly. Rather than adding in the colors or decor style you prefer, you’ll need to think long term.

Will the colors you’re choosing still be trendy in the future? Renovating a bathroom just for resell purposes means having to predict what sellers will be looking for.

Avoid redoing your bathroom with any extreme new styles that only you might prefer. Instead, you’ll need to choose decorating trends that are likely to stay popular for years to come.

2. Improve Bathroom Functionality

When a bathroom isn’t intentionally designed and decorated, it invites in a hodgepodge of clutter. When you give your bathroom a makeover you can add in extra storage space to get rid of the mess.

Here are a few suggestions to improve the storage space in your bathroom:

  • Extra towel rack
  • Dual-purpose mirror
  • Basket shelf
  • Tiered storage
  • Adhesive hooks

Now towels, toiletries, kids’ toys, and cleaners will all have a place to go. It’s amazing how much better you’ll feel walking into a decluttered bathroom.

On top of looking and feeling better, decluttered bathrooms are also safer. No longer will you have to worry about tripping on items laying about the floor.

Instead of looking like a disaster your bathroom will be a place of peace. An area you look forward to spending time in.

3. Save Money

You probably don’t think of saving money when you hear the words “bathroom update”. After all, aren’t updates supposed to cost money, not save it?

Well, it turns out updating your bathroom can do both! When you update your bathroom with energy-efficient technology you’ll save money over time. In some cases, the money you save outweighs the entire expense of the update.

One of the best ways to save money with your bathroom remodel is to install low-flow fixtures.

These fixtures reduce the amount of water used and the energy needed to heat the water. There are a lot of water-saving products you have to choose from.

Here are some of the different low flow fixtures that can save you money:

  • Low-flow toilets
  • Low-flow showerheads
  • Low-flow faucets

Studies show that these water-saving fixtures can reduce water consumption by 20% or more. For example, a regular shower head uses 2.5 gallons every single minute, while a low-flow showerhead only needs to use 2 gallons of water per minute. This can save over 2,000 gallons of water every year!

4. Enjoy More Luxury

Do you dream of living a more luxurious life? A bathroom update is a fast way to turn a boring room into a special spa-like experience.

It may be hard to imagine your restroom as a place for serene relaxation. However, with a few simple additions, you can easily add in a little luxury.

The best part is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make your bathroom area appear expensive. Here are a few ways you can turn an ordinary bathroom into a place of luxury:

  • Gold accents
  • Potted plants
  • Chic containers

Gold accents made the top of our list because of their ability to transform small spaces. Gold-toned metals will infuse your bathroom with a warm and welcoming feeling, similar to the feeling someone might have when using a bathroom at a 5-star resort.

Realistic-looking fake plants (or real potted plants, if you have a window) will help bring your bathroom space to life. Choose plants that have a fresh look to help brighten up the room. If you want to make your bathroom into a tropical paradise, pick plants that have colorful flower blossoms.

5. Re-Energize Your Day

Every day you get up and look at yourself in the mirror. What if instead of looking in a regular boring rectangular mirror, you were looking into a piece of art? Installing unusual looking mirrors can elevate your bathroom decor to a whole new level.

Try installing a larger than a normal-sized mirror that has an unusual shape. Here are a few of the different types of unique mirrors you should consider:

  • Oval
  • Triangle
  • Circular
  • Oblong

Next, make sure the mirror you choose has an original type of finish. A tortoiseshell or gold finish will be sure to help your mirror stand out from the rest.

Find Inspiration

Now you know more about the benefits of completing a bathroom update. Saving money, enjoying your space, and living in luxury are all motivating factors to start remodeling today.

As you approach your upcoming bathroom remodel, you might find yourself wondering, “Where do I begin?” If you’re looking for inspiration, make sure to check out the other articles on our site.

10 Essential Plumber Tools Every Handyman Should Know

There are more than 500,000 plumbers in the U.S. today. And just about all of them will tell you that they wouldn’t be able to perform their jobs without easy access to certain tools.

A plumber can have all the experience in the world when it comes to making repairs. But if they don’t have the right tools in their truck, they’re not going to be able to tackle plumbing problems and fix them.

If you’re a handyman who dabbles in plumbing every now and then, you should make sure that you have these tools nearby at all times. Here are 10 essential plumber tools that every handyman needs.

