Category Archives: Lifestyle

How Do You Maintain An Outdoor Water Feature?

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As beautiful as it is to have a water feature in your outdoor space, the work doesn’t stop just by putting it in your desired area. An outdoor water feature, small or large, centerpiece or not, needs the same good amount of maintenance to preserve its beauty and serve its purpose. Keep your garden free of moss, undesirable weeds, and insects if you want it to be a relaxing and tranquil oasis.

Luckily, taking care of your outdoor water features isn’t something you should worry about too much. If your garden is still new and you’re a little bit lost on what to do, we got you all covered! Below are some helpful tips on properly maintaining your outdoor water feature and preserving the natural beauty of your lovely relaxing area.

how to maintain outdoor water feature

1. Constantly check your water levels

It’s only natural for your outdoor water feature’s water levels to change from time to time. We can’t always control factors such as splashes, evaporation due to the weather, and birds or other animals coming in the piece. So, to safeguard your water features, the best thing you could do is constantly keep an eye on its water levels. Make sure it has its necessary amount so it won’t dry out. You can either manually refill the water or purchase an autofill device to keep your water levels in check.

You might not get the right amount, so you should refill your fountain or pond right after you get rid of all the moss and other unwanted things on your water feature. If you fill it first and then take out some fallen leaves, most likely water will also get carried out, resulting in a lower level after cleaning.

The water level is what makes up a water feature. One of the most important things in outdoor water fountain maintenance is making sure it has what it needs the most – water.

2. Clean your skimmers and filters from time to time

Water features like fountains have a tool called filters and skimmers. They are made to ensure that the water inside your fountain is as clear as day and that no unwanted debris would be floating around it. To keep your water clean and your filters properly working, you need to pay good attention to it and check whether there isn’t anything stuck on it that would keep your water restricted.

Keep track of your skimmer’s debris basket, make sure it’s not too full, or your water feature will have a slower water flow. You should constantly check filter mats. They’re built to last until two years, so if your mat appears to be shabby and faded, then it’s time to replace it with a newer one to help unwanted debris be placed in the right basket and not get stuck on the filter’s other parts.

Lastly, in maintaining filters and skimmers, make sure you clean the pump from time to time. Doing this will be easy by simply unplugging the pump and manually removing any undesirable materials trapped on it from top to bottom.

3. Get rid of algae using a bristle brush

Not to state the obvious, but people need to get reminded of how much a simple cleaning with a bristle brush can do to your outdoor water feature. Algae can multiply in an outdoor water feature with water in it 24/7 and its location, exposed to different seasons and external factors. If not taken care of properly, you might witness your fountain or pond turn into an elegant work of art to those props used to scare people in a horror movie.

To restrict algae growth and other bacterial manifestations, manually cleaning it with a bristle brush should be practiced. Additives can also be utilized. One thing you can do, for example; barley is a natural algae deterrent so that you can use it alongside your brush. EPA-registered algaecides are also available, so you won’t have a hard time finding the right detergent or solution.

Bottom Line

Outdoor water features might need a little care and maintenance, but we have to realize that you must preserve every beautiful thing. So people can admire it longer, and it can serve its purpose better. Like any other feature in your garden, you should also give your fountain and pond the same amount of attention and importance.

What are the Benefits of CBD Hemp Oil?

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CBD hemp oils and other hemp products have recently attracted a great deal of attention, quickly becoming the latest trend within natural wellness communities. The idea of using hemp products for health purposes is not a completely new one, but it has only recently become a mainstream option.

A big part of the reason for the change in the way people think of and use hemp products is an increase in research. People are more aware of the health benefits of hemp products and the different ways in which they can be used.

There are many reasons why people have been adding hemp products into their health care routines, including mental and physical health benefits. Products such as CBD hemp oil can be used both as a supplement and to treat specific health-related issues.

Here are five of the most commonly cited motivations for using CBD oils on a regular basis.

Benefits of CBD Hemp Oil

1. Pain Management

A large number of users employ CBD oils and hemp products to manage pain through natural ingredients instead of traditional pharmaceuticals. CBD interacts with pain receptors in the body, helping to regulate the way you experience pain.

Most hemp and CBD products can be used to treat both chronic pains and mild, temporary pains. CBD oils are commonly used for pain management as they allow for easy control over the precise amount of cannabidiol you consume.

