About 30% of Americans relocate each year, with no sign of slowing down.

Just like with all things, the methods, and tools available to relocate have improved. There are now specialized services to make relocating as smooth and easy as possible.

Moving is not a  one-size-fits-all activity. It’s an experience with factors influencing the process ranging from items being moved to the distance the move covers. That is the reason, choosing a moving company is not a one-size-fits-all, either.

There are several factors or options for movers to consider before making your decision. Read on to learn about how to decide on a moving company.

Defining Your Needs

There are many factors to consider when picking a moving company. Perhaps the most essential factor is defining your needs. What type of move are you making?

Are you moving across town or across the country? How much stuff do you need to pack for moves? Do you have any special items that need to be moved, such as a piano?

Once you have a good understanding of your needs, go and begin to narrow down your choices of moving companies.

Getting Recommendations

If you are looking for a moving company, the best place to start is by asking your friends, family, or neighbors if they have any recommendations. You can also check online review sites to see what other people’s experiences have been like. Once you have found a few companies that you are interested in, be sure to get quotes from each one, so you can compare prices.

When you’re making your final decision, be sure to consider things like the company’s reputation, then its insurance coverage, and its price. And have your residential moving experience easier.

Checking Credentials

Looking into the company’s insurance is important in case something gets damaged during the move. Checking the company’s accreditation is then a good way to see if they have had any complaints filed against them.

By taking the time to check all of these credentials, you can be sure that you are choosing a reputable and reliable moving company.

Understanding the Estimate

Make sure you understand what services are included in the estimate and which services will cost extra. For example, most moving companies will include basic insurance in their estimate, but will charge extra for full coverage. Also, be sure to get your estimate in writing before you decide on a moving company.

This will help protect you in case of any discrepancy between the estimate and the final bill. And comparing moving company costs and estimated.

Use These Tips to Choose a Moving Company

There are many factors on how to pick a moving company. This guide provides homeowners with the information they need to make an informed decision.

With careful research and planning, homeowners can find a reputable and affordable moving company that will meet their needs.

If you want to receive more helpful tips and advice, you’re in the right place. Keep reading our blog to get more great ideas.

 

According to the latest data, the median age of owner-occupied housing units in the US is 39 years. However, that goes up to 60 years in New York, which has the oldest homes in the nation.

Some of those aging homes, in turn, still have the original roofing system installed. But unfortunately, not all types of roofs can last as long as the building itself.

So, how long does roofing last on average, then?

This guide answers that question (and more), so read on.

So, How Long Does Roofing Last?

Asphalt shingle, the most popular roofing material in the US, has an average service life of 20 years. Wood lasts for about 25 years, while metal roofing can stay intact for 40 to 80 years. The life of slate roofing spans 60 to 150 years, while clay or concrete can last for a century or longer.

What Affects Roof Longevity?

Local climates and weather conditions can have a drastic effect on the life of a roof.

For example, hot climates and high UV indices can cut short the life of asphalt shingles. The sun’s heat, coupled with its ultraviolet rays, can dry out the asphalt’s oils and make it dry and brittle. That makes the shingles more prone to cracking, curling, and warping.

Likewise, the constant battery from rain, high winds, and snow can reduce a roof’s lifespan. For instance, prolonged exposure to these elements can impair roof adhesives. Ultimately, that can lead to moisture seeping into the home and causing damage.

Another factor is a lack of maintenance, which a licensed roofer should carry out at least once a year. Without it, minor and isolated roof damage, such as a missing shingle or a tiny crack, can get worse.

The longer a system goes without upkeep, the more susceptible it can be to weather damage.

Can You Extend a Roof’s Life?

While you can’t control the weather, you can invest in routine roofing maintenance.

Start by hiring a licensed, highly-experienced roofer to perform a yearly inspection. That can help uncover any potential problems with your roof and, from there, have them fixed ASAP.

Likewise, get an inspection after extreme weather, such as heavy rain or hailstorm.

