11 common basement waterproofing mistakes to avoid

11 common basement waterproofing mistakes to avoid

Almost every homeowner has faced water-caused destruction in their homes at one time or another. A good way to stop water damage is to waterproof areas like the basement. Unfortunately, this is not as easy as it sounds. A lot of people unknowingly make mistakes while waterproofing this place, which could be costly in the long run. Read on to learn about 11 such mistakes and how to avoid them. Ignoring the early warning signs of leakages When it comes to water damage, it is very important to catch the early warning signs. One should watch out for any unusual odors, dampness, or visible water stains in the basement. Recognizing these early can prevent excessive damage and mold growth and avoid expensive renovations in the future. Overlooking external drainage issues To keep the home and basement clean and moisture-free, homeowners also need to pay attention to their external drainage systems. Issues here, such as clogged gutters or downspouts, can increase the risk of water seepage and damage in the basement. One should regularly maintain the drainage systems so that the water is directed away from the home’s foundation. Thinking waterproof paint is enough While using waterproof paint is important in closed-off or humid locations like bathrooms and basements, it should not be the only barrier to prevent water from seeping in.
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8 garden renovation mistakes to avoid

8 garden renovation mistakes to avoid

The garden is the perfect place for individuals to spend time sipping on their favorite drink or hosting a barbeque for their friends and family. However, one might eventually want to renovate the entire area from scratch. While there’s a lot of excitement in taking up this project, people could make various mistakes that may ruin the garden space. Here are eight garden renovation errors that one could easily avoid. Not setting a budget Many people dive into a renovation project without even considering the costs. And before they know it, they have already shot past what they can afford. Therefore, setting a budget before starting the renovation project is crucial. One must determine how much they are willing to invest in the garden. The estimated budget should include every expense, including the cost of removing wild plants and adding fresh ones that are good for the space. One should also keep an additional fund aside to accommodate any unforeseen or emergency costs that arise during the project. Not drawing out a plan Apart from setting a budget, one should also ensure they begin garden renovations after creating a plan. This plan should include what they wish to add to the garden and the overall cost.
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12 signs it’s time to get new doors and windows

12 signs it’s time to get new doors and windows

Doors and windows connect homes to the world. However, as they are part of the home’s exterior, they are constantly exposed to external elements like wind, snow, rain, and dust. Additionally, even room and patio doors are used extensively, undergoing quite a bit of wear and tear. So, it’s necessary to maintain all doors and windows, regularly look for issues, and get them replaced if one notices the following signs: Signs to replace doors 1. Wide gaps With time, the gaps between the front doors and the floor beneath them may begin to widen, or the doors can get misaligned. This can make the door let in cold air. If that is the case, it is a clear sign that the door needs to be replaced or at least repaired. 2. Cracks Harsh winds, extreme winters, excessive moisture, or rough use—any of these factors can speed up door wear and tear. While some of these cracks can get repaired, the situation may get out of hand after a point if cracks keep developing. That’s when the door needs to be replaced. Garden and patio doors are particularly vulnerable to such wear and tear because they are directly exposed to such elements.
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7 mistakes to avoid when repairing the house’s crawl space

7 mistakes to avoid when repairing the house’s crawl space

The crawl space often ends up being one of the most neglected areas of a home. Since damp, moist air easily gets trapped in this space, there is a high risk of mold breeding here, affecting the foundation. Besides, musty smells, pests, and bugs can quickly find their way indoors, posing a risk to everyone’s health. Because of these issues, ensuring the crawl space is repaired well without any mistakes is important. Not hiring a professional to do the job Since the crawl space is a hidden area of the house, a homeowner may be tempted to save money by not hiring a professional. This can be a serious mistake with expensive consequences, especially if one does not have the necessary skills to do the work themselves. Instead of doing it alone, hiring a professional contractor can save a lot of time. Besides this, there will be less chance of the work being faulty. There will be a low risk of causing further damage to the crawl space, which otherwise will incur more expenses to repair it. Starting a the repair work before the crawl space is dry A common mistake homeowners make is installing the insulation or moisture barrier for the flooring too soon.
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7 mistakes to avoid when selecting a front door

7 mistakes to avoid when selecting a front door

Making the right choice on the first go can be challenging. Extensive research and consideration must be given to ensure one is choosing correctly. This applies when one is choosing a front door for their property. People  do not just need to think about the property’s budget and esthetics.  To avoid making the wrong decision , individuals need to consider certain commonly made mistakes and learn from other people’s mistakes. Mistakes to avoid Here are a few mistakes people make when selecting a front door: 1. Overlooking security features A commonly made mistake people need to stop when selecting front doors is not taking in the importance of security. While trying to find a door that fits the house entrance, look for one that provides the right kind of security. There is no point in finding a front door if it does not have any security benefits to add. Overlooking this important detail can put the property and the people living in it at a higher risk of break-ins, thefts, and other criminal activity. Multi-point locking system doors are a great choice for any  kind of  property.  Homeowners can also consider installing added locks or reinforced metal door frames to improve their security prospects.
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9 reasons a home warranty claim might be denied

9 reasons a home warranty claim might be denied

A home warranty is beneficial because it covers the damages to various home appliances and systems for a monthly premium. But it is worth noting that the plan is only valid if customers abide by its terms and conditions. Insurance providers may refuse a claim if someone overlooks their rules and guidelines. Knowing why a home warranty claim could be denied can help one be more careful and avoid losses. Cosmetic damage A home warranty might cover only those damages to a particular system or appliance that prevent it from functioning. The damage should be such that it renders the product inefficient. For instance, dents and scratches to the casing of an appliance are considered cosmetic damages that do not affect its working. Even blemishes on knobs, shelves, dials, and other accessories fall under this category. Individuals who want to repair cosmetic damages will have to bear the expenses themselves. Lack of maintenance Appliances and systems only qualify for home warranty coverage if serviced regularly. The lack of proper maintenance might void the warranty, even if the product is covered in the contract, and one’s claim will be denied. If an individual has maintenance records to show following a denial, they could file an appeal.
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Guide to easy-access walk-in showers for seniors and people with disabilities

Guide to easy-access walk-in showers for seniors and people with disabilities

Although showers are meant for relaxation, they can become safety hazards for seniors and people with disabilities. Traditional showers usually have raised edges and are enclosed with glass panels, making them difficult to use. Thankfully, innovative solutions exist! Easy-access walk-in showers eliminate the hurdles of traditional showers, making them suitable for seniors and those with disabilities. These showers increase independence and confidence and also improve the bathroom’s appearance to a great extent. Features of easy-access walk-in showers Several key features contribute to the functionality and safety of easy-access walk-in showers. Low-profile threshold or level entry As mentioned, easy-access walk-in showers have a low threshold or a completely level entry point. Unlike traditional showers, one does not have to climb over a raised edge, which minimizes the risk of falls and ensures a smooth transition into the bathing area. Slip-resistant flooring Textured or slip-resistant flooring helps one take secure steps within the shower, reducing the chance of slipping while bathing. It is an essential safety feature in easy-access walk-in showers, which makes them stand out. Grab bars Strategically placed grab bars offer additional support when entering, exiting, or maneuvering within the shower. They are securely mounted at appropriate heights to ensure one can use them whenever needed.
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