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Which Kitchen Blender is Best fror Smoothie

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Smoothies are a very famous drink around the world that most people drink. Whether you want to make banana or coffee smoothies or you want to make frozen smoothies, an effective blender is a must.

In this guide, we are going to share COSORI Blender for Smoothies to meet your quest thirst for the best smoothie blender. Among different blenders on the market, COSORI comes with some unique features.

You will not disappoint with this 800W powerful blender that can do much to make a glass of smoothie. The following are the specifications chart of this amazing smoothie blender.

Specifications of COSORI Blender for Smoothies

  • COSORI dimension: 5.9 x 5.2 x 14.5 inches

  • Motor Watts: 800W

  • Weight: 8.95 pounds

  • Speed control: 3 button control

  • Cups: 32-oz two cups

  • Cup material: BPA-free plastic

  • Blade: Hardened stainless steel

  • To-go cup: 24-oz cup

  • Dishwasher safe: Yes

  • Warranty: 2-years limited warranty

Blender for Smoothies

COSORI users considered this blender the best at making smoothies. Before you buy a blender, you should consider easy to use, blender performance, blender’s functions, warranty, etc. The following we’re going to share the main features of this blender to make your decision easier.

Blending power

COSORI has a powerful motor base that creates high-torque power to pulverize fruits, vegetables, or other toughest to smooth items to make healthy smoothies. It has 800 watts motor power that has 23,000 RPM which is pretty powerful compared to other personal blenders.

Also, it provides a 3-edges hardened stainless steel blade – it is very sharp, as well as, durable. The blade can blend, crush or grind any items in a matter of time.

Easy to use

Before using the blender, wash it properly with warm soapy water. Once the cup dried properly, add ingredients to the cup and screw blade to the jar tightly. Never overfill the container to the max line.

Place the cup onto the motor base and lock the cup. Attach it tightly to the motor base and then plug it to the power outline. Press the button you want to blend ingredients.

When your blending is done, press the stop button then unlock the cup and enjoy your favorite smoothies. Within a few seconds, your smoothies will be ready to drink.

The auto blend option makes it easier to use the blender and if you want to blend the ingredients at a high-speed, press the auto blend button twice.

Speed control

With the 3-speed settings, you are in control of what you are making. Start/stop button is for turning on/off the blender, the auto blend provides you blending your items in a matter of time, and the pulse is for grinding or crushing the toughest items.

Use your desired button that your blending needs, plus this will make your item within a few seconds.

Jar Capacity

It comes with 3 jars that are very handy to use. COSORI provides two 32-oz jars for the best blending including one 24-oz jar that can be taken on the go. The jars are made from the BPA-free plastic, as well as, dishwasher safe.

The 32-oz cups can be used to make a small batch of smoothie for 2 or 3 people. The travel cup is the 24-oz that is perfect to take the cup on the go. So now you can take the cup to the gym thus, it makes your life a bit easier.

Multi-functional

This COSORI is not only perfect to make smoothies for you, but it can make other recipes as well. That makes this blender a versatile blender which is very convenient.

You can make different shakes or juices in this 800 Watts powerful blender. COSORI can make different salsa for you. Other recipes that you can try with this blender are – avocado guacamole, mean green machine smoothie, fresh pineapple or mango margarita, roasted peach-habanero salsa, etc.

Make whatever you love to drink or eat but after each use, make sure you clean the blender properly. It is possible to extend the lifespan of your blender with regular cleaning of your blender. Moreover, the cleaning is simple as it is a dishwasher safe blender.

Accessories

This smoothie blender includes some accessories, let’s see what the accessories are. There is a user guide that comes with this. Before starting to use the blender read the user guide so that you don’t face any issues.

It also has a recipe book, two 32-oz jars, one 24-oz to-go jar, one travel lid, one storage lid. The storage lid provides you with storing the smoothies or shakes in your refrigerator for 2 or 3 days.

And it has a motor base that is 800 watts. However, all these accessories are dishwasher safe.

Warranty

COSORI smoothie personal blender comes with 2-years of satisfying warranty. If you have any issues with the blender then they will provide you free repairing or replacing the blender. But to repair or replace the blender they have some terms and conditions.

This smoothie blender provides a 30 days refund as well from the date of purchase. Whether you don’t like this machine then you can return the blender, as well as, they will refund you. The refund process cannot be extended to this personal blender.

