Published on: 26 April 2018
Last Updated on: 24 July 2024
In the design of your kitchen, you’re sure you’re thinking about the style of cabinets, floors, and appliances. What many do not know is that the kitchen sink can have a big role in its design. Although it is only used to wash dishes, rinse food and wash hands, the kitchen sink has an impact on the design of the kitchen. There are many old styles, but also in these last years, a lot of designs and different functions have appeared. And in fact of all the accessories and appliances, the kitchen tap is probably the one we use the most.
It is said that the average family uses the Kitchen Faucets more than 40 times a day. So when you choose a tap you have to be one that at the same time falls well with the design of your kitchen, that does its job well and that it is durable. Now we will see the elements to consider when choosing your future kitchen tap.
What to see in the best kitchen faucets :
Take a look at your current sink to decide if you want to maintain the same design and functions when choosing a new faucet. If you are going to keep the sink, then you have to be able to use the holes that are already on the surface of the sink. From there you can decide if you want to add a spray hose or a dispenser. You can also decide to buy a new sink, especially if you choose a tap mounted on the deck and the current one is mounted on the wall.
When you start your search you will have to make decisions between peak type, height and number of shooters. Many people are opting for the peelable spray system for the type of nozzle, but you can always get a side-mounted spray hose. The height can vary from 10 to 18 inches so choosing the right height will be based on the size of your sink. You can always get cold and hot handles but most of the pull-out faucets have only one handle. The style of the beak is something to consider. The “swan neck” or high arc taps are a trend since it allows more space for cleaning large pots or other tasks.
Everyone will have their own style and sure you too, for example, the chrome-plated brass is a popular finish that many choose. The solid brass keys with ceramic disc valves are used to control the flow of water and this makes it last longer. Again, make sure the kitchen design matches the tap style. The taps can also vary in their angles, curves, and details. When choosing materials and finishes whether nickel, bronze, black, stainless steel, etc., be sure to buy accessories such as soap dispensers from the same collection because if they are from different manufacturers, the finish varies slightly.
For a more durable faucet, choose stainless steel, solid brass or a faucet with a ceramic disc valve. A heavier tap will indicate better quality. The solid brass ones last longer. Faucets with plastic parts do not last, are cheaper and over time you may have to replace it with additional cost. We already saw the tips for choosing a kitchen tap, now I want to emphasize more about some types of faucets and how each one can serve you.
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Staircases tend to be a huge and important part of a home. A good staircase will allow one to have access to the building's upper levels. It allows one to do this safely. The staircase is also a major feature of a home. We usually do not need to select a new staircase often.
But if you need to, you may be confused about where to start. Staircases are available in many varieties. When selecting the type of stairs that you want, it is important to choose wisely.
The following are some points to keep in mind when selecting an amazing staircase:
1. Your budget matters
This is one main factor that will influence the type of staircase you will get. This will aid you in choosing the type of materials that will be employed for the stairs along with the style of your stairs.
Aluminum metal staircases tend to be more cost-effective in comparison to solid timber ones. There are also certain mixtures of the two materials that fit within the various price ranges.
Look for the type of staircase that you like then get some quotes. This will help you know if the budget you have given to the stairs is enough for the one you like.
2. Space available
You need to keep in mind the space that you have available. This will aid you in figuring out a design that will not end up taking much space. If the area that you have is larger, you can even choose a larger as well as more decorative type of staircase.
A straight staircase will take up more space within the room below and will need a thin and long rectangular opening within the ceiling above.
Spiral staircases actually take up less space within the downstairs area and need a square or maybe circular opening present in the ceiling above. This may sometimes end up taking more space particularly in the area above.
3. Safety matters
It is important to keep in mind the safety of the stairs. Look at present building regulations that are made to help, giving minimum width needs for certain applications.
The regulations also make sure that no gaps should be present on the staircase that are above 100mm therefore not letting kids be able to climb through the balusters.
You should know that a spiral staircase is actually as safe as any standard staircase. It should not be thought to be dangerous in any way.
4. Occupants are important
You need to keep in mind the occupants of the property. For instance, if there are any seniors and kids in the family, you can consider stairs that have landing plates as well as handrails.
