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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Toilet Flush Button: Understanding The Nuts And Bolts

Though our bathrooms play a critical role in daily life, they're often forgotten until a problem arises. Of all its components, one that stands out is the toilet flush button's use - and understanding. This article looks closely at its workings, maintenance needs and replacement considerations. The Fundamentals Of The Toilet Flush Button What Exactly Is A Toilet Flush Button? A toilet flush button is the mechanism responsible for initiating the flushing process in your toilet system. Situated on the tank's exterior, we press or push this component when using our toilet to flush out its contents into the sewage system. By activating this flush button, we begin an action chain within our bathroom that sends water from its tank into our bowl to flush away its contents into sewer lines. How Does The Flush Button Work? The magic of the toilet flush button lies in its ability to control a more complicated mechanism. Pressing it lifts a lever connected to a chain inside the tank; that chain connects to a flapper (or flush valve seal), covering up drain holes at the bottom. When the flapper is raised, water stored in the tank begins rushing from its source into the bowl through its drain hole and siphon tube into the sewage system. As soon as this process completes, however, the flapper falls back down, sealing off its drain hole once more - and replenishing its supply in readiness for another flush cycle. Maintenance Of The Toilet Flush Button Regular Cleaning Regular cleaning of your toilet flush button is vital to its optimal operation, as dirt can clog the switch and make it less responsive, leading to inconvenient situations for users. A non-abrasive cleaner and soft cloth should be used for exterior cleaning; internal components should be checked regularly to avoid build-up and potential mechanical problems. Checking For Wear And Tear Given how often flush buttons are used, wear and tear are inevitable. Look for signs of damage, such as cracks or looseness. If the control becomes less responsive when pressed or sticks down without returning up when released, this may indicate internal components need to be reviewed for potential problems. Troubleshooting Common Problems Is The Button Hard To Press, Or Is It Sticking A toilet flush button that is difficult to press or sticks down often points to a problem with the connected lever or chain inside the tank. It could be that the chain is too tight or too slack, or the lever needs to be aligned or fixed. A careful inspection and adjustment of these components usually solve the issue. The Button Doesn't Activate The Flush If the button doesn't activate the flush, the issue could be that the switch is no longer effectively connected to the lever, or the flapper isn't lifting. A look inside the tank should reveal the issue. The button, lever, or flapper may need to be replaced. Replacing The Toilet Flush Button When Should You Replace The Button? As with any mechanical component, toilet flush buttons have a finite lifespan. Over time and through regular use, their controller may wear out or become damaged, requiring replacement. Signs to replace it include physical damage to its housing and sticky buttons or ones that no longer activate flushing actions. Looking for a portable toilet rental might also be necessary if you need to fix your toilet for a couple of days. Toilet Flush Buttons: More Than Meets The Eye Though seemingly simple, toilet flush buttons are critical in maintaining sanitation in homes and public spaces. Understanding their inner workings helps us better appreciate their importance, maintain them properly, and effectively troubleshoot any potential issues with them. So next time you press one, remember its critical function while giving it some love and consideration. Conclusion: Understanding how a toilet flush button works may initially seem complicated, but understanding its mechanics is crucial to efficient bathroom operations and sanitation practices. Knowing their inner workings could save us from future inconvenience or repair costs. Maintaining the toilet flush button regularly is vital to prolonging its lifespan and guaranteeing reliable performance within a plumbing system, thus streamlining home maintenance. By periodically inspecting it for signs of wear and tear, individuals can identify and address potential issues early on and prevent more significant ones from developing into larger problems later. By taking proactive measures like this one, individuals save both time and money on costly repairs and ensure an effortless toilet operation experience. Maintaining a flush button is an accessible DIY project for anyone, provided they possess basic knowledge and the appropriate tools. Even if it eventually succumbs to wear or damage despite regular maintenance efforts, replacing the button remains straightforward, making this an achievable DIY project for homeowners. Read Also : Mirror Decorating Ideas To Style Your Bathroom Using Feng Shui In Your Bathroom Design The Different Kinds Of Toilets

