4 Tips for Finishing a Basement

17 June 2019

Some homeowners are completely content to keep their basement relatively out of sight and mind. They don’t really mind that there’s an unfinished or partially finished space right underneath them, because, frankly, they don’t have much use for it.

That doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. With the scarcity of great real estate in modern urban centers and the skyrocketing price of homes, you would think that a homeowner would want to squeeze some life out of every little, liveable corner of their home.

That’s why many experts recommend you consider finishing your basement, making it either liveable (in which case you could rent it to help pay the mortgage, or offer it to a family member), or recreational (in which case it functions as a rec room). To help you on your way toward a finished basement, this article will discuss four key tips to bear in mind.

Plan the Layout for Usability:

Planning the layout of a basement is often the most consequential part of the process – it creates a blueprint for everything to come. Have utility and functionality in mind when planning the layout: if it is meant to be liveable, how can you make it more liveable? If it is meant to be recreational, what would you like the basement’s centerpieces to be? In either case, plan the main areas around natural light and open space. Give thought to the flow of rooms, starting with when you walk downstairs.

Protect Your Basement from Water:

The single greatest threat to a finished basement is water. Being the lowest space in a house, a basement is also the most susceptible. Hire a professional to consult on waterproofing, and get yourself two sump pumps, including a battery backup for your existing sump pump – you’ll need a plumber to aid in installation, but it’s worth it for sheer risk management.

Budget for the Use of Professionals:

Working off that last point, here’s an important, broad tip that homeowners should keep in mind: budget for bringing in pros. So many homeowners convince themselves that DIY construction, electrical, plumbing, etc. is going to be easy, only to find that it is incredibly complicated and that incorrect execution can have big consequences for the final product. There’s no shame in calling in pros, and, in fact, it might save you money in the long run.

Don’t Discount Looks:

As discussed, functionality is a crucial part of putting together a finished basement… but so is aesthetics. Consider trim for the walls, wainscoting, good flooring, and pleasing light fixtures. Put thought into the color and brightness of the room, as well as the arrangement of its furniture and components. Install and maintain good windows and, as a final touch, add some art to the walls. Don’t be afraid to head to the internet for inspiration. This collection of 50 basements remodels in a great place to start!

Don’t leave a whole floor of your home unfinished –start thinking about your dream basement today!

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Mold Growth At Home: What You Should Know And What You Can Do

