Home Improvement, Home Things

4 Benefits of Replacing a Roof

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A roof can be considered the most important part of a building, sheltering all its valuable content from the elements. A leaking roof can damage stock and result in considerable losses for a business. An insurer will insist that a business has a roof sufficient to protect the contents that it is insuring. So, it pays to get a roof fixed or replaced so that it can sufficiently serve a business’s needs. Roofing contractors such as Lidoran, who can be contacted at www.lidoran.com.au, will service a business’s needs as specialists at working in commercial settings. Roofing work on this scale should only be attempted by professionals, who will also guarantee their work.

Protecting Stock

The number one reason for replacing a roof is to protect stock. A good roof will also add value to a commercial property, should companies wish to upscale to a larger unit in the future. It may not be money wasted but well spent in the short term to protect stock. And in the long period, it can increase a property’s worth to everyone, including potential buyers. You can replace your old and damaged roof with a more durable and robust one by hiring reputable contractors such as Christian Brothers Roofing (christianbrothersroofingllc.com).

Health

Many old roofs are constructed from asbestos and professional companies can remove it safely and in accordance with the law. Asbestos is an extremely hazardous material to health in terms of breathing in its particles into the lungs, and more so when it is disturbed, so it needs to be removed properly. To ensure the health of your family, you may need to use alternative roof materials instead of asbestos. With the help of a company like EMT Solar, you can replace the old asbestos roof with a new one that is safer and more efficient.

It is one less worry to know that a company has a roof that will protect its stock and its workforce. A Health and Safety Executive will insist upon it. Although, it should not be for them to say, as it makes sense to protect everything that is inside a work premises for everyone’s sake.

A bad roof, as a surface that prolongingly sustains moisture, will create the perfect breeding ground for mildew or mould. It is mould, and especially black mould, that can cause damage when it enters HVAC systems, and if circulating around a workplace, can increase the risk of workers contracting infections of a chronic upper respiratory nature. Of course, if you already have a mould problem then just replacing your roof isn’t going fix it. If you live somewhere like Auckland for example, you’re going to need an Auckland black mould removal specialist to kill the mould dead and stop it from spreading. A new and improved roof can then help to stop the mould from coming back.

The Environment

Temperature is better controlled through air conditioning and heating systems such as HVACs when heat from the building is not leaking out through a roof that has holes that allow it to escape. To ensure that the building has a sufficient temperature at all times, making sure that you contact somewhere similar to Total System Services for commercial AC in Boise will be particularly important in ensuring that everything concerning this system is working as it should before it’s too late. As the workforce will thank employers for a better roof, so will the environment. Such heat loss means that more non-renewable energy sources are depleted in creating the extra heat to compensate for the heat lost through badly maintained or poorly insulated roofs.

Just taking a home situation where there is no insulation, it is thought that approximately 35 percent of heat is lost through its walls and 25 percent through its roof. Then, the remaining through windows, doors, and the floor. This is no different for a commercial set up, in fact possibly worse if doors are being opened more frequently. The heat that is lost through the roof can certainly be rectified by replacing a tire old roof with a new one that will last for years to come.

Lower Maintenance

A new roof will be lower maintenance than an old roof that constantly needs repairs. For a roofing material that is low maintenance, low weight, durable, and recyclable, you might want to consider metal shingles. It is also wind, fire, algae, and mildew resistant. It is mould, of course, that creates an unhealthy breading ground.

So, four good reasons to replace a roof. It will protect stock and the workers underneath it, be better for health in terms of unhealthy materials being replaced, be more energy efficient, and ultimately mean lower future maintenance bills. It makes sense not to neglect the roofing area of a work premises or warehouse.

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Everyday Things

How to Save Money Effectively?

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Nowadays, we tend to shop more than we save. Well, shopping isn’t bad, especially if we already have responsibilities such as our own families to feed and our dreams to fulfill. However, due to the current trends that seemed to rule our society, more people began to feel insecure and consider luxuries as a way of showing others that they have a good life.

But behind it, we have a lot of debts and unpaid borrowed money from banks, people, and others. Then, once we have lost all of it, this is the time when we realize our recklessness in spending our incomes. This is when we’ll realize that savings offer more lifetime benefits than shopping. Some people are able to get back on track with help from bridging loans, but this still needs restraint and financial understanding to pull off successfully.

However, individuals contemplating the option of opting for bridging loans can enhance their understanding with tools capable of conducting risk assessments. Additionally, some of these tools are also capable of employing a data-driven approach, which can allow for a more objective assessment of property values, thereby reducing the potential for human bias in the valuation process. To achieve these objectives, tools like automated valuations can be used to streamline the assessment of property values, offering a quicker and more cost-effective means of evaluating collateral.

Keep in mind that these are just some suggestions to cultivate a more financially responsible lifestyle. By recognizing the importance of savings over excessive spending, individuals can establish a solid foundation for long-term financial stability. That said, continue reading to discover other steps that we can take to effectively save our lives in the future.

