Tips

Spring is an important season for your lawn. With the right care, you will be able to prep it for a year of healthy growth. On the other hand, if you neglect it – your lawn could suffer for the rest of the year.

The good news is that spring lawn care really isn’t all that difficult, nor is it a lot of work – as long as you know what to do:

• Properly rake your lawn and remove thatch

People often assume that they only need to rake their lawn in the autumn, and that simply isn’t true. By raking your lawn in spring you can not only remove any dead leaves, but also the thatch (i.e. dead grass) that will have accumulated.

Thatch can block air, water and nutrients from reaching the roots of your grass – which is why you need to remove it. On top of that too much thatch can get in the way when you mow your lawn too.

• Prevent weeds

One of the first steps you should take to make sure your lawn is on the right track is to prevent any weeds. If crabgrass, dollarweed, clover or other weeds have been an issue in the past you should try to use pre-emergent herbicides so that the seeds that dropped in the summer don’t get the chance to germinate.

For perennial or winter weeds you could find the right post-emergent herbicide, dig them out manually, or look for all-in-one herbicides.

• Repair bare spots by overseeding

Technically spring isn’t the best time to repair bare spots in your lawn, but the alternative is waiting until autumn to get it done. If you would rather not wait that long, you can overseed your lawn to fix them.

To help ensure the bare spots are filled out, try applying a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer when you first overseed your lawn. In five weeks when the grass has germinated you can apply a quick-release nitrogen fertilizer as well.

• Lightly fertilize with mulch

Fertilizing your lawn with mulch can help it to grow lush, but you should wait a few weeks into spring before you start so that the soil is warm. In most cases you should wait till the grass starts to green (i.e. after the first two or three mowings).

It would be best to come up with a schedule and plan out your fertilization for both spring and fall so that you don’t end up applying it too early and feeding the weeds.

If you follow all of these tips, you should be able to ensure that your lawn care is on the right track. As you can see none of the tasks are particularly difficult, but each of them will help to pave the way to a better lawn.

By ensuring that your spring lawn care is on point, you can avoid many issues in the future and help your grass to grow lush and even throughout the rest of the year.

Are you thinking of installing a new roof, and looking at the different options that are out there? As you may know there are many different types of materials that you can use for your roofing nowadays, and one of the more popular options right now is metal.

Keep in mind that just like any other type of roofing, metal roofs have both pros and cons. Before you decide whether or not it is the right option, you need to know about both.

Pros of Metal Roofing

The popularity of metal roofs is well deserved, and is due to the many advantages that it brings to the table. Some of its more notable qualities are:

• Impressive longevity and durability that allow it to typically last for four decades or more – which is more than double what other types of roofs provide. Metal roofing won’t corrode or crack, and is fire resistant and fungus proof too.
• Good energy efficiency due to the fact that it is reflective and will minimize heat. Typically a metal roof can reduce air-conditioning and cooling costs by 10 to 20 percent.
• Quick and easy installation with panels that are light and comes in sections. If you already have a different type of roofing installed, it may be possible to simply place the metal roofing on top of the material without any issues.
• Excellent in all climates as well as seasons. It can keep your home cool during hot summers, and help to prevent snow and ice from accumulating into snow dams during winter.

Cons of Metal Roofing

As attractive as metal roofing may be, it is not perfect and it does have drawbacks of its own. Some of the disadvantages of metal roofs are:

• Prohibitive upfront costs that can be up to two or three times more expensive than conventional types of roofing. In theory this is offset by the longevity and energy-efficiency of metal roofs, but it still means you’ll have to fork out more initially.
• Noise levels especially during heavy rain or hailstorms. While this can be mitigated by using additional insulation or adding structural barriers, there are limits to what can be done.
• Requires proper installation otherwise other problems may surface. For example metal roofs that are not properly installed may cause water to accumulate, or could end up loosening due to the metal’s expansion and contraction.

Final Words

Before you decide whether or not to install a metal roof, be sure you take into account all of the pros and cons described above. Keep in mind that this is a decision that should last you several decades, so it is best that you take your time and be sure about it.

If you do decide to go for metal roofing, the next step is to look at your options then find a qualified and reliable contractor. Be sure to look for one with the right experience, so that you can be assured that the installation will be done right.

