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How To Save Space When Remodeling Your Bathroom?

How To Save Space When Remodeling Your Bathroom?

Is your bathroom in need of some serious remodeling? Well, this is also a great time for all of the small bathroom owners out there, to add some nifty storage to their existing space. Here are some space-saving ideas you can implement during a bathroom remodel that are going to knock your socks off.

Small Statement Sinks

With small bathrooms and trying to save space, you need to think creatively and smartly. You don’t want to go for a sink that’s too bulky and will take up a lot of space because your bathroom will end up looking cramped.

You want to go for lone sinks, that are bowls mounted on a countertop. These sinks will not only save floor space, but they will look like a style statement and add character to your entire bathroom.

Recessed Cabinets & Cupboards

When remodeling your bathroom to save space, without compromising on the storage, it’s best to go for cabinet options that won’t protrude out a lot. This is where the recessed feature comes in handy. Recessed fixtures have been around for a long time now, and they’re great for saving space.

Recessed cabinets and cupboards are going to disappear into the walls and you will have a designated space for everything without hogging up all of the floor space. You can also opt for pull-out cupboards and that’s going to look even better. Something about recessed cabinetry looks very edgy and futuristic.

Shower & Bathtub Combo

Who says you can’t get a bathtub in a small bathroom? Just because the space is limited, doesn’t mean that you can’t make things work. A bathtub and shower combo is a great way to get the best of both worlds, without having to give up on floor space.

Bathtubs are also great if you have small toddlers that love to soak and play in the tub, during bath time, and let’s be real; baths are way more relaxing and luxurious than showers. However, if someone in your house prefers showers over baths, then you have that area covered too.

Custom Cabinets

For small spaces, you need to get creative with things. Pre-made cabinets are not going to cut it for you, so to make your bathroom look spacious and complete, you’ll need to go for custom-made cabinets according to the available bathroom space and your preferences. This might be a bit expensive, but it’s better than getting stock cabinets that don’t meet your space requirements.

A fabricator can easily make a custom vanity for you and you can even request for the recessed feature so that you’re on top of the space-saving game in your bathroom.

Use Hooks

If you don’t want to spend the extra money on a hanging rack, but want your clothes and towels to be organized, then hooks are here to save the day. Hooks take no space at all and you can easily install them on the back of your door, on the walls, in the cupboard, and even in the shower.

You can, then, hang your wet towels, bath robes, clothes, and other miscellaneous items on these hooks and everything will stay put. The best part about hooks is that they are available in magnetic and sticking varieties, so you don’t need to drill a hole in your walls either.

Utilize Every Square Inch

If you have space under the sink, on top of the cupboards, and on your vanity, then you want to use all of these spaces to your advantage. You can use these spaces to put extra towels, fixture backups, skincare and beauty products, hair tools and equipment you use daily, and other things.

This idea is great because it leads to less clutter and you’ll know exactly where you need to look to find a specific item. Organization is all about having a home for every single thing. Work with a bathroom remodeler Saint James who can make the most of the small space.

Tall Shelves

Since you don’t have a lot of horizontal space to work with, in a small kitchen, you can opt for taller shelves and cupboards that have vertical length, because these things will take up way less floor space and they will get the job done.

Tall shelves, cupboards, and storage spaces will have more space and you can use them to their maximum capacity without having to compromise on floor space. If you have a lot of things that need to be organized in various storage bins, then try to set them up vertically and that’s going to be a game changer.

Take Advantage Of The Walls

Since you want to use the floor space to a minimum, it’s time to use other things, like the bathroom walls. Walls are perfect areas for you to mount things on. You can go for shelves that can be easily mounted on walls and that’s going to give the look of invisible/floating shelves that look extremely modern and chic.

You can also get storage bins and shelves that are very lightweight and can be screwed on the walls of your bathroom. This idea is not only going to make things look more clean and organized, but it can also dress up bare and sad-looking walls.

Reasonably Sized Toilet

For the toilet, a lot of people forget to keep the size and dimensions in mind. Since your bathroom is already lacking in the space department, it’s best that you don’t overcrowd it with a huge toilet seat. As soon as everything like the sink, vanity, shower, and cupboards are installed, you want to take note of the space available for the toilet seat.

You want to get something that matches the available dimensions, because not only is it going to fit better, but it will also look proportionate.

Medicine Cabinets For The Win

You might think that cabinets are a thing of the past. Well, not really. Medicine cabinets have also come a very long way and there are a lot of cool and modern ideas that you can incorporate in your bathroom.

The main gist of a medicine cabinet is that it can be concealed with a mirror, but it’s actually a cabinet that can be opened and you can put things like important medicines, eye contacts, toothpaste, and even some skincare products. It is truly a wonderful storage idea and you don’t need to worry about losing important prescription medication as well.