Step 1: Record Expenses

The first step to saving is to record our expenses. We need to review and be able to identify the total expenses we have for a period. This will keep us aware of our expenses’ track, such as our cash tips, household items, and even our morning coffees.

Next, we need to organize the numbers by categories such as a mortgage, gas, groceries, and other essentials. Aside from that, we also need to record our expenses when using our bank accounts or credit cards.

Step 2: Make Budget Savings

Next, we need to make budget savings wherein a portion of our monthly income must be put into a bank account or credit card. Of course, we must have a plan for these savings, as well as the specific monthly budget for it. Here, the more you save, the larger amount you’ll have in the future for your retirement.

Step 3: Cut Unnecessary Spending

Following that, we need to cut unnecessary spending and live with it. This includes following every trend, buying too many designer bags, shoes, and other items, too much eating, and more. Instead, we need to settle into a more convenient and efficient way of living. Besides, showing off too much with luxuries does not count. It is better save every penny you have since life comes in unpredictable waves. It is better to be wise and prepared all the time.

Step 4: Set Savings Goals

Fourth, we need to set savings goals that will drive us to work and save harder. To do this, we need to fix our mindset about saving and have goals to reach in a specific period. Some examples of these goals are plans for marriage, vacation, business, or just simply for a comfortable retirement. Some examples of these goals are plans for marriage, vacation, business, or just simply for a comfortable retirement. In addition, a large amount of money may be needed to pay for after-retirement expenses, such as medical bills, assisted living rent, entertainment, and insurance premiums. After that, we need to set a specific amount that we’ll save every time our monthly incomes arrive in our bank accounts or ATM.

Step 5: Prioritize

It is very important to set priorities or limitations on when and where we use our money. For instance, if you have a second old house just sitting there for years without any tenants, spending money on its maintenance might not be the best use of your funds. It might be a good idea to sell it to a home buying agency similar to Crawford Home Buyers (which can be reached through https://webuyhousesinatlanta.com/marietta/). The same goes for an old car that can demand constant maintenance without offering much significant value. Selling it can help cut unnecessary expenses, giving you the chance to redirect those funds to areas of your life that matters more. Thus, prioritizing your expenditures is crucial for an effective financial management.

Step 6: Pick and Use the Right Tools

As we have successfully settled our savings plans, goals, and track, we can now proceed to picking and using the right tools. In terms of tools, we can use bank accounts, credit cards, or simply save our money in a safe place inside our home. When we use bank accounts, ATMs, or credit cards, the best thing here is that it can grow, and our money is safe. On the other hand, simple saving in our home can uphold the privacy, yet pose a security risk. So, we better use bank accounts for better growth and safety of our money.

Step 7: Make an Automatic Saving Promise

In connection with the previous step, automatic saving is way better. Here, we can witness growth in our money, and it is safe. Also, we can make a deposit or withdrawal anytime that we wish, as ATM machines are around us already.

Now, we better think about our future and life. Life is not easy, and being careless when keeping our money will only lead to harder living. So, with these steps, may we now start saving for ourselves, our dreams, and our loved ones.

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Home Improvement, Home Things

Tips for Improving Air Circulation at Home

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No matter how much I try to convince myself that my home is comfortable, at some point or another, I will get that nagging feeling that maybe things should be better. The solution to this problem has been to improve the air circulation in my home.

Proper indoor air circulation can help regulate temperature, remove dust and allergens from the air, and reduce the spread of airborne pathogens such as mold and mildew. If you used a home mold test kit you’d probably be surprised to find homes with better circulation have much lower concentrations of mold.

And that’s just mold. During summer and hot days, most homes are uninhabitable due to the heat. That is, homes that don’t already have an air conditioning unit installed from a website like tsshomecomfort.com/eagle-residential-air-conditioning-services/. But airflow is still a factor to consider, even the largest homes feel small when standing in a closed-up room with no air movement, especially when humidity is high up.

Here are the things I did to improve air circulation in my home.

Use Fans

I’ve heard many people say that if I stand in front of a fan, the hot air is blown back to me. Well, this isn’t true at all. It doesn’t matter if it’s windy outside and I have open windows; fans will still help air circulation.

Fans circulate the air through and around the room, and they don’t just blow hot air around. Since fans cool the air as they move it around, it feels cooler with a fan on than without one.

Add More Vents

I bought 10 of these for my new home. They quickly were installed by a friend in less than an hour and look great. When planning a ventilation strategy, remember to add more vents. More vents mean better ventilation! Experts recommend at least one square foot of opening per 150 square feet of living space.

Buy a Dehumidifier or AC System

A dehumidifier or air conditioner is one way to help control humidity, but it may not be enough. For larger spaces containing high humidity levels, an entire HVAC system attached to a central duct system can reduce humidity. A professional HVAC Company will install a professional ductwork system that will cut down on the humidity level in the house and make the home more breathable.

