Published on: 15 April 2019
Last Updated on: 01 December 2021
When planning for a renovation project in your home, you may have a lot of small things to keep track of such as time, money, cost, fixtures and other details that need attention. Due to the number of things that you need to worry about you can easily lose focus. So here are some interesting tips that you can use during your home improvement project to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Essential Factors To Consider Before Going For A Home Improvement Project
There are several essential factors that you need to consider for your home improvement project are as follows:-
Consider creating a long term plan:
One of the most common mistakes that most homeowners make is lack of planning. Most people get too wrapped up with the idea of living in the present and have not considered planning for the future. To avoid this from happening, think about what your living conditions would be in the next five to ten years. There are things that you might not need today but will be essential in the future.
If you have a party wall in your house, then renovation can be quite complicated. Before doing anything, it is best to seek advice from a professional party wall surveyor Cheshire offers regarding the next steps to take in fixing your wall. Besides, hiring an expert will also help you save money in renovation work.
Work on a checklist:
A checklist is essential in making sure that the renovation project goes smoothly as planned. It is vital to note everything in detail, so you will not miss out important things. Skipping steps can cost you more money and inconvenience in the future.
Set a realistic timeline for the project:
If you want to see amazing results after your home renovations, you need to understand that it takes more than just a day or two to fix things especially if you are thinking of having major work done on your kitchen, bathroom or bedroom.
If you want to save money and do the manual labor all by yourself, then expect the project to take longer than expected. However, if you have the budget, then it is okay to hire a contractor to work on your requests promptly.
Know the numbers:
Home improvement projects can range from a few hundred to thousands of pounds depending on the type and amount of work that needs to be done. It is easy to make suggestions, but the real question is how much money can you afford to spend right now. If you are on a limited budget, then it is okay to start with small changes such as repainting, grouting and decluttering in the meantime. Once you have saved more than enough money, then it is time to think about bigger things.
Do a background check of your contractor:
Before finalizing renovation deals with a contractor make sure to do a full background check. Many homeowners have experienced dealing with horrible, unprofessional and overpriced contractors and you do not want to experience this kind of nightmare. Take time to check the business license, physical office, insurance and reputation of the contractor before closing the deal.
Home renovation is not an easy thing to do, but it can be fulfilling once you start seeing the results of your project.
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So you want to downsize to a smaller apartment?
If you’re banging your head against the wall trying to figure out how to make a move go smoothly, you’re not alone. We’ve all been guilty of having too much stuff!
Give yourself a break and start thinking of solutions. Stay inspired by focusing on the many benefits of downsizing!
Moving into a smaller apartment gives you the chance to start over and get rid of things you no longer need. It can also help you to get organized and keep only the essentials.
Even better, you won’t have to clean nearly as much space and can live as a minimalist! That in itself has some serious perks. Your stuff won’t own you and you’ll have more time to enjoy life.
Do you see where we’re going with this?
Get ready, because, in this article, we offer seven expert hacks to help make the process of moving into a smaller apartment easier.
Here are 7 Expert Hacks for Downsizing to a Smaller Apartment:
1. Analyze the space you’ll have
It’s essential to know the total space of your new apartment before you start the downsizing process.
Take a look at your new floor plan and figure out how much room in feet and inches are on each wall. That way you’ll know what will fit in your apartment.
If the measurements aren’t on the floor plan, ask the leasing office to provide you with the details.
But, the floor plan or provided measurements won’t tell you everything. You need to measure the extra spaces as well:
Closets
Space under the bed (more on this later)
Bathroom storage and cabinets
Garage storage (if your apartment includes a separate garage)
Kitchen storage and cabinets
Other spaces where you might add shelving (like the top of the fridge or in a window)
When you’re done with that, measure your current furniture and decide which pieces will fit into your place and which ones you won’t need.
2. Determine your actual needs
An excellent way to figure out what your needs are is by asking yourself if everything was gone, what would you replace?