Molds are common problems in many homes. They can cause more than just unpleasant smells, though. These notorious fungi can also expose you to several health risks and damage your home's structure. Although their effects may not be noticeable at first, molds will eventually make their presence felt. By this time, however, the damage they have wrought could already be irreversible. What Is Mold? Molds belong to the fungi family. They can be found in both your home and out in the natural environment. Outside, molds play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down animal and plant matter. Molds inside your home, however, are a different story. These can cause serious health problems. This is especially true for people with vulnerable conditions like asthma. Where Do Molds Grow? Certain areas of your home are more susceptible to mold growth than others. The following should be included on your mold watch list: 1. Bathroom According to deepwaterco.com, molds love the bathroom because the place is always damp, and many don't have adequate ventilation. Bathrooms practically have everything that mold spores need to grow and multiply. 2. Kitchen Molds can attach themselves to kitchen surfaces such as countertops and sinks. Dishes that aren't washed properly are also good breeding grounds for molds. In the refrigerator, expired food items can likewise attract mold, so regularly check your fridge for any food that should already be thrown away. 3. Ceiling Molds can grow anywhere in your home, and the ceiling is hardly an exemption. Mold growth in the ceiling, however, can be somewhat hard to determine, although if this has an earthy odor, it's a good sign that the fungus is present. What to Do With Molds at Home If you notice signs of early mold growth in your home, it's best to contact a mold removal specialist. Other than that, you can do the following: 1. Check for Leaks Mold growth is primarily driven by moisture. Given this, you should inspect your home for water leaks from time to time. If you find one, it is important that you have it fixed immediately. This should stop molds from growing and cut down on your water bills at the same time. 2. Reduce Home Humidity Mold growth is also affected by excess humidity in your home. To reduce this, you can open the windows, use a dehumidifier, turn on your exhaust fans, and hang the laundry outside. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that your home's humidity levels should be set between 30% and 50% but should not go over 60%. 3. Limit Condensation When the air cools to its lowest point, it can produce moisture and promote the growth of molds. You can prevent this by reducing the number of times that condensation takes place. To do this, you can open a window whenever you cook. It will increase the rate of airflow and also create better ventilation. 4. Maintain a Dry Bathroom Molds thrive in moist areas like the bathroom. Work on keeping this part of your home dry and clean to ensure molds don't flourish here. The Role of Mold Damage Repair Experts At first, glance, removing molds from your home seems like a relatively easy job. This is not exactly correct because there's a proper way of getting rid of these fungi. It's best to let the professionals handle the job for the following reasons: 1. Mold Management Expertise Mold damage experts have the knowledge and skills to determine the extent of fungi damage, the source, and the type of mold involved. For every mold type, a different approach is needed. 2. Proper Equipment Dealing with molds requires proper handling, including using the correct tools. Mold experts have all these, along with the necessary protective gear and cleaning equipment. They will not only clean mold-infested surfaces but also remove mold spores from the air. 3. Effective Treatment Mold remediation experts are completely trained to handle these fungi. They follow a thorough and rigorous process to ensure the problem doesn't get out of control. 4. Prevent Future Issues Mold cleaning experts address the root cause of the problem to protect you and your property from the harmful effects of molds. This gives you the assurance that the same problem will not happen again. Key Takeaway Molds are common household problems, but many are not aware that they have these fungi living inside their homes. The realization often comes only after serious damage or family members start to feel sick. If you believe you have molds at home but are unsure, there are several places you can check. Any home area rich in moisture is a potential mold breeding ground, with the kitchen and the bathroom being prime candidates. Contact companies that provide mold removal services if you find mold growth in these places. They are in the best position to resolve a nagging mold problem. Additionals: 5 Different Kinds Of Wood Used To Make FurnitureWhat You Need To Know Before Buying Grass CarpetsTop Useful Tips On How To Make Your Home Allergy-FreeMore Motivation, Less Distraction: How To Pack For Temporary Storage