I got friends in Charlotte, NC, who have this constant gripe about the unbearable summers there. From what I have understood, it is not enough to install an air conditioner or dehumidifier. People over there may also need to insulate homes for better thermal efficiency. Additionally, maintenance of ACs and dehumidifiers by the likes of Air Care Heating and Cooling for AC Repair in Charlotte might help them get the best out of their appliances during the hot summer months.

And to be honest, AC installation alone could not improve air circulation at home. Wondering why? Because mounting an AC alone would not make it efficient. Any device, be it an AC, dehumidifier or even a fan, needs proper maintenance and repair done by professionals like the ones at Fernee Air and Electrical (they can be found by looking up Electrician Ormond on the web). This can not only add more years to their life but also help in improving indoor air circulation and air quality.

Keep Doors and Windows Open

Stuffy summer air doesn’t just happen inside; it’s because of the air outside. The key to unlocking a refreshed home is opening up the doors and windows for a couple of hours each day.

Doors and windows allow warm air to escape. Nothing beats the natural cooling power of fresh air. I open my doors and windows for a couple of hours each day. The cool air settles inside the home, and sometimes I don’t even need the A/C at all.

Check the Attic Insulation

I recommend checking out the attic to make sure there is as much insulation as possible in the attic. Make sure there are no gaping holes that allow air to escape. Check for any blockages of vents or light fixtures.

A simple roll of attic insulating foam can help keep a home warmer/cooler and save on energy bills! I used this idea to improve my house; it was a great and inexpensive way to make a difference!

Open Curtains and Blinds

By opening the curtains and blinds around the home, I can let in natural sunlight. This helps clear away any musty or stale air. I don’t have to open all the windows to get fresh air into my home, but directing a couple of windows to face east or west will do the trick!

Although air conditioning systems often do an excellent job of keeping the home cool, they remove moisture from the air, making me feel sweaty and uncomfortable. The natural elements present enable me to breathe easier.

Use “Weather Shield” Around Windows and Doors

I have been using Weather Shield around my windows and doors for over a year now. I live in an area where it gets pretty cold in the winter, so ensuring that air can’t get into the house (and out) is very important.

Weather Shield does just that. It installs quickly and fits snugly to my windows and doors. That was important to me because I don’t want any gaps or openings where cold air can creep in. The solution was a window caulking kit that can stop concealed air leaks around any venting area.

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Home Improvement, Home Things

The Importance of Home Maintenance

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As a homeowner, I have realized that maintaining it requires more responsibility than a rental flat. This is because I must fix any breakage, as there is no landlord to handle the problem, and learn more about Global Cooling, or similar companies near me, should my heating system break on the cusp of winter and need repairing. Therefore, the responsibility to keep my home clean and maintained rests squarely on me. From furnishing my home by updating the carpets and rugs to those as seen here at Bazaar Velvet, to ensuring any leaks or breakages are repaired ASAP. This is the advice that I was given by mortgage lenders and realtors. The following are some of the benefits of maintaining a well-furnished and functioning home.

Saving money

My main reason for recommending regular and thorough home maintenance is that it saves money. As much as home maintenance involves hard work, dedication, and some money, it goes a long way in cutting down the costs that I would have incurred if I had failed to maintain my home. According to home care experts, for every dollar that I spend on preventative home maintenance, I stand to save about $100 in possible repairs in the future.

For example, by fixing small problems like a clogged drain and dirty filter now, I spare myself the rigmarole of fixing burst pipes and burned-out HVAC motors if the problems worsen in the future, and i consequently save myself from having to call in a professional like the ones from nanceservices.net/collierville-ac-services/! Moreover, by investing in new rugs and carpets before they become too dirty or damaged, I can protect my underlying floors.

Ultimately, bigger breakages of course attract more significant costs.

Running Efficiently

Home maintenance involves fixing a task over and over again while providing my home’s working parts with the much-needed upkeep. To maintain a desired level of cleanliness, I will have to keep sweeping it week in week out. The frequency of cleaning household items and surfaces vary. For instance, I may not clean my dishwasher’s filter or unclog my bathroom drain with the same frequency as sweeping the floor.

I clean and maintain other parts of my home to keep them usable in the same manner that I sweep my floor to keep it usable and clean. The HVAC system heats and cools the air in my home. Therefore, I must ensure that the furnace filter is always clean if I want to avoid paying more for electricity or gas. As it says on https://airmaxsc.com/, “Neglect leaves your furnace susceptible to breakdowns”. Likewise, to ensure that my food remains cold in the fridge and so that I can cushion myself against more energy expenses, I must ensure that the evaporator coils under my fridge are always clean. With outdoor aspects of my home, like the roof, I try to keep on top of that too by getting in touch with places like Division Kangaroof (divisionkangaroof.com/areas-served/gainesville/) to come and empty out the gutters for me once in a while. The secret to keeping my home running efficiently is by maintaining it well. It also helps lower my utility bills.

Increasing value

The moment a car leaves a showroom and drives off the lot, its value depreciates immediately. Consequently, my car’s resale value decreases the longer I drive it due to wear and tear. However, this principle does not apply to the home. In sharp contrast, the more I stay in a home, the more it appreciates its value. The value of a home depends on the market dynamics, but how I maintain it can also affect its value.