2. Reduce the Effects of Anxiety

CBD oil could be used as a more natural way to reduce the effects of anxiety. Research has shown that the calming properties of CBD can be beneficial for those who suffer from anxiety. It has been found that, when used daily, they can reduce feelings of anxiety.

Users also experience more short-term effects, making CBD oils a helpful way to manage temporary anxiety caused by external factors. A few drops of CBD oil could help to ease nerves before giving a public speech, for example.

3. Anti-inflammatory

CBD is believed to have natural anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that it can be used to treat conditions caused by inflammation and aid in recovery from injuries. CBD tinctures are often used to treat arthritis as they can target the source of the pain while also working to reduce the painful sensation at the same time.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts also use CBD hemp oils to support recovery after an intense workout. Muscle and joint pain are common among athletes, and it is thought that the anti-inflammatory properties found within CBD can help reduce these effects. CBD oils can also be used before a workout to reduce pain and allow the joints to feel more flexible.

4. Skincare

CBD oils are common within the beauty industry and are quickly becoming a staple product of many people’s skincare routine. They can be used to hydrate the skin in much the same way that moisturizers are often used. As CBD is an anti-inflammatory, it can also help to reduce the signs of blemishes on the skin.

CBD oil is being increasingly used in anti-aging skincare products for its cannabinoid content and rich blend of minerals. The hydrating effects of CBD can also help to reduce the signs of aging, although research within this area is still ongoing.

How Quickly CBD Oil Can Take Effect

5. Sleep Aid

The calming effects of CBD products make them a great option when looking for a natural sleep aid. CBD products are often recommended for use during the evening as they help to relax the mind, making it much easier to fall into a peaceful night’s sleep.

It is still not entirely understood how CBD can improve sleep. It’s unclear whether it is directly affecting sleep or simply reducing the symptoms of other conditions that impede sleep.

Anxiety, stress, and chronic pain are three of the most common reasons why people have insomnia. As CBD is commonly used to reduce the effects of all three conditions, it is unclear if this is the reason why people have found success using cannabinoids to improve their sleep.

Bonus Tip: You may try some mushroom tea to relieve stress.

What is CBD Topical Cream and How Exactly Does it Work?

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CBD topical creams have become one of the most widely used CBD products on the market. Much of this popularity is down to an increased focus on research and a better understanding of the benefits of using CBD in a topical form.

There was a time when there were very few options available when choosing a CBD cream, but this has changed too. Now there is an almost endless range of CBD creams to choose from. Even those who want to switch out every element of the skincare routine for a CBD-infused alternative will find themselves well-catered for.

So, before trying CBD creams, let’s look at what they are and exactly how they work:

What Is CBD Topical Cream

What is CBD Topical Cream and How is it Different?

CBD creams are just one of the many different types of CBD topical that are available. Topical is the umbrella term used to refer to CBD products that are applied to the skin instead of being ingested. There are many different options; for example, the PureKana CBD topicals range includes patches and roll-ons.

As the name suggests, CBD creams are creams that have been infused either with CBD extract. One of the reasons that CBD creams have become so popular is they can be used in much the same way as regular creams. So, not only are they incredibly discreet, but they are quick to apply, meaning that they can be used almost anywhere.

Increasingly, CBD creams are being made using 100% natural ingredients, causing them to be often considered as eco-friendly and kind to the skin.

How are CBD Creams different from other CBD Products?

CBD creams and topicals work in a slightly different way to other CBD products. Most CBD products such as oils, edibles, and capsules are ingested. As a result, they are processed internally and can affect the entire body. This is not the case with CBD topicals, as they are applied externally and usually only to a small skin area.

Treating specific areas of the body with CBD creams is seen to be one of their biggest strengths as it allows for much more controlled effects. It is, of course, possible to purchase general-purpose creams that can be applied anywhere on the body and specific-area products, such as CBD face creams.

How Do CBD Topical Creams Work?

As a result of how CBD creams are applied and processed by the body, they are handy for treating issues such as muscle and joint soreness, skin irritations, blemishes, and inflammation.

When the CBD within creams comes into contact with the skin, it’s absorbed through the surface layers. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and supplies the body with cannabinoids, terpenes, and other natural phytonutrients found in hemp.

The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating how the body responds to pain and pleasure. Increasing cannabinoids levels can help to alleviate the pain felt from injuries or chronic conditions.

CBD creams are often packed with additional minerals and essential oils, which work with CBD to keep skin looking and feeling hydrated.