Jot down some necessary items you can’t live without such as a bed, sofa, coffeemaker, dog bed — whatever is important to you.
You should also ask yourself the following questions:
What sentimental items will I miss the most?
Does this item serve a purpose?
Do I already have something that serves the same purpose?
Can I use this item to accomplish more than one task?
Is this object in good shape, and will it last for a while longer?
This is the point where you’ll be making some headway on knowing what you’re keeping and what you can live without.
If ever in doubt of whether you should keep or donate something, go back to asking yourself these questions.
3. Set some tangible goals
When it’s getting closer to moving time, you need to come up with a game plan.
Best get started with setting some goals before time escapes you!
We’re assuming you want to declutter and possibly redecorate your new place, and if that’s the case, it’s time to set some tangible goals.
Ask yourself these questions:
(Yes, we realize we’re telling you to do this yet again.)
What do I hope to gain by adopting a minimalist lifestyle?
Do I want to keep the furniture I have or get new furniture (#1 and #4 will help with this)
How do I plan to declutter?
How will I maximize my space? (Keep reading because we cover this in #4.)
What will I do if I can’t decide to part with some items?
Should I pay for storage elsewhere to store extra belongings?
Need some help answering those kinds of questions?
Here are some goals you could have:
I want a clutter-free apartment that will give me peace.
Not fixating on my possessions will help me feel free.
I’d like to have a clean slate and keep my belongings organized moving forward.
Being minimalistic will help me put emphasis on the most important emotional and physical items in my life.
Write down a few goals that inspire you so that when you feel like giving up, you’ll be able to remind yourself of your intentions.
4. Be a master organizer by maximizing space
Since you know how much space is in your apartment, as we recommended in #2, you should already have a plan in place as to where everything should go.
With the limited storage space in your new digs, it’ll help to store things vertically.
Vertically aligning hooks and shelves helps you take advantage of every square inch of space.
You might want to use adhesive hooks at first because most are easy to adjust.
We’ll be getting into how to simplify your wardrobe next, but for now, keep in mind that multi-use furniture can solve a lot of storage problems.
Keep reading because we’re about to reveal some killer ideas.
One idea is to maximize space by incorporating storage headboards. These are pieces of furniture such as bookshelves and a hutch that’ll fit over your bed.
Incorporating these types of units will make it easier to store a variety of items from family treasures to books and jewelry.
For example, incorporating a fitted unit in your closet can make it easier to organize.
Beyond that, think of other ways you can make use of storage. Is there any room underneath the bed you’ll be moving into your fancy new apartment?
If there isn’t and you need an upgrade, buy a bed that has drawers underneath. Trust us — those drawers will be your best friend when you need to store extra items of clothing such as blankets or sweatshirts.
Keep your bed if you like it, and it just so happens that you may be able to squeeze in some bins underneath to use as storage. For example, milk crates work well when you want to store books, tee shirts, and keepsakes.
5. Simplify your wardrobe
Seriously, how do you go about simplifying your wardrobe with you have a gazillion t-shirts?
If you think your new closet is small, just think about the people who live in tiny homes. Now those are super tiny!
Don’t worry; you can do this if they can!
Here are some steps to follow that’ll make your wardrobe functional in no time at all.
Step 1: Get all of your clothing out (ALL of it!) and put it somewhere you can sort through it. Whether that’s on the floor or on your bed is entirely up to you.
Step 2: Next, divide those clothes into three different piles and decide to donate, keep, or store them.
Step 3: Ask yourself if the clothing fits you or if it's still in wearable condition. If you haven’t worn jeans, for example, due to a weight gain or loss, donate or store those items.
Don’t keep clothing that’s falling apart. That’s just a waste of precious closet space!
Step 4: Are you done going through your clothing and separating them into three different piles?
Okay good, you’re going to do it again. This time ask yourself if this clothing fits your personality and your current lifestyle.