For instance, if I float my home for sale today yet I haven’t maintained the systems and appliances well, the home inspection is likely to give a negative review of my home citing existing or potential problems. As such, potential buyers will demand a discounted rate depending on the issues that need fixing or they might ask me to do the repairs and replacements that are likely to cause problems if they purchase the home. With such expenses, it means that I may not get as much money as I had projected should I sell my home.

But if I adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and maintain all the appliances and systems in my home, then I expect a very positive review by home inspectors. This in turn increases the value of the home.

Warranties and Maintenance

Generally, home insurance and home warranties do not cover breakdowns resulting from poor care or lack of maintenance. I did research and couldn’t find an insurance company that can cover flooding in my attic or roof if they find that the flooding was because I didn’t clean the gutters. Similarly, a home warranty won’t cover repairs or replacements if the fan burned out due to excessive strain because I did not change the filters on my HVAC for a year.

Therefore, a warranty company will only repair or replace appliances and systems in my home if I show that I tried to maintain them but failed. A major advantage with a home warranty is that when my systems and appliances get old and wear out, I will get replacements at a flat-rate service call fee.

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Home Improvement, Home Things

A Few Tips to Improve The Interior at a Bargain Price

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When I watch interior design shows, I genuinely feel that the only way to improve the interior of your home is to spend huge amounts of money. I don’t think I’m the only one having this feeling. By hiring a designer and going into whole-house planning, the amount to spend will be huge. However, I realized that if we want to refresh the interior slightly, the expenses will be really minimal. This is especially true if you are in the process of remodeling then making sure you are getting the appropriate fixtures to help you save more money will help, for example, a backsplash vanity in the bathroom will ensure that your paint does not get ruined as the water will stop splashing against the wall, by visiting Unique Vanities and other places this could be a possibility for you. Just let your creativity play. Here are some tips to follow to achieve this.

1- Nothing Better Than a Little Paint to Change a House

I recommend that you use paint. Refresh colors in the living room, in the kitchen, in the bathroom, in your outside bedroom, absolutely anywhere. Personally, I don’t just stop at the walls; I do the same for the furniture. An old table you don’t know what to do with and tempted to throw it away, completely changing the look of a house if you repaint it. The same goes for kitchen furniture. Renewing all the furniture is not an easy task from a financial point of view. But repainting them all will have the same effect, without major financial costs.

2- Changing the Positioning of Furniture Can Do Wonders

Whatever the size of the room, it is possible to give it an attractive appearance by completely changing the positioning of the furniture. Of course, this is only possible in the bedroom and living room, but it will already be a free way to give the interior a new look.

3- Changing the Furniture Handles

This step may seem totally ridiculous, but only when it hasn’t been tested. After using it several times, I can guarantee that the result is very often mind-blowing. Change the handles of a kitchen, bathroom and even living room furniture. Suddenly, you will have the feeling that you have bought other furniture.

4- Add Some Accessories

By changing some accessories in the house, we give it a new look. Very often you don’t even need to buy new ones. I transform the equipment and the accessories I have at my disposal. An old car tire can easily become a beautiful armchair or a garden table. A few glass jars will make beautiful lights or decorative accessories. An old door that we thought was throwing away can easily be turned into a coat rack or a stool. When I lack imagination, I just go to DIY sites.

5- Change the Lights

There is a whole branch of interior design that specializes in the arrangement of lighting and the positioning of lighting. This is how important this aspect is in decoration. The perception of two similar interiors can be completely different only because of the lighting or fixtures used. Be careful, changing the lighting doesn’t mean you have to spend money on it, however, you may wish to visit this website and purchase something new depending on the style of your room. I make knitted lampshades for bedrooms. They bring warmth and comfort to the room. It is also possible to redecorate the lights we have or to give them a touch of charm. However, if you don’t mind spending a little extra to change the lighting in your home, you can always get in touch with professionals like those at https://www.bouldenbrothers.com/boulden-brothers-electric/ to perhaps add some decorative or accent lighting to really give your interior a unique look.

6- Add Blankets to Furniture

This technique is simply foolproof. It is possible to get a new interior every two or three years with little effort by simply changing the upholstery of the furniture. I like to make them myself; I have no academic knowledge in the field and I do it; I believe that others will do it. As long as one knows how to use a sewing machine, even at the basic level, one will have no difficulty in making it yourself. On the Internet, one can easily find models of covers. All one has to do is buy the fabric and sew the covers.

7- Change of Curtains

For some, curtains are accessories that can only be found in grandma’s interiors. In fact, they can turn any interior into a palace, so we can know how to do it. Choose the fabric carefully, pay attention to its texture and patterns. Window treatments should match other accessories and furniture in the house, so be sure to shop around for the perfect curtains or blinds for your space.

Giving the interior a new look doesn’t mean breaking the bank. It’s easy to do with a little imagination and creativity. Even when buying new furniture and accessories, it is possible to use the old ones to improve the general perception.

