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3 Signs Assisted Living Is Right For Your Older Parent

Making the choice to move your elderly parent into an assisted living facility isn’t easy for most people. It’s stepping into uncharted territory, full of uncertainty and, sometimes, even guilt. However, even though you may feel guilty, please know that you’re doing the right thing when your aging parent starts to struggle with everyday activities.

Assisted living isn’t about giving up independence — it’s about supporting it. It’s about creating an environment that offers help when needed, rather than leaving your loved one to struggle alone. Think of it more as a handrail than a crutch. If you’re on the fence about what’s best for your older parent, here are three signs that assisted living may be the right choice.

Daily Tasks Are a Struggle

If you start to notice the most basic of daily tasks becoming a struggle for your loved one, then this is probably a sign they need extra help. Things like showering, cooking, or even getting down the stairs can become downright dangerous for people with mobility issues.

If you start to notice that your senior parent is slacking on their daily responsibilities, then this is a red flag. From spoiled food in the refrigerator to unopened bills piling up — these are all signs of a growing inability to live safely and comfortably on their own. Assisted living offers around-the-clock care that can help your loved one get everything done that they need.

You’re Worried

If you’re starting to feel uneasy about their well-being, then this is a sign that you could definitely benefit from professional help. After all, it’s not uncommon for seniors to fall or leave the stove on — which could lead to unsafe circumstances. Having the peace of mind of knowing they’re living in a safe environment can make a world of difference.

Assisted living facilities are built with safety in mind — from handrails to emergency call systems, to staff available 24/7 for whatever residents need. This doesn’t just mean your loved one is safe, but it also means you can stop worrying throughout the day, knowing they’re okay.

They’re Lonely

Social isolation is a growing problem among seniors, especially since the onset of COVID. Loneliness can be just as damaging as physical illness — even if you may not detect it in a physical examination. Social isolation can lead to cognitive decline and faster deterioration in health overall. However, in an assisted living facility, community is the goal. Residents eat in groups, they have classes, and even game nights, making it a great place to stay engaged and connected at an older age.

 

A Brief Overview of the History of Eagles

Since 1782, the bald eagle has been the national bird of the United States. The history of eagles in this country is an interesting tale. Bald eagles once numbered well over 100,000 in this country.

Though no longer endangered, the loss of natural habitat has meant that the bird species remains protected under federal law. Read on to learn about the natural history of our national symbol.

Natural History of the Bald Eagle

Female bald eagles live near bodies of water. They build nests on trees, cliffs, and man-made structures.

Body Size

The average adult female bald eagle can weigh up to 14 pounds. Female eagles have a wingspan of up to eight feet. Males weigh up to 10 pounds and have a wingspan of up to six feet.

Color and Habitat

Both sexes have white heads and brown bodies. The species can be found throughout North America.

Migration Patterns

The birds are known to migrate, although eagles that find adequate water and food may occupy a territory for years on end. Some eagles migrate south during winter in search of food.

Reproductive Information

Eagles are capable of reproducing at age four or five. They often return to where they were born to nest. Eagle nests can be as large as eight feet across.

Each clutch typically has one to three eggs. Incubation lasts for 35 days on average, and the nesting period lasts up to four weeks. Eagles mate for life.

Average Lifespan

Eagles can live up to 30 years in the wild. Their diet consists of fish, small mammals, reptiles, and other birds.

Dangers for Eagles

Eagles often nest on hunting grounds, which has made them vulnerable to poaching. Loss of habitat and poisonings from DDT applications are ongoing threats to this vulnerable species.

History of the Eagle as an American Symbol

Have you seen a bronze eagle statue and wondered how the eagle became our national symbol? In mid-1782, the founding fathers were at work drafting our national seal. Ten years earlier, three founding fathers had failed to convince Congress to adopt one proposal, so the task was given to a committee.

The idea of using the eagle wasn’t all that original. The bird has long been a sign of strength and nobility. The ancient Romans, for example, made the bird a symbol of their empire.

The secretary of congress at the time suggested that the draft model (a white eagle) be replaced with the bald eagle.