Step 5: Mission complete! Well, almost. Organize the clothes you’re keeping, store what you plan to wear later (such as seasonal clothing), and drop off clothes you’re donating.
6. Sell or donate what you don’t want
Now that you know how much space you have, and how to simplify your wardrobe, let's dive into why it's so essential to sell or donate belongings. It's time to stop and figure out which items you can and can't part with.
As you know, whether you're moving to a different city or relocating to a separate apartment at the same complex, moving takes a lot of work.
You should do everything in your power to simplify the moving process.
Eager to make some money to help with moving expenses?
One way to do that is by selling belongings and furniture you no longer want.
Try Craigslist, eBay, garage sales, Facebook, consignment stores, and more.
Before you even start packing, you should sell, donate, or recycle stuff you can live without. This will eliminate packing everything up only to decide later that you didn't need that item of clothing or five extra plates.
If you have problems deciding whether you want to keep, sell, or donate an item, take a hard look at everything you own.
Think about whether another person would find use out of that item.
If the item is useful, you can either donate it or sell it, depending on its value.
Who knows, your trash may turn into someone else's treasure.
7. Digitize nonessential media
Next let's dive into how you can digitize and save documents, pictures, videos, cassettes, videos, DVDs, and CDs.
While it's important to keep hard copies of documents such as your social security card and birth certificate, try to save and scan everything else.
Transfer CDs and DVDs to digital files by using free computer programs such as Freemake Video Converter, Movavi, and WinX.
Scan documents to your computer or save them as PDF files. After you're done scanning everything, use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft One Drive.
Online storage sites are lifesavers when your goal is to digitize media.
Think of all of the space you'll free up in your new apartment by getting rid of boxes of videos, paper, and more by going paperless!
It'll take some time, but it'll totally be worth it. And boom! Suddenly you'll realize you're there.
So, do you think it’s time to move? Even though downsizing may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Moving to a smaller apartment has its perks, such as decluttering your life and organizing your new place with fewer belongings.
Simply put, downsizing to a smaller apartment means:
Enjoying lower monthly expenses and living costs
Not having to clean nearly as much since your place is smaller
Living a minimalist lifestyle without meaningless belongings getting in your way
Instead of sweating the small stuff, take the moving process step by step. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying your new digs, relieved that you took the time to eliminate the clutter.
Carolina Creek is a great townhouse-style community located about a mile from Eastern Carolina University's campus. The community consists of 2x3 and 3x3 apartments and contains a full amenity suite including a fitness center, pool, business center, and game room. The community is the best value in the Greenville NC student housing market.
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For home maintenance, it's important to know the roof's age to maintain the house in good condition.
The roof is an essential part of the house. It holds the overall structure of the house together, and it is essential to maintain your roof and keep it safe from roof damage. So how often should you inspect your roof in Crestview, Niceville, Milton, Pensacola, Pace, Florida?
If you inspect your roof regularly, you can save money that will cost you later when the house is rebuilt. It can lead to extending the roof's life if taken good care of. Issues should be identified at an early stage to avoid the extra cost of major repair.
Regular maintenance & inspection of the condition of your roof can help inspect a roof for wind damage, and inspect a roof for hail damage and structural damage.
Keep reading to learn how often to inspect the roof of your house.
Frequency of Roof Inspections
Do you ask yourself this question ‘How often to inspect the condition of your roof?’ or ‘How often are roof inspections needed?’ During damp seasons of the year, it’s important to regularly inspect a roof for leaks. It can detect any algae growth or water leaks. This should be done at least twice a year. These inspections can be of advantage in saving cost and also saving the structure of the house. A weakened or damaged roof might endanger the safety of homeowners and their loved ones.
Frequent inspections can assist in locating possible safety risks, such as loose or damaged shingles, and guarantee that they are quickly fixed. It should be done for the increased safety of the people. A yearly inspection helps homeowners remain on top of any existing issues while getting wiser to larger risks coming in the way.