Storage Bins

Lastly, to get everything organized, storage bins are a must. You want to have a number of these and you can use them in drawers or on their own to put things in and get things organized.

These bins are a lifesaver in the bathroom and there are also varieties available that you can mount on the wall, so that’s a win-win.

Conclusion

Storage is something everyone needs, and in bathrooms, it’s even more important and you will regret it if you don’t have that bit of extra space. These ideas will definitely help you out. So, the next time you’re remodeling your bathroom, keep these options in mind too. Ask for more space-saving ideas from your bathroom remodeling contractor East Setauket and you will be amazed with the creative ideas.

Pros And Cons Of Building Retaining Wall In Your Yard

Pros And Cons Of Building Retaining Wall In Your Yard

Retaining walls are structures built to hold back soil and debris. You can get this built by patio builders. These walls have several advantages and disadvantages to offer. However, the popularity graph of these walls shows an ever-increasing trend. So, if you are planning to have one built for yourself, here are some things you need to consider.

Advantages Of Building A Retaining Wall

Increase In Property Value

One of the biggest advantages of building a retaining wall is the increase in property value. In addition to improving the curb appeal of your home, retaining walls help protect against property damage caused by flooding and erosion, which decrease the value of your home.

Although the increase in the property’s value will depend on the location and the type of retaining wall, properties with such features are sure to bring good returns.

Improved Drainage

Another major advantage of building a retaining wall is improved drainage. Having a retaining wall built means excess water is directed away from structures and towards lower-lying areas. As a result, your property is protected against severe damage from erosion and flooding.

If you happen to live in a region that experiences extreme weather conditions, having a retaining wall is a must. On top of that, if you are someone who loves nature and likes to have plants, shrubs, and trees surrounding your property, you will be able to keep them protected in case the rain comes down hard.

Reduced Maintenance

Some people opt for fences or other landscaping features to add to the visual appeal and security of their properties that require maintenance. However, in the case of retaining walls, you do not need to put in time and effort on a weekly or monthly basis.

The only factor you need to keep in mind is proper construction and installation. Building a retaining wall is not easy as it seems and may take a few weeks. If the job has been done perfectly by retaining wall builders Long Island, you need not worry about the wall for years.

Disadvantages of Building a Retaining Wall

Retaining Walls Can Be Expensive

Retaining walls can be expensive to build depending on the size and type you go for. Even though there are cheaper options available in the market but won’t last long. For a well-built retaining wall, you should expect around $20-$50 per square foot.

This means it could be difficult for you to build one especially if you are tight on the budget. However, then again, it should be kept in mind that a retaining wall helps increase your property’s value.

Retaining Walls Require Annual Inspection

As mentioned earlier, retaining walls do not require weekly or monthly inspections only annual inspections. The sole purpose of the inspections is to ensure the wall is in good condition. Considering external factors such as extreme weather conditions, retaining walls can crack over time.

So, the inspection will allow you to repair the cracks and reseal them. Of course, you will be spending some money but instead of considering it an expense, you should think of it as an investment for the advantages it has to offer.

Additionally, it is not necessary that retaining walls need repairs on every inspection. It might be that your wall does not require any repairs at all for a few years if external factors do not take a toll on it.

Retaining Walls Can Be Dangerous

You might be surprised to hear this but there is no need to panic. The only reason retaining walls can be dangerous is if they are built by amateurs. An improper or poorly constructed wall can be threatening especially if it is built near a walkway or driveway.

The best way to prevent serious situations is to choose a professional. A professional might charge you slightly more than the market average but will ensure the job is done perfectly. Moreover, retaining walls should only be built in stable areas, and that too after performing risk analysis.

Retaining Walls Can Take Too Much Space

Sometimes, retaining walls can take up too much space. This is a common complaint amongst homeowners who have decided to build retaining walls in their properties. However, it is too late for them to realize once it has been built. That said, building a retaining wall might not seem to be a big job but requires thorough assessment and planning.

The last thing you would want is the retaining wall blocking the views and making it difficult to walk in areas that are meant for high foot traffic. Moreover, you will also need to consider other factors such as patios, porches, etc. if you already have them in your house.

How To Build A Retaining Wall?

Once you have decided on building a retaining wall for your home, you need to follow a few steps. First, you need to decide the type of material for the retaining wall. You can choose between stone, concrete, vinyl, and wood. Your decision should be based on your budget, location, and size of the property as well as the retaining wall.

However, keep in mind that concrete retaining walls tend to be the most affordable while stone walls offer a more natural look. Meanwhile, vinyl and wood retaining walls are more expensive options if you are looking to improve your backyard or front yard.

Now that you have decided on the type, it is time to begin construction. Always choose a professional for this job and inspect the stability and quality for any potential problems once it is complete.

And finally, seal the wall and schedule annual maintenance to prolong its lifespan.