Is your car slow to start? Guzzling gas? Emitting black smoke?

These are concerning issues for any car owner, but what you might not realize is that they can all be caused by one thing— a dirty air filter.

Air filters are essential to the running of any engine, and if they are dirty, you may be left with a hefty mechanic bill.

Read on to learn the most common signs of a dirty air filter, plus how you can deal with them.

1. Problems With Your Ignition

Is your ignition not starting on the first try, or seems to be much slower than it should in starting? If so, a dirty filter could be the culprit.

If your filter isn’t clean, it’s hard for air to get through the filter into the engine, via your spark plugs, which is what starts your car. You may also notice the engine misfiring as well, which can also be caused by the bad air filter.

Any suspected ignition problems should be investigated right away.

2. A Dirty Air Filter Causes Lower Mileage

If you drive regularly, you’re aware of how much mileage your car gets per tank of gas. There are many ways to improve gas mileage, but one way is to always have a clean filter.

If you start to notice that you’re filling up more often than normal, this could be caused because the engine isn’t receiving enough airflow, and therefore is working harder than it should be. This uses more gas, which means your fuel efficiency rate is no good.

Keeping your air filter clean is an easy way to save money at the pumps.

3. Black Exhaust Smoke

Black smoke coming from your exhaust pipe is never a good sign. If you notice this coming from your car, or even worse, flames, stop driving immediately and take your car to a mechanic.

Dark smoke can be a sign that fuel isn’t properly going through the combustion cycle, which can be caused by a dirty air filter.

A car with this problem can be very dangerous to drive and should be examined as soon as possible.

4. Air Filter Looks Dark

An easy way to check the condition of your air filter is with a visual inspection. The normal color of your air filter should be either white or off-white, so if you notice it looks grey, darker than it should, or full of small particles, it is probably a sign that it needs either changed or cleaned.

If you’re unsure of how to find your air filter, consult your car’s manual to find the exact location. It should be checked regularly by either yourself or a qualified mechanic.

An air filter cleaner can be an effective way to keep your car running smoothly.

Check Your Engine Today

Now that you’re aware of the serious and potentially expensive problems that can be caused by a dirty air filter, check your car and its engine today to make sure your air filter is clean.

With cars, prevention is the best medicine, and regular maintenance will go a long way to prevent vehicle problems in the future.

Did you find this article helpful? If so, head over to our blog and check out some of our other content!

 

When decorating your condominium, it’s important that you keep the total size of your space in mind. If you try to fit too many things in, it won’t be long until you feel like you’re squished in. In order to feel comfortable in a condo, it’s important to decorate it with the correct ratios.

That doesn’t mean that you can’t use a few large pieces of furniture here in there; however, they should be few and far between. A house that’s over crammed with very little floor space starts to feel messy or much faster. Therefore, when creating the interior design of your condo, keep these tips in mind.

 

Let In Plenty Of Light

 

One of the easiest ways to make a space look much larger than it is is to use natural light to your advantage. You can maximize the space that you have by opening all of your windows. Depending on what floor you live in, you may even want to consider adding a skylight.

 

In addition to natural light, you should also and plenty of lighting inside. Doing so will give the illusion of a much larger space.

 

Use Cohesive Colors

 

When choosing colors for your condo, it’s more pleasing for the eye if you choose colors that are unified. Use a cohesive color pattern and so that your space will flow together as if it’s one single piece of artwork. Get creative with your color palette and use colors that make you feel good. Most interior designers recommend using lighter colors in a condo because darker colors can make your space feel smaller.

 

If you like bright colors, consider using them on accent walls rather than every single wall. You may even choose to opt for a wallpaper, which can be a bold addition to your home’s design.

 

Get Creative With Storage

 

Unfortunately, small condominiums are not known for their plentiful storage space. It’s important to get creative when it comes to creating places to keep your belongings. Find unique places to put shelves and make use of baskets. When possible, buy furniture that can be used as storage as well. For example, consider buying a bed frame that has drawers that pull out for storage space.

Add Plenty Of Plants

 

When most people think of condos, the first thing that comes to mind is city life. While some people thrive in the cosmopolitan lifestyle, some people feel a lack of nature around them. It helps 2 add plenty of plants to your condo to give it a more natural feel.

 

Make sure that you place your plants where they receive plenty of sunlight, and don’t forget to water them.