You need to inspect your roof at least once a year, ideally in the spring or autumn. This way, you'll be able to determine whether your roof is prepared for the seasons that bring more severe weather.
Signs That Indicate the Need for a Roof Inspection
Several signs indicate that your roof needs inspection. For house owners, waking up to a leaking roof is no less than a nightmare. To avoid such circumstances, it is crucial to pay attention to the roof, and ask for a repair or inspection.
Gutter Issues
Damaged Shingles
Discoloration of walls
Stained Ceilings
Wind damages
visibly curling of shingles
Dark streaks or other leaks in the attic
Professional vs. DIY Inspections
DIY projects might help you save money. But before you start a DIY roofing job, you might want to consider it seriously. You probably lack the tools and expertise required for the task unless you're a licensed roofing contractor in Destin, FL.
You may make a costly or hazardous error on your roof. Rolled roofing is one of the cheapest roofing materials that can be purchased. Additionally, it is one of the few types of roofs that most homeowners can install themselves, although in a limited fashion.
There are certain things that a roof inspector will look for when doing an inspection professionally.
Surface Materials.
Decking and Frame.
Roof Penetrations.
Fascia and Soffits.
Attic.
Ventilation System.
Gutter System.
Age of Roof.
Regular roof inspections are an essential part of home maintenance, it helps you ensure that the roof is in good condition. DIY inspections can assist you in staying vigilant. But that’s certainly not all! It also ensures to catch smaller issues early, although they must not replace proficient inspections. Professional roofing contractors bring expertise, experience, safety, and documentation to the table.
What to Expect During a Roof Inspection?
The purpose of roof inspections is to find any problems as well as gauge the remaining life of the roof. A professional roof inspection should look at every part of your roof, inspect the walls and ceiling for damage, analyze the structural integrity of the roof, and analyze the roofing material.
A structural inspection, an interior inspection, a material inspection, and a workmanship inspection should all be part of it.
Conclusion
The age of the roof, the local climate, and the kind of roofing material used are some of the variables that affect how frequently a roof is inspected. Generally, having a roof inspection at least once a year is generally advised.
Frequent inspections can aid in the early detection and resolution of possible problems, averting eventual more serious and expensive damage. Additionally, it's a good idea to arrange for a quick inspection to determine any potential damage following severe weather events like storms or a lot of snowfall.
To sum up, regular roof inspections are an essential part of house upkeep since they encourage early detection and prompt repairs. In order to evaluate their particular needs and create an appropriate inspection schedule that takes into account the particulars of their roofing system and the local climate, homeowners should collaborate with certified professionals.
In the long run, regular inspections and maintenance can save homeowners money by extending the roof's lifespan and improving overall condition.
FAQ block
Some of the most common questions we get about roof inspections are:
How long does an inspection take?
It usually takes 45 minutes to inspect a roof properly, but depending on other factors, such as roof size and age, it may take a few hours. You should meet with the inspector to know the estimated time according to your house.
Is roof inspection expensive?
The average cost of a roof inspection ranges from $100 to $400, depending on the size, complexity, and type of inspection—physical, infrared, or drone. A roof certification extends the roof's lifespan and can be added for $75 to $200.
Is professional inspection necessary?
Roofs are prone to damage from storms, aging, and other problems that can erode their structural integrity over time. Ensure your roof is safe and long-lasting by scheduling routine inspections by the licensed roofing company.
Do I need frequent inspections? How often should you inspect your shingle roof?
It is essential to schedule an annual roof inspection to ensure your roof is in good condition. A professional inspection is recommended once a year and may be more frequently conducted based on the age of your roof, any damage you find, or any significant storms. Do it immediately if you need help remembering when you last had a roof inspection.
What will the roof inspector do?
To ensure your roofing material is still functioning as intended, a roof inspector will examine its state. For instance, if your roof is made of asphalt shingles, they will search for moss, stains, or rust in addition to curling, loose, or missing shingles.
