Home Wisdom

Especially if you live in a place with a climate like Hawaii, your roof is going to take a beating from the elements. From the hot, hot sun to heavy rains, one can easily see why many roofing solutions don’t necessarily last for the long-term. There used to be only a few different roofing options, all of which contained acrylics that would often erode after long-term exposure to the sun’s rays. However, there’s now a new solution: Gaco silicone roof coating, which has many benefits that make roofs more efficient and longer-lasting.

 

Withstand Ponding Water

Many roofs have the issue of permanent ponding water. The way these roofs are built causes water to pool up in certain spots whenever it rains and it is often not even evaporated before more rain comes. This causes those areas of the roof to soften, or the substrate to bubble or peel. With a silicone roof coating, though, this is no longer an issue – the silicone is waterproof and resilient and can maintain quality even with long-term standing water.

 

Withstand Sun Damage

Roof coatings made of acrylic, urethane or asphalt will begin to erode quickly when exposed to a lot of sunlight. If you live in Hawaii, you know that the sun’s rays are plentiful, so you need something that will hold up. Gaco roof coating doesn’t wear away from the stress of the UV rays, so your roof will last longer and you won’t have to worry about constantly performing roof leak repairs.

 

Avoid Mold, Mildew, and Other Discolorations

Unlike acrylic, asphalt, and urethane, the surface of Gaco silicone coating is smooth. Therefore, it doesn’t provide an environment in which mold and mildew can grow easily. Furthermore, since silicone is an inert material, it won’t decompose. It holds up better from any debris and dirt that might be blown onto the roof from the wind and won’t discolor or decompose. Keep your roof looking nice without having to recoat it every other year.

 

Go Eco-Friendly!

Gaco roof coating is extremely reflective, which is great for the environment. It reduces the “Heat Island Effect,” which causes small areas to be much hotter due to a concentration of dark materials that absorb heat. White roofs can be up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than black roofs. Furthermore, it better insulates your home and reduces the need to blast the A/C. It’s also extremely versatile, so it can be used anywhere, and since it doesn’t need to be frequently replaced it reduces the amount of waste we use.

We’re all well-aware that financial times are tough and even more aware that unexpected, unfortunate events in life do come up. There are some expenses it’s difficult to avoid, like natural disaster repairs or falling ill. But for some things, you can at the very least be prepared – especially if you’re a homeowner. Living in a busy city like Bethesda, locksmiths are bound to be needed at some point – hopefully because you’re locked out, and not because your house has been broken into, but you never know. Not only having a number on-hand, but knowing the least expensive in the area will make you want to thank yourself later. Here are a few tips on how you can save even more.

The Internet…Use It!

Never hire an essential service, such as a locksmith, without first looking at their website. Many even have social media accounts! This is the best way to find out if they’re running any deals at the moment, and believe it or not, businesses like these very frequently put up special offers. You might get 10% off your first service, or a free few miles if they have to travel. In any sense, it can save you a few bucks and help you form a relationship with the company.

Go Local

Some locksmiths charge for distance, and especially if you’re calling on a night, weekend, or holiday, you don’t want the bill to add up with extra charges. You can save money by calling the closest (reliable) locksmith, and you’ll also cut down on the amount of time you have to spend standing out in the cold.

Shop Around

When you get some free time, do some online comparisons and read reviews to find the best local deal. You’re bound to have a few in your area, so you might as well find the one that’s the speediest and the least expensive. Take down the number and you’ll be glad you did when an emergency comes up.

Be Prepared!

It’ll obviously be cheapest if you never have to call a locksmith at all. When you move into a new place, make sure you’ve got an ample security system and enough spare keys. The security system will help deter potential break-ins, and if you leave a spare key with close friends who live nearby, you won’t have to worry about paying someone to pick your locks! They’re simple preparations, but they pay off.

Turning a basic kitchen into a dream space involves the incorporation of design elements that make the place unique. Current trends favor a sleek look and a layout that simplifies food preparation and draws people to the kitchen. These five ideas can help anyone get started with a new kitchen design.