Removing Air Conditioner Filters: A Guide

Air conditioner removal can be difficult at first. While they look like simple appliances, they are complex and can be difficult to repair on your own. Most of the time, you'll need professional assistance to ensure that it's installed the right way. If you do not install or change a mechanism in the right way, it may lead to serious impairment and might destroy the product forever. Air conditioning units can be expensive, but provide cool air and comfort to your home. Since they can get destroyed quickly, it's your job to ensure that your A/C's filters are maintained. And we'll show you how to replace them in this guide. It is also important to note that you will not be able to ask an expert to come to your home at all times. Besides the routine servicing, which stretches to three or four times, you might need to so some of the regular maintenance work. In this article, we will help you discuss some of the basics of taking care of your air conditioner. Should I Buy or Rent an Air Conditioner: The most important decision you can make before buying an A/C unit is either renting and buying it. Some individuals prefer the hassle-free benefit of renting. While more established homeowners would rather own their air conditioners and don't mind the costs or accountability associated with it. If you are someone who is shifting to a new location just for a few months, it is ideal for you to rent an air conditioner. Many professionals who work in short stints as consultants or on projects for different MNCs. They are often stationed somewhere for not more than a year. Once the project is over, they pack their bags and leave for a new location. For such individuals renting an air conditioner makes much more sense than buying a new unit altogether. Renting Buying You can get government main-in rebates without the upfront costs. There are some promotions available when you buy your cooling equipment. Renting means you don’t have to worry about your family’s comfort. Like rentals, you can get government incentives and mail-in rebates. This convenient, hassle-free option can give you a piece of mind Buying is a great option for homeowners. If you're thinking about buying an air conditioner, here's something you should think about: While the A/C unit has a higher upfront cost, you'll have complete ownership over your equipment. The only cost you need to worry about is the monthly rent. You can purchase a protection plan to pay for unexpected repair and maintenance costs. How Can I Replace My Air Conditioner Filter: It is important that you take care of your air conditioner, not only for increasing the longevity of the machine but also for your own comfort and convenience. Changing the filters of the air conditioner from time to time will ensure its long life as well as help you get the comfort of perfect cooling at all times. In the following section, we will discuss how you can efficiently change the filter if your air conditioner. Here are some ways you can replace your A/C filtration: First, locate your old filter. In other cases, it might be located behind the furnace. Make sure to turn off the unit before turning off the filter. If you are not careful, you might end up hurting yourself badly. Ensuring that you are safe while handling heavy and electrical equipment is necessary. Find out what type or size you need. The old filter will have its size printed on it. Make this size with the size of your replacement filter. When looking for the right filter for your home, find how what air filtration you will need and find out how long each filter will last. Always ensure that you get the right size. If you do not do that, you might end up destroying the machine and its effectiveness. Do not try to force a size if it does not fit. Install the new filter - place your new filter into the housing, fasten the cover, and then snap it in place. Place the filter in the right direction. It has an arrow pointing the way in which it needs to be inserted. If you have trouble, it is important that you go through the manual repeatedly. Once you do it a couple of times, you will start doing it the right way. How Often Should I Clean My A/C Unit? The frequency on which you should replace your A/C filter depends on a few factors in your home. The number of pets, the number of people, and if anyone in your house is suffering from allergies, it impacts how often you should change your indoor filters. If you are living in a dusty environment, you would need to change it more often. If you are living in a clean mountainous region, you can change it after extended periods. Likewise, it also depends on the use. An air conditioning unit in a guest bedroom, which is used twice or thrice a month might not need regular changes of filters. However, one that is in your own bedroom and used almost every single day might need to be changed often enough. As a rule of thumb, you should change your A/C unit every 30-60 days for the best air quality. If you suffer severe allergies or have pets in your home, you should replace your air filters more often. Conclusion: To conclude, using air conditioner removal techniques will help you enhance the lifespan of your unit. By taking out the filter, you'll keep your air conditioner running without having issues with the air distribution. When in doubt, seek professional services to ensure that your air conditioner continues to work during the summer. However, if you feel that there are some other problems that regular filter change cannot address, please do not hesitate to take help from a qualified professional. Read Also: How To Become A Certified HVAC Technician In Canada Best Practices That Extend The Life Of Your Appliances Five Ways To Improve The Air Quality Inside Your Home How To Repair Home Appliances And Use Humidifiers