 

 

 

 

When it comes to personal space, nothing offers this in our homes than the bathroom.

As it offers something valuable to us, so much the reason why we should keep it looking great and functioning well.

But you don’t need to put in the latest technology in your bathroom to make it look nice. As simple as lighting is, it can make a world of difference for you.

Proper lighting will not only add to aesthetic appeal, but it will also protect from mold buildup. If you open a part of your bathroom to accumulate natural light, it will have enough light and heat to prevent any mold from growing in your bathroom.

Go from Dark to Dazzling

Adding modern lighting to your bathroom will help in creating a more open and spacious area.

If your bathroom has a vanity area, light it up Venetian style. It will help ladies with their makeup and keep the area well lit so that it’s easy to navigate.

Modify the Space with Mood Lights

You don’t need to use bright lights all the time in your home renovation. Enough pleasant lighting is sufficient to make it look nice and feel good.

Put mood lights in the corners of the bathroom to give it a more relaxing atmosphere so that you can relax while you soak in your bathtub.

Light Up the Shower Area

Here’s a place where lighting is often neglected. Nothing will make you feel cleaner than seeing all the parts of your body while showering.

Only take note to light this area safely. Use waterproof or special lightings so that you reduce the risk of accidents in the shower area.

Match the Lighting to the Fixtures

Nothing will break the flow than mismatched lighting and bathroom fixtures. To make it look great and classy, make sure to keep the theme uniform throughout.

Ask your bathroom remodeling Los Angeles architect for the best match if you are unsure of what to put. This will give you good ideas on what to pair with your bathroom fixtures.

Consider Adding Layers

If you want to add a luxurious feel to your bathroom, add some layers.

Layers mean multiple lights from different sources. You need to choose the appropriate sources though. Choose scones, decorative lights, and lights with crystal or glass to get your desired effect.

Your bathroom will get a nice overall look after you have put enough light on it. If you’re asking for the bathroom remodel near me, it is always a good idea to have a copy of their previous works so that you can choose the one that fits your taste the best.

 

The average homeowner spends about $6,649 each year on home renovations and projects. Spending on projects around the house is a costly but essential undertaking for any homeowner, so you’re not alone when you decide that it’s time to switch things up inside your little corner of the world.

One of the most important parts of any home renovation is choosing new flooring. You’ll want something stylish, durable, and high-quality. When you look into materials that meet these qualifications, you’ll notice that all roads lead to oak.

Read on to discuss the difference between red oak and white oak flooring so that you can determine what kind of oak is right for your individual needs!

Color and Texture

The biggest difference between red oak and white oak is, of course, the color. Ironically, white oak flooring generally has a darker hue than red oak does. It tends to be a beige color that leans toward light brown. As a result of this, this wood tends to have a warm appearance that looks great with yellow, orange, or red wallpaper and decorations.

On the other hand, red oak is a bit lighter in color. It has a slightly pinkish tinge to it, but it’s more golden than not. While white oak is a brown-leaning beige, red oak could be said to be a white-leaning beige.

The grains of these two types of hardwood are also distinct from one another. All oak has swirling and wavy grain, giving it an organic and homelike feel. However, the grain of red oak tends to be a bit more unique insofar as that it’s more smooth to the touch.

When you run your fingers along white oak flooring, you’ll feel crevices and grooves where the grain is. However, since red oak is so smooth (especially after buffing and shining), you’ll be able to see the grain without feeling it.

Durability and Resistance

Because you’ll be using your flooring constantly, it’s essential that you get something that will last a long time.

The good news is that if you read more about oak flooring, you’ll find that every style is incredibly durable. Both materials are hard- white oak rates 1360 on the Janka scale of hardness and red oak comes in at 1290. This makes both types of flooring hard and durable enough that they’ll last for years barring disaster.

As you’ll notice in looking at the numbers, white oak is harder than red oak wood. For this reason, it doesn’t show dents or scratches. If you’re likely to drop things on the floor, you might want to go with white oak flooring. Not only that, but the high hardness means that the flooring is rot-resistant and unlikely to succumb to pest infestations.

Red oak is a bit softer. However, it’s unlikely to show dents and scratches on the surface because the grain patterns tend to be more organic. These crazy patterns continue to look amazing even when additional scratches are added because these imperfections just blend in with the grain.