With the proper care of this personal blender, you can use this for 4 to 5 years to make smoothies for you without any major issues. And taking care of this blender simply as it is a dishwasher safe blender.

Conclusion

Smoothies are a very simple way to provide nutrients to your body even if you don’t like to eat fruits or vegetables. If you are thinking of drinking smoothies daily or make it a habit then you must be in search of the best blender for smoothies.

Before choosing the right blender you should determine a few factors so that it would be easier for you to choose the right one. There are countless blender options available and COSORI is one of the best of them.

This personal blender is capable of meeting all your needs, you can consider purchasing this blender.

If you need more smoothie blender suggestion you can have a look at Best blender for smoothies

Average Cost of a Bathroom Remodel in 2020

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The average cost of bathroom remodel ranges between $10,000 and $15,000, according to the National Kitchen and Bathroom Association (NKBA). However, the actual remodel cost of each bathroom varies depending on the size and type of renovation needed.

Remodeling a low-cost bathroom may cost at least $2,500, while a high-end bathroom or master bathroom may cost you around $23,000 or even more. That involves replacing all the essentials, but not changing the bathroom’s layout.

Why You Should Remodel Your Bathroom

Remodeling your bathroom is one of the best investments that can increase your home’s resale value. It will make your house sell faster since bathrooms are top priorities for most home buyers. Besides, it will boost your bathroom’s aesthetic value and offer you comfort.

As you remodel the bathroom, you may consider adding energy-efficient features to help you save on energy and money. For instance, you can install water-saving showers and low-flow toilets because they consume less power.

How Much Does Bathroom Remodel Cost: Cost Breakdown

The overall cost of bathroom remodeling depends on many factors, such as:

  • Size (small, full, and master bathroom)
  • Local labor rates for remodeling
  • Quality of materials and fixtures
  • Layout adjustments, like changing floor plans
  • Type of appliances, finishes, counters, and fixtures used
  • Type of specialist hired to fix some materials

Average Cost of Bathroom Remodel Based on Size

 

  • Remodel Cost for a Small Bathroom

 

The average small bathroom remodel cost ranges from $2,500 to $10,000. Renovating a small bathroom may involve basic upgrades and economic fixtures. When complemented with some DIY work, it might cost around $3,000 or even less. Most homeowners usually spend about $125 per square foot for the small bathroom remodeling.

 

  • Full Bathroom Remodel Costs

 

Remodeling a full bathroom involves the replacement of almost everything in the bathroom, but not changing the bathroom’s layout. The mid-range renovations may cost between $6,000 and $15,000, including upgrading the showers, lighting, flooring, painting, wall tiling, and fixing the mirrors and cabinets.

 

  • Remodel Cost for Master Bathroom

 

The cost of remodeling a master bathroom ranges from $10,000 to $30,000, with an average cost of $18,000. Upgrades for luxurious master bathrooms may even cost more money of up to $50,000. Some of the upgrades for master bathrooms include upscale materials, high-end fixtures, walk-in shower, freestanding bathtub, lighting, and flooring.

Bathroom Remodel Labor Costs

When hiring a bathroom remodeler, you will spend around 20 percent of the total remodel cost on labor. However, the average labor cost of a standard bathroom may cost between $1,300 and $4,300. Some bathroom remodelers often charge labor costs on an hourly basis, depending on the area of specialization.

Labor Costs when Hiring Specialists (Per Hour)

Bathroom remodeling is one of the costly home renovation ventures as it involves a vast range of services. The table below shows the labor costs per remodeling service on an hourly basis, including plumbing, electric wiring, painting, and drywall installation.

Remodel Services Average Costs (Per Hour)
General contractor $30 – $90
Plumbing costs $45 – $150
Electric wiring costs $40 – $100
Drywall installation costs $30 – $50
Painting costs $20 – $50
Interior designing costs $50 – $200

 

Average Bathroom Remodel Cost per Square Foot

The average bathroom remodel cost per square foot ranges between $120 and $275, depending on factors like the hiring location and quality of fixtures and materials needed. However, you’ll spend less when you opt for a DIY bathroom remodel ($70-$100 per square foot). That’s because you don’t need any experience to upgrade your bathroom.

Cost of Bathroom Remodel Materials and Fixtures

The cost of materials and fixtures used in bathroom remodel varies depending on quality. Generally, the remodel materials usually take 60 percent of the overall budget, and that’s between $2,000 and $10,000 depending on the size of the bathroom.