Despite criticism from none other than Benjamin Franklin, the bald eagle made the final cut as the centerpiece of our nation’s seal.

Keep Up with the History of Eagles and More

The history of eagles in this country has defined how Americans view themselves. The noble eagle has been a source of inspiration for nearly 250 years. The prominence of the eagle in American history may well have saved the bird from near or total extinction.

Looking for a little inspiration? Our website is a labor of love where we offer original home/décor tips, DIY ideas, design suggestions, and much more.

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

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

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

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

Transform Your Home

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

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

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

Asphalt Shingles

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

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

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

Architectural Shingles

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

Wooden Shingles

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

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

Metal Roofing

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

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

Slate Shingles or Tiles

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

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

Roof Designs That Are Right For You

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

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

Transforming a Storage Unit Into a Writer’s Paradise: A Step-by-Step Guide

Many people are currently working from home, but are feeling frustrated with their current space and unsure of their options. But there are many great ways to upgrade your workspace without breaking the bank. One great idea is to take a storage unit and transform it into a working facility. Storage units can be a great option for entrepreneurs, college students or freelancers. Actually, working out of a storage unit is kind of perfect for an up and coming writer. The rent is cheap, the space is ample and it’s completely customizable. Traditional storage units will help lessen burdens that come with growing your business and a little extra space never hurt anyone. As you consider this option, it’s important to specify your needs before committing to a unit.

Finding the Right Storage Unit

 

The first question to ask yourself is what kind of storage unit to go for? Depending on how and when you work the best bet may be to rent out one of many available 24 hour storage units with easy access. U.S. Self Storage has locations all over the country and offers contactless move-in so you can head straight to your storage unit without dealing with any red tape.

 

As a writer, you are bound to have tons of books and physical products if you are trying to sell your first novel. Having a storage unit is perfect for organizing all the supplies and extra boxes. Self-storage is also a good place for your old documents. Many also come with climate control so you won’t have to worry about any of your paperwork getting ruined.

 

Once you’ve picked out your spot, you’ll want to make sure you acquire furniture that fits your new office. Make sure you do the proper measuring for a good working desk and chair. The last thing you want is to feel cramped while trying to work on a writing assignment. There are different size units that range from 5×7 which is good for storing items all the way up to 10×30 which can hold a car and more. Size is everything so you want to make sure you are picking the right facility that will fit all your writing needs. Then you’ll be able to get down to the work you actually want to do. From character development to contemplating how many pages is 1500 words, from figuring out the perfect opening sentence to finding the right words to describe a sunset—wherever you are on your writing journey you’ll have the peace and privacy to do so.

Creature Comforts

 

You’ll also want to make sure you have all the comforts of home in your unit. While some people go all out and put a plumbing system in, there are simpler ways to make yourself comfortable. It’s also important to note that you may not be able to perform huge renovations, depending on the guidelines at your chosen facility. But you can usually bring in small portable heaters or fans to keep it cozy or cool.

 

Ventilation is also a factor that should be taken into consideration, so that you’re not working in stagnant air. Since you won’t be doing anything that requires painting or welding you should be fine. But you always want to make sure you check with your facility’s management team before trying anything new in your new headquarters. Safety first!

Make it your own

 

Lastly, have some fun making the workroom your own. Get some proper lighting and use a splash of color to spruce it up. Try to find designs to brighten up the concrete floor below your feet. Pillows with fun designs or a desk with a pop of color would both be great options. Bring in some potted plants for a more livable look—they’ll also help with air quality. To make your new headquarters feel bigger you could always try to add some shelving or a nice bookcase. Mirrors are a major help for making any room look double its size.

Cozy Bathroom Ideas: 5 Ways to Make Your Bathroom More Inviting

A 2018 Forbes article reported that, after the kitchen, bathrooms are the most common home renovation in the United States. To the homeowner, an updated bathroom not only makes life less of a hassle, but it also doesn’t hurt your home’s resale value.

Even Forbes notes that remodeling data shows that homeowners can expect to “recoup” somewhere between 56 and 70 percent of the cost of a bathroom remodel. Basically, updating the lavatories is a win-win when it comes to home renovations.