The thing about red oak, though, is that it’s best for use indoors. It’s less resistant to rot and pests than white oak flooring is, though it should be alright as long as it isn’t used in an area with a lot of moisture. That isn’t to say that it won’t last a long time- it will! It just might be more susceptible to damage than the white oak alternative would be.

Styles and Vibes

Because of the smooth grain of red oak, people tend to view it as a classic that never goes out of style. Because of this, it’s perceived as a classier material for flooring that boasts a traditional style for your home. If you want to feel high-class, red oak is likely the way to go.

For this reason, red oak flooring is typically the right choice for homes that have a lot of antique furniture, rugs, or decorations. If you like history or vintage decorations, red oak flooring will perfectly complement your decor and make you feel like you’re in a bygone era. Pair your red oak flooring with some rich burgundy Victorian or Edwardian rugs as well as eggshell-white wall paint. It will look phenomenal.

On the other hand, you’ll want to use sleek white oak for a modern or contemporary feel around the house. White oak flooring is usually said to have a more 21st-century feel. This means that a house with a lot of technology or adherence to current trends will look great with this style.

Try getting yourself some organic, colorful lamps and statues in various shapes and sizes. In addition, you might want to paint the walls of the room that you use white oak flooring in a funky, bright color. Sky blue or canary yellow is sure the give the room a modern feel and funky flair that you love.

Red Oak vs White Oak Flooring: Which Is Better?

Red oak and white oak are two very different types of woods, each with their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. Which one is the right choice for your home is entirely up to you. After all, you’re the one who needs to decorate their home in a way that shows off your personal style, flair, and tastes!

Now that you know the main differences between red oak and white oak flooring, it’s time to get more tips on how to make your house as homelike as possible. Check out the ‘homes’ tab on our home page to get some more tips about both interior and exterior design and decor.

Have fun remodeling!

There’s that tree in your yard that just needs to go. You’ve thought about getting rid of it yourself, but now you’ve decided to go with a tree removal contractor. But just what is the cost of tree removal?

With so many variables, and different contractors, it’s easy to get confused. Fortunately, we’re here to help. Keep reading this guide and you’ll find out.

Cost of Tree Removal

How much does it cost to cut down a tree? Well, there’s no simple answer. The average price is around $700, but it could be well under half of that if it’s a small tree that’s easy to tet to, or over half if it’s a larger tree with more obstacles in its way.

Why You Should Hire Someone To Remove

Even if it looks like a simple task, it almost definitely won’t be. Removing a tree isn’t easy, and it’s a lot safer to hire someone who knows what they’re doing.

Factors Of Cost

When it comes to tree removal, there’s no set price. It depends on a number of variables, from the size of the tree to your location.

Size and Height Of The Tree

An obvious one, perhaps, but it’s worth bearing in mind that a taller tree will cost more to remove. By the same token, so will a tree that’s bigger and spreads further.

Location

Where is the tree that you want to remove? A tree in your front yard is likely to be cheaper to remove than a tree in your back yard, and if you’re in a rural or suburban area it might be cheaper than if you live somewhere that’s heavily built-up.

Obstacles

If there’s a fence or a sizable rock or even power lines in the way of the tree, it will make it more difficult to remove. Remove what you’re able to safely before the tree is set to be removed for a cheaper transaction, but if there’s an obstacle you can’t avoid, you’ll be looking at greater expense.

Type Of Tree

The cost of tree removal also depends on the sort of tree you’re looking to remove. Removing a palm tree is likely to set you back around $650 but could be as low as $400, while a pine tree may cost around $1,100 to remove.

Maple trees can grow to over 100 feet, and as a result, may cost up to $1,800 – the higher end of the price range. The American ash tree is also likely to be more expensive, while in contrast, dogwood trees could cost as little as $125 to remove.

Save Money

If you’re looking at some of these figures a little anxiously, there are some things you can do to reduce the cost. You’ll still be paying, but the fee might be slightly lower.

Prepare First

If there’s anything you can safely do yourself beforehand, do it. Clear the area and remove any obstacles you’re able to.

Wait Until Winter

As winter is the off-season for tree removal contractors, the dead tree removal cost is likely to be lower. It’s a lot quieter, so you may be able to agree on a lower price.