A popular material that can make your bathroom looks beautiful is the countertop. When upgrading your bathroom, buy a countertop that fulfills your bathroom’s aesthetic needs. Thankfully, Caesarstone’s bathroom countertops are one of the best in the market. 

You should note that the countertops’ prices range between $200 and $1,000, depending on the material of the countertops. Some of the most popular materials used in bathroom countertops are quartz, marble, stainless steel, glass, laminate, and granite.

Here are is the average cost of fixtures and other materials used for bathroom remodel. The prices don’t include the installation fees.

Items Price Range
Fixtures (sinks and toilets) $300 – $2,500
Showers $300 – $3,000
Bathroom vanity $300 – $3,800
Lighting $100 – $400
Bathroom fans $50 – $300
Flooring $300 – $800
Doors and windows $200 – $1,800
Paints $50 – $200
Faucets and plumbing $400 – $2,000
Bathroom mirrors $30 – $500

 

Bathroom Remodel Cost when Changing Layouts

Upgrading your bathroom can be relatively affordable when doing some basic upgrades. However, changing the bathroom’s layout can spike up the cost of labor and materials, regardless of the bathroom size. To change the design, you need to plan for all the costs.

Changing the bathroom’s layout involves relocating the toilet, bathtub, or sink within your bathroom. You will also have to change the bathroom’s plumbing, necessitating the need for a plumbing specialist. That will also attribute to a high remodel cost.

A professional plumber would charge around $60 – $75 per hour to shift the bathroom’s fixtures. Moving a single fixture like a toilet will cost about $1,000 while relocating all the fixtures (toilets, bathtubs, and sinks) may cost around $2,500 – $3,000 or even more.

Final Words

Remodeling an entire bathroom can be quite overwhelming, especially if you don’t have enough funds. Notably, you can still renovate the bathroom in stages, depending on your priority list. You can upgrade what you need urgently and then add some features later.

When upgrading or renovating your bathroom, you should hire professionals licensed to provide services like electrical work and plumbing. Also, buy quality materials that will last longer so that you won’t incur another cost for installing new ones after a few years.

5 Tips For Choosing A New Front Door

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Your front door is one of the first things people see when they visit your house, therefore it can create the first impression of you and your home. The style of your front door can show off your personality and give a welcoming feel to visitors.

Aside from the aesthetics, your front door is your home’s first point of security. If you are in the market for a new front door, here are 5 tips on choosing a door that enhances the look and feel of your home whilst offering high-level security and durability.

Choose your material

Front doors must be tough enough to withstand wind, rain, and other extreme weather conditions. Most older doors are made of wood, however, wooden doors are not the most durable option and do tend to crack and delaminate over the years. Steel doors are a better choice in terms of durability and security. They are stronger than wood or fibreglass doors, and they won’t crack or warp.

If your heart is set on a wood door, luckily there are new versions that can resist the harsh weather conditions better than the older ones. You will also find many metal and fibreglass door options that look like wood but offer greater security, durability and usually cost less too.

Understand the glass options available

Many people opt for door lights to increase the natural light entering their homes. Door lights are small windows that are fitted in the door and can be installed in custom shapes and sizes.

To showcase your style, you may also want to consider decorative window glass designs such as window casing. This is a decorative glass finish that joins pieces of glass together to create ornate designs and patterns. Charming finishes can be made from various materials such as brass, satin nickel, black chrome, and patina. Several geometric patterns are available and you can choose clear or privacy glass.

Wrought iron glass is another beautiful entry door installation option. For these windows, wrought iron is twisted and curved to create a beautiful styled pattern that fits the window opening. The iron is then placed between two panes of glass in the door.

Opt for the state of the art security

Security locks are an important consideration when installing a new door. There are many traditional key lock systems available that offer high security. These come in different styles and finishes which can be paired with a deadbolt, creating a firmly secure entryway.

If you live in a high crime area or are particularly concerned about safety, the experts at your one-stop windows and doors company recommend upgrading to smart lock technology. These high-tech digital smart lock handles can be installed instead of your traditional lock, allowing you to go keyless. Levers, knobs, deadbolts and grip sets can be paired with smart lock technology and you can choose from a wide range of modern and traditional styles, as well as various colours.