Types Of Retaining Walls

Gravity Retaining Walls

Gravity retaining walls prevent toppling and sliding by using the gravitational force of their weight. This helps them resist the lateral pressure from the soil behind them. These are the simplest type of retaining walls and are usually built using bricks, concrete, masonry, etc.

Cantilever Retaining Walls

Cantilever retaining walls are built using reinforced concrete in an inverted T-shape or L-shaped foundation. A cantilever retaining wall consists of a base slab and a stem located under the backfill. As a result, the vertical pressure produced by the soil behind the wall is directed to the base, which helps the wall withstand pressure.

Gabion Retaining Wall

A gabion retaining wall is a wall packing rectangular wire mesh containers filled with rocks or other suitable materials. These walls are used to stabilize steep slopes and develop erosion management structures.

Anchored Retaining Wall

An anchored retaining wall is used or built if the house is constrained. These are relatively thin walls suitable for loose soil on rocks. As the term suggests, these walls consist of anchors installed deep into the earth to eliminate slipping and pressure.

Conclusion

A retaining wall can surely protect your property from flooding, erosion, and other threatening situations. However, it could be expensive and simply might not suit your property. Therefore, increasing the property’s value is one thing, wasting your money on something that does not offer any value won’t be worth it. Therefore, always consult an expert like patio contractors Long Island who can lay a patio and build a retaining wall as well. And keep the tips mentioned above in mind to make the right moves.

11 Questions To Ask Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

11 Questions To Ask Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Kitchen remodeling is costly. Therefore, you should be hiring the best contractor for your kitchen remodeling. To ensure this, you should ask the right questions to the contractors for evaluating them. Use these questions.

Are you licensed?

Before getting into any details, the first question should be about the license. Ask the kitchen remodeling contractor if they are licensed. If they are, it would mean that they have passed the required tests and exams to be considered a qualified professional for remodeling and similar work.

Moreover, if their reply is a yes, you should ask for their license number so you can confirm it. For this, look up on Google “check a contactor license [enter your state]”.

Are you Better Business Bureau accredited?

Most businesses have a Better Business Bureau profile that tells more about them. You can check their rating to know whether you can trust them. Therefore, ask the contractor about their BBB profile and their score.

Have you done a project like this one before?

There are many different aspects of a kitchen remodel and it requires different kinds of skills to complete a full kitchen remodel. Moreover, not all remodels are full remodels. So, you should check with the kitchen remodeler Bowie whether they have done something you have in mind.

For example; a contractor can be excellent in installing cabinets and flooring, but they not be skillful in coating countertops. So, show your requirements to the contractor and make sure they are good at what you want to be done.

What type of contract would you propose?

If you select a contractor and give them the details of the project, they will give a rough estimate of the project which is called a quote. They may explain what will happen on the job and relevant things you should know.

After this, you will be provided with a contract that is considered the set rules that will seal the deal once you sign it.

There are different types of contracts and you should select the contract that suits your project, your budget, and your preferences. Therefore, asking about the contract is important. For instance, if you don’t want to overspend, you should not sign a cost plus contract. This is a contract where the scope of the job is not clearly defined along with the cost.

There are other types of contractors like a stipulated sum contract also called a fixed price contract. When the scope of the project is clearly defined, the price is set clearly as well and a fixed price contract is used for it.

Another kind of contract is a design-build contract. In this one, you can make one entity responsible for both the design and construction. This can make things easy for you because you only need to keep a check on one company or entity for the whole project. After the contract, the design-build contract hires architects, engineers, and subcontractors under him/her and completes the project.

Do you use subcontractors?

The contractors or companies you hire are responsible for completing your project as the contract says. However, they have the option to involve in-house employees or hire subcontractors for some parts of the kitchen renovation project.

Getting all the work done by the in-house employees for the contractor is better because they may save more money. However, if something required in the project can’t be done by any of their people, they can hire subcontractors of the right skill set to do that job. This makes a project better because everyone does what they are skilled at.

Subcontracting is a common practice. However, you should ask your contractor about it and how they vet the subcontractors they hire.

Can I look at your previous work?

Inquiring about the things a contractor is skilled at is one thing and asking for previous work is another. So, it can be useful in making your decision if you can look at the work of the contractor you’re evaluating.

Some contractors may have physical showrooms they can show you. However, many contractors don’t have them, but most of them do maintain an online catalog that you can look at. Contractors without physical showrooms don’t make them bad so judge them with their work.

How long will the kitchen remodeling project take?

Remodeling involves various tasks, but if you ask about how much a project will take, they will be able to answer it confidently. Many contractors will give you a detailed project breakdown about which thing will be done first and how much time every task will take.

The project length forecasted by your contractor will give an idea of how long your kitchen will be unavailable.