Can You Treat Aches and Pains with CBD Cream?

CBD creams are considered to be one of the best ways to treat joint and muscle pain. And unsurprisingly, this is the main incentive for consumers to invest in these products.

Many studies have looked at how CBD affects pain and, in particular, pain caused by inflammation. One of the most common causes of joint and muscle pain is inflammation.

It is believed that CBD can be used to reduce inflammation within the body, which can, in turn, reduce the pain felt.

CBD can also be useful when treating pain that is not caused by inflammation, as CBD can impact both CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors regulate how the body responds to pain. CBD can reduce and in, some cases, even prevent pain from being felt temporarily, which can be a massive help for chronic sufferers.

Can You Recycle Summer Pool Inflatables?

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Over the last few years, having pools in our gardens has become hugely popular with both kids and adults alike. Which has also meant that summer pool inflatables – particularly large dinosaurs or unicorns – have become popular too. The only problem is, when these plastic inflatables are no longer wanted, what happens to them?

What are Pool Inflatables?

First off, before we look at how to recycle these pool inflatables, what exactly are they? Well, like the name suggest, these are plastic inflatables that tend to be used in pools. These can range from very big inflatables that can be sat on, down to inflatables used for sports such as balls or clubs.

summer-pool-inflatables

There tends to be new inflatable design and shapes that come out every summer, which becomes popular on the likes of Instagram. This leads to people rushing to buy what’s popular and old inflatables becoming binned.

What are Pool Inflatables Made of and Can They Be Recycled?

When it comes to the cheap pool inflatables that we often see in the likes of Aldi and Argos, these toys ten to be made from nylon or vinyl, they will then be coated in a PVC material that makes them very durable.

Because of this PVC coating, though, it makes it very hard to recycle these inflatables. Which is why broken or unwanted pool toys end up going into our general bins, which are destined for a landfill. Which isn’t great when we’re trying to recycle as much as we can.

What Can You Do With Old or Unwanted Pool Inflatables?

Well, before you stop buying pool inflatables altogether, here at KwikSweep we have some great ideas for how you can keep your inflatables away from landfills:

Repair It

More often than not, when we’re looking to get rid of a pool inflatable it’s because it’s damaged and we believe it be unusable. Which can be quite common when they’re used by kids – and adults too! Before you get rid of your pool inflatable, though, it’s actually very easy to repair these inflatables.

First of all, you need to find where the hole or rip is. This is quite easy to do, just fill the inflatable up with water and see where water or bubbles are escaping. Once you’ve located the hole add a sticker, then you can empty the water out and dry out the inflatable before you look to fix it.

When you’re ready to start your repair, inflate it with air and cover the hole with some duct tape to keep the air in. You can then take a piece of PVC or more tape and cover it with some waterproof glue and place over the top of the hole and held until dry. Just remember to check it thoroughly before giving it back to the kids.

Give it Away

If pool inflatable isn’t broken, but it is no longer wanted. Rather than throwing it away, consider giving it away to someone you know or even donating it to charity. That way, rather than simply throwing it away, someone else will be able to get use out of it.

Upcycle It

While pool inflatables are hard to recycle, they may still be of use to others that could use the material in an upcycle project. For this, you will have to research locally to see if anyone wants to work with old PVC, which can seem like hard work, however, it’s more than worth it to keep it out of landfills.

If you’re worried about any of your rubbish going to landfills and you’d like to make sure as much as possible is recycled, contact us here at KwikSweep. As, regardless of it being commercial or home clearances, we make sure as much is kept away from landfills as possible.

10 Tips for an Eco-Friendly Home Plumbing

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There are a number of reasons why homeowners should be environmentally conscious. We get oxygen, food, and other fundamental needs from the environment. Hence it plays an important part in the household’s quality of life. The availability and quality of various environmental elements affect the entire family’s living system.

New and creative plumbing systems are emerging as the world works toward a greener planet. Being environmentally conscious has never been easy. With some tips, you can make your plumbing safe for the environment.

Using eco-friendly measures in your home is, of course, an effective way to save money and water. You may live a greener lifestyle by being mindful of your plumbing and usage. This article explains various eco-friendly plumbing options to make your house’s plumbing system eco-friendly.