Make it energy-efficient

Your door installers should custom build your front door to your exact specifications. This precision will create a tight and secure seal around your door. Many steel and fibreglass doors also have a thermal break that separates the inside and outside door skins. This stops cold and heats coming through the skin and frame, as well as frost from forming on the inside surface.

For all your doors and windows, you should look for products that are Energy Star certified. Energy Star certifications allow Canadians to confidently select the best quality products to reduce their energy consumption.

Match your decor

A common concern when replacing windows and doors is that the new ones will not match the existing decor and will not fit well with the house style. Colour is the easiest way to match your new door to your decor. The many colour choices available for fibreglass or steel entry doors make it easy to match it with both the outside and inside of your house. The type of door lights and grilles you choose can also complement your decor and enhance the style of your home.

Picking the right front door will pay off in tighter security, less maintenance, and energy bill savings. By taking the time to consider your options, you will have an entry door that feels inviting to visitors, improves the look of your home and makes a great first impression for years to come.

Canister or Upright Vacuum – Which One is Better for You?

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When choosing a vacuum cleaner for domestic cleaning or after decorating needs one of the major decisions you have to take is to pick the right style of cleaner either upright or canister.

Upright vacuum cleaners are more commonly used in US and UK; whereas most people in Europe rely on cylinder or canister vacuum cleaners for their cleaning needs.

Choosing one style over the other can have its pros and cons, but one can make up for the disadvantages with additional attachments. In the end, your choice for the right style becomes a matter of personal preference.

This article will reveal the advantages and disadvantages of both types of cleaners.

Upright and Canister Vacuum – The Pros and Cons

No vacuum is perfect and hence here we give you the overall comparison between the upright and canister vacuum.

Upright Vacuum

I cannot estimate which would be chosen by more people; the upright cleaner is still the bulkier model of the two, is still difficult to maneuver, but they seem to have better usage in large halls and carpet areas.

Another great advantage that the upright vacuum cleaner has over the canister vacuum cleaner is that these come with very large bags which can be changed at very long intervals of time.

They also have a long and flexible hose which can reach absolutely any point in your home. The hose of the upright vacuum cleaner is highly flexible making it easy to maneuver in hard to reach spots.

If you look at the disadvantages, the upright vacuum cleaner is less maneuverable and hence it is difficult to carry it in other rooms or ups\tairs for cleaning. The worst part is that is cannot protect one from allergies because it does not have a HEPA system installed.

 

Canister Vacuum

Now you can look at the canister vacuum cleaner. These are definitely equipped better to answer to the needs of today. The canister vacuum cleaner also has a flexible hose and can get under furniture with ease. What it has extra is the HEPA system which ensures that all the allergens are kept out of your home for a perfectly healthy and clean air.

The canister vacuum cleaner is light weight and so it can be pushed or pulled along when the cleaning is under way. Since it is lighter than any of the other types of vacuum cleaners, they can be carried upstairs without too much effort. Some say the canister vacuum cleaner has better suction power, though this is really not yet substantiated by practical reports/ studies.

Among the disadvantages, the canister vacuum cleaner is actually awkward when you have to pull it behind you to clean the house. Also, their price is slightly more expensive than uprights.

 

So as you can see both types of traditional vacuums have their own pros and cons. It’s really depends on the individual preferences and budget when selecting a reliable cleaner. There are some critical factors to consider when choosing your ideal vacuum.

Those factors including the vacuum power and filtration system, bagged or bagless, vacuum weight, onboard tools, special designed purpose, brand, and warranty.

 

Conclusion

Choosing a right vacuum for your house cleaning needs is not an easy task especially if your house has hard and carpets floors as well as pets. So, this post has helped you to decide whether to go for a canister vacuum or a upright model.

You are encourage going to the local vacuum stores and seeking the opinion from the professional vacuum consultant or even test the vacuum at the store. Else, please do some home works by going online and read the vacuum review sites to know more info before getting a new machine. Some of such reputable sites are Amazon.com or Canistervacuumsforsale.com

A Gas Pole Saw is the Ultimate Tool for Your Garden Trees

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A pole saw is a garden tool that has a chainsaw on a stick-based surface, and a gas pole saw simply uses gas for its operation. Many people prefer to use a gas pole saw as it saves a lot of manual efforts as well as saving time. A gas pole saw is a tool that is mostly used for garden areas and for tree maintenance.