When asking about approximate project length, if a contractor can’t give you definite time frames or a contractor promises too quick completion of the project, it’s best not to trust them.

Would there be a wait time involved?

The contractor you want to hire may have a long waitlist. Summer is usually the season when remodels and renovations are likely done so the wait list of contractors may be longer in summer. So, which time of year you’re hiring a contractor, asking about the wait time will let you know how long will it take your project to start.

Moreover, a waitlist can also tell you about the popularity of a contractor, but beware that some contractors may give you a long wait time to show that they are popular.

What is your work schedule?

Remodeling requires various heavy tools, the contractor’s team may take up some space for work, and also cordon off many areas of the house for ventilation units. Moreover, chemicals are used for various purposes which should be avoided by anyone who is not a part of the remodeling team.

Therefore, you should ask when your contractor usually starts the work and how long they stay in the area for the project in a day. This will help you in organizing your day much better during the remolding days if you will be living in your house.

Will there be post-remodel downtime?

Even when remodeling is done, some parts require time to dry out like kitchen flooring, walls, and other things. If you begin using your kitchen or those parts that are not completely dry yet, it can damage them and you may need to repair or replace those parts again. This means you will be spending time and money again to do a small renovation again.

Therefore, to avoid problems and damage to the new materials, ask your contractor if there will be any parts that will be unavailable for some time after the remodel.

Where should I contact you during the remodel?

You may need to talk to the contractor if something happens during the remodel like an accident, scheduling conflict, etc. So, you should have a number you can call because it’s not likely that the lead contractor or the project manager of your kitchen remodel will be present on your premises all the time.

Conclusion

Your kitchen remodel will go smoothly if you select the right kitchen remodeling contractor Rockville. For this, asking the right questions is the key. Ask the above questions to know to understand how the contractor usually works and what you should expect.

Is CBD Any Good For ADHD

Is CBD Any Good For ADHD

CBD has been around for quite some time now and people are curious about its hidden benefits for treating many diseases and disorders. Here is everything you need to know about the effects of CBD for ADHD.

What Is ADHD?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, shortly known as ADHD, is a common neurological development disorder, which can occur in children as well as adults. In this disorder, the attention span is highly compromised and people, mostly children, have a hard time focusing on things for too long. They also face trouble in controlling impulses and doing exactly what they’re feeling. This can include rocking the leg, clicking the teeth, shaking too much, moving limbs and other body parts impulsively, etc.

Normal people can control their impulsive urges and not act on them, but people suffering from ADHD will have a hard time doing so. They also have a tendency of being very active and they always need to do something, otherwise, they may become difficult to deal with.

Symptoms Of ADHD

  • Too much talking
  • Zoning out or daydreaming
  • Moving too much, aka, hyperactivity
  • Being socially awkward/or having a hard time making friends or acquaintances
  • Acting on impulses a lot
  • Doing reckless things or making mistakes a lot

Treatment Of ADHD

ADHD is treatable, as long as you are consistent with the process and don’t stray off the path. The common treatment method is medication and therapy. Medication helps a lot with calming the nerves down and letting the person relax and it also suppresses the need to act on impulses.

Therapy is for the general well-being of the person, in order to make them less anxious and shy and it helps to put the person out there, so that they can’t be held back, because of this disorder.

CBD For ADHD

CBD, also known as Cannabidiol, is derived from the hemp plant. It is a natural substance that helps with anxiety and relaxes the user. It might be quite fitting for CBD to be useful for ADHD, but that’s not entirely the case. When CBD first came out, there was tons of research done on it, to scope out its hidden benefits for treating anxiety disorders, and it was tested on people with ADHD as well

It can be said that more in-depth research is required to fully and safely state that CBD is effective in patients suffering from ADHD.

There have been some unofficial stories of people online, stating their positive experiences with CBD for ADHD, but these experiences need to be taken with a grain of salt, because the reviews of some people, and that too online, cannot build the foundation of treatment for approximately 7.5 million people dealing with ADHD.

There is a need for calculated and monitored research in which all of the boxes are ticked, otherwise, it can be considered as a bluff, especially when there’s no actual proof of it.

Can CBD Be Used As A Treatment For ADHD?

CBD is known for its relaxing benefits and while it has been approved by the FDA and other drug administrations in the world to be added to different medicines, it still doesn’t mean that there is recorded proof of it being useful in the treatment of other anxiety disorders.

Yes, CBD is useful and tremendously effective for treating sleep problems and even dealing with anxiety, but in the case of ADHD, there are a plethora of symptoms that need to be covered and unfortunately, CBD doesn’t seem to be effective in dealing with all of them.

There is still a lot to discover in the research of CBD to be fully effective in treating or to be used as an additional treatment for ADHD, this is why saying anything, for sure, can be hasty. It’s best to wait for more studies to be done on CBD before making any false claims and putting someone’s life at risk, for the sake of treatment.