Check out these 5 great ways to make your bathroom cozier.

1. Update the plumbing.

What’s the worst thing that happens to you in the restroom? It’s when the toilet doesn’t flush, clogs, or overflows, right? Then there’s the frustration when the sink sputters getting you all wet and/or the water won’t drain. By checking out Advanced Plumbing Technologies you can get a free video inspection of your cast iron plumbing to see what your best options are.

Advanced Plumbing Technology, LLC specializes in replacing and/or restoring plumbing systems in Florida and Georgia. Have you noticed signs of failing cast iron plumbing such as mold or other signs of water damage, sewer backups, pests, or having to spend money on plumbers to clear your drains/toilets? Then it’s time to schedule your free cast iron plumbing inspection.

Advanced Plumbing Technology’s team of contractors and plumbers will explain the best options for updating your plumbing with a durable option so you will no longer suffer a home full of moisture and deterioration.

2. Get a houseplant.

WebMD notes that having a houseplant can have many health benefits such as relieving allergy symptoms, improving your mood, improving humidity levels (which can prevent you from getting sick), purifying the air, improving sleep, improving focus, and improving healing. Getting a split leaf plant for your washroom will not only give you many health benefits, but it will give the room a natural and cozy look with little effort.

The Split Leaf Philodendron is a tropical plant native to Central America also known by the names Monstera deliciosa, Monstera, or Swiss Cheese Plant. It’s a popular houseplant due to the fact that it can withstand high winds and heavy rainfall (it’s basically a hurricane plant). This means, as a houseplant, the Monstera plant will need little water, moderate sunlight (never direct sun – making them ideal for bathrooms), and they thrive living in a place with high humidity.

3. Consider installing a terrazzo floor.

Interior design experts have weighed in and seem in agreement — terrazzo is making a comeback! Since terrazzo hasn’t been very popular since the ’80s, many may wonder what is terrazzo? Terrazzo is a mixture of cuts of precious stones or glass chips and a composite material such as resin or concrete. A terrazzo floor made from marble can be the ultimate way to give your restroom a glamorous upgrade. Especially since marble chips come in a variety of colors to match the backsplash.

Terrazzo installers can install elegant flooring on every square foot of your bathrooms, but they can also be installed as backsplashes behind your sink or as bathtub walls. If you really love the terrazzo look, you could even consider an exterior application for your terrace instead of a boring plain concrete slab (keep in mind that you must not use terrazzo that uses epoxy outdoors). Terrazzo will make every square foot of your home look refined and stylish.

4. Update the bathtub.

In bathrooms that have bathtubs, the tub tends to be in the metaphoric spotlight. If that focus is outdated and unstylish, it’s just not going to look cozy and inviting. According to an article published last year in the INDEPENDENT, a survey revealed 30 million people “fiercely advocating” for baths in Britain, noting reasons surrounding unwinding and relaxing behind this advocacy.

5. Consider the overall interior design.

If you’re on a budget, consider the overall interiors. For example, on a budget, you can still update the paint, add shelving, add cute storage options, add decorative towel hangers, etc. Even merely looking up DIY ideas on Pinterest for arranging and decorating your shelves can truly make it look like a completely different room.

3 She Shed Ideas for Your Garage

As a female, the weight of the world can often feel almost unbearable. Womanhood is rough; you need a sanctuary to escape to in order to get some respite from whatever it is that has you down, be it your job, schoolwork, or family demands.

If you want to truly treat yourself to a sanctuary that allows you to relax at the end of a stressful day, you may want to consider building a “She Shed” for yourself. Garages are perfect for She Sheds, assuming you do not have an actual shed because they are often full of wasted space anyway. If you want to transform your garage into a beautiful She Shed to escape to, here are three tips to follow.

1. Spruce up the walls and the floors of your garage.

The top tip for creating your She Shed is to make sure that the space itself looks and feels both comfortable and beautiful. To do this, you’ll likely need to spruce up the dingy or dusty floors and walls of your garage. Treat your walls to a fresh coat of paint that makes you feel both soothed and powerful, like a pale blue or a muted, creamy mauve.