1) Natural Materials

Wooden cabinets, stone countertops and tile floors are all trending in modern kitchens. In addition to being sturdy and reliable, wood creates a warm look that invites friends and family to congregate in the kitchen. Stone countertops are durable and reliable, and tile floors have classic beauty that complements just about any kitchen design. To make maintenance easier, some companies are even developing flooring that looks like tile but is easier to clean.

2) Contrasting Colors

Instead of using one color for cabinets and surfaces, today’s kitchen trends are leaning toward a combination of light and dark. Light and neutral colors combined with dark countertops and stainless steel appliances keep kitchens looking sharp. Bold colors and patterns are making an appearance as well, dressing up the more traditional shades of white and black. 

3) Undermount Sinks

Sleek and attractive, undermount kitchen sinks fit right in with the modern dream kitchen. Unlike traditional drop-in sinks, undermount models sit flush with the countertop, eliminating the hassle of trying to clean around an overhanging lip. This style also creates a smooth transition between counter and sink, offering more space for both decor and food preparation. Available as single or double basins in a variety of materials, these sinks offer the perfect combination of style and function.

4) Integrating Appliances

Two big trends in appliances are changing modern kitchens: integration and multi-tasking. Integrated appliances include anything that mounts under or sits at the same height as the countertop, creating an uninterrupted view throughout the kitchen. Multi-function microwaves, dual ovens, and convenient fixtures such as hot water dispensers make cooking easier, while attractive stainless steel designs preserve the chic look of the room.

5) Encouraging Socialization

Open-plan kitchens featuring all the best in modern design are becoming more and more popular. Instead of being a self-contained or small area closed off from the dining room, the modern kitchen brings people together to prepare meals, share drinks, and enjoy each other’s company.

 

With the newest design trends, it’s easy to create a modern kitchen that looks great and functions smoothly. Combining clean lines, eye-catching colors, and an open atmosphere helps to turn any kitchen area into a haven for friends and family. Whether by the allure of natural materials or the sleek style of undermount kitchen sinks, contemporary design elements can turn any kitchen into a cook’s dream.

Chances are, you have a friend who claims to be an ordained minister, though you’ve never heard tell of them visiting church. Or maybe you know a couple whose wedding ceremony was officiated by a seemingly unlikely family member. These people might carry a card in their wallets or have a certificate at home to prove it – but the second they say they acquired it online, you become skeptical. The accessibility of the internet, paired with the fact that it’s quick and easy to do, makes these certifications lose credibility in your eyes. In fact, there are a lot of questions to be asked regarding the legitimacy of these new titles – but if you learn the truth, you’ll see there’s no cause for skepticism!

One myth about online ordination is that it’s illegal, or, at least, not legally recognized. However, it’s absolutely legal, and 48 of the 50 states in the US recognize these ordinations on a legal level. Ordained members of the Universal Life Church Monastery, which is the church that allows for these people to become ministers, have performed tens of thousands of weddings across the country, all of which were legitimized by their respective states.

Some people seem to think that becoming a minister requires attending several years of religious schooling. That’s simply not true: did you know that government officials, ship captains, and judges can all be officiants? It’s not true for the type of beliefs taught at the Universal Life Church, either. In the religion of Christianity, yes, there are many different types of trainings that take place prior to ordination. But in the ULC, a person can be welcomed into the world of a minister for the sole purpose of performing a wedding (or a baptism or funeral, for that matter). It requires no schooling; all the information necessary is online.

Upon learning that becoming a minister through the ULC is open to anyone, some people may be skeptical. They are worried that when ordained, they’ll share a ministerhood with other individuals whose moral or religious beliefs might differ greatly from their own. This, however, is the beauty of the all-inclusivity of the ULC – it should be seen as an honor to be associated, and equal, with such a varying group of individuals.

It’s understandable why one might be put-off by the fact that it’s so easy to get ordained, but in truth, it benefits everyone. The ULC practices spiritual beliefs that include everyone – no matter what walk of life they are in or what personal beliefs they may hold – because we are all children of the same universe. It’s a step toward unity and a spiritual benefit to all involved.

Springtime is notorious for being the rainiest of the seasons, and therefore, the time during which your home is most likely to withstand flood damage. Though, of course, there’s nothing you can do to stop the rain from falling, there are precautions you can take before the season of heavy rainfall begins. Before March and April roll around, here are a few ways to prepare your house (and yourself).