Uses

Gas pole saws are very effective and, as those saws are attached to the poles, one can reach the much needed height without any difficulty. If a task is related to cutting off tree branches or any other specified material that is placed at a height, then a gas-powered saw is the best choice.

With a gas pole saw, tree maintenance would be a no more complicated process. It is the perfect tool that can be used for multiple purposes. So, when you have to hack down the branches, there is no need to arrange a giant ladder. You can stand on the ground itself and conduct all the operations using a gas pole saw in a hassle free manner.

If there are lots of trees in your farm, house or any other premises, and the branches are really widespread, then for timely and proper maintenance, you should choose a gas pole saw over any other pole saw. It is very easy to use and you will find the entire experience of handling this tool highly comfortable. The task will be finished very early and you will not face any sort of inconvenience in the process.

Working mechanism

A gas pole saw is better than an electric one because of the exceptional features like strength and effectiveness. Many people complain that a gas pole saw is a bit heavier than the electric model, but you should keep in mind that its design is made in such a way so that it becomes easy to balance the tool.

Gas-based pole saws are supported with a motor and there is a gas to oil ratio that you have to maintain. Generally, the gas to oil ratio should be around 50:1. The gas that is used in the gas pole saw is non-alcoholic and the quality of oil should be at least two cycles. The air filters are to be cleaned before using such tool and after regular use, and you must replace the air filters if needed.

In the modern day, the gas pole saw operations can be conducted with the help of supported buttons. But the exact way of working may vary from one model to the other. When you will buy such tool, then everything will be mentioned in the instruction manual. Make sure that there is no gas leakage, metal burr, sparking etc. These things are important to consider from the safety point of view.

When you are starting a tree pruning task, then increase the chain tension and make it loose once the task has been completed. It is highly important that, once the cutting process is over, you should loosen the chain, otherwise the tool may get damaged.

Once you have finished the task then make sure to clean the pole saw with a wet rag. Put it in a proper case or storage area to avoid any sort of mishandling.

Some suggestions

So, if you are thinking to buy a gas pole saw, make sure that its motor support is good enough. Choose at least a 25cc to 35 cc motor for best performance. Always buy the product from a reputed brand and make sure that there is a reasonable warranty period with the product.

There are different types of gas pole saw models, thus you should read the instructions given in the user manual. Make sure to follow the safety guidelines as mentioned in the product manual, and also pay attention to its maintenance tips.

Bedspreads Buying Guide 2020

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Bedspreads are the covers used in the bedrooms for different purposes. Some use these covers in place of comforters for sleeping, while some only use for decoration purposes. So, we see different uses of bedspreads at home, but one thing is sure that bedspreads are a bedroom product. Bedspreads bring attraction and charm to the rooms, so their purchase should be done carefully. If we talk about buying bedspreads, we come to know about different buying ideas. Hence, online shopping is one of the best buying ideas that come into play when a buyer is not interested to visit the market for shopping purposes. Online shopping saves time, so a buyer should consider online buying.

If you are planning to purchase a bedspread online, then you need to be aware of the pros and cons of online shopping. Using bedspread is a different story, but its buying has to be done wisely whether you choose online buying ideas or visit the market. To make our readers aware of buying quilted bedspreads online, let’s discuss the pros and cons of online shopping when you make a plan to buy bedspreads.

Online Shopping Pros for Buying Bedspreads

Bedspreads are the right fit for your bedroom in terms of providing warmth and décor, so you consider bedspread a top priority for your room. As far as the benefits of online bedspread are concerned, we will review some interesting points by looking at the pros of online shopping for bedspreads. Let’s discuss the points that cover the benefits of online shopping!

Convenience

It provides you convenience when you make a plan to buy bedspreads online. Everyone knows that online shopping is quite convenient and relaxing for the buyer no mater you buy bedspread or any other product. It is a handy idea for doing online shopping that provides you full comfort when you place an order at home. It saves precious time and money for a buyer. This is the reason people choose online shopping platforms for buying their bedding products. Isn’t it convenient for buyers? It is fully convenient and comfortable for the buyers!

Pricing Options

Whenever you do online purchasing you always find a range of pricing options when choosing bedspreads or products you want to buy. If you visit a website that you open for online shopping, you find different categories that are placed according to the products e.g. if you open the bedspreads category you always find so many pricing options. In this way, you come across a range of price options that start from a low price and ends at the highest price. It’s up to you whether you choose a low priced option or a high priced option.