Then, invest in a garage floor coating that will soften up and protect your garage floors. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in your garage, it is worth it to treat the floors with a durable epoxy that will stand up to messes, resist stains, and protect from damage. An epoxy floor coating and garage floor paint on top will give your She Shed a fresh look and can set your mind at ease knowing the garage floor is protected.

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2. Create a special space for you to do the thing you love most.

Part of the self-care that will go on in your She Shed is doing the hobbies and activities that you love most. That means you should carve out an area in your She Shed to devote to that one activity. Maybe you get a pottery wheel if you’re a ceramicist or create a cozy reading nook if you’re a total bookworm.

You may even want to make a small home gym to incorporate fun fitness exercises into your workout routine. Whatever it is that makes you happy, make sure it has a designated area in your She Shed. You won’t regret it.

3. Store the things that make you happy.

One great use for your She Shed is storage. Not to get so Konmari Technique about it, but surrounding yourself with the items you cherish and that truly provide you the most happiness is a key way of bettering your life and your mental health.

For instance, if you make or if you wear lots of jewelry, it could be worth your while to add a necklace rack to your She Shed environment. A necklace rack is a convenient and attractive way to show off the jewelry you love most while also keeping your space clutter-free.

Your necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings bring you joy, so it’s worth treating them—and you!—to a beautiful display in the space you’ll be spending a lot of your time. Likewise, if clothing is a passion for you, consider installing some attractive closet solutions to your garage-turned-She Shed. You’ll be filled with joy to see your jackets, tops, pants, and dresses treated with the same kindness you are treating yourself within your She Shed.

3 Tips For Adding Hardscaping To Your Property

If you live in a hot or harsh climate, having a lush, green yard or garden is likely going to be too expensive for you to maintain or use too many finite resources that would be better left for another purpose. In a situation like this, you can still create a beautiful outdoor space by adding a greater proportion of hardscaping to your landscape.

To help you figure out the best way to do this, here are three tips for adding hardscaping to your property.

Consider Drainage First

Before you start making any real solid plans for adding hardscaping to your property, Rose Kennedy, a contributor to HGTV, shares that you should first figure out the drainage of your property. Without direct access to the ground, drainage can be an issue when setting up hardscaping.

In an ideal world, you should try to layout and design your hardscaping so that it funnels water runoff to areas in which you need additional water. Otherwise, you should at least lay things out so that water is diverted away from your home and off of your property toward drainage pipes. This will ensure that no water gets channeled back toward your home to cause damage to the structure as well as keeping standing water off of your hardscaping, where it could mess with the integrity of your design.

Don’t Be Afraid To Use Various Materials

If you’re taking on the project of putting in hardscaping all by yourself, you might suffer from a fear of not knowing what materials to use and how to go about laying them out in the most effective way. While a professional could be helpful with things like choosing the right materials so you, Terri Williams, a contributor to Realtor.com, shares that you should try to embrace the design theory of using various materials.

When done correctly, you can mix and match colors and textures of materials to draw attention to certain aspects of your design and create clear focal points on your property.

Focus On What Will Make Your Space Easier To Enjoy

Because there are so many options for how to add hardscaping to your property, it can be difficult to know where to start or what to do.

To make this easier for you, Valerie Kalfrin, a contributor to HomeLight.com, suggests that you start by focusing on what additions will make your outdoor space easier for you to enjoy. This may include adding a canopy so you can sit outside more often, putting on a deck for barbecuing, or simply adding some furniture pieces.

To help you make the right choices when it comes to incorporating hardscaping into your landscape design, consider implementing some of the tips mentioned above.

 

3 Common Roof Types and How to Choose the Best One for Your Home

Putting on a new roof is a big decision for any homeowner, as it is a choice you will likely need to live with for at least 15-30 years, depending on the type of roof you choose. Choosing a roofer is also a big decision, as you can end up with a lot of results just by searching for “Roofer Pittsburgh PA” or any similar search term. If you’re in Pennsylvania, you’ll likely come across Buccos Roofing, professionals that have been in the business for years.