Fix Leaks Now

Leaky roofs, leaky foundations, leaky pipes – fix them now to make sure it’s not a consequence you’re dealing with in the middle of a heavy rainfall. By that time, it’ll be too late.

Reinforce your Roof

When it’s time to redo your roof, you’re going to be shelling out some cash anyway. It’s not a place to skimp. Get a well-reinforced roof and you’ll thank yourself later when leaks aren’t something you have to worry about.

Clear your Gutters

Gutters and drain systems should always be clean and free-flowing. They need to carry water away from the home; if they can’t carry out this task, they will clog, break under the weight of the water, spring leaks, or worse. Make sure that there is no debris blocking storm drains in the street, either, or water could end up overflowing into your house.

Get a Sump Pump

These are one of the best investments a homeowner can make – it helps to prevent damage from getting too bad before a fire and water damage restoration team can arrive if your house does happen to flood.

Move your Belongings

Anything expensive should be kept out of the basement as high up off the floor as you can get them to avoid them getting wet in case of a flood. It also doesn’t hurt to catalog important possessions, because you never know what could get damaged.

Stainless steel kitchen sinks can be beautiful, but the dirt and water spots that collect on them can sometimes show. When they are new, a quick wipe down is all it takes to get sinks looking shiny again. Over time, however, water stains and soap scum can build up along with grease and other debris. 

By following these steps twice a month, homeowners can keep their sinks looking like new for a long time without the use of harsh chemicals.

Step #1

The sink and its top should be cleared of all items, including scrubbers, brushes, and dishwashing liquid. If there is a gooey layer of soap film in the spot where dish liquid is kept, this can be scraped off with a putty knife. The sink should then be rinsed in warm water and dried off with a towel.

Step #2

About a quarter cup of white vinegar should be poured on a cleaning rag and used to rub down the sink really well. Those with sensitive skin should use gloves, as the acid in vinegar can weaken nails and dry out skin. Special attention should be paid to larger spots to be sure they are well-coated in the liquid. If the sinks are particularly dirty, half a cup of vinegar can be poured into a bottle and sprayed on the sinks. The vinegar needs to sit for about ten minutes to allow the acids to break down the grease and dirt.

Step #3

Next, baking soda should be sprinkled generously all over the bottom of the sink. If the vinegar is still wet, it will foam a bit. This is normal. Using the cloth that was previously soaked with vinegar, the sink should be scrubbed in its entirety, applying the baking soda as one would use scouring powder. This should be done to the faucet and the area around it, as well.

Step #4

Now the whole area should be rinsed with water again and dried with a towel. If there are still dull and dirty spots, the process can be repeated. If hard water build-up remains around the faucet, it may be necessary to resort to chemicals to remove it; however, a putty knife may work. The knife should be used like a chisel, tapping the end with a small hammer to try to break the build-up loose. If the larger bits can be broken off, the smaller residue may come up with another soaking in vinegar and scrubbing with baking soda.

It is not necessary to clean stainless steel kitchen sinks this thoroughly every day or even every week; however, ensuring that the sink is dry after each major use and performing a bi-monthly cleaning will help keep it looking great.

 

 

Children are especially prone to getting dirty, which makes their hygiene regimen more important than ever. But how are children supposed to get cleaned up if the very act of reaching the sink is a struggle? Making a bathroom child-friendly may seem like a challenge, but with some planning plus the practical and clever use of your space, it can be easy. Here are a few tips on how to create a functional space for children using bathroom accessories.

Homes are usually designed for the average-sized adult who can easily reach shelves and open drawers — something that children will not be able to do at first. Creating ways for children to reach towels, soap, and toiletries is important, as they may simply skip steps in their personal hygiene routines if they are unable to. Furthermore, the last thing that you want your child doing is climbing the counter to reach the toothpaste.

The best way to start improving a bathroom is to pretend that you are buying accessories for a visiting hobbit. Consider their perspective and what they would need in order to function normally. Take into account their smaller limbs and limited ability to handle heavy objects and plan accordingly. Most importantly, keep in mind that your child will grow larger over time (unlike hobbits) and that installing short toilets and sinks will become uncomfortable in later years. By making accommodations for children using easily-adaptable accessories, you can ensure that the space is practical for everyone.