Use The Wood

There’s a couple of options here. Some companies might agree to remove your tree for free and in return sell on the wood themselves. Alternatively, you could make use of the wood or sell it on to recoup some of the cost.

Removing the Tree

Now you know the average dead tree removal cost and the cost to trim a tree, what are you waiting for? Shop around for tree removal contractors today, and check out some of our other posts too!

 

8 Ways To Build Team Spirit

Ironically, one of the best ways to build morale in the workplace is to leave it. From San Diego whale watching tours to scavenger hunts through historic Coronado, there are myriad ways to boost your organization’s team spirit. Here are eight of the best:

1. Volunteer

Time is arguably your most valuable resource. Donating it to others in need is an excellent way to not only forge team bonds but also give back to the community. Volunteer work can reinvigorate your employees’ bodies, minds and maybe even their souls, and there’s no shortage of San Diego nonprofits that could benefit from your manpower:

• Make-A-Wish Foundation of San Diego
• Father Joe’s Villages
• Outdoor Outreach
• San Diego Habitat for Humanity
• Serving Seniors
• Just in Time for Foster Youth
• San Diego Food Bank

2. Visit the U.S.S. Midway Museum

The U.S.S. Midway is one of San Diego’s most iconic attractions. Taking an afternoon to tour this naval workhorse, which served longer than any other aircraft carrier in the modern era, can provide a much-needed break from the regular routine and let your staff take a deep dive into American history, too.

3. Take an Art Class

It doesn’t matter if your staff is stuffed with budding Picassos or if stick men and women are more your company’s oeuvre. Taking an art class together is a magnificent way to make a little mess and elevate employee morale.

4. Go Whale Watching

One of the most unique locales for team-building is at sea. Private whale watching tours San Diego are an increasingly popular way to break out of the office, get some fresh air and — hopefully — spot some incredible animals.

5. Spend the Day at Safari Park

If the heart of your organization is more landlubber than pirate, that doesn’t mean you can’t get outside and learn a thing or two about teamwork from the animal kingdom. San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park offers a variety of wildly entertaining exhibits and tours, in addition to professional coordinators that can help you organize a more structured event.

6. Share a Meal

Simply put, San Diego’s food scene is on fire. From One Door North and The Florence to Punch Bowl Social and Trailer Park After Dark, there’s no shortage of local eateries ready to delight the senses of groups large and small.

7. Play Team Sports

Lift your employees’ spirits — and their heart rates — by entering a company team in a citywide soccer, softball or beach volleyball league. Or, depending on the size of your organization, you may even consider starting your own private league. Breaking a sweat is an easy way to break down barriers and create connections.

8. Go on a Scavenger Hunt

Another one of the most popular corporate event ideas San Diego is the classic scavenger hunt. Groups from La Jolla to the Gaslamp Quarter offer guided competitions where your crew can unleash both its creative and competitive sides as it races from clue to clue.

San Diego is a vibrant city with no shortage of ways to rejuvenate your team’s spirit or simply cut loose for a day while enjoying the Pacific Coast. Choose an activity that fits your organization’s character for an experience that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

When you’re mapping out your plans for a home, you probably aren’t too worried about the state of your foundation. If you want your plans to stay on track, however, you should be. If your foundation falls by the wayside and starts to crack, then you may have to allocate some of your design budget for necessary repairs.

How, though, can you go about anticipating a leak? If one does form, what kind of repair options do you have on the table?

No need to panic. The local foundation repair professionals working in your area will be able to answer your questions and get your home maintenance plan back on track in little to no time at all.

What Causes a Foundation Leak?

Foundation leaks rarely form out of the blue. While it may seem as though these leaks appear after one significant storm, they’re more often caused by weeks or months of exposure to hydrostatic pressure. This pressure, which is generated by rainwater and groundwater pressing against your home, both erodes your foundation materials and causes your foundation to rapidly change temperature. As the temperature rises and falls, your foundation materials will try to expand and contract accordingly. If this process goes on for too long, your foundation will crack from the stress.

That said, it’s not just hydrostatic pressure that can cause your foundation to crack. If you have large trees in your lawn, their invasive root systems may try to breach the hull of your home.