1. Plunger

The vast majority of plumbing issues within a home or business can be fixed with a simple plunger. From clogged toilets to slow-moving drains, you can get rid of many plumbing problems by turning to a trusty plunger.

2. Hand Auger

Although plungers are very effective as far as clearing clogs in a plumbing system is concerned, there are some stubborn clogs that you won’t be able to knock out with a plunger. When this is the case, it helps to have a hand auger around.

Also referred to as a plumber’s snake, a hand auger allows you to send a flexible metal cable down into plumbing pipes to clear a clog. You can remove clogs from toilets, sinks, showers, and more in a matter of minutes with a hand auger.

3. Adjustable Wrench

There are a variety of hand tools that every good plumber needs to have. You could argue that an adjustable wrench is the most important hand tool of the bunch.

Adjustable wrenches are designed to help plumbers and handymen alike tighten and loosen hex-shaped nuts. Whether you’re installing a new kitchen sink or replacing an old showerhead, it’s good to have an adjustable wrench that’s up for the challenge.

4. Tongue-and-Groove Pliers

Plumbers and handymen often have to work in confined spaces when working on plumbing projects. Therefore, it’s essential for them to have a tool that makes it easy to grab and pull on things that they need to tighten or loosen.

Tongue-and-groove pliers, also called Channellocks, are the perfect plumber tools for this exact purpose. Whether you’re trying to get to something that’s difficult to reach or attempting to hold something in place, tongue-and-groove pliers will get the job done.

5. Basin Wrench

The nuts that hold sinks in place can be almost impossible for you to reach with a regular wrench. There isn’t enough room for you to fit a wrench and use it.

It makes basin wrenches invaluable plumber tools for those who are frequently tasked with installing and removing kitchen and bathroom sinks. These wrenches have a long shaft, as well as a swiveling jaw, that can lock tight onto nuts located behind sinks and help to tighten or loosen them.

6. Hacksaw

If you spend enough time working on plumbing systems, there will come times when you’ll need to cut plumbing pipes, hardware, and even nuts and bolts to remove them from a plumbing system. A good hacksaw will help you do it.

Hacksaws can be used to cut everything from metal and plastic plumbing pipes to the nuts and bolts that are used to keep them in place. Just make sure you have plenty of fresh blades for your hacksaw in your toolbox so that you don’t ever get stuck trying to use a dull one.

7. Pipe Cutters

When you’re installing new plumbing pipes in a plumbing system, you’ll often need to cut them down to size so that they’ll fit. Pipe cutters will help you carry out this task in no time.

Pipe cutters should be able to tackle both metal and plastic plumbing pipes without a problem. You can cut plumbing pipes so you can install them and ensure that they fit properly.

8. Metal File

After you cut metal plumbing pipes, the edges of them will be anything but smooth. You shouldn’t install them until you’re able to file down the rough edges.

Keeping a metal file in your toolbox will make it super easy to do away with rough edges on metal plumbing pipes. There are half-round metal files as well as rat-tail metal files that can handle the edges on any metal plumbing pipes with ease.

9. Plumber’s Putty

Plumber’s putty is a moldable material that can be utilized to create watertight seals around plumbing pipes. It should not be used on pipes that are going to be subjected to pressure. But it’s great for using on drainpipes and other plumbing connections where pressure isn’t a factor.

One thing worth noting is that plumber’s putty is not the same thing as duct sealant, which is another soft compound that handymen can use for HVAC projects. When you compare here, you’ll see what sets plumber’s putty apart from duct sealant.

Make sure you use plumber’s putty on plumbing jobs and save duct sealant for HVAC repairs.

10. Propane Torch

If you feel comfortable using one, a propane torch is a great tool to have around when you’re working on plumbing projects. It can be used to solder copper plumbing pipes and to make repairs to them.

Look for a self-igniting torch that won’t require you to carry around a pack of matches with it.

Add These Plumber Tools to Your Toolbox Today

When you have all of these plumber tools in your toolbox, you should be ready to tackle any plumbing project. It’s a good idea to invest in them before you start providing handyman services.

It’s also a good idea to buy high-quality tools if you plan to work on plumbing systems. Your tools are going to get put to the test early and often, and the last thing you want is for them to give out on you right in the middle of a plumbing job.

Now that you have the tools you need, check out our blog to learn more about some basic plumbing repairs.