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Home Improvement, Home Things

How a Good Roof Will Save Us Money on Utility Bills

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Most of us have the same attitude towards the roof- as long as it has no issue, there is no need to get concerned. We only turn our attention to the ceiling during a crisis like a leak or storm damage. Mostly, we fail to take care of our roofs because we do not know of its benefits, especially when it comes to conserving energy and reducing utility bills. However, you could always visit places like Beemer Kangaroof roof inspections. Getting professionals to check your roofs will ensure any small issues get noticed, and they don’t become a bigger problem in the future.

Home and building owners need to learn how we can use the roof to save money. I have discussed three ways that a roof can contribute to cutting down the utility bills.

Insulation

After several inquiries from professional roofing services, I have come to learn that the best time to address the efficiency the roof offers us is during the re-roofing project. I also understand that the re-roofing project is expensive. As such, most of us ignore it until it is necessary. A new roof, however, will help in offering insulation in the house. It can be worthwhile to look for a Castle Rock roofing company, depending on where you live, to get a quote. The money that you save on heating costs could outweigh the cost of a new roof.

However, with these tough economic times, investing in new shingles might be a challenge. Yet, qualified roofing professionals claim it is possible to improve the existing roof’s energy health by upgrading the attic’s insulation. Proper insulation by qualified experts will increase the ceiling’s lifespan and translate into energy saving for the roof.

The insulation layer will create a barrier that will help in lessening the amount of heat transfer. If so, the heating and cooling system will not strain to regulate the temperature levels.

Ventilation

It might not seem logical to go through the trouble of enhancing the attic insulation to add vents. That was my concern at first; however, experts will attest to the importance of having ducts bringing fresh air into the house. We all know that summer months can get extremely hot, and without ample ventilation, the excessive heat might cause the decking to wrap. This can, in turn, reduce the life of the shingles.

If the shingles are not working as required, it could result in the heat radiating through the insulation to the rest of the house. If so, the air conditioner will have to strain to cool the home. Having vents will help in drawing fresh air into the attic. It also helps in bringing cool air into the house and takes the warm air out.

It is essential to have ventilation in the home. Professionals can install the needed vents so that the roof can get ample ventilation. Having proper ventilation will help it last a long time and reduce the cooling costs incurred. While you are installing the required vents, you might also want to check your roofs for any leaks, shingles, or holes. Without proper roofing system, it could be tough to maintain the ventilation systems. Furthermore, a roof inspection could add more years to your vents’ life. If you are calling for a vent installation professional why not call for a roofer at the same time? If you are interested, you could know more about roof maintenance by clicking here.

Radiant Barrier

Most of us have heard about the radiant barrier, but only a few understand what it is and how it can be used to help us save on utility bills. A few months ago, I had no clue what it was and did not know what I was missing out on. Installing the radiant barrier in the roof has lead to my utility bills reducing drastically.

The challenge with the radiant barrier is that it cannot be installed on a pre-existing roof. I had to replace my roof so that I can enjoy the benefits associated with the barrier. However, this was possible since my roof was old and needed replacement. On the next roofing insulation project, ensure the experts working on it know how to install the radiant barrier.

After installing the radiant barrier, my under deck looked a thought it had silver paint. I liked the way it looked, and most of all, how it works. The radiant barrier works by reflecting heat away from the attic. Thus, this will help in reducing the amount of solar heat that gets into my home. Therefore, my cooling system does not have to strain much during the summer months. As a result, this helps in reducing the utility bills.

As I had stated earlier, the roof plays an important role in a home, other than keeping the elements outside. The information discussed above clearly states how a roof can be used to reduce utility bills. For a long time, I was ignorant, and the utility bills were straining my finances. My advice is to find reliable, roofing experts and discuss ways to save money by making the roof efficient. There are many choices of roofing Company Aurora area which are exceptional and professional in their jobs, and can get the job done properly for you.

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Safe Travel Tips in 2021

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The year 2020 has been tough for all of us. As governments across the world put in place travel restrictions to stop the coronavirus pandemic, our lives turned into a kind of prison. We could no longer visit our families in other states or countries. Interaction with our best friends was restricted to virtual, which can never replace face-to-face meet ups.

Even things that we never thought would be affected, like sport, has seen a drastic change in how it is to be perceived going forward through this pandemic. No fans allowed at grounds or indoor venues, players and staff being required to wear cloth face masks, like those from String King (https://stringking.com/ppe/face-masks/cloth-face-mask/) and new rules when it comes to celebrating have been introduced to prevent the spread of this awful virus. No one ever expected to see sport in this way, and it only adds to the things that have seen a disruption through this unprecedented time.

As we go into 2021, the virus is yet to be contained and some restrictions are still in force. Fatigue is setting in even as we take great care not to contract or spread the virus. Many people are wondering if there is a way to travel safely in 2021. I guess for now it is unclear when travel will resume to some normality, but there are things we can do in the meantime, such as staycations. If you’re really missing your vacations, you might want to read this blog post on what to do when you can’t travel. It will be sure to give you some handy tips.