Tips for an Eco-Friendly Home Plumbing

Importance of Eco-Friendly Plumbing

Sustainability is becoming more and more of a concern and with good cause. In addition to contributing to excessive carbon emissions and climate change, we are rapidly depleting resources such as energy, water, and other natural resources.

Water is the most important component of life, but just 1% of the water on our planet is available for human consumption. To overcome this problem, we must maintain a delicate balance, which is very tough.

Homeowners are always looking for methods to improve the sustainability of the property. Making the plumbing system eco-friendly is one such method. Not only does living in an eco-friendly home help the environment, but it can also help you save money.

10 Tips for Green Plumbing

1. Insulate Your Pipes

People generally leave the tap running for longer lengths of time when the water takes longer to warm up. Improving the insulation of your water pipes is one approach to reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach your bathroom or kitchen.

When water flows from the hot water heater to your faucet through insulated pipes, it loses less heat. Because your water heater won’t have to work as hard to deliver enough hot water, this minor tweak can save both water and electricity.

hot water guide

2. Protect Outdoor Valves

Turn off the valve that leads to your garden hose and search for additional measures to keep your pipes from freezing. When pipes freeze, they can quickly burst or become utterly worse than merely decreasing your overall water usage.

You can also overcome this problem by improving the quality of valves. This can be done by installing valves manufactured by a reputable China ball valve manufacturer.

Chemicals and other solutions that enter your plumbing system should also be considered. Whatever you put into your body has the potential to come into contact with groundwater. So, you should utilize natural products wherever possible. You should also turn off the water for the entire house if you’re going away for the holidays or for a longer amount of time.

3. Purchase Low Flow Plumbing Fixtures

Low-flow toilets, faucets, and other comparable goods are widely available and inexpensive nowadays. If you prefer to acquire a second opinion before making a purchase, most expert plumbers will be aware of the best possibilities.

Low-flow fixtures can help you save money on your water bill while also being sustainable and environmentally beneficial.

4. Use Eco-Friendly Water Treatment Products

You should never flush harsh chemicals or tough food waste, such as grease, down the toilet or drain. These chemicals come in direct contact with groundwater. This can have an adverse effect on your health and environment.

Use a magnetic filter to keep pipes clear or an environmentally friendly plumbing product recommended by a competent plumber to unclog a drain or treat your septic tank.

5. Incorporate Technology in Plumbing

Technology has made it simpler for homeowners to get the most out of their plumbing system while minimizing environmental impact. You can now install motion sensors or touchless faucets in your home. This technology can save you water and money by only turning on faucets when your hands are within a few inches of the faucet or the spout’s lip.

ecofriendly plumbing practices

6. Use Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient equipment that also provides a new level of convenience. Tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water and are significantly more compact than their predecessors.

Water rushes through the tankless system and is instantaneously heated by the electric or gas mechanism when you need hot water for washing your hands or cleaning dishes.

7. Upgrade Your Toilets

Installing dual-flush systems can save hundreds of dollars in water each year for homeowners. You could be flushing nearly three gallons of water every time you use the restroom if your toilet hasn’t been changed since the 1990s. A dual flush toilet can save a lot of water by having one flush for liquid waste and another for solid waste.

8. Clean the Drains

Drains are easily clogged by food, oil, fat, hair, and other similar materials. If not attended to by an experienced plumber, clogged drains can cause serious harm. Drain obstructions are one of the most common reasons for homeowners to hire a plumber. Check this article to know about health and safety considerations in plumbing work.

9. Get Regular Maintenance of House Plumbing System

Taking preventative actions on a regular basis can considerably extend the life of your plumbing system. A routine check once a year will save you a lot of money and time in the long run. Hire a skilled plumber to see growing difficulties and plumbing issues so you can address them before they become a problem and wastewater or cause other problems.

plumbing tips to save money

10. Look for Alternatives to Hot Water

A gas boiler upgrade or replacement can be costly. By looking at the fluctuating nature of energy prices and the emerging trend for using eco-friendly methods, investing in alternatives to gas boilers is a good idea to make your house’s plumbing system eco-friendly. You’ll not only lower the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home, but you’ll also be future-proofing it.

Conclusion

Methods discussed in this article depict how small modifications in your house plumbing can make a big difference in how you care for the environment. This will not only make the process more sustainable and healthy but will also help you cut down various expenses involved in house water and plumbing management, besides increasing your home’s value.

What Can You Do To Fall Asleep?