5 Factors to Consider When Buying a New Garage Door

Garage doors tend to get damaged due to weather conditions and routine movement after a certain period of time. As they are not supposed to function properly for a lifetime, there are several things to be focused when designing your own garage door to avail long term benefit. When upgrading the exterior of your home, make sure you do not compromise on the quality of your garage door repair as it can add extra beauty and safety. Homeowners often find it impossible to make the ideal garage door on their own for which we have discussed the top 5 factors to consider while buying a new garage door. 1. Construction material Apart from outer design and crafting, the first thing to notice in ready-made garage doors is the material it is made out of. In routine, steel doors are most preferred because they are long-lasting, durable and easy to maintain as compared to those made out of wood. Although wooden garage doors are attractive and beautifully crafted, there are high chances of damage due to rain and environmental conditions. Moreover, they are expensive and need regular repainting as well. Aluminum garage doors are also beneficial as they cost lower and weigh less as compared to the garage doors made out of wood or steel. 2. Design and style After you are done with selecting the type of material for your garage door, next comes the step to analyze and chose the best match for your home exterior. Garage door services are available in clean lines and straight design pattern for townhouses whereas crafted and sleek outlook can be considered for farmhouses. Steel and aluminum garage doors are usually recommended for a contemporary home for which you can select the design similar to that of windows grilles placed in your house. 3. Openers and installation Installing opener and the garage door by yourself is certainly not advised as it can be dangerous and risky. A trained professional can place the opener and fix garage door by using appropriate tools which will make your garage door function properly. When selecting the opener, you can a belt-drive motor which needs to maintenance and is quieter as compared to other models. Furthermore, horsepower can be selected by analyzing the weight of your garage door for easy movement. 4. Cost Depending upon the material and design specifications, garage doors are available in a wide range of variety. Prices usually depend on construction material, opener horsepower, insulation, and design pattern. It is advised that you chose the material and design after getting the total estimate including installation charges as well. This can save you from further expenditures needed to completely replace your garage door. 5. Adding Insulation Insulation value is also known as “R-value” for garage door replacements so that homeowners can analyze the energy efficiency and insulation value of each one separately. Depending upon the weather conditions of the area you are living in, the type of insulation can be selected for warmth and protection. The higher the R-Value, the greater will be the cost of your garage door. Garage doors need to be strong and safe as they are supposed to protect your home by all means. As there are various designs and types of garage doors available, selecting the best one suitable with your home exterior needs some research. Just analyze the construction material, design and insulation of each garage door and purchase the one which best suits your budget. By overviewing the factors and steps as explained above, we are sure purchasing the best garage door will surely not be an issue. Read More: Basic Idea On Power Tools For Home Improvement Safety Triangle: Three Things Your Soon-To-Be House Must Have