Another way to extend the life of your system is to have a pro apply a fresh layer of a protective roof coat. It can help seal roofing materials and make them more resistant to fire, water, and UV radiation.

Lastly, remove leaves and other plant litter from your roofing system and gutters. That can prevent them from interfering with rain or melted snow draining away from your roof.

Make Your Roof Last Longer

And there you have it, the guide answering your question, “how long does roofing last?” Now you know it varies based on the types of roofing material; 20 years for asphalt shingles, 100+ years for clay. However, no matter how durable a roof is, environmental factors and a lack of upkeep can cut its life short.

Thus, it’s best to have your roof inspected and serviced yearly. That can help extend its life and prevent costly premature replacement.

Did you like this guide? Then please browse more of our blog now!

 

Although prices vary from state to state, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is now more than $1,098. But, whether you’re sharing with a friend, moving in with your partner, or going it alone, there’s a lot more to consider than covering this expense when renting your first apartment.

We understand that the excitement of signing a lease and getting your own place can make it easy for first-time renters to get carried away. Although, all too often, this can lead to making some of the most first apartment mistakes around.

Let’s take a look at what to avoid when moving into your first place!

1. Skimming the Lease Agreement

Of all the tips on moving to your first apartment, we can’t stress how important this one is to avoid. Paying a specified amount of rent money by a certain date might be easy to understand. But you also need to be clear about what the other 25 pages of the lease agreement are holding you to.

Landlords can have very individual rules about their properties and tenants. The last thing you want is to be blindsided by details concerning issues such as deposits and notice periods after the fact.

2. Failing to Consider the Logistics

While an affordable rent is likely top of your first apartment checklist, first-time renters often make the mistake of focusing on this and forgetting the rest. Depending on your situation, where you work, and your hobbies, living here might not be convenient.

For example, if you don’t have a car, nearby public transport links are important. And if you already have a long commute to work, the last thing you want is to make your journey even longer.

3. Not Devising a Budget

When moving to your own place, the rent is only one of the many expenses you’ll have to cover. There are also utilities to consider. Although some apartments include utilities in the rent, many don’t. This means you’ll need to budget for these as well as renter’s insurance, internet, and other first apartment essentials.

4. Buying the Wrong Furniture

First apartments don’t tend to have that much space so you’ll need to consider this when furnishing your new pad. As much as you might love that L-shaped couch, will it fit in your living room? And if it doesn’t break down into sections, forget trying to squeeze it into the building elevator. Before you buy any furniture, make sure to measure and measure again!

5. Ignoring Property Damage

As soon as you get the keys, make it your prerogative to check the apartment for damage and take photos of anything you find, no matter how insignificant. These photos will protect you if your landlord tries to hold you responsible for the damage.

You might know that giant carpet stain was there when you moved in. But without the pictures to prove it, you might have to pay out for cleaning or face a deduction from your deposit when you move out.

What to Avoid When Moving Into Your First Apartment

As exciting as renting your first apartment can be, there’s a lot to consider before you make the move.

Although, with these tips to guide all you first-time renters out there, it should be a lot easier to know what to do and what not to do.

Want more actionable advice like this? Be sure to check out our other articles for all the latest on everything from business to travel!

 

Are you looking to fertilize your lawn a different way?

You may be wondering how to fertilize a lawn the right way. Shooting your grass a few chemicals may seem like the easiest way, but this may not be the best method to grow the thick, healthy grass you want.

Growing your own fertilizer rather than picking up a bag at the store is another great way to grow a beautiful lawn. If you are looking to learn more about common grass care, then you’ve come to the right place.

Here’s what you should know about fertilizing your yard on your own:

The Best Time to Fertilize Your Lawn

It’s important to fertilize your lawn the right way to ensure a healthy, green lawn. The best time to fertilize your lawn is in the early spring and late fall. However, you can also fertilize in the summer if needed.

Fertilizing in the summer can help your lawn recover from any heat or drought damage. To fertilize your lawn, you’ll need to use a lawn fertilizer spreader. Spread the fertilizer evenly over your lawn.

