How Can Save Money on Commercial Outdoor Lighting?

Do you want to install outdoor lighting on your grounds but not want to overspend on it? Want a nice brightly lit yard in front of your establishment at minimal costs? Well here’s an article to help you pick the perfect outdoor lighting for your establishment.

When it comes to commercial outdoor lighting there are many companies that may sell fixtures that look promising, however, not every fixture can meet your budget. Some of them may not even hold up to the standard which the company claims, so here are a few points to pick the right outdoor lighting:

outdoor-lighting

1. The right type

The question of what kind of lighting works best in your scenario is solved best with an explanation of where and how each type is used.

  • Wall lights: These are most commonly used wherever there is a vertical surface. Commonly used on buildings and walls. Commonly used for porches, patios, and entryways.
  • Hanging lights: A very pretty light, hanging lights work excellently under any roofed area. They are more resistant to damp climates provided they are not directly exposed to the rain. Commonly used for covered patios
  • Post or Pier mounted lights: These are fixtures mounted on posts and are especially useful as they can be placed directly in the open. Their wet rating ensures that they have good resistance to the weather. Pier mounted lights work similarly to posts lights except they must be mounted on a column or wall. Commonly used for outdoor walkways and driveways
  • Landscape Lights: Landscape lights are generally low voltage lighting that is separate from the wall and ceiling lights listed. By efficient use of path lights, spotlights, and floodlights, you can give your property a wonderful look even in the darkest of nights. Commonly used for gardens and landscapes
  • Security Fixtures: These are motion lights that glow when triggered by movement.

2. The right size

When it comes to size, they depend on where you plan to install your outdoor lights. Each lighting setup looks better in different sizes. These will be mentioned below:

  • Porch Wall lights: These look best when they are about one-third the height of the door when only a single fixture is used. However, when two fixtures are used, you could go with lights around a fourth of the height of your door.
  • Ceiling lights: These should be of a suitable size and dimensions depending on the size, also remember to make sure that your room has enough height to keep fit the room.
  • Post and Pier Mounted lights: Fixtures may be of different sizes which mostly depend on the number of bulbs used. If you’re using a pole mounted design, 7 foot tall is considered the right size.

3. Outdoor conditions and needs

The kind of lighting you use will significantly vary depending on what kind of need you have for it. This can be a significant factor in your choice.

  • Water rating: Depending on where you want to use your lamp, it is categorized into wet and damp. Wet rated lamps are used in settings where the lamp is directly exposed to weather. Damp rated lamps are used in places not directly exposed to the elements.
  • Time of usage: This covers whether you plan to keep your lights constantly running or use lights such as motion sensor lights or automatic lights.

Once you have this under wraps, you can pat yourself on the back as you’ve done more than half the job, but now comes the tough part, finding a fixture that is both useful for your particular need as well as affordable.

solar-powered-lights

So how do you find this perfect outdoor lamp?

Well, here are the points which you need to search for in an outdoor lighting fixture to ensure that it fits in well with your budget:

a. Using LED lighting

LEDs are some of the least power consuming bulbs and can thus save you a fortune in electricity prices.

b. Timed lights

By using motion triggered lighting you not only increase the safety of your establishment but also reduce the total electricity consumption of your lighting.

c. Strong, high quality fixtures

By investing in fixtures resistant to wear and tear, you end up with longer lasting lamps, this results in less maintenance costs and thus lower expenses.

d. Solar Power

By using solar powered lighting along with the aforementioned techniques you will be able to sustain a continuous output of light for the entirety of the night.

4 Attractive Beds with Storage Options

If you have a job that keeps you on the move, then you should invest in compact furniture that is portable and easy to maintain. But even if you are staying somewhere on a permanent basis, it is a pretty good idea to invest in a bed with storage. It is very true that once you have owned a storage bed, you aren’t going to go back to the normal model anymore. Here are some attractive bed designs for you to discuss with your family members on your coffee table:

storage-bed

1. Lined Bed Frame

Upholstered beds are all the rage right now, which is why you should look into the gorgeous models that are available in furniture stores everywhere. These beds with storage have a strong and compact bed frame. At the same time, they also offer you plenty of space to store all of your sheets, pillows and belongings.