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An average of 6 to 9 hours of sleep per night is considered adequate for adults. A child’s need for sleep is greater than an adult’s. Sleep disorders, work schedules, everyday stress, a noisy or disruptive bedroom environment, and medical issues such as hypertension can all contribute to having sleep troubles. Even healthy food and lifestyle might not help you get enough rest. Therefore, a lack of sleep may be an early symptom of a sleep disorder.

Sleep is a crucial bodily requirement that enables you to feel rejuvenated and refreshed upon awakening. Sleep also helps to promote overall health and to keep diseases at bay. When the brain doesn’t get enough sleep, it doesn’t function correctly. Because of this, it will be difficult to concentrate, make decisions, recall information, or retain knowledge; that’s why it’s extremely important to sleep when you can.

Here are some of the simple things you can do to fall asleep without exerting too much effort:

What Can You Do To Fall Asleep

1. Breathing Exercise

Breathing patterns affect many things in our autonomic nervous system, including heart rate, muscle tension, motivation, and other features of relaxation and excitement. Some breathing patterns might be stressful, but others can help you relax.

Deep breathing is a method that promotes more air circulation in the body while also lowering anxiety and stress; it can also enhance your attention span and alleviate pain.

2. Take Sleeping Aids

There are over-the-counter items in pharmacies or products in the market that can help adults fall asleep faster, especially for those who have insomnia or other factors that can make it challenging to achieve the right amount of sleep.

You may choose to go natural by drinking herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, or other herbs that can help in relaxation. There are also flavored drinks in some groceries and health stores that contain natural ingredients like lemon and balm, which give a calming effect.

Nonetheless, the most popular sleeping aid is melatonin which is widely available in the market. In any of these options, it’s best to consult your doctor first before hopping into taking these supplements.

3. Subscribe to Sleep Apps

You know what they say about using gadgets too much, that it can cause sleeping problems? Though there is some truth to that, the digital space has proven that it can do almost everything once again. For some who are having problems falling asleep, sleep aid apps are available for gadget downloads.

Some of these apps run for free with limited app access, while some may require monthly or yearly subscriptions for broader sleeping aid selections within the app. These apps will run continuously for a set duration and will shut off automatically afterward.

4. Invest in Quality Mattress

Mattress prices can range from $300 to $4000, and it wouldn’t be a bad idea if you’re going to put in a little more bucks for that piece of the household item where you spend most of the time at home.

sleep improvement guide

Other than ready-made mattresses in the stores, there are options to customize the beds, providing better support to the body, promoting better sleep and relaxation. Customized beds are also great for those who have medical conditions that would require specialized mattresses.

It may be required to learn the foundations of excellent sleep hygiene and how to effectively set up your bedroom in order to get adequate rest. While these modifications should help you sleep better, seek treatment from a behavioral sleep medicine practitioner if your problem persists.

5 Ways to Build More Sustainable Habits in Your Home

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Running a household can be a very expensive feat – everything you spend from your electricity, water, heating, air-conditioning, groceries, and general upkeep of other facilities such as your toilet, piping, pool (if you have one) – these all add up and can make your expenditures quite hefty, especially when left unchecked. If you are running a large household, with anywhere from five people living in it or more, this could be especially true – the aggregate effect of every person’s possible carelessness can add up to a sizable sum when put together.

That is why it has become increasingly important to incorporate sustainable habits in every household. This means to educate each person on the importance of being prudent with the resources of the household, enough so that what is used up is only what is needed, and not a single resource and penny goes to waste. If everyone is on the same page about how important it is to care for the environment, then the combined benefits of this paradigm shift can also be quite notable.

sustainable-habits-for-ecofriendly-home

Here are some ways to build more sustainable habits in your home:

1. Turn off the lights

The best thing to do is to keep your consumption minimal. Turn off the lights when you are exiting your room and do not plan to re-enter for a good amount of time. Use natural light when you can – it is good to have windows in every part of the home so you can utilize natural energy. Apart from the natural light, you can also let in some wind and fresh air instead of turning on your air-conditioning.

2. Turn off the tap

Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. Unless you are rinsing off, you don’t need the tap running. You can even fill a cup with water and use that for your gargling needs.

3. Pull those plugs

Pull the plugs for appliances that aren’t in active use for a long time. Toasters, computers, and lamps are all good examples of appliances that can be unplugged overnight or while you’re away from home.

reduce-electricity-bill

4. Analyze your electric bills

It would also be a good thing to check out your energy consumption and consult your electricity provider for things you may not understand in your electricity bill. You can take this up with them and clarify what items are taking up most of your consumption, so you can adjust accordingly and minimize those activities.

