It’s the middle of winter and you’re dreading getting out of bed to walk across the tile floors in your bathroom or the cold laminate in the kitchen. No matter how much you crank the heat, your home just doesn’t seem to stay warm.

That’s where an underfloor heating system comes into play. With a heated floor, your feet will stay toasty and your home will radiate warmth whenever you need it to.

But what is an underfloor heating system, and why should you invest in one?

Keep reading to find out.

What Is an Underfloor Heating System?

An underfloor heating system (UFH) warms up your room through heating systems under your flooring, as opposed to something like a radiator. The heat starts in the floor and rises, distributing the warmth evenly and at a fast rate.

There are two main types of underfloor heating systems: hydronic and electric.

Hydronic

A hydronic underfloor heating system pumps heated water through pipes under the floor. It’s often a cost-efficient option if you have cold floors throughout the year, but it has a few negatives.

Hydronic underfloor heating systems require your floor to be torn up in order to install them, so it’s best to use them if you’re already doing construction on your home. They also require maintenance every so often to keep them in good shape.

Electric

An electric underfloor heating system heats your room using electric wires under the floors. It requires a faster and simpler installation, and it’s also efficient at heating up a room quickly. Electric underfloor heating systems don’t require any maintenance.

What Are the Benefits of a Heated Floor?

When thinking about underfloor heating systems and their advantages, one of the first benefits that come to mind is their aesthetic design.

Since the system is under your flooring, you don’t have to deal with bulky heating systems taking up valuable space in your room. Plus, underfloor heating systems are silent and won’t pose any risks to children or pets (unlike radiators).

They’re also more energy-efficient. It takes a radiator much longer to heat up a room than an underfloor heating system. You could end up saving 15% on your heating bills just by switching to heated floors.

Another great thing about underfloor heating systems is that they work on almost all types of flooring. Whether you have wood, stone, tile, or even carpet, an underfloor heating system will heat your room well.

Heat Your Rooms With an Underfloor Heating System

Now that you know how an underfloor heating system works, as well as how it can benefit your home, you’re ready to reap its benefits. Turn your bathroom, kitchen, garage, basement, or sunroom into a warm and toasty space with heated flooring.

Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our site for more home improvement tips, as well as articles on everything from business and finance to technology and travel.

Approximately one-third of Americans rent out their home.

When it comes to renting out your home, there are a lot of things to consider. You might be wondering if it’s the right choice for you and your family. In this blog post, we will discuss seven benefits of renting out your home that might make the decision a little easier.

Keep in mind that each situation is different, so be sure to speak with an accountant or real estate agent to see what would work best for you!

1. Renting Out Your Home Can Help With Cash Flow

Because you have attractive loan terms and have resided in the property for a few years, you should be able to generate some monthly cash flow because you’ve paid down your mortgage – at least partially.

A couple of extra hundred dollars each month could help with things like groceries, travel, or even a new car payment.

2. Renting Out Your Home May Qualify You For Tax Deductions

When you own and rent out a property, there are a number of expenses that you can deduct from your taxes. These may include mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, repairs, and more.

Even if you aren’t making income on the property, these deductions can still apply. Selling a house also comes with capital gains tax, which is a hit you might not want to take on your tax returns right now.

Speak with your accountant to see if you qualify for any deductions.

3. Renting Out Your Home Could Help With Mortgage Repayments

If you’re renting out your home, the rental property income can be used to help make your mortgage payments each month. This is especially helpful if you’re in a situation where one breadwinner has lost their job or you have other financial obligations.

It’s particularly appealing if someone else is paying off the mortgage for you while you live elsewhere!

4. Renting Out Your Home Can Help You Learn How To Manage An Investment Property

If you’re thinking about purchasing an investment property in the future, renting out your home can give you a crash course in property management.

You’ll learn how to be a landlord and deal with the issues that can arise with that.

When you rent your home you can expect to deal with things like:

• Rent collection
• Lease agreements
• Maintenance and repairs
• Dealing with difficult tenants

While it can be a lot of work, it can also be a great way to learn about what being a landlord entails.

5. Renting Out Your Home Could Serve As A Security Blanket

In today’s economy, nothing is certain. If you’re worried about job security or the stock market, renting out your home could give you a little peace of mind.

While rental income isn’t guaranteed, it could help you stay afloat if you find yourself in a difficult financial situation.