The above are only some points that you should consider when choosing a staircase design.
You can look at a staircase design in Melbourne if you want to get some ideas. Work with a good company who will be able to help you get the staircase that you want.
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Being a gardener, I know Spinach is one of the most popular and versatile leafy greens you can grow in your garden. It's rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber and can be used in salads, soups, smoothies, and more. But how do you harvest spinach the right way so that you can enjoy it fresh and crisp and make it last longer?
In this article, I will show you how to harvest spinach, so it keeps growing. I will also explain how to harvest spinach seeds, how to store and freeze spinach, and the health benefits of spinach. Additionally, I will also share some tips and tricks on how to grow spinach successfully and how to use it in delicious recipes.
Whether you're a beginner or an expert gardener, this guide will help you make the most of your spinach harvest. So, keep on reading till the end to learn more, and thank me later!
Driven by Benefits: Why are People Growing Spinach?
Spinach is not only tasty but also healthy. It's low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. It can help improve various aspects of health, such as:
Eye Health
Spinach is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin. These are carotenoids that protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma. Spinach also contains vitamin A, which is essential for vision and eye health.
Blood Pressure
Spinach is high in potassium, magnesium, and nitrates, which are compounds that help lower blood pressure and relax the blood vessels. Spinach also contains folate. This helps prevent homocysteine, an amino acid that can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Bone Health
Spinach is a good source of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are important for bone health and density. Spinach also contains vitamin C, which helps the body absorb calcium and produce collagen, a protein that strengthens the bones and connective tissues.
Immune System
Spinach is loaded with vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and fights off infections and inflammation. Spinach also contains vitamin E, which enhances the immune response and protects the cells from oxidative stress.
Digestion
Spinach is high in fiber, which helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation, diarrhea, and bloating. Fiber also feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This improves the digestion and absorption of nutrients. It also supports the immune system.
Skin And Hair
Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and iron, which are essential for healthy skin and hair. Vitamin A helps maintain the moisture and elasticity of the skin and prevents acne and wrinkles. Vitamin C helps produce collagen, which keeps the skin firm and smooth.
On the other hand, vitamin E helps protect the skin from sun damage and aging. Iron helps deliver oxygen to the skin and hair cells and prevents anemia, which can cause hair loss and pale skin.
How To Harvest Spinach So It Keeps Growing
One of the best things about spinach is that it's a cut-and-come-again crop. This means you can harvest it multiple times throughout the season if you do it correctly. Here are the steps to follow to harvest spinach so it keeps growing:
Choose the right time to harvest
The best time to harvest spinach is when the leaves are young and tender. This is usually about 40 to 50 days after planting. You can also harvest baby spinach leaves earlier, about 25 to 30 days after planting.
You should harvest spinach before it starts to bolt. This is when it produces flowers and seeds and becomes bitter and tough. Spinach usually bolts when the days get longer and warmer. So, you should harvest it more frequently in the spring and summer.
Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaves
You can either cut the whole plant at the base, leaving about an inch of stem, or cut individual leaves from the outer part of the plant, leaving the inner leaves to grow.
You should cut the leaves about an inch above the soil, to avoid damaging the crown and the roots. Moreover, you should also avoid cutting too many leaves from one plant, as this will weaken the plant and reduce the yield. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least half of the leaves on each plant.
Wash and dry the leaves
You should wash the spinach leaves as soon as possible after harvesting, to remove any dirt, bugs, or pesticides. You can use a colander or a salad spinner to rinse the leaves under cold water. After this, pat them dry with a paper towel or a cloth. Additionally, you should remove any damaged or yellow leaves, and trim any tough stems.
Enjoy or store the leaves
You can eat the spinach leaves fresh, or store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. We'll explain how to store and freeze spinach in the next sections.
How to Harvest Spinach Seeds?
If you want to save some spinach seeds for the next season or share them with your friends and family, you must let some spinach plants bolt and produce flowers and seeds. Here are the steps to follow to harvest spinach seeds:
Select the best plants to save seeds from
It would be best if you chose healthy, vigorous, and productive plants with the desired characteristics. Some of these are the flavor, size, color, and disease resistance.