First and foremost, you’ll need to make sure that your child can reach the sink. There are many stools, both built-in and standalone, that can be used whenever kids need to wash their hands or faces or brush their teeth. With anti-slip features and solid construction, these accessories can also ensure your child’s safety. Hang a mirror where your kids can easily see themselves, so that they don’t have to struggle when performing basic hygiene.

Towel hooks are a great way to keep the bathroom tidy and encourage responsible cleanliness habits. While bars and shelving involve complex folding that may get the better of children’s small hands, hooks make it easy for them to hang their own towels and avoid making a mess.

The bathtub is one of the most important areas in terms of not only child-friendliness, but also child safety. There are several things that you can do to make the tub and shower easier for children to deal with. First and foremost, when it comes to rinsing out shampoo and dirt, having to hold a child up to the water source is less than convenient when the shower head is all the way up in the corner. Having a hand-held nozzle will help to easily clean kids off. Second, there should always be a mat or anti-slip strips on your bathtub floor — not only will it keep your kids safe, it’ll keep you safe too. A small plastic mirror fixed in the tub at the child’s level can help them to clean themselves, and a gripping bar will help them keep their balance.

Shopping for bathroom shower curtains and towels with fun patterns and eye-catching themes in their favorite colors is a great way to encourage kids to get enthusiastic about wash time. Have toys and fun bath bubbles on hand to help your kids get a kick out of bathing. Look for toothbrushes with their favorite characters on them, as well.

Place fabric-lined baskets on the floor for items that the children may need, such as extra bars of soap, clean wash cloths, or flush-able wipes. Make getting dressed easier with child-sized benches so that your little ones don’t trip over themselves trying to get into their clothes. Make sure that the corners of all cabinets and counters are properly rounded as well, so that if they do trip, they won’t be hurt.

Improve interior space with safe bathroom accessories that help children to both use and enjoy the room. Kids who feel connected to their living spaces will be more invested in their personal hygiene and more likely to keep the area tidy.

Homeowners choose James Hardie siding products for many reasons. When the time comes to renovate the exterior of one’s home, it’s important to ensure that the replacement is up to the task. Although many people only replace their external finishes when they have sustained sufficient wear to necessitate improvements, smart homeowners take the opportunity to invest in something far better. For most, James Hardie products represent an undeniable upgrade.

Why the Outsides of Walls are So Important

Siding protects the internal structure of the homes that it covers. External fascia and coverings provide barriers that ensure insects, animals and plants all remain on the right side of the walls. They also guarantee that homeowners don’t have to pay quite as much for temperature control.

The Effects of Weather

The fact that siding serves as a weather barrier is not without its downsides, however. Because they absorb the brunt of degradative forces from the outdoors, wall coverings get worn down over time. Many commonly used materials can warp, lose coloration or expand to leave gaps. It’s important to find a superior siding that lasts longer under the same conditions without degrading.

The Benefits of James Hardie

James Hardie siding combines the best of different materials to create a protective barrier that lasts far longer than other varieties. By relying on a proprietary blend of fiber and cement, this finish resists wear without deforming. The fact that its paint is baked on in the factory ensures that it’s less likely to develop ugly discolored patches. Best of all, these factors make maintenance much simpler for homeowners.

External coverings that don’t deform because of the temperature changes that houses are exposed to year round are much better investments. They undergo less wear and, therefore, need less frequent replacements. Quality siding also protects homes better; it only takes a few seconds for insects to work their way into expansion gaps or for moisture to enter. While these incursions may not seem like a big problem in the short term, they can easily cause material degradation inside the walls of a house. Over the years, this degradation greatly decreases one’s home value.

Home value reflects the external appearance of a house, as well as the internal. Siding with a uniform color and long-lasting texture looks better. When homeowners decide to sell their homes and move on, they can command higher prices if they’ve outfitted their residences with better products. Good external finishes let homeowners make high return investments on their homes and increases their comfort while they reside there.

James Hardie siding is the best investment that smart owners can make in order to safeguard their homes and increase the value of their properties. With the right protection and lots of style and color options, any home can look good and stay intact.