Additionally, the home is also there should you need to move back in for any reason. New jobs, new relationships, and moves can unfortunately not always work out. Having something to go back to can make that transition easier.

6. Property Values are Increasing

The property market has steadily ticked upwards over the last several years and experts predict that it will continue to do so.

In fact, American property prices grew 17.1% YoY as of December of 2021.

This is good news if you’re thinking about renting out your home as an investment.

You can hold the property now and reap the benefits above. Then you have the flexibility to sell at a time that is most beneficial to you.

7. Renting Out Your Home Gives You Diversified Investments

If you’re relying solely on the stock market for your investments, you may want to consider renting out your home as a way to diversify.

Diversification is important because it helps spread out your risk. That way, if one investment takes a hit, you have others to fall back on.

What to Consider When Renting Out Your Home

We’ve discussed the benefits of renting your home out above. Before you decide to rent and make the commitment there are some crucial factors to consider.

Landlords need to be prepared to deal with problem tenants, maintenance issues, and the day-to-day management of their property.

You should also speak with your mortgage lender to see if renting out your home is allowed in your mortgage agreement. Some lenders have restrictions on this.

Additionally, check with your insurance company to see if your policy still covers the home if it’s being rented out.

You’ll also need to determine if you’re comfortable renting out your home and having strangers live there.

Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision. Renting out your home can be a great way to generate some extra cash each month, but it’s not for everyone. Those that do rent though can earn great passive income and experience from it.

Do some research and speak with experts before renting out your home. It’s an important decision and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Should You Rent Out Your Home?

The million-dollar question. We’ve discussed the benefits and your property options, but ultimately it’s up to you to decide if renting out your home is the right move for you.

If you’re on the fence, consider speaking with a financial advisor to see if renting out your home is the right choice for you. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and figure out what would work best for your situation.

If you liked what you’re reading check out our Finance section for more information.

 

Did you know that the average cost to replace a 1000 sq. ft. roof is between $3,400 and $9,000? And that’s for a relatively modest-sized roof. start throwing in a few extra square feet and gables, and you’re looking at a hefty bill.

So it’s no surprise that many of us are asking ourselves, what is the average lifespan of a roof? It’s good to know so that you can start budgeting for a replacement. Also, it can help you to see what you can do to extend its useful life.

Let’s take a closer look and see exactly how long we can expect our roofs to last.

What Is the Average Lifespan of a Roof?

The average lifespan of a roof depends on where it is built and what it is made of.

The exposed position of our roofs makes them very susceptible to damage. If you live in a very hot or humid part of the country, the sun can cause shingles to expand, weakening the integrity of the roof.

Storms can do a lot of damage, removing shingles and causing water ingress. Without regular roof care after storms, the lifespan of roofs can drop significantly.

Roofing Material Lifespan

The lifespan of a roof made from a hard-wearing material like slate is much greater than one made from rolls of asphalt. The average roof lifespan is:

• Composite shingles – up to 40 years
• Wood shingle – up to 30 years
• Standing-seam metal – up to 50 years
• Clay or cement shingles – up to 100 years
• Slate – over 100 years

Remember, these are only averages. Find a contractor who installs high-quality roofs and does prompt repairs and you could extend this by some margin.

How to Extend the Lifespan of a Roof

To extend the lifespan of your roof, keep threats to it to a minimum. This means:

• Trimming overhanging tree branches that could fall on it
• Keeping gutters clean throughout the year
• Keep your attic well ventilated and insulated
• Clean your roof every year

If you don’t keep your roof clear of moss, mildew, and mold they can gradually eat away at the roofing material. Depending on the elevation, you may be able to clean this from the ground with a telescopic handled brush, dish soap, and water.

Annual Roof Inspection

Whether you suspect roof damage or not an annual roof inspection is essential for your peace of mind. The fall is a great time to do this before the harsh weather of winter.

The inspector will look for:

• Signs of structural damage
• Missing shingles, stains, rust, damage
• Interior inspection – signs of leaks

You’ll get a detailed report explaining any remedial action that you need to take.

Maximize the Lifespan of Your Roof

The average lifespan of a roof is just that – an average.

With good roof maintenance, there’s no reason why your roof can’t be the exception to the rule! Keep it clean, remove threats, and schedule an annual inspection. This will help you avoid the expense of a replacement for as long as possible.