Be sure to read the fertilizer label to determine how much to use. Water your lawn after fertilizing to help the fertilizer absorb into the ground.

The Right Type of Fertilizer for Your Lawn

The right type of fertilizer for your lawn depends on the type of grass you have. For example, most warm-season grasses like bermudagrass and zoysiagrass need nitrogen fertilizer in late spring or early summer to stay green and prevent weeds from invading.

But too much nitrogen can actually be harmful, leading to weak growth, thatch buildup, and more pests and diseases. It’s best to follow the directions on the fertilizer package and have your soil tested regularly to make sure you’re using the right amount of fertilizer for your lawn.

How Much and How to Fertilize Your Lawn

The amount of fertilizer you need to apply to your lawn depends on the type of grass you have, the time of year, and the health of your lawn. The first step is to take a soil test to see what kind of nutrients your lawn is lacking. You can get a soil test kit from your local nursery or gardener’s supply store.

Once you know what kind of lawn treatment your lawn needs, you can purchase the appropriate fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during hot, dry weather, as this can burn your grass. If you have an existing lawn, you can probably get away with fertilizing once or twice a year.

When applying fertilizer, always follow the manufacturer’s directions. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can damage your lawn.

With a little care and attention, you can keep your lawn looking green and healthy all year long. If you are looking for a lawn care company to handle your home, please visit Potomaclawn.com.

The Importance of Lawn Aeration

The correct way to fertilize a lawn is to first aerate the lawn. This is because aeration will help the lawn to absorb the fertilizer more effectively. It is important to use fertilizer that is specifically designed for lawns.

This type of fertilizer will have the nutrients that lawns need in order to be healthy. It is also important to apply the fertilizer evenly across the lawn.

Tips for a Healthy Lawn

Fertilizing your lawn the right way can ensure a healthy, green lawn that will be the envy of the neighborhood. A little planning and preparation will go a long way to ensuring a beautiful lawn. Be sure to choose the right fertilizer for your type of grass and lawn, and follow the directions on the fertilizer package for best results.

A healthy lawn is a beautiful lawn, so make sure you know how to fertilize the right way! If you’re ready to start the process of keeping your lawn healthy, schedule an appointment with us today!

 

Did you know that you probably haven’t pressure washed your home’s exterior at all in the past two years? This is actually true for most homeowners, and for good reason: it can be really tough and really scary to wield that machine over your home’s surfaces.

Yet, as another year bleeds into your sunny season, as dirt and grime continues to mount up, you might want to consider it. Having pressure washing on your property is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your home this season.

But you don’t believe us? Then read on, and we can convince you, neighbor.

Pressure Washing is the Most Efficient Way to Clean Your Home’s Exterior

There are many benefits to power washing home’s exterior. One of the most important benefits is that it can help to extend the life of your home’s exterior like cleaning vinyl siding. Pressure washing can remove dirt, grime, and other build-ups that can damage your home’s paint or siding.

Pressure washing can also remove an infestation of insects, mold, and mildew. In addition, pressure washing can make your home look new again, which can increase its curb appeal and potentially increase its value. View and book an appointment for pressure washing services available.

It Saves You Time and Money

A pressure washer is a great investment for any homeowner. Not only does it make cleaning the exterior of your home easier, but it can also save you money in the long run. By pressure washing your home regularly, you can remove dirt, grime, and other build-ups that can lead to costly repairs down the line.

In addition, pressure washing exterior home can also help to extend the life of your home’s exterior by protecting it from the elements. Pressure washing is a quick and easy way to improve your home’s appearance without spending a lot of money.

It Protects Your Home’s Exterior

Pressure washing your home’s exterior not only saves you time and money but also extends the life of your siding and paint. By removing the dirt, grime, and pollen that can accumulate on your home’s surface, pressure washing provides a much-needed deep clean that can help protect your home from the elements.

In addition, pressure washing can also remove mildew and other stains that can be difficult to remove with traditional cleaning methods.