Conclusion

There you have it! CBD might be setting its foot down in the pharmaceutical industry, but it still has a long way to go for treatments of disorders like ADHD. Discuss this with your physician before using any CBD products from a CBD store Port Jefferson.

How Do You Put In Clip-In Hair Extensions

How Do You Put In Clip-In Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are a great way to add instant volume to your hair. There are many variants of hair extensions available with salons that do hair extensions, but the most common and easiest one is the clip-in version. Here is everything you need to know about putting these extensions in your hair.

Before Putting In The Extensions

Here are some things you need to think about before putting the extensions in your hair.

The Color Should Match

First of all, your extensions need to match your actual hair color. There is nothing more unpleasant than having hair extensions that don’t match your hair. It also looks extremely fake and it gives away the illusion of a perfect hairstyle. Try to take some time when choosing the color of your hair extensions, because it is impossible.

Style The Hair Extensions

If you normally wear your hair in a certain style, like textured or curled, then it’s better to style your hair extensions before putting them on your head. Styling the hair extensions, before clipping them on, is not only easy but it also takes less time for you to finish your hair.

You will have beautifully styled hair within no time and there won’t be any weird kinks or missing spots in the hair, once the extensions are on. This hack will also save you a lot of time in the morning if you are a fan of styling your hair.

Step-By-Step Guide To Apply Clip-In Hair Extensions

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clip-on hair extensions with ease.

Brush The Hair Out

First, you need to make sure that your hair is free from tangles and knots. When applying any sort of hair extensions, there’s usually a lot of tugging and manipulation of the hair, so you need to make sure that your hair is free from kinks and knots.

This is going to make your life easy and pitting on hair extensions will be a piece of cake, even if you’re a beginner and don’t have any experience.

Sectioning Is Everything

The next most important step of clipping on hair extensions is the sections and where to place the extension wefts. Try to make as many sections as you can and make sure that the hair you section off isn’t too thin or too thick.

Usually, a section that is one inch wide will be perfect for the clip-on weft. The best sections are at the base of the crown and right above the nape of the neck. These places also allow the hair extensions to remain hidden, which is perfect because half the battle is getting the clips to stay hidden.

Placing The Extensions

Now comes the part where you will clip the extensions on the sections you just created. The trick here is to make sure that the wefts don’t stick up when you put the section down. You want to apply the extension parallel to the section and in the direction of the scalp.

This is going to make sure that the section does a good job of making the weft stay put. This is also going to make the end result look smooth and professional. Take your time when putting on the extensions. When you slip the extensions, they should stay down and not pop back up.

Hiding The Wefts

Last but not least, you want to make sure that the wefts are hidden in your hair. The trick lies in the sectioning. The right section will give you enough hiding room for the extensions to not peek through.

Also, make sure that you don’t use brushes or clips near the scalp, where the extension is secured because this is going to loosen the section and the hair extension might slip off. Even if your hair is thin, the right sectioning technique is going to ensure that your hair extensions stay hidden.

Conclusion

There you have it! Clip-in hair extensions are super easy to put on and remove and they take almost half the time to get placed in your hair than other types of hair extensions. It’s time to get those luscious and thick locks from a reputed hair extensions salon Potomac.

How To Plan A High School Reunion

How To Plan A High School Reunion

High school is one of the most interesting times of a person’s life. If you want to plan a reunion for your high school friends, then getting in touch with party tent rentals and venue managers is suggested. Here is everything you need to know about planning a perfect one.

Plan Ahead

This is different from a regular party or get-together. You need to plan way ahead in advance, so that everything falls into place, once you are near the date of the reunion. The best way to plan and get things done is to start early, like a year in advance.

After high school, a lot of people can disperse and move away, either for college, jobs, and other responsibilities. It’s important that you try your best to scout out as many people for the reunion as possible. That’s why planning early is key and you will be on top of things.

Ways To Reach Out

If most people from your high school have moved to different areas, then it might be hard for you to bring them together for a reunion. So, the best way to do that is to get the best use out of technology and social media. You might have these people added on Facebook or other social media platforms.

So, you can make a group for the reunion and invite them. You can also reach out to the alumni board and ask them about the whereabouts of the students. They will help you out a lot too.

Meet Before The Reunion

Once you have enough people gathered from your high school, now is the time to have a small meeting. This is not a reunion, of sorts, but it is a baseline meeting for the actual reunion and the setting of a date, on which everyone is available.

You can meet at a restaurant, at someone’s house, or anywhere, as long as you guys can get some work done and settle on a party date on which everyone is available for the reunion. You are slowly but surely getting nearer to the reunion, but there’s still more planning to go.

The Usual Planning

You have no time to lose. After a date is set, you will want to act quickly. Get all of the arrangements done. You need to get the venue, food, décor, and other necessary things finalized and make sure that you stress on the completion of these things on time because you might not have the luxury of time since the date is slowly approaching the end.