If you’ve enjoyed these home maintenance tips, we’ve got lots more for you! Head over to our Home & Garden section today!

 

Did you know that termites are active year-round? While they like to swarm in the springtime, it’s important to check your house for evidence of them even in other seasons. Otherwise, they can cause serious damage and erode the structural integrity of your home, resulting in big repair bills.

Do you think you might have termites in your house? If so, don’t wait until it’s too late to get professional help. Instead, be proactive and learn about the top five early warning signs of termites that you need to watch for here.

1. Mud Tubes

One of the first and most obvious signs of termites is finding mud tubes in your home. Just like the name implies, these are little termite superhighways that these pesky pests build from soil, sand, wood, and other debris. Constructed to keep the colony safe from predators, they are a sure indication that you have termites.

2. Noises in the Walls

Termites communicate with each other by making clicking noises that are audible to humans. If you hear strange sounds coming from the inside of your walls, you might have an infestation. Termites eat wood, so you may also hear crunching noises as they devour parts of your walls, floors, or other areas of your home.

3. Wings

Are you finding little piles of insect wings around the house? If so, this could be from a recent termite swarm, or from flying ants. Both insects leave behind wings, though termite wings have identical sets while flying ants have a larger and smaller sets.

4. Wood and Paint Damage

Since termites eat wood, if you find damaged wood around your home it could be a sign that you have a colony in your home. They leave very distinctive maze patterns that will let you know of their presence. As they burrow and eat things, this can also cause paint damage so if you see this contact a professional pest control company to come to check it out.

5. Early Warning Signs of Termites From Swarming

Finally, another key sign of termites is the presence of swarming termites outside of your home. Swarming usually happens in the spring, so be especially vigilant during this time. If you see any evidence, look online and find a pest control company like pointepestcontrol.net to come to take a look.

Protect Your Home From Termites

Now that you’ve learned about the early warning signs of termites, you can be proactive and protect your home from them. If you haven’t dealt with termites before, you can ask friends or family members which local pest control companies they trust. Be sure to get professional help in getting rid of your termites before it is too late!

Did you find this article about the signs of termites helpful? Want to read about similar topics? Then head over to our Home & Garden section to explore more great content!

 

Did you know that most people only spend less than five hours outside each week?

Spending time outdoors is great for you, so having a place where you can be outside while still being comfortable is essential. Your patio space can be that place!

Continue reading to learn how to create a welcoming outdoor oasis to spend your time in.

1. Lay the Groundwork

The first thing you should consider is the landscape design of your outdoor space. You’ll need proper drainage, lighting, and hardscapes if you’re considering them!

All of these things can be taken care of by one company if you check out Hydrodynamicscorp.com.

While doing this step, it’s also the time to decide if you want concrete, stones, pavers, or something else as the floor so that people will be comfortable.

2. Choose Comfortable Furniture

The key to backyard living is having plenty of comfortable furniture to lounge around on. If you pick the right pieces, you can easily spend hours outside reading a book, enjoying food, watching the kids play, or simply soaking in the sun.

Make sure you pick furniture that can easily fit the number of people in your family. And try to plan some extra seating space for when you have company over as well!

3. Keep Weather in Mind

If you want outdoor living to be a big part of your life, you need to carefully examine the weather in your area and plan accordingly.

Having an umbrella or shade structure is helpful if you get a lot of sunlight. However, frequent rain often calls for a more permanent structure or porch to keep everything dry.

If many different insects frequent your area throughout the year, screening in the area can make it more enjoyable to be outside, especially if you want to eat outdoors.

4. Low Maintenance Living

You already have to spend a lot of time taking care of the space inside your home. So your outside space should be low maintenance if possible to avoid spending too much time taking care of it.

You want it to be a getaway, not something that takes up all your time. Try having a hose nearby to clean off the ground rather than sweep.

You can also opt for easy plants instead of ones that require frequent watering or special conditions to stay alive.

5. Add Privacy

It’s easy to feel safe and comfortable inside your house because you can enjoy privacy. It’s harder to attain that same feeling outside if your neighbors are close by.

So installing a privacy fence or taller bushes that can act as a fence can go a long way. You might also choose to create your patio space in a more tucked back area of your backyard.