5. Recycle

You don’t have to throw away everything that you’ve used only once or twice. Plastic containers that you take home from retail or grocery purchases can be used for repacking other items in the home. This is just one example – there are so many things you and your family use daily that you can recycle in order to minimize what you throw away.

recycle-household-trash

These are just some of the simple but very helpful sustainable practices you can start to live a more sustainable lifestyle. There are many other ways you can build more sustainable habits that help the planet and help you save some money as well. It is good to instill these eco-friendly habits within all the members of your household so that you can all work together to be more clean and green.

Choose a Car That Fits Your Lifestyle: 4 Great Options to Consider

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Buying a car is a big decision. You’ll be spending a lot of money on something that will be your primary mode of transportation to and from work, school, and other important events. When looking for the most memorable vehicle or any other vehicle, it’s a good idea to think about what types of vehicles ideally suit your lifestyle. It’s normal to want a car that looks good and is fun to drive, but cars aren’t just beautiful things. Also, you have to think about how the vehicle will be used. Here’s a breakdown of Gurney’s Automotive vehicle types and why they’re best suited.

Electric cars are the future of eco-friendly transportation

 4 Vehicle Types to Consider

1. Cars

Most vehicles are available in two entry-level packages, known as roadsters, or in four entry-level packages, known as cars. Vehicles are the most common vehicle type and are useful for a variety of purposes. Cars are very popular with drivers who have to commute to work or school as they tend to have the highest miles per gallon. Many gaming vehicles are roadsters, and these are well-known choices for people who like convertibles or want to go fast. The vehicles are also ideal for couples or families with younger people.

2. Vans

There are two types of vans. A typical van is a large vehicle that is often used by businesses. Drivers who need to transport their children often use minivans. A minivan is a smaller version of a minivan that handles more like a car than a truck. A van usually has a lot of storage space and can usually carry up to seven people. Even smaller vans than expected can easily be converted into wheelchairs.

3. SUVs

SUVs were originally intended as commercial vehicles but have recently become popular family cars. Many SUVs are equipped with all-wheel drive, which allows driving on difficult terrain. Like minivans, SUVs offer space for five to nine people, depending on the model. If you have to drive every day, an SUV might not be the best choice as it tends to be low on fuel.

Transport Fleets Using Telematics

4. Trucks

Trucks are often chosen for people who frequently need to transport equipment or materials. Because many truck models can accommodate up to five passengers, they’re a popular choice for active families. Another option for trucks is an RV shell that provides weather protection in the bed area.

When choosing a model, consider your preferred style and the functions you want your vehicle to have. Choosing the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle is a difficult decision that requires careful thought.

Things You Should Know About Parquet Flooring

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What inspires your choice of material used in flooring your home? Whether it is based upon your thirst for comfort, your budget, climate variation and lifestyle, parquet flooring can help make all these aspirations come true and much more. Parquet flooring creates a royal ambiance anywhere it used; be it your home or your office, giving it the lush, magnificence and stylishness of the famous Grand Palace of Versailles. There is more to parquet flooring other than it being an artistic interior design; it also offers warmth because they are made of woods and woods are great absorbers of heat.

oak-flooring

What is Parquet Flooring?

Firstly, parquet is a geometric mosaic of wood particles or pieces that can be systematically arranged in fashionable design and used in flooring. They come in various shapes ranging from an angular conformation to squares, lozenges and some are even curved.

Parquet flooring came into existence in the 16th century precisely in 1684 as a solution to the ruts in joists underneath the floor caused by marble flooring.

Parquet Vs Marble Floors

Parquet floors have an advantage over marble floors is that they are easier to clean and preserve. It is more tedious and expensive to maintain marble floors. Parquet style flooring is also more durable than marble floors, plus the fact that parquets now exist in so many different wood types and offers an infinite possibility of designs to choose from thus creating the scenic, and magnificence of the grand Versailles Palace in your home.

There are over a thousand reasons why you should consider using parquet wood flooring in your home. The most important is that it creates a royal ambiance anywhere it is used and very comfortable to walk on without fear of abrasion, and it has also been linked with aristocracy and prestige in the past.