Try to get things done at a faster pace, but keep quality and at the forefront as well. You don’t want the reunion to look sloppy.

Guest List

Now that you have a date, it’s time to formally invite everyone to your reunion. This can be done by the good old invitations. You can go old-school and write out the invitations or you can go digital and send invitations through email, text, or social media.

Just make sure that you have the information. You can also narrow down the list or you can add more people if you keep finding them. It’s best that you keep a budget and then decide on the guest list.

Set A Budget

Every high school reunion party needs a budget because this gives you a baseline on how much money to spend and what you’re expecting. For the budget, you can divide the entire amount of money between the people who are attending. Everyone can contribute some money to the entire reunion so that it isn’t too expensive for one person to handle. The budget will also determine how much you can spend on food, décor, and the venue.

Try not to go overboard with the budget. It should be reasonable and plenty for a good and decent high school reunion. You can go for a higher budget, but not everyone will be able to contribute this much money to an event.

Conclusion

There you have it! High school reunions are a great way to catch up with old friends and meet new people. Start early and interview multiple party rentals Rockland NY to select one. With these planning tips, you will throw a successful reunion party.

All About Knuckle Boom Cranes You Should Know

All About Knuckle Boom Cranes You Should Know

When it comes to deciding the perfect crane for your needs, considering and comparing different types could be a complicated process. However, if you want to rent knuckle boom cranes from crane services you should know some things about these types of cranes. We are going to discuss knuckle boom cranes in detail and their uses. Let’s begin!

What Is The Purpose Of Knuckle Boom Cranes?

It is often that people tend to confuse knuckle boom cranes with traditional boom cranes. Even though they have similar things, but you will encounter difference as well. To begin with, a knuckle boom crane mimics the human finger in the sense that it consists of the main and outer jab that articulate at the knuckle. Also referred to as the picker, loader, or articulating crane, this feature allows the operator to perform a more precise and wide range of movement.

The best thing about knuckle boom cranes is that these cranes are neither too small nor too big, making them compact enough to perform at almost any construction or transportation site. Plus, they are not only powerful but also packed with plenty of features that make them versatile when it comes to performing different types of tasks.

Therefore, knuckle boom cranes are a popular choice when dealing with heavy-duty operations and are mostly found being used for tree care, electric utility, industrial, and construction.

What Are The Different Types Of Knuckle Boom Cranes?

There are different types of knuckle boom cranes with the straight arm or mast being the most popular. This type of crane is used in a variety of industries and is most commonly known for being versatile. Plus, this type is mostly found at construction sites since the straight arm allows for maximum and visible load capacity. Therefore, tasks that require precision can make use of straight-arm cranes.

Another popular type of knuckle boom crane is the telescoping boom crane. The telescopic boom crane is identified by its jib that can be raised over the load to minimize the strain on the system. This makes the knuckle boom cranes the perfect choice for working in limited spaces.

What Factors To Consider When Renting A Knuckle Boom Crane?

When it comes to renting a crane, regardless of the type, there are some essential factors you need to consider. Because there is a huge variety of cranes out there made for different tasks. While some cranes are specifically made for the construction industry, others are made for transportation and some can perform all types of tasks. However, you need to define your needs and preferences.

This will help you narrow down options since different types of cranes come with varying rents. The last thing you would want is renting a crane that hardly comes with any features you want to perform the task and ends up paying a lot more than needed.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Knuckle Boom Crane?

Another reason why knuckle boom cranes are fairly popular is due to the benefits they have to offer. To begin with, knuckle boom cranes can be easily upgraded and are flexible. Moreover, they have a greater payload capacity. This means that these cranes can use several different types of attachments such as log grabs, buckets, and pallet forks, allowing the operator to handle both lightweight and heavyweight loads with ease.

From the outside, knuckle boom cranes surely look small and not too powerful but you shouldn’t underestimate their capability. Perhaps the biggest advantage of using knuckle cranes is that they can easily be transported and can perform in tight spaces. Marine, forestry, mining, construction, and petroleum industries make full use of these cranes due to limited, narrow, and constricted spaces. These cranes not only perform effortlessly but also help get the task done most efficiently and effectively due to the precise movements.

Final Word

Knuckle boom cranes offer several benefits and are popular for all the right reasons. That said, if you plan on renting one, make sure you have your needs and preferences in order before connecting with crane rentals VA. This will help you make the most of your choice without spending days’ worth of time and money.

How To Use Rugs In An Open Floor Plan

How To Use Rugs In An Open Floor Plan

Though the open floor plan offers inviting and informal airiness, they’re hard to decorate. Especially when it comes to area rugs such as antique rugs, it’s hard to mix and match them without creating visual chaos.