Design a Patio Space You Want to Spend All Your Time in

Spending time outside more often can help you live a happier and healthier life. Setting yourself up to want to spend your free time outside is key.

If you follow the five tips mentioned here you’ll develop a patio space with comfort, privacy, and convenience, you’ll fall in love with it!

If you liked this article and would enjoy reading more home and garden tips and tricks, please check out our site for more!

There are several ways to dispose of your old refrigerator. You can donate it, sell it, or recycle it. You can also LoadUp to have it recycled. The disposal centre that accepts your refrigerator will pick up the materials and will pay you cash for the service. If you don’t have a truck, you can call the disposal centre in advance to determine the exact procedure or look for professional service. Keep in mind that hazardous materials cannot be buried in landfills. Some small appliances can also be put in metal recycling bins.

Recycling

If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, consider recycling it. Cash rebates from companies like Energy Trust of Oregon can save you as much as $40 or more on your utility bills. In New York City, Con Edison will pick up your old refrigerator and give you $50 in rebates. And there are other programs for you to take advantage of, too. For example, you can get rebates from Energy Trust of Oregon for washing machines, room air conditioners, dishwashers, and dehumidifiers.

Most refrigerators from the 1990s and prior use Freon as their main refrigerant. In 1994, Freon was banned in new appliances due to its ozone layer-damaging effects. New refrigerators began using R-134a as a less-toxic replacement. To recycle your old fridge properly, however, it’s important to note that blowing agents in polyurethane foam are released during the shredding process. These agents contribute to climate change and ozone depletion.

Donating

Donating an old refrigerator is a great way to help someone in need. It can be difficult to know where to donate old appliances because they often contain hazardous materials or are too old to be used. While many charities will accept your donation if it is in good working condition, some will only accept broken appliances in exchange for parts or training. Here are some tips to consider before you donate an old refrigerator. Read on to learn more about how to donate an old refrigerator and how it can help a cause.

Donating an old refrigerator to a charity is a great way to get rid of it. You can search the Internet to find local organisations that accept your appliance. Some of these organisations will even pick up your donation. Some charities will even provide you with a tax write off for the donation! For more information, visit the websites of major charity organisations. To donate an old refrigerator, you may have to pay a small fee to the organisation, but they will appreciate the donation.

Selling

When you have an old refrigerator that you no longer need, you may be wondering where to sell it. One option is to sell it at a garage sale or through local appliance stores. Yard sales are great places to sell items, and you may even be able to get cash for your old refrigerator. To get started, take some digital photos of the interior. Place your refrigerator’s details on the ad. You can also include a link to your online auction listing to attract potential buyers.

The next step is to list the item on Craigslist. Craigslist is a great place to sell an appliance because you can list it for less than other similar items in your neighbourhood. Another option is to sell the item through OfferUp, an online community where buyers and sellers meet. There, buyers and sellers can trade goods for cash. You can get as much as $600 for an old refrigerator, but remember that the more expensive the item is, the less likely it will sell.

LoadUp

When you’re ready to get rid of an old refrigerator, you can turn to LoadUp for an eco-friendly disposal solution. They recycle your old appliance parts and take good appliances to local charities, and they’ll even pick up your refrigerator for free! You can schedule a pick up for when you’re ready, and you can even choose the time and day! The best part is, you can schedule a pick up the next day, if necessary.

With their unique service, you can choose a time that’s convenient for you, even if you don’t have time to remove it yourself. Whether it’s the next day or the weekend, you can schedule a pickup with LoadUp. The company will even pick up your old refrigerator as is, so you can save the hassle of lugging it yourself! And since the company offers free quotes, you can rest assured that you won’t be surprised by any unexpected charges.

Junk hauling

If you have an old refrigerator and you’re ready to throw it away, you should hire a junk hauling service. Removing an old refrigerator is a tough task. It weighs a lot and can be difficult to manoeuvre. You’ll need the help of two or more people. You can’t just throw it out with your garbage, either. Some municipalities don’t even recycle old refrigerators, and others won’t take them at all. A junk removal company can take your old refrigerator and recycle its components.

Before calling a junk hauling service, do some research. Find out how much they’ll charge. Many junk removal companies charge by the cubic yard, so it’s important to ask if they’ll accept an appliance. Also, keep in mind that a small refrigerator can cost you hundreds of dollars. Don’t settle for the first offer you receive. Compare the prices and choose the best one for you.