San Francisco Bay area solar power continues to lead the state as well as the nation when it comes to clean, green residential installations. According to the latest quarterly growth report from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the Golden State saw 52.4 megawatts of residential photovoltaic (PV) power installed in the third quarter of 2012, compared to 46.4 megawatts in the second quarter. Incentives offered at the federal, state and local level are behind much of California’s sun-powered success, as few other regions in the state offer as many as the Bay area.

Federal and State Incentive Programs

The federal solar incentive comes in the form of a tax credit on the homeowner’s federal return and covers up to 30 percent of a residential PV installation. The state’s incentive program, the California Solar Initiative (CSI), mandates that public utilities provide per-installed-watt rebates for home PV systems. The per-watt ratio is calculated on a step-down basis and rebate amounts decline as more people participate in the program.

GoSolarSF Program

GoSolarSF is operated through the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. According to the agency, the program has led to nearly 2,000 PV installations in the city since its inception. Although the agency recently cut funding for the program, $1.9 million has been allocated for the 2012-2013 fiscal year. Depending on household income and location, rebates range from $2,000 to $7,000 per residential installation.

Surplus Energy Payment Programs

Even a small residential PV installation can at times produce more electricity than the home is currently using. Government mandates require utilities to invest in renewable energy, and many utilities across the nation meet part of that requirement by reimbursing homeowners for the surplus power that home systems generate. In California, the payment is most often made as a credit to the homeowner’s utility bill through net-metering.

Marin County allows homeowners to participate in a country-wide feed-in tariff program. Under the Marin Clean Energy (MCE) program, owners of residential PV systems sign a 20-year contract that guarantees that they will be paid a set rate for the excess energy that their systems produce. Marin also offers $500 rebates for county employees and for homeowners in unincorporated areas of the county who install solar energy systems.

Advancements in technology within the solar industry have also resulted in significant savings. According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, residential installation costs have fallen 43 percent since 1999. The region’s various incentive programs and the industry’s lower prices make Bay area solar a cost-effective home energy solution. Incentive programs are not designed to last forever, however, and there may never be a better time than now for homeowners to enjoy clean energy powered by the sun.

The addition of a verandah to the home is a smart move that can create improved street appeal by dramatically enriching the façade of a building. Not only will it increase the value of the property, but a verandah can expand the living areas of the house, and though it takes only a few days to construct, the finished result leaves homeowners wondering why they waited so long to build one.

Here are five reasons a property owner should seriously consider adding a verandah to their home:

1. Increase Property Values

Verandahs are an affordable extension that can blend with the architectural style of any house, and are proven to increase the market value of a property. They transform even the most mundane of buildings by adding a touch of character to the exterior. Whether a slimline style is desired to cover a path or a more expansive design is used to shelter a paved space, verandahs allow home renovators to tailor a stunning shade feature that is just perfect for their home.

2. Simple and Quick Home Renovations

Not only can verandahs be customised to complement a home, they are relatively simple to erect and require very little time to construct. In a matter of days, a house can be transformed into a relaxing and inviting paradise, replete with outdoor furniture, garden décor, and beautiful stonework to complement the new structure.

3. Reduce Energy Costs

Verandahs that are placed along walls that are exposed to the afternoon sun will significantly reduce the need for air conditioning. Shielding windows from the heat is one benefit, but reducing the amount of sun bearing down on the brick walls will keep the home cooler during summer, as well.

4. Create Ideal Outdoor Living Areas

When placed along entrances leading to kitchens and living rooms, these spaces provide the Australian dream. Verandahs can be customised to provide cover for decked areas (regardless of the size) and relief from the weather, allowing the venue to be used year round. Outdoor gatherings can be held, even in winter, with the addition of a gas heater and the purchase of some plastic enclosures.

5. Protect Assets

Verandahs shield decking, paving, cooking equipment and outdoor furniture from excessive weathering and also prevent water damage to window panes and eaves. By keeping important accessories and tools protected during bad weather, homeowners won’t have to waste money replacing things unnecessarily.

Verandahs are a treasured Australian architectural feature and constructing one will provide many benefits for home renovators. Enhancing the curb appeal of the home and increasing the dollar value of the property are only a few of the advantages of having this versatile feature.