There are many different types of roofs that you can pick from, but the best choice depends on your budget, the area of the country you live in, and the overall aesthetic of your property. For example, a barrel tile roof would look great in Miami but may be out of place on a home in the greater Pittsburgh area.

Learn about three types of roofs that you can pick for your home, as well as why it is important to choose a trained contractor for your roofing installation job.

1. Shingle roofs are a traditional and economical choice.

Homeowners often choose shingle roofs, especially if they are looking at a tighter budget for roofing costs. This material boasts many advantages, such as:

  • Easy Installation: Shingles take less time to install than other materials, which cuts down on the labor costs. It also means your new roof is completed in less time.
  • Economical: A shingle roof is one of the most affordable and economical choices. They are also quite sturdy and should last you a while if they are properly inspected and maintained.
  • Many Choices: There are many different colors and types of shingles, which means you can choose a color that will beautifully complement the rest of your home.

Keep in mind with shingles, however, there is a greater risk of storm damage when high winds or hail come through. They can also easily sustain fading damage from the sun and will not last as long as slate or other roofing materials.

2. Slate roofing lasts longer but will have a higher upfront cost.

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While a slate roof may cost about 2-3 times more than a traditional shingle roof, they could end up being a great investment. Slate is a stone, which means it can last anywhere from 75-150 years with the proper treatment. This type of roof can also increase the overall value of your property as it is beautiful and durable. Other perks of slate include that it is fire-resistant, mold-resistant, and holds up well to moisture, meaning that it does well in places of the country that get a lot of winter weather.

3. Tile roofs are sustainable and energy-efficient.

If you opt for a tile roof, know you are getting a roof that is made from natural materials, thus reducing the carbon footprint of your home. Tile also has great insulating properties and keeps homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This type of roofing will last for a long time, in some cases centuries, according to the Tile Roofing Industry Alliance. Tile is also very versatile and can be made to look like other types of roofing surfaces.

Make sure to hire an experienced roofing contractor.

While the lower price tag of a less experienced contractor may be appealing, just know that they may not have been trained in best roofing practices. You could also risk hiring someone without the proper licensing or insurance. If an uninsured contractor injures themself on your property, you may end up with the liability for that injury and your homeowners’ insurance could opt to drop your coverage. Always make sure that you choose to work with a trained and properly insured roofing contractor with at least a few years of experience.

Vinyl vs Hardwood Floors: A Comparative Guide

How would you like your new floors to look? Do you want the warmth and value of a hard floor? Or would you like the options and durability that a vinyl floor gives you?

Read on to learn the pros and cons of vinyl vs hardwood.

What Is Hardwood Flooring?

Hardwood comes in two types: solid and engineered. Though they look similar, slight differences in durability and cost give you different options.

Solid Wood

Solid wood flooring planks are 100% solid wood, made from a hardwood species such as maple, oak, or walnut. Since the flooring is solid throughout, it can be sanded down and refinished several times, and may last up to 100 years.

Engineered Wood

Engineered wood flooring is made from a thin layer of hardwood bonded to a layer of plywood. It can be cheaper than solid wood and can last up to 30 years. However, you can only refinish it once, since too much sanding will remove the hardwood layer to expose the plywood.

What Is Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is made up of several layers including backing material, core, design layer, and wear layer. 3D printing makes it possible to produce almost any look and texture. Since homeowners are moving towards hardwood and stone, these trends are encouraging the production of vinyl that resembles wood, stone, or classic tile.

Vinyl vs Hardwood

When you’re considering vinyl flooring vs hardwood, think about cost, looks, or maintenance needs. Each substance has its own advantages.

Cost

The price of solid hardwood ranges from about $4 to $12 per square foot, averaging about $8 per square foot. Engineered hardwood costs slightly less, with a range between $2.50 and $10 per square foot, and averaging between $4 and $7 per square foot. Installation labor adds about $3 to $10 per square foot to the job.

Vinyl costs between $2 to $8 square feet, a price which includes installation. This means that a vinyl floor can cost at least 50% less than a hardwood floor.