In this article, I will give some safe travel tips that will serve us well in 2021 and beyond. Let’s get going.

Use Private Means of Transport, if Possible

Health experts have advised that there will still be traces of the virus for some time into the future, regardless of whether a vaccine is available or not. This means that chances of contracting the virus will be there, albeit low. That notwithstanding, we cannot afford to take chances with our lives. One risky way of getting the virus is travelling in public means such as high capacity buses and trains.

To minimize the likelihood of catching the virus, it might be wise to consider using private means to move around. A family car can be essential for travelling within and across states. The cost of gas might skyrocket but it is nothing close to the value of good health. Again, the opportunity to use a car is more welcome than the continued sheltering in place.

Avoid Virus Hotspots

Different states and countries have posted varying degrees of success in combating the virus. Some have managed to combat the disease to just a few cases out of their entire population. Other jurisdictions are still under heavy virus attack with increasing new cases and fatalities.

To travel safely in 2021, we might need to look up the spread of the disease in different travel destinations. This will enable us to gauge the levels of risk in our preferred vacation destination. Travel where the virus seems to have been contained. Luckily, there are so many places we might choose to travel without compromising our health.

Adhere to Public Health Protocols

We are all aware of what it takes to control the spread of coronavirus. The public health pronouncements have been loud and clear for all of us. As you plan to travel in 2021, remember the directives and you will increase your chances of returning home with your health intact.

As compliance fatigue sets in, there are places where the protocols are hardly observed. To be on the safe side, don’t join them. It might look awkward but keep your face mask on especially when in public and crowded places. Maintain physical distance to minimize the chances of catching viral droplets.

Pack the Essentials

Coronavirus has not only changed how we travel but also how we prepare for travel. Before 2020, face masks were unheard of, at least in public interaction. The alcohol hand rub was not really an essential item to pack along. The personal protective equipment was only restricted to the industrial workers and the medical professionals. And then things changed suddenly. The face mask has now become a basic necessity in our day to day lives and it is almost impossible to get out of the house without having one in our bag or car. There are different types of face masks available in the market now: cloth, surgical, N95 and 3M 9330 masks that provide effective respiratory protection. These masks should be available in most supermarkets and drugstores. Alternatively, if you’re looking to buy 9320 masks online, you might want to check out e-stores, like Jackson Handling, that are well stocked and offer timely delivery of these life-saving products.

As we prepare to travel in 2021 and beyond, it is advisable to pack up the safety gear. Pack enough face masks for the entire family, stock up an effective hand sanitizer and soap. Remember to choose masks that have good fabric and ensure better protection from any kind of virus and bacteria. That being said, you could look for sustainable, washable PPE masks (that could also provide excellent breathability) from websites like www.bmtvirusguard.com. Additionally, sustainable masks could reduce landfill waste associated with single-use disposable masks. Caring for the environment is the need of hour! You don’t know how things will unfold ahead. So, better be safe than sorry.

Book Early

Placing early reservations is a hackneyed travel tip but it strikes differently in the times we are living in. As more people seek to travel, popular destinations will receive an avalanche of bookings forcing some of them to shut shop to more holidaymakers. Booking early has never been so important. we will not only secure a slot before the shutdown, we might also secure some early bird discounts.

Carry Your Prescriptions

The virus has made us forget our other infirmities. We must carry drugs wherever we go to ensure that our health condition is kept in check. Consult your doctor to get essential health tips. Keep an emergency contact just in case, god forbid, something unwelcome happens.

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Home Improvement

The Dangers of DIY Bathtub Refinishing And What to Do About It

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One of the reasons I prefer to have my home remodeled rather than completely replacing various amenities is the cost-saving benefit. But this is not always my choice in some scenarios. I visited some high end furniture stores to get some inspiration for the house and I was seriously impressed. I think it’s important to take inspiration. However, there is one area of remodeling I particularly avoid at all costs. This is none other than bathtub refinishing. I’d instead replace the entire bathtub and will explain why shortly.

What Does Bathtub Refinishing Mean?

It refers to the restoration of the old bathtub surface to enhance its appearance or repair minor damages. The main reasons for refinishing a bathtub include discoloration and scratches. Only a trained technician knows how to strip off the old finish before applying a new one. The process of refinishing a bathtub costs less than replacing the whole facility. The problem with refinishing is that it requires the application of lethal chemicals such as isocyanates, methylene chloride, and some acids.
Also, much like refinishing, bathroom remodeling works like fixture installation and leaky pipe repairs ought to be carried by professional plumbers. You can find more info on any plumbing company’s website. In case you have other plumbing works besides fixing leaky pipes, say like installing a new water heater or a new bathtub, hire a plumbing contractor who does it all. You can hire an established plumbing company such as Make It Drain Plumbing & Rooter (learn more about it) that can carry out all these works professionally.

How Dangerous is Bathtub Refinishing?