Helps You Maintain Your Home’s Curb Appeal

The exterior of your home is the first thing that guests see when they come to visit, so you want to make sure it’s looking its best. Pressure washing is a great way to clean the outside of your home and make it look new again. Not only will it remove dirt and grime, but it can also get rid of any mold or mildew that may be growing on your siding or brick.

Pressure washing is a quick and easy way to give your home a facelift, and it’s much cheaper than repainting or re-siding your home.

Ready to Keep Your Home Away from Damage?

For anyone debating whether or not to pressure wash the exterior of their home, the pros outweigh the cons. Not only does pressure washing give your home a much-needed facelift, but it also protects your home from further damage by removing dirt, grime, and mold that can seep into cracks and crevices. Plus, it’s a lot cheaper and easier than you might think! So why not give it a try? You won’t regret it.

For more cleaning-related tips, Keep browsing our site!

 

One of a business manager’s most trying responsibilities is pest control. You see, pests like rats, mice, roaches, and bedbugs are still, unfortunately, a part of the normal working day in America.

Municipal laws dictate that all commercial buildings must have licensed pest control specialists. They should visit at least once a year to be considered in compliance.

The government often only recognizes “official” pest control companies. Hence, your business needs to use certified commercial pest control.
And, if one of these insects gets away and starts interbreeding, professional pest control is the only way to stop them.

Below, we list the most important reasons why you should hire a commercial pest control company to fight rodents and other pests instead of doing it yourself.

Commercial Pest Control Companies Can Help Keep Your Business Free of Pests

There are many reasons to hire commercial pest control services to take care of your business’s pest problem. A professional company will have the experience and knowledge to get rid of pests quickly and efficiently.

They will also be able to advise you on how to prevent pests from returning in the future. A commercial pest control company will use safe, effective methods to get rid of pests. This will protect your customers and employees from harmful chemicals.

Pest Control Companies Can Help You Protect Your Business from Pest Damage

If you own a business, it is important to protect it from pests. Pests can cause damage to your property and products, and they can also pose a health risk to your employees and customers.

A commercial pest control company will inspect your premises and identify any potential pest problems. They will then develop a treatment plan to address the problem. The plan may include baiting, trapping, and spraying.

A pest control company such as greencitypestcontrol.com will also provide you with educational materials to help you prevent future infestations.

Pest Control Companies Can Help You Comply with Health and Safety Regulations

There are several reasons to hire a commercial pest control company to help you with health and safety regulations.

First, these companies have the experience and expertise to help you identify potential health and safety risks. Second, they can help you develop and implement effective pest management practices. This is to reduce the risk of exposure to health and safety hazards.

Lastly, they can provide you with support and guidance to ensure that you are compliant with all relevant health and safety regulations.

Commercial Pest Control Is the Way to Go

If you are looking for a way to get rid of pests, then you should consider hiring a commercial pest control company. They are experienced, they use safe methods, and they are effective.

Is your business due for pest control inspection and treatment? If so, check out the rest of our blog for more tips and tricks.

 

Did you know that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that a home in the U.S. can save between $126-$465 per year when they replace their windows? If you are starting to notice unusually higher electricity bills and are feeling drafts by your windows, then you might want to consider replacing your windows.

We have written this blog post to share the top things you want to look out for when hiring a window replacement company.

1. Experience

Since your windows will help keep the weather and bugs outside, you want to choose a company that knows what they’re doing. You want a reputable company that has enough experience where they know what to recommend and have an understanding of the best new windows for your specific needs and budget.

A company like Windows Advise will know what window options to recommend, and you won’t have to worry about hidden fees. You can read more about windowadvise.com here.

2. Check Their Reviews

Take the time to check what others are saying about the company you are thinking of using. Thanks to the internet, you can look for Google Reviews and similar websites where real people leave their honest opinions. Keep in mind that you can’t please everyone, so there might be a few negative reviews, but the key is to see if more customers are pleased than not.

You can also ask friends and family for some recommendations. Usually, if someone you know has had their windows replaced by a certain company, they can give you their honest opinion if they were satisfied with the installation and how their customer service was.