Online Shopping Cons for Buying Bedspreads

As far as the pros are concerned, there are some cons to buy bedspreads online. No doubt online shopping provides you so many benefits but you also have to face some disadvantages. The following are some of the main drawbacks of buying bedspreads online!

You Get Product Late

This is the main drawback of buying an online product whether you buy bedspread or any other bedding product; it wastes a lot of time in delivery. You never get the product immediately in your hands, as delivery takes time. A buyer gets a product later after the order has been placed, normally it takes up to 7 business days. This is the drawback of purchasing online products that you have to wait a lot for things to come to your doorstep.

Delivery Cost and Charges

In most of the cases, you have to pay additional charges for the delivery that you never want to pay. Buyers often pay additional charges that they usually avoid paying when they get products at home. This makes the online buying process a little complicated for buyers when they have to pay additional delivery charges.

Product Security

Product safety is another challenge when you buy online products, as theft problems are often faced by riders who carry your products. So, there is no guarantee for product safety when online bedspread buying is concerned. This is a genuine problem that people rarely face in online shopping. Overall, online shopping covers both pros and cons, so a buyer should look at all buying perspectives.

7 Tomatoes Planting Tips for Growing the Best Tomatoes Ever

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In the salad, meals, snacks, etc… tomatoes are essential. Nothing can give the same taste and smell of ripe homegrown tomatoes, so if you want to enjoy this amazing vegetable, you’ve better include it in your vegetable garden.

Although some people think that planting tomatoes is a hard task, it is actually not. So if you haven’t tried to do it, let this be the year you take the first step and plant this luscious fruit grown. It will be a great addition to your backyard garden, patio or balcony.

7 Tomatoes planting tips

If you don’t have any idea about planting tomatoes, you should really check these tomatoes planting tips and follow them to get the best tomatoes ever.

1. Make sure that your tomatoes get enough sunlight.
The equation says more sun means more fruits. That’s right, before planting tomatoes, you have to choose the sunniest spot in your garden as tomatoes need as much sunshine as possible.
Let’s say, they need at least seven hours of sunshine a day.
You must also leave some space between each plant, at least 30 to 48 inches apart as well as rows set 48 inches apart. This space will allow light to reach the lower portions of the plants.

2. Tomatoes need good soil
Agriculturists always suggest planting tomatoes in a rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Make sure that the pH of the soil is between 6.5 to 6.8.
It is easy to determine the pH of the soil by using a soil tester. This tester can be bought from the Garden Center or your local Cooperative Extension Service.
Solve the problem of your soil before planting tomatoes. Add lime water if your soil is too acidic, while you have to add sulfur or composted organic matter if it is alkaline.

3. Timing is everything.
Everything will be good at a certain time. You can either start your own seedlings or you can buy them grown up.
Tomatoes grow in warm weather, so you have to wait till the temperature of soil goes over 60 degrees Fahrenheit then start planting.

4. Plant deeply.
planting tomatoes too deep is essential to get a strong plant with a good stem.

5. Not only tomatoes.
If you are planting tomatoes, think of other things too like basil, garlic and onions.

6. Water deeply and add mulch
Put mulch around the plant then water it
In this way, the water will not evaporate by summer’s heat. You can also use a soaker hose with some mulch.

7. Offer a cup of (compost) tea
Tea is known for its amazing benefits because. kt. is a nutrient-rich compost that keeps heavy-feeding tomato plants happy. Get organic compost and soak. it. in one part water, and let your plants nourish.

What to Look For in a Mortgage Lender

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The process of buying a home can be daunting. It is finding your perfect home, the paperwork, and all of the legal documentation that comes with it. For many people, buying a home means borrowing money from a mortgage lender. Typically, you will be able to come across a variety of lender options that look suitable from a surface level. However, when you start to dive into the details of each one, it may turn into a challenging task to compare and find the right one for yourself. There is a process each lender will want to go through before lending you the money, and depending on the age of the home, this can take time. Having the home inspected will be required to make sure everything is in working order and the roof doesn’t have any issues. Because we know how important and stressful this can be, here is a list of key factors to consider before making your decision.