5 Reasons Why You Absolutely Must Have Houseplants In Your Life

You won’t find more comfort and beauty in your home or office than when having foliage and lush flowers in your vases. Houseplants can do well in all spaces, either in the kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms. It isn’t hard to manage houseplants, but you only have to provide them with enough water and light in your room. Plants are aesthetically amazing and pleasing in your home because they have many real-life health benefits. According to research, indoor plants bring happiness and keep you healthier in your home. Before going any further, you should download the Lilia app on your device. This app is the best app for plant innovative intelligence. The Lilia app can identify every plant type by simply scanning. This plant identifier app can also give you more suggestions and information about the plant. The plant app gives you the best ideas to simplify your database on the best plants you would like. This app for iPhone is compatible and works well with apple devices. Plant your favorite houseplants and download the Lilia app to help you in monitoring their nature. If you love green nature, you can simply install Plant Identification app on your device, which will work for you well. This is one of the must-have apps for you to understand nature well. It is absolutely free to use this app, therefore, you won’t incur any charges. Here Are Seven Important Reasons Why You Absolutely Must Have Houseplants In Your Life Below are the reasons why you must have houseplants in your life. 1. Working Near Plants May Help Your Productivity How are indoor plants useful to us? According to experts, green plants in the office results in higher job satisfaction and better productivity. On the other hand, another study in the past had the same findings. Therefore, there will be fewer sick leaves and high productivity. This proves that including indoor plants in our workplaces is much beneficial. 2. Working With Plants Can Be Therapeutic Indoor plants can be greatly helpful to those people who are experiencing mental illness. Experts have tried using horticultural therapy to boost positive feelings for those people with anxiety, depression, dementia, and other related conditions. Although horticultural therapy has been there for a long time, doctors are now recommending potted plants to patients experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms. 3. They Bring Color And Vibrance To Our Worlds How do plants impact my life? An empty environment can be very boring, but the presence of colored flowers can improve your mood. Houseplants with cheery flowers are known to boost positive moods because individuals' minds take plant life as a comforting and motivating realm of nature. Experts did research and found out that the color green makes the body calm and gives it a sense of comfort and positivity. On the other hand, yellow and red create an added dose of happiness. 4. Plants Improve Our Environment Knowing more about how plants elevate our mood and improve our feelings, we know they are also important in keeping our environment tidy. Houseplants can make your living space more beautiful to live in, they can also boost other factors we can't see, like the quality of air in our living rooms. Houseplants can boost the quality of air in our houses in many ways. Plants release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide through the process of photosynthesis. This is possible through evapotranspiration and transpiration, which results in a higher humidity by plants releasing moisture vapor. 5. Real Plants May Sharpen Your Attention Have you ever known that plastics won't help you pass exams? But have you ever asked yourself, ‘how are indoor plants useful to us?’ A study involving 23 individuals was carried out. Participants were classified; others were put in classrooms with a fake plant, others in a real plant, and others in a room with no plant. A brain scan was done on all students, and results show that students who studied in classrooms with real houseplants were better able to concentrate and were more attentive in class than the other groups of students. 6. Indoor Plants May Help Reduce Stress Levels According to research done and published in the Psychological Journal of anthropology, plants in your surroundings make you feel soothed, natural, and more comfortable, relieving stress levels. Each individual in the research was given a computer task. After completing each task, each individual was examined, and stress, including blood pressure and heartache, was measured. The final result shows that individuals in a room with plants were more relieved from stress. 7. Plants Improve General Work Outlook Working beside the city park increases the job satisfaction of every individual; you could also be surprised that a potted plant could have the same effect. Experts approached 440 individuals who are employees at Amazon. in two countries. Even though the research was done in different locations at different times, the results show that employees who had indoor plants in their offices were more committed to work and had more job satisfaction than others who worked without natural elements in their surroundings. Have you been wondering how plants make your life better? With all these benefits, this is your time to motivate yourself and plant houseplants in your living rooms. For better recommendations on handling plants, visit the experts in plant stores or shops so you can know what plants are more suitable for your home. We hope that all the information we have mentioned in the article was helpful. Read Also: What Are Trailing Plants? – What Are The Types Of Trailing Plants? Top Useful Tips On How To Make Your Home Allergy-Free 10 Best Spiky Plants To Decorate Outside Your House

4 Tips for Finishing a Basement

Plan the Layout for Usability:

Protect Your Basement from Water:

Budget for the Use of Professionals:

Don’t Discount Looks:

Best Carpet Maintenance Practices

Ideas to Give Luxury Feel to Your Condo

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Related

Mold Growth At Home: What You Should Know And What You Can Do

Removing Air Conditioner Filters: A Guide

5 Reasons Why You Absolutely Must Have Houseplants In Your Life

4 Tips for Finishing a Basement

Plan the Layout for Usability:

Protect Your Basement from Water:

Budget for the Use of Professionals:

Don’t Discount Looks:

Share this Article

Best Carpet Maintenance Practices

Ideas to Give Luxury Feel to Your Condo

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related