What Is the Ideal Temperature to Set Your AC Thermostat?

Approximately 87 percent of homes in the U.S. have an air conditioning system. In fact, air conditioning is more common in homes these days than garages, dining rooms, and even dishwashers.

An air conditioner is a must for many homeowners, especially those who live in warm parts of the country. They can definitely be a drain on your energy bill, though, especially when you don’t set them to the right temperature.

If you’re not sure what the best temperature is for your AC thermostat, keep reading. Listed below are some tips to help you keep your house cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.

Choosing the Right Temperature

First of all, how do you determine which temperature is best for your thermostat?

Setting your thermostat to one temperature will help to regulate it and ensure that your house stays cool throughout the day. That way, you don’t have to turn it on and adjust it every time things get too hot to handle.

Daytime Recommendations

During the daytime, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 78 degrees. This temperature, for most people, helps them to feel cool (as long as they’re dressed for the weather) without running up their energy bills.

If you really want to lower your bill, you may want to try raising your thermostat to 85 degrees. It will be warmer inside your home, but it can also cut your cooling bill by 5-15 percent.

Nighttime Recommendations

In the evening, since it’s naturally cooler outside, you can turn your thermostat up a little higher. If you set your thermostat to 82 degrees, you can lower your air conditioning bill quite a bit.

Many people find they can still sleep comfortably while doing this. For those who prefer a cooler bedroom, though, opening the windows or running a ceiling fan can be a good compromise.

If you sleep with the windows open, just make sure you close them early in the morning while it’s still cool. This traps that cool air inside so your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your house back down.

Out-of-Town Recommendations

Nobody wants to come home from vacation to an extra-hot house. At the same time, though, they also don’t want to pay a ton of money to cool down a house that no one’s living in.

When you’re heading out of town, compromise and set your thermostat a little higher (88 degrees is a good setting for most people). This will keep your house from turning into an oven, but it’ll also save you from racking up unnecessary charges on your energy bill.

Maximizing Coolness

There are lots of other steps you can take to maximize the coolness of your home without being too reliant on the air conditioner. Keep these other strategies in mind so you can keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature while also staying cool:

  • Draw the curtains or close the blinds to block out sunlight during the hottest part of the day
  • Seal your windows and doors to keep cold air from flowing out
  • Minimize the use of heat-generating appliances like ovens, stoves, and dishwashers, during the daytime

Installing and running ceiling fans can help you to spread the cool air from your air conditioner a bit farther. Ceiling fans use way less energy than the air conditioner, too, so try to utilize them whenever you can.

Maintaining the Right Temperature

Once you’ve set your AC thermostat to your preferred temperature, chances are you want to keep your home at that temperature while the warm weather lasts. Sometimes, that’s easier said than done, though, especially if your air conditioner is not functioning properly.

If you’ve noticed that it doesn’t maintain temperature after you’ve set it, it’s possible that you need to invest in professional ac repair or more thorough ac maintenance.

Here are some tips to help you keep your air conditioner working properly:

Change the Filter

During the hottest months of the year, when you’re running your air conditioner a lot, it’s best to change the filter once per month. This helps the unit to run in the most efficient way possible. It also helps you to improve the air quality in your home.

Clean the Fins and Coils

Keep the fins and coils on your air conditioning unit clean and in good repair, too. If you notice any damage to the fins, get them replaced as soon as possible.

Bent fins can cause inefficient airflow, and dirty coils can prevent your air conditioner from absorbing heat and running in an efficient way.

Inspect the Drain

Make sure you’re inspecting the condensate drain, too. If this drain gets clogged, your air conditioner won’t drain well and could be more prone to inefficiency or breakdowns altogether.

Schedule Maintenance

Finally, don’t forget to schedule regular AC maintenance.

Have a professional come out and check your unit at least once per year to ensure everything is in good working order. This will help you catch potential problems right away before they turn into larger, more expensive issues.

Time to Adjust Your AC Thermostat

As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the ideal temperature for your AC thermostat. Everyone’s preferences are a little different, of course.

If you keep the tips listed above in mind, though, you’ll have an easier time determining the best temperature that keeps you cool in your home without causing your energy bill to skyrocket.

Do you need more advice on keeping your home cool and comfortable? If so, check out some of our other home repair and home renovation articles today. We’ve got lots of great pieces on our site that will give you all the tools you need.