2. Velvet Bed Frame

If you are looking for something luxurious and regal, then you should go for the upholstered bed frame that is done in high quality velvet fabric. A bed like this is a very good investment, as you will be able to use it for many years. It’s easy to assemble and has lots of storage space. Make an eco-conscious statement by using bamboo sheets to cover the bed.

3. Trundle Bed Frame

If you are someone who frequently has friends or relatives over to visit and stay the night, then you should consider investing in a trundle bed frame. The best trundle bed options will provide you with plenty of space. It also folds up into a compact shape when not in use, which is ideal for Apartments for rent in Colorado Springs.

4. Bunk Bed Frame

Another space saving and multipurpose arrangement that you can use is a bunk bed frame, which is just great if you have multiple kids. Even if you have a very compact living arrangement, there are bunk beds where the top bed is a single and the lower bed is a double. It’s great for small families.

Benefits of Storage Beds

These are the bed designs that offer storage options to those who are dealing with the issue of inadequate storage space. Here are some benefits storage bed owners can enjoy.

1. Easy to Clean

One major advantage of a storage bed unit is the ease of cleaning and maintenance. There is no unwanted dust accumulation so you know that there is no extra cleaning that you have to keep doing.

2. More Storage Space

A storage bed is a really good idea if you have limited storage space. It will provide you with an inexpensive space that is actually very large. You can clean and declutter your home very well.

In today’s world, extra space is a luxury, and investing in a bed with storage from Interiorbeat allows you to take advantage of that luxury without breaking the bank. Whether or not space is limited in the bedroom, a bed with storage space proves to be both practical and stylish. With storage beds, people with allergies won’t have to worry about dust collecting inside their bedrooms.

3. Stability for Mattress

Another major advantage of a storage bed is the stability that it will give your bed and your mattress. You won’t have to worry about back pain any more as the frame will give ample support.

Another thing that many people don’t realize is that a storage bed has a very classy appearance that will lend a lot of character to your bedroom. A bed with storage can accentuate your bedroom’s overall aesthetic.

What Type Of Bath Should You Choose For Your Bathroom?

Bathrooms are one of the most used yet the least appreciated rooms in our homes. Investing in your bathroom can be very confusing. You may not know where to start, you may not know how much you need to spend.  For a quality bathroom, you will have to pay a higher price but sinking so much money for the loo makes you wonder, is it worth investing? After all, the bathroom needs to be functional, not fanciful. And you would rather spend your money on something that you can get excited about but you don’t have to remodel your bathroom. You can start slow and invest in a new bath.

A new bath will not only give your bathroom a fresh new look but it will also make your bathing ritual more relaxing and soothing. Bath can change the overall look of your bathroom so you need to carefully choose the style, shape, and material of the bath. However, a small bathroom can limit your options. And if you have a large space, you can take your pick from a wide range of options.

bathroom-shower

Now, let’s talk about the functionality of the bath. Many people like to have jets for a spa-like feel while other people prefer the usual claw foot bath to suit their traditional style. One of the main considerations is the functionality of the bath. A bath can be made of acrylic or steel. While acrylic baths are more economical, steel baths are more expensive to buy. Steel baths have heat retaining properties that people living in colder climates prefer. The kind of bath you buy depends on how you like your bath and what you want from it.

Different Types Of Baths

1. Single Ended Baths

Single-ended baths have the drainage and overflow position located at one corner rather than in the middle of the bath. One side of the single-ended bath a slope, whereas the other side is steep and has waste holes, it is ideally suited for showering as you can get close to the wall.

2. Double-Ended Baths

Double-ended baths have their wastes and taps located in the center, allowing you to bathe on either side. They are more symmetrical and can fit beautifully into the aesthetic of your bathroom. It is ideal for use by two people or it can be used by just one person who loves extra space and enjoys a long soak in the bath alone.