Interest Rates

Interest rates are a significant and critical aspect when looking for a mortgage lender. There are typically different options to choose from, such as fixed and variable interest rates. With a fixed rate, you can know precisely what your mortgage payment will be for the duration of your loan because the rate will not change. If you choose a variable interest rate, then it will typically fluctuate as the Federal Reserve funds rate changes, which can happen several times a year. A fixed-rate is the recommended option for most, but a variable rate could save money if done at the right time. Get a few different interest rates from various mortgage lenders to compare the best percentages. Remember, the lower the interest rate is, the better.

Check APR

Another component keeps in mind to ask about the APR, which is the annual percentage rate. This is not the same as interest rates, but it is just as important. The APR can also include specific fees from borrowing money from the lenders, such as mortgage origination fees. Sometimes you may have noticed that the APR rate between different lenders can be very different even if they offer the same interest rate.

Read the Fine Print

You probably know by now how much paperwork buying a house entails. It can be easy to skim over documents and not absorb the information. Even though there may be stacks of papers for you to read, be proactive, and thoroughly go through each one, so you do not miss any vital information. The last thing you want to be is unpleasantly surprised by a hidden fee or potentially miss critical errors. During this process, ask the mortgage lender many questions and request clarification if something does not seem right. You want to leave feeling confident that you fully understand every detail, and if you are working with a mortgage guarantor, make sure that they are also in the loop during the entire process.

Do Your Research

Finding a mortgage lender sounds like a lot of work and a bit intimidating, but you will be glad you did your due diligence to pick the best one for your situation. Ask the lender many questions, talk to past clients, and check the online reviews. Remember, you will most likely be connected to the mortgage lender you choose for 15, 20, or even 30 years, so do your research and investigate to be confident that you chose the right one.

The Most Common Roofing Issues

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Most homeowners have likely encountered a roofing issue or two in their time. Sometimes roofing problems arise due to extreme weather conditions, sometimes because of age, and sometimes it’s just plain inevitable. From small leaks to missing shingles, roofs suffer from a number of common ailments that require immediate repair.

More often than not, these roofing issues will demand the attention of a qualified roofing professional. However, it might be handy to have an idea of what to look out for if you suspect you roof is suffering damage. Here’s a list of the most common roofing issues faced by homeowners.

Poor Roof Maintenance

Majority of these roofing issues can be prevented, or the damage caused can be avoided with proper roof maintenance. The most common roofing issue a homeowner faces is lack of roof maintenance. It’s not enough to have a roofing contractor come to your house once a year for an inspection – every homeowner needs to take the time to execute some basic house maintenance to extend the longevity of their roof.

Roof Leaks

Every roofing structure requires adequate drainage. In order for a roof to perform well, it needs to be able to be properly drained. If rainwater does not properly drain from the roof, there are a number of issues that can arise, including roof leaks.

Roof leaks can also occur when flashing on the roof is not properly installed or sealed. Flashing is the metal layer installed over and between roofing junctions that works to deflect water from vulnerable parts of the roofing structure.

Weathered Gutters

Gutters are there to perform the drainage system for your roof. They often become clogged up with leaves, dirt and debris, and deteriorate with age and strong weather conditions.

When this happens, a few roofing problems can arise. If the gutters are all blocked up, rainwater cannot be properly drained from the roof and this will lead to water pooling and moisture build up. When the dirt, debris, and leaves are not cleared out, an acidic moisture begins to build up and lead to both water overflow and rust forming. Water overflow can lead to leaks, and rust forming on the guttering makes it fragile and weak. Once guttering breaks off the roof from weathering, the entire drainage system fails.

Moss Growth

Moss and algae growth on a roof don’t cause immediate damage, however, overtime, the bacteria will begin to seep into the roof and cause mould and mildew problems for the interior of the house. Moss often grows on older, dirty, terracotta roofing tiles and can be very slippery. Although it may add a rustic charm to the house, moss growth is a minor roofing problem that has the potential to cause significant roofing problems down the road.

Poor Workmanship

A common roofing problem lies within the initial installation or repair of a roof. Often poor workmanship or improper installation can lead to nasty roof complications. As a homeowner, it can be difficult to detect poor workmanship, however, it is something that will be picked up straight away during a professional roofing inspection. The only way to avoid roofing issues from poor workmanship is to rely on reputable roofing companies to undertake your roofing work for you.

Loose Roof Fixings

In Australia’s extreme climate, the weather can often go from blistering hot to mild to cool overnight. This dramatic change in temperature can cause metal roofing to expand and shrink, resulting in movement and loosening of roof fixings. On tiled roofs, the fixings become loose and cracked over time, which can lead to holes and cracks in the roof. This opens up the opportunity for water or other objects to get under the roof and cause further damage.