Ultimate Home Styles: 16 Ways To Add Character To Your Home

If you have experienced house envy after scrolling through Pinterest or Instagram, you are not alone. In fact, beautiful homes with immaculate interiors crowd our feeds and can leave us feeling a little down in the dumps about our own dwelling. In this article, you will learn about different home styles to add character to your home. Interior decorating and remodeling can get expensive. However, there are a few ways you can add style and character to your home without breaking the bank. Timeless, cost-effective changes will bring you the most long-term enjoyment. It can be tempting to hop on board with every home decor trend, but you should ultimately choose styles that make you feel happy in your home. These sixteen inexpensive interior design ideas will add beauty to your home that will withstand the test of time. 16 Home Styles To Add Character To Your Home Here are some of the most effective ways you can add character to your home: 1. Make A Grand Entrance The feeling you create when designing the entryway of your home will carry through the rest of the house. For homes with a garden in their front yard, water features for your garden will definitely create the mood for a grand entrance. On the other hand, if you want a functional and cozy vibe, dress up your entrance with a storage bench and a mirror. Adding a chandelier overhead will create an air of elegance and luxury. This will be a spot in your home that you see every day. Hence, decorate it in a way that welcomes you each time you walk through the door. You can even replace your coat rack with a vintage armoire to conceal the clutter and add character to your entryway. 2. Accent Your Home With Reclaimed Wood Not into the farmhouse look? Reclaimed wood can still take your space to the next level without making it look country. This eco-friendly trend is popping up in homes everywhere as shelving, furniture, and accent panels. Basically, reclaimed wood adds color and eye-catching detail to your living spaces. Shiplap is trendy right now, and staying consistent with the type of wood you incorporate into your space will help you avoid the country look. Kitchens with white tile walls can benefit from dark wood shelving, as it contrasts wonderfully with bright colors. Currently, reclaimed wood is a trend in interior design. However, the beauty it adds to the home is undeniable when done in moderation. 3. Do A Hardware Update If you are looking for a simple and affordable way to add character to your home, start by replacing door knobs and cabinet handles with unique and interesting hardware. On the other hand, if you are doing urban kitchen renovations, you can include this idea because it is simple to do in a small space. Swap boring brass doorknobs with any hardware that catches your eye and matches the vibe you want to create. Often, you will find great pieces of hardware floating around in salvage shops at affordable prices. It’s a little thing that changes your space in a big way. Unique pieces can add character and style to your home without stealing the spotlight. 4. Cut A Rug Rugs are very diverse in style and price. They can cover up unsightly stains on your carpet, tie a room together, or add a pop of color. Rugs in neutral colors can serve as the base for the rest of your decor. Timeless Persian and oriental rugs never cease to be conversation pieces. Generally, most rugs are durable and will bring you enjoyment for many years. They can easily be rolled up and stored away if you want to swap them out throughout the year. A rug instantly adds a little spice to your home and warms up the room. 5. Add Molding There’s nothing like DIY molding to add flair to any room of your house. Beadboard and crown molding can add interest and detail to flat walls, creating a sophisticated look. White accents can brighten up a room and contrast beautifully with dark walls. You can add beadboard to the bottom half of your walls or panel out an entire wall to make your bedroom feel luxurious. The molding looks great in any room of the house. Moreover, you can even accent your cabinets with it, use it to decorate the side of a staircase or trim your windows. It inherently has a fancy look that can take any space from okay to amazing in a cost-effective way. 6. Try Out Wallpaper Wallpaper has come a long way in the past few years. Styles and patterns have evolved to be classy, elegant, and bright. There are countless styles available to match any motif that isn’t reminiscent of Grandma’s house. Textured or patterned wallpaper works wonders to create works of art out of ordinary walls. Also, you can add oriental wallpaper to the DIY molding panels. This will create a unique wall that speaks to rest and relaxation. Interesting florals look great in the bathroom, while tonal solids lend to peace and calm in the bedroom. Metallic and marble wallpapers can be a pleasant surprise to guests entering your dining room! 7. Add Character With Antiques: Target and Home Goods may be able to furnish your home with the trendiest ceramic pineapples and widely reproduced paintings. However, there’s something about one-of-a-kind antiques that is timeless. Of course, there isn’t anything wrong with buying trendy knick-knacks or the like. However, the vintage pieces from antique shops and thrift stores will add much more interest to your home. Also, it will make your home feel more unique. This doesn’t mean that your home has to look “old” in order to be stylish. Like a museum, pieces are carefully curated and displayed to tell a story. The pieces flow together and speak to one another. You can even mix curated antiques with on-trend finds to create an original look that’s all you. 9. Statement Lighting The type of lightning that you use in your home depends on the type of home you have. For instance, if you have a minimalist home, you can use a suspension lamp. However, if you have a more ornate home, you can use a chandelier or a light with intricate details to display. Moreover, to create a visual interest, you can use a sculptural floor lamp. 10. Bold Paint And Wallpaper One of the ways to make a bold statement is to use both paint and wallpaper, where the paint is of a similar shade. Also, you can add a color that complements the color scheme of the room. Additionally, you can also make this area a focal point of the room, which can be a backdrop for artwork or furniture. 11. Personal Art Displays One of the best ways to showcase your artwork display is to create a gallery wall. Here, to create an eclectic look, try to create a mix of different frame styles and colors. Apart from that, also use picture lights to add focus to your art displays. 12. Customized Shelving Different designs of shelving are available, which you can add to your walls. Here, if you want to display small items, consider using small shelves. On the other hand, by using larger shelves, you can display larger items. Moreover, ensure that the items on your shelves complement their proportions. 13. Mix And Match Textiles When you are mixing and matching textiles to decorate your home, try to use large-scale patterns inside the dominant pattern. Also, to add accents, use smaller patterns. Moreover, you can break up patterns with neutral variations or color blocks to create contrast. 14. Greenery And Plants The most obvious way to add greeneries and plants as home styles is to create a plant wall. For instance, you can attach plants to a vertical structure, which will allow the plants to grow vertically. Moreover, add more plants to your shelving units to create visual interest. 15. Statement Furniture Pieces If you add a statement furniture piece, place it in a central location where everyone can see it. Also, you must ensure it is accessible. Apart from that, you must also ensure that the statement piece contrasts with the rest of the color of the room. For instance, if your room has a light color, use a dark-color piece, and vice versa. 16. Architectural Details Some of the major architectural details that you can add to your home include paneling, accent walls, cornices, picture molding, etc. Moreover, you can also add reclaimed wood on the beams of your ceiling or on your tables. Also, make sure to balance every object in the room to add more space. Pick The Best Home Styles Now Whether you want to liven up your home with unique wallpaper or simply change out a few knobs on your kitchen cabinet, adding character and style to your home doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. All you need to make are small changes. These can go a long way, and over time, you will create the home that you have always dreamed of. Simply work with the charm and character that your home already possesses and take it to the next level with these design tips! Do you have more home styles to suggest for new-age homes? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below. Read Also: 7 Tips To Increase The Value Of Your Home Experts Recommend: Top Interior Design Trends For 2017 Interior Designing: A Great Art To Make Your Home Look Beautiful

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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Toilet Flush Button: Understanding The Nuts And Bolts

5 Factors to Consider When Buying a New Garage Door

Ultimate Home Styles: 16 Ways To Add Character To Your Home

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