As hinted above, methylene chloride is needed to refinish a bathtub. This is a colorless chlorinated solvent that is volatile and has a sweet smell. Commonly known as dichloromethane, it is applicable in other areas such as degreasing, cleaning of metals, and paint stripping. When we breathe in methylene chloride, we may not detect it immediately. This is because it has to reach a level greater than the permissible exposure limits stipulated by OSHA. So, if I happen to smell dichloromethane, it means I am overexposing myself to the chemical.

Here is where the danger comes in; when the human body gets used to the smell, the respiratory system is desensitized. As such, I will be overexposed even though I can no longer smell it. Given that most bathrooms are tiny and poorly ventilated, the probability of methylene chloride reaching toxic levels is very high.

When a worker sprays the stripping product onto the basin, methylene chloride starts to evaporate. It will spread faster if someone brushes the surface, then evaporates rapidly due to very high vapor pressure. The vapors collect in corners and bottoms of the bathtub hence replacing the breathable fresh air. Exposure to six ounces of the chemical has the potential to kill. But how can it cause death?

Effects of Methylene Chloride on the Human Body

Dichloromethane enters the body through the skin or nostrils. A high concentration can disrupt brain functions, leading to dizziness, nausea, headaches, and fatigue. The victim will have a feeling of intoxication and may even stop breathing. The chemical irritates everywhere, from the nose, skin, throat, to the eyes.

If refinishing a bathtub is an absolute must, these steps can minimize the exposure to dichloromethane:

  • Reducing the amount of chemical used at every site
  • Following the standards recommended by OSHA
  • Using alternative stripping agents
  • Ensuring adequate ventilation in the bathroom
  • Using protective gear, including full-face air-supplied respirators and gloves
  • Using tools with long handles such as brushes and scrapers to minimize leaning on the bathtub
  • Leaving the bathroom immediately after application
  • Providing local exhaust ventilation plus fresh air
  • Sound housekeeping principles, e.g., leak control and personal hygiene

The Best Alternatives to Bathtub Refinishing

I am always against the use of chemicals in my house. Even my most trusted handymen know that. Here is my best advice if you are looking to remodel your bathtub or save costs.

  • Sand down the surface instead of stripping the old one with chemicals: I have tried this, but it takes more time, and I had to deal with so much dust in the bathroom
  • Complete replacement; while it is not a cheap process, replacing an old bathtub is the safest bet. I have a brand new tub, and I know it is going to last. I think the next time I need a replacement, I’m going to call in someone like Bordner Home Improvement to switch the bath out for a shower.

As for my family and me, we take bathtub refinishing to be the most dangerous house remodeling project. The refinishing fumes are especially dangerous at the application and curing stages. So we have never tried any DIY kits or any harsh product on our bathtubs. The risk of inhaling the gases or coming into contact with the skin is not worth it. I heard someone claiming that a dust mask can offer protection, but that’s wrong. Even professionals wear organic vapor respirators with cartridges. So, we choose professional installation all the way, and so should you.

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Fitness and Health

Staying Fit Through the Covid Crisis

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With gyms closed and a lockdown upon us, staying fit has been one of the most challenging things we have had to do through the pandemic. Although most places have opened up, our daily workout routine cannot remain the same. The yoga classes or gym sessions we had have been altered due to social distancing and a reduction in the number of persons in a room. Although working out on our own seems tiresome, it is still an essential practice. Besides keeping our weight in check, physical exercise helps relax the mind, which is very much needed during this stressful time.

Working out also boosts the immune system, which in turn protects us from catching the very deadly coronavirus. Finding the right exercises and motivation can help us deal with our fretfulness, downheartedness, stress, and regulate diabetes and cardiac diseases. However, as much as training is essential, too much will not do our bodies or immune systems any favors. As the saying goes, too much of anything is poisonous. True to the phrase, too much exercise might end up weakening the immune system rather than strengthening it. Therefore, to avoid incidents, it is better if we find something that suits us. This may come in the form of a type of supplement such as lysine supplements which can help support the immune system and promote a healthier body.

Many people have suggested exercises that we could take part in while keeping safe and maintaining social distance. Most of the methods have proved to be quite effective. Since most of us still have to work from home, here are several things we can do to keep our bodies in check.

Active Breaks

Rather than sitting and working all day, the World Health Organization recommends that we take active breaks between tasks. The pauses can last anywhere between 10-30 minutes, depending on our schedules. During the break, being active is key. Therefore, rather than moving from our workstations to relax on the couch, we can involve ourselves in some activity. Some activities include cleaning the house, playing with kids, or even dancing. Though these activities seem basic, they play a significant role in breaking the monotony of sitting all day.

People who are working from home using their computers a lot need to ensure that they are using an ergonomic chair as their seating option. While it is necessary to take breaks, one must also take care of their posture while they are sitting. Those working remotely can place orders for such chairs by visiting the websites of office monster and similar firms that are known to sell top-quality chairs to workplaces. Besides this, people who are working from home need to make sure that their eyes also are being looked after. Staring at a screen for hours upon hours can cause eye strain, this is why it is important to give them a break every so often as well as looking into blue light blocking glasses from websites like https://felixgray.com/collections/blue-light-glasses to help mitigate any damage that may be caused by the screens.