Environmental Impact

Domestically produced wood usually comes from managed forests, making it a sustainable resource. You can even find reclaimed wood, such as barn wood, that has been reclaimed from other projects. Check for the logo of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which certifies wood based on forest management and worker’s rights, especially if you buy wood from other countries.

While vinyl is a petroleum-based product, it also has environmentally-friendly advantages. Its durability means that it doesn’t have to be as frequently replaced as other forms of flooring such as carpet. Some vinyl is even made from recycled materials.

Location

Since wood flooring seems more elegant and lasts forever, you may want to use hardwood in a main room or a highly visible area. Moisture will damage a hardwood floor, so you may not want to use hardwood in an area that needs to be cleaned frequently, or a room such as a bathroom that might flood. Do not install hardwood directly over concrete.

Since it is waterproof and easy to maintain, you may want to choose vinyl for an entry, a mudroom, or a bathroom.

Maintenance

Both wood floors and vinyl floors are easy to clean. You can sweep or vacuum either vinyl or hardwood. Vinyl can be soaked and scrubbed, while hardwood can be cleaned by damp-mopping with a wood cleaner but should not be soaked.

Install Your Floor

When you’re choosing vinyl vs hardwood, do you want a  floor that is elegant, functional, durable, or easy to maintain? Whichever you choose, you can find something that is right for your home.

If you enjoyed reading this, check out our blog for more interesting articles.

The Common Types of Commercial Lighting Explained

Poor lighting is one of the major causes of injuries in the workplace. Recently, a worker in Long Island, New York received a $440,000 settlement. He suffered a fall at a construction site due to poor lighting conditions.

Without adequate lighting, the risk of serious and sometimes fatal accidents is higher. Not only that but it can also affect the quality of work and the overall productivity of the employees.

Lighting plays a vital role in creating a safe and comfortable workplace in commercial and industrial buildings. There isn’t just one type of commercial lighting though. You can’t just choose the brightest type available because glare is also a health hazard.

To find out more about the different commercial lighting types, please continue to read the rest of the article.

1. Fluorescent Commercial Lighting

Fluorescent lights are one of the most popular for commercial establishments. They’re long-lasting (12,000 to 24,000 hours) and very energy-efficient. They are the number one choice for retail stores where you typically leave the lights on 24/7 for security purposes.

You’re probably familiar with the tubular type which comes in different sizes such as T5, T8, or T12. T stands for “tubular”, while the number refers to the diameter. T12 has been around the longest and is often seen in low-bay areas such as offices or restrooms.

T8 and T5 have superseded the T12 because they have more advanced electronic circuits. They use less energy than T12s while outputting the same or greater amount of light. T5 fluorescent is best for high ceilings while T8 can be used for both low-bay and high-bay applications.

Fluorescent lights also come as compact fluorescent which you might recognize as the spiral light bulb.

2. High-Intensity Discharge (HID)

HID lighting comes in three variations: mercury, metal halide, and high-pressure sodium. The presence of these gases increases the intensity of the light created. Although they take a few minutes to reach full brightness, they’re very adept at lighting large areas.

Like fluorescent lights, they have good efficiency and durability. They’re commonly used for high-bay areas and outdoor lighting. You’ll find that hiring an outdoor lighting contractor to install these lights for landscape lighting is well worth it.

3. Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Commercial Lights

LED lighting is increasing in popularity for commercial applications and with good reason. They’re often the most efficient option and can outlast other types of commercial lights. You can save a lot of money from energy savings and decreased operating costs.

Another advantage is that unlike fluorescent or HID, LEDs don’t contain toxic chemicals. What’s more, you can get all these features without sacrificing the quality of light.

LED is very versatile and can replace existing fixtures if you’re looking to upgrade. You also have the option to retrofit your current fixtures.

Despite the advantages, LED fixtures are still expensive. They’re still a good investment and many LED systems can pay for themselves in a period of two years.

Keep the Lights On

Choosing the right type of commercial lighting is vital for the sustained operation of your business. The benefits include reducing your energy costs and keeping your employees safe and productive.

For more design tips, feel free to browse through our website.