3. Licensed and Insured

Along with having experience, you also want to make sure that you ask if the company is licensed and insured. Certain states have licensing requirements for window installers. Take the time to research your specific area so that you know what certificates the company must have by law.

When a company takes the time to be certified, it also means that they are registered locally. Make sure to not only take their word for it, but you have the right to ask for proof of their certifications.

Checking if they have insurance is another huge must. There are always risks involved when you are doing home improvement projects. The company should have sufficient insurance coverage in case they accidentally cause extra damage to your home or if someone were to get hurt on the job.

This will give you peace of mind that if something were to happen, you wouldn’t be left paying substantial amounts out of pocket or having to deal with your own home insurance company.

Window Replacement Company

Hopefully, with our tips above, you can now find the best window replacement company for your home. Choosing the right windows will help lower your energy bill and can also help improve your curb appeal if you currently have older windows.

Feel free to keep browsing our home section for our latest tips and tricks.

One of the best aspects of being a homeowner is that you have the ultimate say over what you can and can’t do with your property. You can landscape your backyard to absolute perfection and keep as many or as few appliances on the counter as you want. You can also add additional structures to your yard, like a gazebo or even a small shed!

There’s no rule that says you need to use your small shed for storing garden tools, either. Read on for some awesome backyard shed ideas that are sure to inspire you!

1. Gaming Hideaway

You might be surprised to learn that some people take gaming very, very seriously. If you have loved ones in your family who spend most of their spare time at the PS5 console, then a small shed is a great way to give them the space they need to hit their gaming goals.

All you need to do is to run electricity to the shed and set it up for comfort. It’s a super easy task, and the gamer in your life will love you for it.

2. Reading Nook

Do you have a hard time making time in your day to read? One of the best ways to accomplish your reading goals is to create a separate space where you can’t be interrupted.

Small garden sheds make for awesome reading spaces. Add a comfy loveseat with plenty of blankets and pillows, set up a bookshelf, and the perfect amount of lighting. You might be pretty surprised by how often you find yourself out in the shed!

The mini sheds linked here are a great place to start your search for a reading nook.

3. Art Studio

If you’re a creative person, then you’ve probably struggled with finding the perfect place to make your art. Working inside of your home is messy, and it can ruin the flooring and furniture. Working outside leaves your materials vulnerable to the elements.

A small outdoor shed is a perfect place to set up shop! You don’t have to worry about ruining the flooring, and you’ll have a secure place to keep all of your supplies. It’s a win-win situation.

4. Office Space

COVID-19 made working from home more relevant than it ever has been. The only problem with working from home is that it’s difficult to avoid the distraction other family members create. For that reason, a home office in a small shed is a great way to work from home without worrying about your family interfering with your productivity!

The Small Shed Options Are Limitless!

There are so many ways you can use a small shed in your backyard to augment your living space to your needs. Whether you choose to make it a man cave where you can work on gaming your way to your highest score, or you choose to make it a quiet space for reading, you won’t regret adding it to your yard. Your options for customization truly are limitless!

Are you interested in learning about more awesome ways to make your home more comfortable? Be sure to check out the rest of our blog for tons of home design inspiration!

Solar energy refers to the radiant energy emitted by the sun, which can be used to generate clean electricity. With this in mind, it’s clear to see why the aptly-named Sunshine State is so well-suited to harnessing the energy of the sun. In Orlando, for example, there are approximately 233 sunny days per year, well ahead of the national average (205 days).

In this blog post, we will ask why should we use solar energy in Florida. More and more homeowners in the state are making the switch to solar energy by installing solar panels on their properties.

In fact, Florida ranks in 3rd place nationally for the highest cumulative solar capacity, with more than 8,200 megawatts installed to date. Let’s look at why you should join the masses and install solar panels on your property.

Huge Potential to Save Money

For most homeowners interested in using solar, the ability to save tens of thousands of dollars on energy bills is the driving argument. Let’s take Orange County as an example and look at the potential cost savings for homeowners there. For a property with an average monthly utility bill of $127, the recommended system size would be 5.7 kW.