Signs to Look Out For

More often than not, you’ll be able to first identify a foundation leak by looking to your structural supports. These types of leaks have the biggest impact on your support beams and the piering installed around your foundation at the time of your home’s construction.

The most common signs of a foundation leak that you’ll find inside of your home include:

• Bowing walls
• Shifting floors
• Gaps at the joints of your foundation
• Sticking doors
• Foggy windows
• Water-damaged belongings or furniture
• Mold

Unfortunately, the myths surrounding foundation repair practices prevent many homeowners from seeking out viable waterproofing or repair solutions before a leak can worsen. If you let a foundation leak go for too long, you’ll end up finding its symptoms outside of your home.

A foundation leak that you’ve let fall by the wayside can cause:

• Vertical cracks in your walls
• A cracked chimney
• Cracks running horizontally across your foundation
• Home sinking

Fixing a Foundation Leak

Once you’ve identified a foundation leak, you’re going to want to talk with a local contractor about the repair options you have on the table. Your options are going to vary based on the size of your home, the severity of the damage, and your available budget.

That said, some of the most common foundation repair solutions include:

• Piering
• Underpinning
• Leveling and slabjacking
• Sealing
• Subfloor drainage

Who You Gonna Call?

In this day of do-it-yourself, you may want to try and save a bit of money by fixing your foundation yourself. Unfortunately, the process isn’t as easy as it sounds. Unless you have the certifications stating that you have the education and experience to fix someone’s foundation, it’s often best to leave this work to the professionals.

If you’re concerned about saving money, though, there’s some good news for you. Most foundation repair professionals offer a free foundation inspection and repairs quote. This way, you can better understand what’s going on below your home without having to break into your repair fund.

Don’t let your home design dreams fall by the wayside the next time it rains. Reach out to a local foundation repair professional and get your plans back on track.

 

Home improvement is a never-ending process. After all, it’s fun to invest money and sweat equity into making your house look as amazing as possible.

When it comes to renovations projects, there are plenty of options to choose from. One of the best places to start is the kitchen. After all, this is the room in the house where families spend most of their time together, enjoying meals and making memories.

This article takes a look at kitchen cabinet replacement and when to know when it’s time for an upgrade. Keep reading to discover insight into making your home look great by taking the kitchen’s style to the next level.

1. You’re Wanting a Fresh New Look

There are plenty of reasons for wanting to invest in new cabinets. But the desire for a fresh new look would probably be at the top of the list.

After all, your cabinets are a primary aspect of the overall design aesthetic of your kitchen. Thus the better your cabinets look, the more impressive and inviting your entire kitchen will feel to you and your family.

New cabinets are the ideal way to add a major splash of color and life to the most important room in your home.

2. Your Cabinets are Damaged

It’s no secret that cabinets can easily become damaged over the years. After all, they take a look of abuse through the wear and tear of normal family life.

Cabinets that are damaged can quickly become visually unappealing, thus lowering the aesthetic look of the kitchen. Sure, you can make repairs and even repaint your cabinets, but this is like using a band-aid to temporarily reduce bleeding.

You should also keep in mind that repairs to damaged cabinets might save you money in the short-term, but you’ll still need to replace your cabinets at some point in the future. So all you’re really doing is putting off the inevitable.

3. The Kitchen has a Bad Odor

Does your kitchen smell? Sometimes kitchen odors develop that are hard to get rid of. This could be due to food items that fall behind cabinets, or liquid spills inside cabinets that never get adequately cleaned up, causing the stench of rot. Replacing old cabinets is the ideal way to eliminate these unpleasant odors.

House washing is another way to improve the look of your home.

4. Your Cabinets Are Made of Cheap Materials

Older homes often feature kitchen cabinets made of cheap materials, causing them to sag, warp, or begin falling apart as they age. That’s why you need to upgrade to cabinets made of high-quality wood that will look great for decades to come with proper care.

5. You Want a New Layout

Or perhaps you’re doing a major renovating that includes changing the layout of your kitchen. After all, your old cabinets likely won’t work with the new layout, so this is the perfect time to make a change in order to maximize your new kitchen design.

Signs that It’s Time For Cabinet Replacement in Your Kitchen

Have you been considering a cabinet replacement for your kitchen? If so, it’s the perfect way to make your home look amazing and increase the resale value.

Keep scrolling to discover more great home improvement tips and advice.