 

Landscaping is an industry worth nearly $116 billion in the United States.

A little bit of lawn maintenance goes a long way when you’re trying to do what’s best for your yard space. Understanding lawn problems and how to fix them will help you to keep your yard lush and green, rather than becoming a dry, brittle eyesore.

Keep reading to learn the lawn care tips that will help you protect your property like the investment that it is.

1. Decide on the Kind of Grass You’d Like

Make sure that your lawn has a solid foundation by choosing the type of grass that is best for you. You’ll need to consider what regions the grass is native to, what temperatures it can thrive under and withstand, the level of care required, and what kind of cultivation timetable it needs.

Here are some of the most popular types of grass seed that you might consider planting:

• Blue fescue
• Kentucky bluegrass
• St. Augustine grass
• Bentgrass
• Ryegrass
• Bermuda grass
• Zoysia

When you understand the kind of grass that you’re dealing with, it’s a lot easier for you to plant it, maintain it, and get it ready for the warm weather seasons.

2. Set Up a System for Watering the Grass

Dryness and a lack of water are among the most common lawn problems that people deal with. You must stick to strict schedules for watering the lawn.

For some people, this means grabbing a water hose with a spray nozzle and walking the yard. This takes more time and effort, but lets you know that you’re spraying each surface of the yard liberally without missing a spot.

You might also look into sprinkler systems. Today’s sprinkler systems are sophisticated and move in a variety of patterns that can get the jump done with very little effort.

The most advanced and effective way to water your lawn is through drip irrigation systems. These systems are eco-friendly because they use just the amount of water that you need, without overwatering the lawn. You’ll be able to watch your lawn flourish after installing one of these systems, and should manage the care and upkeep throughout the years.

Take advantage of professional irrigation & sprinkler repair so that you never have to worry about whether your grass and plants are being properly watered.

3. Use Fertilizer and Other Nutrients

For the best spring lawn care tips, make sure that you lay down plenty of fertilizer in the fall and winter so that your lawn is ready once the weather turns warm again.

Just like you need quality nutrition to get through your day and look after your health, your lawn will need the right cocktail of nutrients to get through the years.

Here are some of the most important nutrients that should be included in any fertilizer blend that you purchase and use:

• Potassium
• Nitrogen
• Phosphorous
• Calcium
• Sulfur

Speak to a nursery in your area to learn more about which blend of nutrients is best for the type of grass you have and the climate where you live. You should time your fertilizer use with your lawn goals to make sure you’re getting the desired results.

4. Strike the Right Balance of Sunshine and Protection

Natural sunlight is also one of the best sources of nutrition for your lawn. It bathes your grass and crops with the much-needed building blocks that make the photosynthesis process happen.

Your lawn will grow thicker and lusher when it gets the right blend of sunshine and water and will let you get the most life from it. You should also be mindful of too much sun exposure if you live in particularly hot and dry areas.

Planting trees and laying down mulch are excellent ways to limit this exposure so that you don’t dry out sensitive roots beneath the surface of the ground.

5. Plant a Garden and Other Crops

Look into starting a garden so that you’re also able to add some utility and diversity to your lawn. Many people enjoy planting fruit and vegetable gardens or throwing some nice flowers and herbs into the mix.

Working a garden is an excellent way to add equity and value to your property as well. It’s a labor of love that is excellent for your mental health and can help you lower your blood pressure and reduce your stress.

6. Remove and Control Weeds and Pests

Weeds and pests are enemies to your lawn. They can spring up in many forms and will eat away at the hard work that you put in over the years.

When in doubt, get a diagnosis from a lawn and garden expert, and be mindful of any diseases that you need to keep under control. Here are some of the pests and diseases that lawn owners typically contend with:

• Moss
• Quackgrass
• Rodents
• Dandelions
• Dollar spots
• Fungus
• Crabgrass

Managing these issues will keep your lawn looking beautiful and will make sure that the nutrients are all going to the right places.

7. Manage Your Soil

Check your soil pH from time to time to make certain that it’s not becoming too acidic. You need the right chemical balance to allow the plants to thrive and grow.

Touch it to make certain that the soil is never too dry or brittle, and drop some samples off at your local nursery to be examined from time to time.