Online Exercise Classes

If working out alone is boring for us, then this is the perfect fix. Most platforms, e.g., YouTube and Instagram, have professional trainers imparting some skills or routines. Taking advantage of these classes is a good idea because we will not feel alone and weird while exercising. However, while following the patterns and steps, we should be aware of our limits and the kind of exercises that are good for us. If we are not very experienced, there is no shame in starting at the primary/beginner level and working our way up.

Walking

Even with a lockdown, walking is still possible. It’s not a must that we go outside or around our block. We can also walk several miles while even at the same place. Treadmills and stairs can make this possible. Also, walking from one place in the house to the other is another good way to keep our bodies active. Incorporating technology such as smartwatches that count steps will help us accomplish our daily walking targets easily. However, if we decide to walk outside, we ought to recall to put on our masks (which could be purchased from web shops like Pandemic Pal) and upholding social distance.

Healthy Diets

A significant challenge of remaining and working from home is that we are always near food. The temptation and freedom to grab a snack every now and then without the typical work regulations is so amazing. However, this is also a straightforward way to send our diet off the rails, negatively affecting our fitness and health. Therefore, as much as we are eating more, incorporating some vegetables, fruit, and whole foods will boost our immunity.

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Everyday Things

A Housebound Lifestyle

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Most of us are used to being able to go whenever we please. We are not used to being housebound. When circumstances arise that causes this situation it can be very hard to deal with. A prime example of this has been the Pandemic of 2020. Although this has been very difficult to deal with it has taught me some valuable lessons. Ones that I will carry forward with me as I never know when they will be needed again.

Adjustments

Often what can happen is becoming housebound can happen quickly. As it did with the first round of the COVID_19. But there are other circumstances where a person can become restricted to the home. Such as a result of an illness or injury. Or in other cases where people simply cannot afford to go out for any type of entertainment. When these circumstances arise it takes people away from their normal routine and they have trouble adjusting. Some become depressed while others may become irritable.

Putting Time To Good Use

The biggest challenge that I as many others faced is what to do with all the extra time that is now available and what to do with it in a constructive way. This is difficult when there are family members of different age groups. I found the best approach was to plan for using time.

Turn It Into Something Fun

One approach is to turn the situation into something fun. With some creative thinking, there are lots of ways to do this. Here are some things that I planned for my family.

Plan A Virtual Vacation

There is no way that a traditional vacation can be taken but now it’s an ideal time for a virtual one. Just as you would for any vacation it has to be planned for. So, for this segment, use it for making the décor that would be found in the destination you are virtually planning. For example, if you had planned the trip to Iceland, once you reach there, you may have to hire a campervan for rental for the brief period that you are going to stay there (check out this blog – https://www.rent.is/blog/4×4-camper-van-rental/). In light of that, you can ask all your family members to dress up for the trip as Iceland’s weather is going to be cold. And, if you happen to own a motorhome for yourself, you can arrange the insides to accommodate your family members and plan a small evening inside it where your family, as a whole, can enjoy delicious food and spend quality time together. Once the pandemic situation is over and travel restrictions are lifted, you can then plan for a real vacation with your family. Maybe you can book a private jet from the likes of Jettly that can provide you luxury and comfort to your family members for the vacation travel. Similarly, if you had planned the trip to Hawaii, then get the whole family to make some props. Plan one room that will be used for the destination vacation, like the den or family room. This can then be decorated with all the items that you make.

  • Next make the food. A whole day can be spent on making the food that is going to be used on the virtual vacation. The kids will love this and we got some inspiration by doing some research into the cuisine that would be available at our destination.
  • Now the activities: What activities would you enjoy if you went to Hawaii? Fishing might be one of them. So how about playing the card game “Go Fish”?

These are just a few ideas to get you going on planning your virtual vacation. If all these are put into action you are going to spend three days on this event. Two for the preparation and one for the actual event.

Plan A Theatre Night

Now you can think outside the box for this one, and it too can take up several days of preparing for it. Instead of just watching a movie, how about the whole family putting on a play. When we did this we recorded it then sent the video to some family members. They enjoyed it so much that some of them did the same thing. We then sent all of these videos to the children’s grandparents.

The first day the script could be written, and then everyone learns their lines.

On the second day, the costumes and props could be worked on. Then finally the third day the big production,

Virtual Visiting

Another big problem with being housebound is not being able to spend time with family friends. At least one of the family members is likely to be computer savvy. This means they can set up virtual meetings (check this out over at agora.io). But, instead of just logging in to say hello why not play a game? Charades would be perfect. This too could be a pre-planned event where snacks could be made.

The important thing is to have a plan for a few days at a time. Trying to think about how to use time spontaneously can be difficult. In between all these activities, there should be a regular home routine as well. Such as doing the chores, cooking, cleaning, and whatever else the family participates in during normal circumstances.

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