Apart from these, you should also avoid saving seeds from hybrid varieties, as they will not produce true-to-type plants. You should look for open-pollinated or heirloom varieties, which will produce plants that are similar to the parent plants.
Isolate the plants to prevent cross-pollination
Spinach is a wind-pollinated crop, which means that it can cross-pollinate with other spinach plants or related plants, such as beets, chard, or quinoa, within a distance of up to a mile. This can result in seeds that have different traits than the parent plants. To prevent cross-pollination, you should isolate the plants you want to save seeds from, by either planting them far away from other spinach plants or related plants, or covering them with a mesh bag or a cage.
Let the plants flower and set seeds
You should let the plants bolt and produce flowers, which are small and yellow, and then wait for the seeds to form and mature. The seeds are round and black, and they are enclosed in a spiny husk. The seeds are ready to harvest when they are dry and hard, and the husks are brown and brittle, usually about four to six weeks after flowering.
Harvest and clean the seeds
You should cut the seed stalks and place them in a paper bag or a bucket, and then shake or rub them to release the seeds from the husks.
Furthermore, you should then winnow the seeds, which separates the seeds from the chaff or the husks and other debris. You can do this by blowing or fanning the seeds or using a screen or a sieve. You should end up with clean and shiny seeds.
Store the seeds
It would be best if you stored the spinach seeds in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a jar, a tin, or a plastic bag. You should also label the seeds with the variety name and the date of harvest. Besides, you can store the spinach seeds for up to five years, but they will germinate better if you use them within two to three years.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach?
Spinach is best eaten fresh, as it loses its flavor and texture quickly. However, if you have a large harvest, or you want to preserve spinach for later use, you can store or freeze it. Here are the best ways to store and freeze spinach:
Store spinach in the refrigerator
You can store fresh spinach in the refrigerator for up to a week if you keep it in a perforated plastic bag or a container with a lid. However, you should avoid washing the spinach before storing it, as this will make it wilt faster. You should wash the spinach just before using it.
Freeze spinach raw
You can freeze raw spinach without blanching it, which is a process of briefly cooking and cooling the vegetables to stop the enzyme activity that causes them to spoil. However, freezing raw spinach will result in a mushy and watery texture and a loss of flavor and nutrients. To freeze raw spinach, you should wash and dry the leaves, and then pack them in freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. You can freeze raw spinach for up to six months, and use it in smoothies, soups, or casseroles.
Freeze spinach blanched
You can freeze blanched spinach, which will retain its color, texture, flavor, and nutrients better than raw spinach. To freeze blanched spinach, you should wash and trim the leaves, and then blanch them in boiling water for one to two minutes, depending on the size of the leaves.
You should then drain and cool the leaves, and squeeze out the excess water. You can then pack the leaves in freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Furthermore, you can freeze blanched spinach for up to a year, and use it in salads, sandwiches, or quiches.
Things to Keep in Mind: How to Grow Spinach Successfully?
Spinach is a cool-season crop that grows best in the spring and fall, when the temperatures are between 40°F and 75°F. It can tolerate light frost but not heat or drought. Spinach also prefers moist, fertile, and well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Here are some tips and tricks on how to grow spinach successfully:
Choose the right variety
There are many types of spinach, but the most common varieties are savoy, semi-savoy, and flat-leafed. Savoy spinach has dark green, crinkly leaves that are great for salads and wraps. Semi-savoy spinach has slightly curled leaves that are more resistant to diseases and bolting. Flat-leafed spinach has smooth, broad leaves that are easy to clean and process. You can also choose spinach varieties based on their maturity time, bolt resistance, flavor, and color. Bloomsdale, Tyee, Space, Melody, and Red Kitten are popular spinach varieties.
Sow the seeds
You can sow spinach seeds directly in the garden, or start them indoors and transplant them later. The best time to sow spinach seeds is in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in late summer or early fall, for a winter harvest. You can also sow spinach seeds every two to three weeks, for a continuous harvest.