But relax! Here’s our complete guide on how to use rugs in an open floor plan.

Synchronize Different Rugs

First things first, even though you’re using rugs to create a multiple-purpose area, you still need to keep this thing in mind that it’s still a single room where you’re putting different things together. So, everything must be visually appealing, and the rugs should synchronize with each other.

Their color and pattern should connect. It must look like a single room.

Create A Pattern Of Colors

While designing an open floor plan with rugs, make sure you’re creating a pattern of colors. It shouldn’t be in a single-color code. However, at the same time, you’re not supposed to create a pattern so that the room looks like each corner has been showered with a different color. In short, it shouldn’t look like a rainbow either.

You’re only supposed to coordinate colors with the furniture. Well, it’s an art not everyone can master. You’ll learn this with time and practice. However, with our guide, you can give it a try and see if you do it right.

Play With Small Rugs And Runners

Yes, we know you have a broader canvas in mind while designing an open floor plan. And you might be thinking about the oversized rugs. However, in the meantime, you’re not supposed to ignore small rugs and runners, especially when designing a huge floor.

These runners and rugs will be pretty helpful while embellishing the room. For instance, you can use the runners to create small pathways that’ll definitely look stunning in a big room. Or you can place the small rug under the coffee table.

Make Sure Rugs Have Enough Space Between Them

Now when we’ve talked about embellishing the room with smaller rugs and runners, that doesn’t really mean filling up the space with rugs only. There’s much more you’re supposed to fit in. The furniture, the room decor items, kitchenware, and some small plants, maybe. So, you can’t just fill up the space with rugs only.

You will have to choose per number of rugs. This way, you’ll be able to make sure enough space is left between each rug. Though, there’s no rule of thumb for this. Still, at least a foot should be left between each rug. Or otherwise, the space will look too cramped up.

Create A Perfect Rug Pair

Just as mentioned in the first point, you’re supposed to synchronize all the rugs perfectly. Let’s say there are two big rugs in a space. How will you perfectly pair them? Well, there are different ways for it. Let’s talk about the simplest ones that you can easily follow.

Pair A Solid With A Pattern

This one is the most versatile. And it also works every time. So, if you’re a beginner in interior design, let’s go with this method. In this, a huge rug is paired with a comparatively average-sized rug. And one rug (usually the bigger one) will be solid, while the other will be a pattern.

Identical Rugs

This one is the easiest pair. Here you’ll go classic and choose two identical rugs of the same style and color. This will be a perfect pair without you putting in too much effort.

Choose Different Shapes

Here, besides the classic decor, you’ll choose to go with modern patterns. Use rugs with different shapes for different corners—for instance, square shaped rugs for the living corners and round shaped ones for the dining.

Conclusion

The number of ideas we’ve given above is not enough. There’s a plethora of much more. However, all you need to know is everything will work unless or until there’s perfect coordination. So, keep the theme of your house in mind when shopping for tribal rugs VA or rugs of any type and then mix and match the colors and themes. These rugs match with most types of decor and furniture so it won’t be difficult to come up with the perfect style.

Is It Necessary To Seal Quartz Countertops

Is It Necessary To Seal Quartz Countertops

Natural stones make great and versatile materials for kitchen countertops, but they come with the disadvantage of sealing them in order to make them waterproof and stain-resistant. But does the same statement apply to quartz kitchen countertops? The short answer is no, they don’t need sealing. To find out details, keep on reading.

Quartz Countertops And Sealing

Quartz is a material, which can either be naturally sourced or it can be made in factories. Nonetheless, it is treated and manufactured after it is mined, in order to give it extra strength and durability. This makes quartz an amazing and durable material, which doesn’t need to be sealed.

It is a strong and dense countertop material that doesn’t allow water to seep in through its surface and ruin it. It is extremely low on maintenance and you don’t even need to apply varnishes or polishes to it, to make it shiny or waterproof.

They Are Sealed During Production

As mentioned above, quartz goes through extensive treatment before it can be retailed for kitchen countertops. This treatment also includes the application of a strong substance on the surface of the slab, to make it waterproof, so it comes sealed when you buy it from any retailer.

You don’t need to seal it more because the factory seal lasts for a long time, given that you take care of the slab and protect it from heat. It is a strong material that can sustain just about any damage and high temperatures. So, it’s a great investment.

They Are Non-Porous

Quartz is naturally quite dense. The material is very much non-porous and it doesn’t allow any sort of liquid or moisture to get absorbed in the surface, rather it lets the liquid stay on the surface in the form of a bead or droplet.

You need to seal countertops or stones which have open pores because that is an open gateway for water and moisture to seep into the rock and ruin it from the inside. With quartz, however, you don’t need to worry about these things, as it naturally doesn’t allow the liquid to penetrate, making it waterproof.