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The kitchen is usually the hub of many homes. It's the room where you gather to prepare meals for your family. It's also a room where you can gather to talk about everyone's day and celebrate special events. Aside from being a functional kitchen, it should also be a room that is comfortable to look at and spend time in so that your family will enjoy this room of your home. These are only a few of the unique design ideas that you can try in your kitchen to give it an updated look that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Beach Waves:
Whether you live on the coast or hours away from the beach, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the coast any time you enter your kitchen. The best place to start is with a white background with blue trim. From there, add hardware that is a dark color, such as dark blue or black. Light fixtures that hang from the ceiling can be blue as well to blend with the nautical theme. Hang pictures of lighthouses, the coastline, or other images that you would see at the beach to complete the design. Windows can be designed to look like portholes along with doorways that have an arched design if you want to take the nautical theme a step farther.
Subtle Elegance:
If your kitchen is small and only has one or two functional areas with cabinets and counters, then consider a design that features a subtle elegant appearance. Wooden cabinets can be transformed with a fresh coat of off-white paint and faux legs that will give a raised appearance. This will make it seem as though there is additional space under the cabinets even though there isn't. Open shelves are an option as well that is trending in many homes. These shelves give you the additional space needed to display the beautiful dishes and decorations that your family and guests might not always see when they are in your kitchen. A chandelier in the kitchen adds to the elegance that you're trying to achieve.
Lounging While Eating:
No one ever said that you have to sit at a table when you're eating a meal with your family. Create a modern design in your home that features a table surrounded by comfortable bench seating. You'll have a place to sit at the end of a long day while enjoying time with your family and a delicious meal. When you're designing the lighting in the kitchen, consider fixtures that are under the cabinets to add a soft glow to the counter spaces.
Colorful Oasis:
Give your kitchen a facelift with bright colors and appliances that match. Find a color that suits the entire family, using the shade when you paint the cabinets and the lower half of a kitchen island. Find chairs that are in the same color family or wooden chairs that you can paint in a dipped design to match the theme of the room. Colorful dishes on open shelves and appliances that are the same colors of the kitchen complete the look and add a touch of vibrancy to a room that can be somewhat boring. Companies like Brisbane Alfresco Kitchen Unique Design have various colorful decorations that can complete your kitchen in a way that showcases the personality of your family.
Designing With Wallpaper:
You probably thought that wallpaper went down the drain with the dishwater, but if you know how to apply it to the walls in your kitchen, it can be a nice feature to consider. Apply wallpaper to the walls that don't have a lot of details on them and that aren't home to appliances or counters. If you put wallpaper behind the stove or near the sink, consider covering it with glass or a clear film so that it doesn't get destroyed in a short time. A benefit of wallpaper in your kitchen is that it can easily be changed when you want a new look.
Get Cozy:
When you spend time with your family in the kitchen, it should be a warm experience. This is usually where you'll gather for holidays and special occasions as well. Lower the ceiling, and change the floor so that it looks like hardwood. An island with barstools provides an intimate setting where it's easier to talk to each other. Add a few details to the cabinets and the walls to bring a feeling of warmth to them, such as decorations that you might see in a cozy lodge. Mugs on the shelves or hanging on hooks on the walls are an option to consider to deliver the warm appearance that you desire. When you're trying to determine the best type of lighting, consider pendants that hang over the island or kitchen table.
Two Tones:
Instead of using one color throughout your kitchen, add a little balance by using one color for the top half of the room and one color for the lower half. White is a good color to start with on the upper half of your kitchen. This will allow you to focus more of your efforts on the cabinets and drawers in a color that you enjoy. It's also easier to play around with the hardware that's included on the cabinets and drawers when you have a solid color on the lower half of your kitchen. Counters that are a dark color tend to easily divide the two colors and make each shade stand out as soon as you enter the room.
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