Besides this, you should sow the seeds about half an inch deep, and one to two inches apart, in rows that are 12 to 18 inches apart. You should water the seeds well, and keep the soil moist until they germinate, which usually takes seven to 14 days.
Thin the seedlings
When the spinach seedlings have two to four true leaves, you should thin them to avoid overcrowding and competition. You should leave about four to six inches of space between each plant, and eat or transplant the thinned seedlings. You should also weed the area around the spinach plants regularly, to prevent pests and diseases.
Harvest the leaves
Depending on the variety, you can start harvesting spinach leaves when they are big enough to eat, usually about 25 to 50 days after sowing. You can either harvest the whole plant or pick individual leaves from the outer part of the plant, leaving the inner leaves to grow.
Additionally, you should harvest spinach in the morning, when the leaves are crisp and fresh, and before the sun gets too hot. You should also harvest spinach before it starts to bolt, which is when it produces flowers and seeds, and becomes bitter and tough.
How to Use Spinach in Different Cuisines and Recipes?
Spinach is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many different cuisines and recipes. Whether you want to make a salad, a soup, a pasta, a pie, or a smoothie, spinach can add flavor, color, and nutrition to your dish. Here are some examples of how to use spinach in different cuisines and recipes:
Mediterranean cuisine
Spinach is a staple ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes, such as spanakopita, a Greek pie made with spinach and feta cheese wrapped in phyllo dough, or spinach and chickpea stew, a Moroccan dish flavored with cumin, paprika, and lemon juice. You can also make a simple spinach salad with tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
Asian cuisine
Spinach is widely used in Asian cuisine, especially in Chinese, Japanese, and Indian dishes. You can make a Chinese spinach and tofu stir-fry with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, or a Japanese spinach and sesame salad with rice vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. You can also make an Indian spinach and potato curry with onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and garam masala, or a spinach and paneer cheese dish with cream, tomato, and fenugreek.
Italian cuisine
Spinach is a common ingredient in Italian cuisine, especially in pasta, pizza, and lasagna. You can make a spinach and ricotta ravioli with butter and sage sauce, or a spinach and mushroom pizza with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. You can also make a spinach and cheese lasagna with béchamel sauce, or a spinach and artichoke dip with cream cheese and sour cream.
American cuisine
Spinach is also popular in American cuisine, especially salads, sandwiches, and casseroles. You can make a spinach and strawberry salad with almonds and poppy seed dressing or a spinach and bacon sandwich with mayonnaise and mustard. You can also make a spinach and cheese casserole with eggs, milk, and breadcrumbs, or a spinach and artichoke quiche with pie crust and cheddar cheese.
Wrapping It Up!
Spinach is a wonderful vegetable that you can harvest, store, and use in various ways. It's easy to grow, harvest, and store spinach, as long as you follow some simple steps and tips. It's also healthy, delicious, and versatile, as you can use it in many different cuisines and recipes. Spinach is a green treasure that you don't want to miss.
If you want to know about how to harvest spinach, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then, leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be ether to answer them all for you.
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Your house's roof is its ultimate defense against harsh weather, pesky creatures, and infestations.
If your roof is not in top condition, your entire house is at risk. It's crucial to schedule roof repair as soon as you notice a leak, even if it's small, as it can cause significant damage.
Repairing your roof is more cost-effective than replacing it entirely and is vital to maintain its integrity.
Left unaddressed, roof leaks can cost you tens of thousands of dollars.
This article will discuss the basics of roof repair, what you need, and how to do it. Ensuring your roof is in top condition is essential to protect your home from the elements and ensure its longevity.
Steps For Repairing Your Roof
Given below are the steps that will guide you in the process of roof repairing at your home—
1. Examine The Damage
Following a systematic approach is vital when searching for a leak in your roof. Begin by surveying the visible damage to your roof, including shingles, gutters, and roof edges.
It's essential to start with the most obvious issues and progress to less apparent ones. Once you've assessed the exterior, examine the interior for signs of water damage.
Look for indications of water stains, dripping water, sagging, pooled water, and dampness. Inspect during rainy weather, as some leaks are intermittent and only occur when there is enough rain.