Other than sheer opulence, it was the best choice for flooring in the past centuries but experienced a massive loss in demand because at that time, parquet flooring was available only in one design (as a plain array of repeated, interlocking squares) and was soon displaced from the market by other flooring styles like the tiles stones, etc.

Parquet wood floors are back in vogue

Well, those days are long gone. Wipe the gloomy look off your face. Parquet wood floors are back in vogue and it now exists in a variety of styles. The choice is increased with exotic wood species like mahogany, Brazilian walnut, Teak and lots more and in different geometric patterns.

The most frequently used parquet flooring patterns are the Parquet de versatiles and herringbone. Of course, the most popular species is oak parquet, due to the fantastic properties of this outstanding wood species.

Pros and Cons of Parquet Flooring

There is a variation in the prices of parquet. The longer it is, the more the price. Lots of skills and experience is required in fixing the parquets to the floor and costs about 20$-50$ per square feet.

To minimize costs, you can opt to do it yourself. All you need to do is follow the manufacturer’s directives on how to fix them and you will be fine. You will get to realize that there is much joy and fulfillment that comes from accomplishing a task as crucial as this.

  • It is very easy to clean and preserve. You can clean the floor by using a dry mop and a damp mop occasionally or by simply using a vacuum cleaner.
  • It is very easy to repair damaged parts by simply removing the worn out part, replacing it carefully and sanding it.
  • You should endeavor to put a rug in the parts of the floor that’s in the area with much traffic.
  • Being that wood is used in parquet flooring, it is not very resistant to water, and you should take much care that you keep the floor dry at all times.
  • If you suspect any damp issues in your home, consider scheduling a damp survey for proper organization and assessment.

There you have it, a million reasons why parquet flooring is just the right fit for your home. Create everyday Versailles and royal ambiance in your home by opting for parquet flooring today.

The Eco Revolution in Property Investment

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Many of us are now making more eco-friendly and environmentally conscious decisions every day. Whether it’s taking our own carrier bags to the shops, having a reusable water bottle or recycling your tin cans – little changes are making a big impact. When it comes to property, the eco revolution has increasingly been making waves. From solar panels to energy efficient light bulbs, our properties are becoming better for the planet. These eco-friendly priorities are also affecting real estate investment, with an increasing number of tenants looking for eco-friendly properties.

Eco-friendly homes are becoming increasingly popular with a new environmentally conscious generation starting to look for rental properties. Young professionals who are living in the city are less likely to buy a home than ever before, so are looking for a rental property that meets their exacting requirements. With many of them choosing to make environmentally friendly choices, like going plastic free or cutting down on how much meat they eat, accordingly they are looking for eco-friendly homes too.

Environmental impact is increasingly on the agenda of consumers in every aspect of their lives. Many are also willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly purchases. Research has shown that UK consumers would pay an average 10% more if they were buying something they thought had a positive impact on society. Property investors would be wise to bear this in mind when looking for new property investments. In an increasingly competitive rental market, the ability to raise prices because of eco credentials is a lucrative option for investors.

Furthermore, 40% of consumers think that sustainability is important when they are making a purchase. The impact of this can be seen in the growing number of brands and businesses that are making their environmental commitments obvious to consumers. It is clear that savvy property investors can be both environmentally friendly and business smart when looking to purchase new properties.

In another study, 80% of tenants believed that their landlords should be considering the environment more, and suggested measures like double-glazing, insulation and eco-modifications. These simple measures can make a large impact on the appeal of a property to prospective tenants. Increasing energy prices are another concern for occupants.

In addition, 55% of renters asked said they would prefer a rental property with a smart meter if it was the same price. Energy efficient measures are both good for tenant’s monthly costs and for the environment so buy to let property investors can be at an advantage if their property offers these.

As of April 2018, buy to let landlords are legally required to have an EPC rating of E or above in their properties. This means that property investors are increasingly looking at new build properties which are already energy efficient and don’t require costly renovations. Tenants can also legally request that a landlord makes property improvements if the EPC rating is F or G.

Developers are increasingly taking sustainability and environmental impact into consideration when building new properties. Properties with energy efficient specifications, like many by RW Invest are providing investors with lucrative returns and high tenant demand. Recent changes to regulation mean that new build properties need to be energy efficient and this is making a huge impact on the buy to let market.

The trend towards environmentally conscious properties looks set to continue, with eco-friendly qualities high on the agenda of both potential tenants and investors.