3. Shower Baths

Shower baths are ideal for small bathrooms. They are great for a relaxing soak in the tub as well as a quick shower. Some shower baths come with an integrated shelf, it saves water and you can also keep your bathing essentials on it.

If you don’t know where to buy the best baths, let us help you out. You can find some classy baths at Victoria Plumbing. All you have to do is check their website, place your order and wait for it to arrive.

Which Bath Is Right For You?

You should first measure your bathroom and figure out how much wall space you have to install a bath, and don’t forget the space you would need around the bath for other fittings. Choose a bath you can easily accommodate, you don’t want your bathroom to look crowded ad cramped.

5 Key Principles of Eco-Friendly Interior Design

Cruelty-free beauty products and organic diets are all the rage lately because people want to start living more continuously. However, your home plays a big part in the rise in global C02 emission rates. Committing to a more eco-friendly interior design can really help the planet.

How to Become an Interior Designer

Becoming an interior designer typically requires a degree, but not all professionals who work in this field have gone to college. The pathway to success may be challenging, but you can get there by learning a designer’s duties and required skills, like customer service and patience.

Principles of Eco-Friendly Interior Design

It’s a good idea to find a mentor who can help you gain experience and build your reputation. Non-degree holders often start as independent contractors, so they can develop their portfolio consistently. Don’t forget to build your network, as they’ll help you find job opportunities.

The Important Principles of an Eco-Friendly Home

According to studies, utilities, furnishing, shelter, miscellaneous goods, and electronics account for 33.6% of household emissions. You can get this number down by implementing the following principles of eco-friendly interior design:

1. Energy-Efficient Design

Energy consumption heavily contributes to climate change and environmental degradation. Most modern buildings consume large amounts of electricity, either directly or through conversion. For example, most American homes get their electricity by converting gas.

Natural lighting, effective insulation, and the right wall colors can cut down on consumption. Carpets can retain up to 10% of a home’s heat, and lighter colors can brighten up the room, which lowers your utility bills. Light curtains and drapes can reduce the need for artificial lights.

2. Water-Efficient Design

Water shortages aren’t all that uncommon, even in the United States. Homeowners can install rainwater storage systems that reuse rainwater for household use, while water-use feedback machines can keep people aware of how much water they’re using, preventing overuse.

Small things like a no-leak tap system, pressuring regulating devices, drip irrigation systems, high-efficiency nozzles, and low-flow toilets could help you save 50% of your daily water use. What’s more, you don’t even have to change your lifestyle to reduce your overall consumption.

3. Eco-Friendly Materials

Fast fashion and single-use plastics are polluting our planet, but so are materials that are used in our home-based fabrics and paint. Non-toxic and non-polluting materials have a much lower environmental impact, so try to use wood and stone products as long as they aren’t treated.

Bamboo is an alternative to many other organic materials, as they’re less likely to be extracted, transported, produced, and processed irresponsibly. Eco-paint, typically made from starch and clay, can lower volatile organic chemicals, but so can bio-glass and cork-made flooring.

bamboo as a construction material

4. Sustainability With Style

There’s a running myth that eco-friendly homes fail in the “stylish” department, but thanks to modern technology, that’s no longer the case. Today, bamboo and cork flooring come in various textures and colors, making them versatile for all homes, regardless of your personal style.

Not only that, but most eco-friendly materials are more durable and widely available, as brands are focusing more on their eco-lines of products. For example, PaperStone makes countertops, accessories, sinks, cladding, and more out of 100% recycled paper and non-petroleum resin.

5. Sustainable Furniture

Furniture is an essential aspect of interior design, as it plays a role in influencing a home’s aesthetic. Buying used furniture is a great first step, but you have to make sure said furniture is made from sustainable and organic materials, like non-treated wood and fast-growing bamboo.

As mentioned, sustainable materials like cork lead to less pollution, but recycled plastic, metal, and rattan-made products offer both eco-friendliness and comfort. If you’re a fan of fabric-made couches, make sure the dye used in the furniture is able to break down safely in landfills.