The upfront cost of solar panel installation would be between $10,000 and $12,200 after applying the 26% federal solar tax credit. The net profit, which is the savings over 25 years minus the upfront costs, is estimated at between $21,700 and $26,500. This highlights the incredible potential to save using solar energy.

It should be noted that solar panel systems, with proper care and maintenance, can last for 40 to 50 years. This highlights how solar panels are an excellent long-term investment for households.

Help to Protect the Environment

Of course, there are incredible environmental benefits to switching to solar energy. Solar panels do not produce greenhouse gases when generating electricity, which is in stark contrast to fossil fuels such as coal, natural gas, and oil. Other environmental benefits of solar energy include:

• Reduce water usage
• Reduce air pollution
• Reduce your households’s carbon footprint
• Power new technologies such as electric vehicles
• Reduce our collective reliance on fossil fuels

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of switching to solar energy in Orlando, you can check out this location here.

Why Should We Use Solar Energy in Florida?

There are many good reasons to switch to solar energy. The two most important for homeowners are the cost savings and the environmental positives. Being able to save on energy bills while also supporting a green planet is what makes solar energy so important today.

If you are interested in making the switch to solar in the Sunshine State, we recommend that you speak to an experienced and professional solar panel installation company for more information.

Like this blog post on why should we use solar energy? Be sure to check out our other informative articles on a wide range of interesting topics.

Are you throwing a housewarming party and don’t know what food to serve? Moving into a new home is exhilarating and deserves an epic get-together with your closest friends and family.

But after all the moving, unpacking, and decorating, the last thing on your mind is preparing different kinds of food. Luckily, you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. All you need are a few simple recipes to make delicious food your guests will love.

Here are our favorite simple and easy housewarming food ideas for your party that’ll wow your guests.

Fruit and Cheese Charcuterie Board

If you’re struggling with what to serve at housewarming party, a charcuterie board is an all-in-one solution. You can serve all kinds of finger foods without any cooking or baking.

A fruit and cheese board is a simple and delicious way to serve your guests a light snack that’ll keep them full. You can also add crackers, mini pastries, deli meats, honey, and dips.

Sweet and Savoury Muffins

Muffins, whether sweet or savoury, are the simplest housewarming snacks that’ll be an absolute hit at your party! They’re easy to make and you can play around with as many add-ons as you like.

With a single basic batter, you can make several different flavors and serve them on a beautiful platter so people can grab them to go as they mingle at your party.

Mini Sandwiches

If you’re throwing a housewarming party on a budget, a simple way to feed everyone is to make mini sandwiches. All you need is a few loaves of sliced bread, cucumbers, cheese, and olives. One big sandwich can make 4 mini bite-sized sandwiches that’ll be easy to make and easy to eat.

You can also make them vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or use different spreads to give each batch a different flavor. You can make the sandwiches a couple of days in advance, wrap them in plastic wrap, and put them in the fridge until they’re ready for serving with the rest of the party food ideas.

Easy Desserts

Desserts are an important part of your housewarming party menu. Whether it’s simple sugar cookies, pies, brownies, or cake, your guests will love having something sweet with a cup of coffee or tea.

Light and Fresh Cocktails

Once you sort out the housewarming party food ideas, it’s time to plan the drinks. The best beverages for your party are homemade cocktails, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Depending on the season, you can make them fresh and light or full of warm spices and flavors. This is a great way to serve something fun and different for everyone without spending tons of money on expensive drinks.

These Housewarming Food Ideas Are the Perfect Choice for Your Party

Whether you’re throwing a party for your first-ever house purchase or you’re upgrading to a better home, these housewarming food ideas are simple and delicious. From finger foods and tasty snacks to mouth-watering desserts, your guests will talk about your creations long after the party.

Need more party planning ideas and recipes? Head over to our blog where we post about these topics and stay tuned for more of the latest trends in home and lifestyle.