Follow These Lawn Care Tips

Consider these lawn care tips so that you’re able to get the most out of your property for many years to come. Using these words of advice will give you a lawn that you’ll love, and will get you started down the right path.

Make sure that you also turn to a licensed and insured company that offers exquisite lawn care services.

Begin with these points and read through our other articles so that we can serve as your resource for lawn and garden tips.

Did you know that if the United States doesn’t add more than four million apartments this decade then there is going to be a major shortage? Apartments are in high demand and if you buy one right, you could be making one of the smartest investment decisions of your life.

Whether you’re looking for an investment property or a place to live permanently, it all starts with buying your first apartment. While this can seem overwhelming at the start, it can actually be fairly simple.

So keep on reading and we’ll take you through what you need to know to buy that cozy apartment of your dreams.

1. Check Your Credit Score

Whenever you’re buying real estate, you never want to assume. Especially when it comes to getting loans from banks.

If you have a bad credit score, you might not be able to get any reasonable loans. By knowing your credit score, you can have a better idea of what kinds of loans you can get from a bank. This in turn will help you set realistic expectations for what kinds of apartments you can afford.

2. Get Pre-Approved

Next on our home buying checklist is to get pre-approved. Don’t confuse getting pre-approved with getting pre-qualified.

A pre-qualification is simply a hypothetical yes. This isn’t a guarantee that the bank is going to lend money to you. The lender is taking a brief look at your financials and hypothetically telling you that you can get a loan.

While a pre-qualification can be helpful and bode well for you, it’s not enough to go apartment shopping with.

This is what makes pre-approval so useful. Here, the bank is taking a good, hard look at your financial statements and deciding if you are worthy of credit.

See what rates you can get from different financial institutions but avoid hard inquiries so you don’t hurt your credit score.

3. Find a Good Realtor

While you might think that you can find the right apartment just by using Google, you’ll likely quickly become overwhelmed. A realtor is going to have in-depth knowledge of the area and know what makes a good deal and a bad deal.

You want to get a realtor who has experience with apartments. They should have plenty of references and have a good reputation in the area.

You also want to make sure that the realtor is being realistic with you. They shouldn’t just say yes to everything that you want and they shouldn’t shoot down all of your ideas either.

A good realtor is going to find you good deals and make sure that the sale goes smoothly.

4. Go Hunting

Now comes the fun part. Look for apartments that are exciting to you and also in your price range. You can visit this website to find a variety of great websites.

Work with your realtor to schedule a walkthrough of the apartment.

You never want to put an offer on a property you haven’t seen yet.

When you do a walkthrough, you’re not just looking at the apartment. You also want to look at the building itself, the staff, the cleanliness, the other residents, and the neighborhood.

Try to go at different times of day too. Is there a lot of traffic? Is there too much natural light or not enough?

5. Make Your Offer and Be Ready for a Counter-Offer

When it comes to your first home, you might not want to try to drive the hardest bargain possible. When it comes to negotiating, you should really only try to haggle on the sale price or closing costs.

If you ask the current owner to lower the sale price and also cover the closing costs, you’ll likely get the door slammed on your face.

It’s important that you decide what is more important to you, liquid cash or a reduction in your monthly mortgage payments.

If it’s going to be hard for you to make the minimum down payment then you might want to ask for closing costs. However, you should ask for something like this from the start.

6. Have an Independent Building Inspection and Separate Unit Inspection

This is a very important step that you’re lender is going to require. This is going to determine fit the building is structurally sound.

Will it need maintenance in the near future? Is it built to code?

If there are problems, does the HOA have the money to cover these costs? If not, you are going to have to think about how much the HOA costs are going to rise as time goes on.

7. Final Walkthrough and Close

You always want to do one last walkthrough. No matter how eager you are to be a homeowner, you always want to do this. The buyer might pull one last trick on you that you need to look out for.

They might take a crucial appliance or leave a big stain.

When it finally comes time to close, you’ll need to bring a check for the closing costs and down payment. You’ll also sign all of the necessary documents. Your realtor will help you with this.

Congrats on Buying Makes Buying Your First Apartment

Buying your first apartment is a major milestone and it is something worth celebrating. Just make sure that you follow the guide above and don’t jump into any deals without putting in the time and research.

And don’t forget to check out the rest of our blog for more helpful articles!