4 Fresh Spring Decorating Ideas

Spring is just around the corner, so it’s the perfect time to start thinking about all the ways you can decorate your home to set the refreshing mood and show everyone that you’re ready for the longer and warmer days.

However, some things are easier said than done, and even something seemingly as simple as decorating can prove to be a real challenge if you try it without any plan in mind. For example, you might want to start by reconsidering your color palette. Do you want to use delicate pastels, or maybe you prefer the intensity of hot pink, canary yellow, and sky blue? Or maybe you prefer to decorate using faux flowers instead of real ones?

If you’re looking for some of the best spring decoration ideas to breathe new life into your home, you’re in a good place. Read on to learn more about spring decorating ideas that will make your home look fresh and cozy!

spring decorating ideas

1. Personalize Your Doormat

You can also choose to personalize your doormat, so every guest who visits you feels even more welcome. Try buying a regular plain doormat along with outdoor acrylic paint in bright colors so they show up well. Let your creativity thrive – paint some flowers, add a nice big “welcome” in the middle. If you want to get even more crafty, consider getting some transfer vinyl that you can order, and then just peel and stick on your doormat for a perfectly polished look. To get the best deals on your project, check out the best graphic design codes.

2. Make Your Porch a Stunner

If you want your home to look welcoming and charm everyone who passes it, you’re going to have to start with your front porch. One of the best ways to do so is to add some flowers. However, early spring days and nights might still be too cold for the fresh flowers depending on where you live. That’s why you should visit your local craft store to make a perfect spring wreath.

You can also choose to buy a premade wreath made of spring flowers such as tulips of lavender, miniature roses, ferns, or even moss. To top it off, decorate with a big festive ribbon tied into a bow. Hang the wreath on your door and consider putting more flowers and greenery into a tall vase or even a planter.

3. Decorate Your Fireplace Mantel

In any room, the fireplace is a focal point. It immediately draws the attention of everyone that’s entering, so why not make it beautiful with spring in mind? You can set up some decorative baskets and fill them with greenery and flowers – once again, faux options might be your best bet, as you won’t have to worry about the excess heat from the fireplace killing the real ones. While you’re at it, you should also give your whole fireplace a good cleaning – dust the surfaces before setting any decorations, and if your fireplace is painted, consider doing some touch-ups if the pain starts to flake off in some spots.

The fireplace mantel is also a perfect spot for decorative signs. You can buy them pre-made from sites like Etsy to get something custom, but the home decor section at your local Target, or, even better, thrift store, might also be worth checking out. Look for signs with colorful writing so the lively colors can make your space look more appealing. Spring is definitely not a time when you should limit yourself to white decor only.

4. Decorate the Windows

Spring is the perfect time to take down the heavy winter curtains, put them in a washing machine, and store them safely in the linen closet until the cold season comes back again. For the springtime, consider hanging up light and airy sheer curtains. Sheer curtains are wonderful items that are both decorative and functional. They can enhance a room’s ambiance through the softening of incoming light, making them perfect for this season. Of course, this solution is going to work best for the rooms where no one is sleeping, such as the living room.

home redecoration in 2022

You can also feel free to decorate the window sills with cute trinkets such as decorative figurines, potted plants, or even set up or hang some crystals that will reflect the warm spring sun rays and create beautiful rainbows. If you want to transform the look of the glass in the windows, consider getting clear, opaque, or frosted decals that can be used to create beautiful compositions that look great in the sun and during the night when you turn the light in your rooms on.

In Conclusion

As you can see, there are no strict rules telling you what you can and what you can’t do when it comes to freshening up your house for spring with new decorations. You can feel free to use fresh flowers or choose the convenience of the faux ones. For this season, it might be a great idea to greet your guests with a personalized doormat and beautifully arranged porch. Inside, you can decorate the mantel of your fireplace, hang some airy curtains, and change the look of your windows using potted plants, crystals, and fun decals. Don’t be afraid to experiment and show off your personality through the decorations that you choose.