Water Ponding

If a roof fails to properly drain water, the water will pool together in the roof valley and create little ponds. This is a clear indication of an unidentified roofing issue. When water ponds, it can put unnecessary pressure on that part of the roof and create a sagging spot in the roof. Water ponds will inevitably lead to moisture build up, rotting beams, house leaks, and water damage if not properly repaired.

Conclusion

More often than not, these common roofing problems can be properly detected and addressed when maintaining your roof. A major part of taking care of your roof is undergoing regular inspections. A professional roof inspector will be able to point out any potential roofing issues and detect the source of roofing problems. It is best to have your roof inspected at least twice a year, and after any big storms.

What to Do If You Find Asbestos in Your Home

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Asbestos was commonly used in household construction and the manufacturing of household materials up until the 1990s. If your house is over 30 years old, it’s likely to have been made with some kind of asbestos containing materials.

 

Fortunately, if the asbestos materials are left undisturbed and undamaged, the asbestos fibres do not pose a threat. Asbestos fibres are only harmful when they can be inhaled, so the materials need to be friable – meaning loose, crumbly, broken and dusty – for the suspecting products to be dangerous. 1

Step 1. Identify Asbestos

If your house was built before the 1990s, it’s likely it contains asbestos somewhere. It’s not recommended to go looking for any asbestos materials in your house, however, if you have any old building plans or labels from products used, check them for asbestos products. If you think asbestos was used for the construction of your house, it’s best to leave the materials and have them tested by a professional.

Asbestos removalists with GBAR Sydney can take samples of suspected asbestos materials and have them sent to a lab to be tested. The sample testing can be non-invasive and will save you having to go and look for asbestos yourself.

Even if you wanted to look for asbestos in your house, it’s often difficult to spot. Asbestos fibres are so tiny, and often the fibres were bound into other materials to strengthen them.

Step 2. Stay Away from Asbestos

If you suspect there are asbestos materials somewhere in your house, do not touch or disturb them. Asbestos poses serious health risks once it has been disturbed and dust particles form. Once the dust is in the air, it can easily be inhaled. Inhaling asbestos fibres is incredibly dangerous and can cause lung damage, scarring, and cancerous cells to grow. Even if you’re not sure – just stay away from asbestos materials, do not touch, disturb, cut, or break them. The risks are not worth it.

As soon as you are unsure about a material, call an asbestos removalist. Safely clear out the area and keep everyone in the immediate vicinity away from the suspecting materials.

Step 3. Call Asbestos Services

Calling an asbestos removalist will take care of all of your worries. Asbestos removal companies are made up of highly skilled and licensed asbestos specialists. They will be able to assess for asbestos, take samples of suspecting materials, and find the best solution.

An asbestos removalist will be able to handle the asbestos with care, ensure no further areas are contaminated, remove the asbestos, dispose of the asbestos, and clean up the area. Their training and experience means you can relax knowing the job has been thoroughly and safely executed.

Step 4. Notify Council & Neighbours

If you’re renting or buying an older house, make sure to seek documents regarding asbestos presence in the house before signing anything off. In Victoria, landlords and estate agents are legally required to provide asbestos information with potential tenants.

If you’re a tenant, make sure to contact your landlord or estate agent managing the property about the presence of asbestos if you find it in your home. Keep all communication about asbestos in the house in written form, to ensure you are protected. The landlord or owner of the property is in charge of ensuring the asbestos is properly removed and the asbestos removal company is compensated.

Asbestos can be extremely harmful to not only the people living in the house, but also to those living around it. If you’ve found asbestos in your home, you have to inform your neighbours of your findings and let them know you’re having it removed immediately. Asbestos fibres are carried in the form of dust and can easily contaminate other areas with the transfer of dust.

In the case of finding large quantities of asbestos in your home, you can also contact your local council or government and inform them on the presence of asbestos. They are able to provide you with updated advice on how to deal with it and notify anyone in the local area if need be.

Step 5. Have Suspecting Materials Tested

The key to keeping your health and house safe from asbestos is to have all suspected materials tested by an asbestos specialist. Asbestos material samples can easily be taken and sent to a lab to test the house products. Asbestos testing can be simply organised by contacting your local asbestos removal company.

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