Why Do Countertops Need To Be Sealed?

Here are some reasons why natural stone countertops like granite and marble countertops need to be sealed. These reasons are also valid if you want to seal quartz countertop for extra protection.

Waterproofing

Stones, which are sourced through mining, are porous in nature and they need to be sealed in order to make them waterproof and last long. Granite and marble are at the top of the list of being super porous and are prone to extreme water damage.

It’s a shame as these materials are already very expensive and they need to be maintained extensively as well, which is why quartz is a wonderful choice of material for kitchen countertops because it makes for a durable and waterproof countertop.

Prevents Contamination

If the stone or material you’re using for kitchen countertops is porous and not sealed, then it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. You use your countertops for everything, from cutting, to cooking and much more and the last thing you want is for your countertops to be contaminated with germs. They can be easily transferred to different foods and whatever comes in contact with the countertop.

This is why it should be a priority to seal your countertops before you even start to use them because you don’t want germs and bacteria to contaminate your food.

Prevents Stains

Last but not least, sealing prevents stains from getting permanent. If you have light-colored countertops and they are porous, then they can easily absorb the moisture and it will show on the light-colored surface. These stains are almost impossible to remove and you will need to get a professional involved to remove these stains.

So, it’s better to be safe than sorry and use a sealant to make sure that stains are never an issue. Commonly, stains are produced from cutting citrusy fruits and juicy and watery vegetables, which tend to leave color on the surface.

Conclusion

There you have it! Quartz is a durable and strong material, which requires little to no maintenance, so you can rest assured that it will last for years to come. Go to a quartz countertops dealer Rockville for selecting quartz colors and slabs.

6 Useful Commercial Building Remodeling Tips

6 Useful Commercial Building Remodeling Tips

Remodeling a commercial building could be due to several reasons. It could be that the building needs to be updated or is simply old that it needs to be rebuilt. Whatever the case may be, remodeling a building should not be only for aesthetic purposes whether its commercial building or retail remodel. Instead, it should make everyone feel safe inside. That said, here are some commercial building remodeling tips that will offer you the best of both worlds.

Budget Wisely

When planning to remodel a commercial building, the first thing you need to do is consult your contractor. You think you might have all the details but a contractor will go deep into the process and help you come up with a realistic budget. At the same time, it is your duty to convey your needs and preferences to the contractor so that he can come up with a detailed plan and a budget to help you decide what to prioritize first.

The reason is that most people who renovate commercial buildings mostly end up spending way more than what they had planned. This is simply because they did not plan it well and spent a lot more on unnecessary items instead of prioritizing the most important ones.

Assess The Building And Surrounding Neighborhood

The next thing you need to do is assess the building and the surrounding neighborhood. Simply take a walk around the building and look around for issues that might need to be fixed first. Walking around the building helps you observe the surroundings closely as you will have neighbors that need to be considered as well.

This is also a good time when you become familiar with the local building codes. Renovating commercial properties follows strict regulations and your contractor should be aware of them. Make sure that you do not run into any code violations that can create an issue later on.

Create A Budget

Once you are done assessing the building and putting your needs and preferences in place, you will need to create a budget. Then again, creating a budget helps you focus and prioritize the most important things first. Even if you can spend loads of money on the renovation, it won’t be of any use if the basics haven’t been worked on.

Therefore, the budget should include employee wages, contractor fees, and several other costs. At the same time, make sure that you come up with an as detailed budget as possible so that you avoid going over.

Hire A Contractor

Hiring the right contractor is as important as creating a detailed budget. While looking for the right person, you will come across many offering their services. You will also come across remodeling contractors and general contractors. If you have the option, go for a remodeling contractor.

Choosing a remodeling contractor is better for remodeling purposes as they have a much better experience dealing with the nitty gritty of remodeling projects. However, you should interview the contractors and make sure they have insurance and all the necessary certifications.

Inform The Current Tenants

If you have tenants living in the building, you should inform them as dealing with renovation could be hard for them. Loud equipment and laborers communicating with each other can be disturbing for the tenants. Therefore, to help make it easier for them, you should make the tenants aware ahead of time so that they can prepare.

If possible, create 3D renderings of the final product and reassure the tenants that the process is going to be worth the wait and disturbance.

Undergo And Pass Inspections

While the building is being renovated, it will need to undergo and pass multiple inspections to make sure everything is going according to the plan. The inspectors will check and make sure the building is following the safety requirements and the codes.

Moreover, the electricity, foundation, and plumbing system will need to be individually inspected during the inspection process. This helps identify and rectify any issues beforehand. Otherwise, you will simply end up wasting both time and effort if issues arise in the future.

Final Word

In the end, renovating a commercial building is going to be easier if you were to follow the tips mentioned above. Hire a licensed commercial remodeling DC contractor and prioritize practicality over aesthetic appeal.