Around 10-15 percent of Americans get their water from unregulated water suppliers. Many of these water supplies do not meet the government safety standards for safe drinking water. How can we help these folks clean up their water supply?

A reverse osmosis water filter creates drinkable water for those without it. It decontaminates the water, making it safe for consumption.

Read on to find out what these water filters do and why you need one no matter where you live.

What Is Reverse Osmosis?

Reverse osmosis was invented to remove the salt from brackish or seawater, making it drinkable. It was also created to remove certain contaminants from water, such as heavy metals. Today, many use it to filter their drinking water at home.

It works by pushing water through a membrane that allows water molecules to pass through. It stops larger particles, like salt and minerals, from passing. This process creates pure drinking water without contaminants or other substances found in tap water.

What The Filter Removes

During the reverse osmosis process, everything but pure water gets removed from your plain tap water. It removes contaminants like nitrates, sulfates, and arsenic. It also removes minerals like salt, magnesium, and calcium.

How Will a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Benefit Me?

Using a reverse osmosis water filter will give you peace of mind when filling up your cup of water. You can rest easy knowing that 98 percent of dissolved solids get removed. It leaves you with pure drinking water.

It can take undrinkable water and make it safe for consumption, too. It removes some tastes and smells that you find in plain tap water.

Reverse osmosis makes it easier for your body to absorb the water you drink. The filter removes contaminants, so the kidneys don’t have to work as hard to clean the water you drank. If you’re want to keep learning, you can get more info about water filtration benefits here.

Reverse Osmosis Filter Placement

So, where in your home should you use these filters? You seldom need to use them for your whole house. These filters work best when used at the location of water going to be used for drinking.

This means you would put a water filter under the sink for your tap. You could add another to your fridge if it dispenses water or makes ice.

If you have well water, you should think about installing a reverse osmosis filter. It will remove any impurities that are in the water from your well. Nitrates are a common contaminant found in well water.

Find The Right Filter For Your Home

A reverse osmosis water filter works wonders on undrinkable water. It removes contaminants and creates safe drinking water. It makes water taste great and allows your body to do less work when absorbing the water you drink.

If you found this article interesting, you can read more in the technology section of our site.

Did you know this year, home renovations and repairs are expected to rise? New home windows will increase the value. If you’ve been thinking about replacing your windows, continue reading.

In this guide, you’ll learn about the types of replacement windows to consider. Learn about what windows to add to your basement and what ones you could add to your kitchen to increase the value.

Ready to learn more about home windows? Check out the rest of the article today.

What About a Boulder Window?

Boulder windows remain one of the most popular replacement windows. It’s a double-hung window.

You can open the window at the top and from the bottom. When you open the uppermost part of the window, you can let out hot air.

People prefer double-hung windows due to their ease of cleaning. They provide excellent ventilation. Check out a local installer or Boulder Window today.

Have You Considered Single-Hung Windows?

Single-hung windows are like double-hung windows. The main difference is that double-hung windows can get opened from top to bottom. Yet, single-hung windows will only get unlocked from the bottom.

Are you looking for large replacement windows? Consider choosing a single-hung window. These windows are easy to use and straightforward to clean.

Architectural Shape Windows

Architectural shape windows are also called unique shape windows. These windows have soft corners, rounded transoms, and extreme angles. They are found in many different kinds of homes.

Shaped windows are the best option for people who want a customizable option. These styles will come in different sizes and styles and fit various looks in a house. They could work with an existing window configuration.

Hopper Window for the Basement

Do you need a window for your basement, garage, or attic?

A basement hopper will provide ventilation and light for any room. It has an inward opening feature, making it an excellent option for tight spaces. You might choose this window for your underground basement.

Garden Windows

Garden windows remain a popular and unique option for homeowners.

The garden window will extend from the house like a bow or bay and contains space for shelves. You can use this space for growing herbs, flowers, and plants throughout the year.

Enjoy this customizable option. You could end up developing an indoor greenhouse. Customize the seat board or headboard with different materials like granite or quartz.

Add hard-wired LED lights to illuminate your garden when the sun begins to go down.

A popular spot to install a garden window is in the kitchen. Enjoy the natural light as you cook and prepare meals. With your herbs in such close range, you’ll have fun preparing meals with fresh herbs.

Casement Windows

Casement windows open outward when you turn a handle. Homeowners prefer casement windows because they give excellent ventilation and provide uncluttered views. You’ll enjoy lots of natural light.