Access the attic using a flashlight to locate the water source through the roof deck. Check around all rafters for indications of water.
Water can travel through the roof decking and rafters due to the force of gravity, which may result in dripping in different areas. If you observe water dripping, trace it back to its origin.
2. Find A Reliable Contractor
After a thorough inspection of your roofing system by a professional roofing consultant, you will receive an accurate and detailed bid or estimate.
The estimate will be based on the materials you choose for your roofing projects. Moreover, you must consider the unique measurements of your roof.
The roofing consultant will also consider any special conditions that may affect the cost. This can include the complexity of the roof design or any existing damage that needs repairing.
Once you receive the bid or estimate, your roofing contractor should provide a written contract outlining the details.
This contract should include a comprehensive breakdown of the costs, the expected timeline for completion, and any warranties or guarantees included.
Therefore, you must carefully review and understand the contract before agreeing to any work to ensure everything is clear and fair for both parties.
3. Select The Suitable Material
It's crucial to have a complete set of roofing tools when undertaking any repair project. These hand tools have various uses throughout the house.
They include the following:
Roofing hammer.
Pry bar.
Nail puller.
Utility knife.
Shears.
Tin snips.
Handbrake.
Tape measure.
Chalk box.
Roofing nails (also known as roofers).
Speed squares.
A pencil for notes or markings.
A 10 oz clay gun.
Choosing the right roofing sealant depends on the roofer's needs, but any kind will suffice.
While shingles are optional, matching them is optional. For flashing work, it's recommended to use aluminum coil stock, which is available in various colors at most box stores.
A tape measure is recommended for all measurements and layout work, and a chalk box is ideal for snapping reference lines and general layout work.
Roofing nails, or "roofers," are recommended for their durability. The materials used for the roofing sealant, shingles, and aluminum coil stock are also essential.
4. Ensure That All Cracks Are Sealed
Using an uncomplicated roofing sealant is important to seal any cracks on your roof.
To apply a sealant, you must pierce a thin aluminum membrane with the tube, allowing the sealant to flow.
Next, load the sealant into a caulk gun and aim it at the crack or hole to seal it.
The sealant will dry in a few hours and be set entirely in 24 hours without intervention.
Finally, you can cover the hole with shingles or flashing and move on to other projects. Ensuring that the roof sealant is compatible with your caulk gun is crucial. This is because some construction materials come in 28-ounce tubes that won't fit a standard 10-ounce gun.
5. Ensure The roof Is Insulated
When planning to replace your roof, it's also a good opportunity to consider upgrading your insulation.
However, if you opt for new blown-in insulation, your roofing contractor will install it while they remove the decking.
This insulation process requires running a hose through the exposed roof and into your attic. It allows the insulation to be installed quickly and easily without causing any damage to your walls or ceilings.
Therefore, with the new insulation, you can enjoy improved energy efficiency and a more comfortable indoor environment.
6. Leave It Clean
After the roofing crew installs your new roof, they should clean up any debris around your home. This includes loose shingles and nails and leaves them in their original condition.
They should also haul away old roofing materials for proper disposal. Additionally, you must ensure not to dispose of in landfills, which can contribute to pollution.
The roofing expert must inspect the final product to ensure it meets all industry standards and building codes.
They should also check for potential leaks or damage and address any concerns.
It is important to address any concerns and take steps to correct any issues. Therefore, ensure you’re completely satisfied with the new roof and its reliable protection for years.
Can You Repair Your Roof Yourself?
Understandably, as a homeowner, you may want to save money. Therefore, taking care of some home maintenance tasks can help you save a lot.
However, it is important to know your limits when it comes to your roof.
You may be capable of handling minor tasks such as replacing caulking or cleaning gutters. On the other hand, leaving any roofing projects to the professionals is highly recommended.
Moreover, roofing maintenance requires specific skills, knowledge, and equipment that only experienced and trained professionals possess.
Even a seeming DIY project can quickly spiral into a much bigger roof repair if something goes wrong.
Therefore, it's always wise to prioritize the safety of your home and family. Look for an efficient roofing service provider and explain the damage.
You can get your roof cost-effectively repaired under expert supervision!
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