The windows can remain hinged from the right or left side. They will take up space when they get opened, but they aren’t ideal for a deck or patio. Most people find the casement windows will fit over the kitchen sink. They are easy to operate from an angle.

Windows open with a crank and are great for people who want more home security. Another benefit of casement windows is the screen’s inside the home.

It’s easier to clean because you don’t have to worry about elements dirtying your window.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows work like sliding glass doors. They open on a horizontal track. You’ll have control over ventilation. This is why people put sliding windows in their bathrooms and kitchens.

Most homeowners replace the side-by-side casement windows by picking one massive sliding window. Get rid of the space between the windows and install more glass. You’ll have an unobstructed view.

Sliding windows won’t take up a lot of vertical space. They are a good option for people who live in houses with short walls. The windows will create an illusion that the walls look taller than they are.

The windows will be installed near the upper part of the wall. You will have more space between the floor and the bottom of the window.

What About a Bay Window?

Homeowners invest in any windows if they want an unobstructed view of the house’s exterior. The bay window will also give you more floor space for the house’s interior.

This is an excellent choice if you want a cozy reading nook or hope to update the existing window.

What About Bow Windows?

Bow windows are like bay windows. They have angled window panes that project outward.

Bow windows will project at a 10-15-degree angle, while bay windows tend to launch at a 25-45 degree angle.

Bay windows come with three window panes. Bow windows will come with up to five window panes. People with a modern home will prefer bay windows. Older houses tend to prefer the look of bow windows.

Bow and bay windows will give a homeowner a stunning panoramic view of the front or backyard.

Enjoy a Picture Window

Picture windows are an option for homeowners who prefer a large window without an obstructed view. Picture windows turn the outside view into a stunning framed picture for people to enjoy.

These windows don’t open up. They aren’t ideal for rooms needing extra ventilation or emergency escapes. These windows bring in natural light into a home. They also provide a stunning view of the outdoors.

Enjoy a view of the outdoors, but don’t sacrifice security. Picture windows won’t open. This window will do well in areas with a home that has limited access, like a vaulted ceiling or recessed walls.

It’s typical to join the picture windows with other styles to create unique configurations. Framing the backyard view with a picture window is another way to bring in natural light.

Customized Windows

Make a unique statement in your house. You might want to look into custom-build windows. You can choose from the size, shape, and frame angle with a custom-built window. Custom windows will cost more, however.

Consider researching online to look up different custom windows. Determine what your favorite windows are before you reach out to an installer. You can better explain what you’d prefer.

Custom Wood Trim or Woodgrain Interior Options

You can look into vinyl woodgrain interiors. These will give you the aesthetic of real wood windows, but you don’t need to worry about all the maintenance.

Real wood windows appear beautiful. Yet, they remain susceptible to the outdoor elements.

Vinyl woodgrain interiors remain maintenance-free. You won’t have to worry about splinters, cracks, or rotting issues. The vinyl woodgrain windows could get customized with interior wood trim.

What About Custom Grid or Designer Glass?

You could add a touch of elegance with designer details. Some homeowners will invest in privacy glass or etched glass to give them a custom grid.

Ask the window installer if they can show you some examples of custom grids or designer glass.

Looking for Energy-Efficient Glass Options?

Glass is another important choice for your windows. The kind of glass in the window can affect the flow of heat in and out of your home. Also, it will affect the amount of noise coming into your home and light.

Some windows get made with energy-efficient glass. You can lower heating and cooling costs. Homebuyers remain impressed with a home that has energy-efficient windows.

What About Hardware?

Choose unique hardware finishes that will complement your new windows. You could choose different levers and locks to add an aesthetic appeal to your finished windows.

Find a Reputable Window Installer

Before you choose any windows, make sure you find a reputable window installer. Ask your network to give you some names of reputable contractors.

You could also call up a local real estate agent. Real estate agents often have connections with different contractors in the area.

What Types of Replacement Windows Will You Choose?

Did you find this guide helpful on the different types of replacement windows? Consider the window replacement that would work best for your home.

If you want more natural light, consider a picture window. Do you want to set up a little greenhouse in your home? Look into installing a garden window. Enjoy fresh herbs throughout the year.

Need more helpful tips like this article? Check out our home improvement section on the blog today.