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Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid and Other Tips

Some people love cleaning while others loathe it. But the fact remains that everyone has to clean their homes now and then. A few prefer to hire people to clean and search for trustworthy cleaning services. However, those who do it themselves quickly learn what mistakes to avoid and which products to use for their home. Here is an all-you-need-to-know guide to getting a clean house and the top mistakes to avoid. Top 5 cleaning mistakes to avoid There are several mistakes that you can make even if you clean the house yourself on a regular basis. Some of these are possibly carelessness, while others might be due to disorganization. So whether you clean yourself or outsource your cleaning, there are some mistakes you should avoid. Using dirty tools Imagine rubbing a clean surface with a dirty cloth. That is often what happens when you go into cleaning unprepared. It is ideal to wash your cleaning tools – cleaning cloths, scrubs, mop heads, and brushes and disinfect them before use. Always change the filter and empty the vacuum when it becomes full. This ensures optimal performance and also sees to it your cleaning is not ineffective. Using too many cleaning products Using excess cleaning products can lead to the furniture or spot being cleaned become greasy.
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Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid and Other Tips
10 common mistakes to avoid when waterproofing basements

10 common mistakes to avoid when waterproofing basements

Being a homeowner has its challenges. From everyday upkeep to taking on large-scale renovations, there are plenty of things to pay attention to. While not many people think about their basement too much, keeping it in good shape is essential for the strong foundation of one’s home. One of the most frequently occurring issues here is water damage, which can be avoided by proper waterproofing. Thus, here are some basement waterproofing mistakes to avoid. Relying only on paint for waterproofing One of the most common mistakes people make when waterproofing their basement is relying only on waterproof paint. While this does add a layer of security to the walls, it is not enough. Often, it can cause bubbling or cracking underneath, which can impact the appearance of the wall and allow water seepage. To protect the basement from water damage, hire a professional to check for water damage. First, address the root cause of the damage, followed by a sealant. Then, use waterproof paint as a finishing touch on the walls. Trying to drain a flooded basement too fast When a basement floods, the instinctual response is to remove the water as quickly as possible. However, this can be counterproductive in the case of damage caused by storms or a large water body. This type of water damage is generally linked to high pressure. So as soon as one clears out the basement, one risks more water flooding in with pressure, worsening the damage. The solution is to take ample time to clear out the basement. Focus on clearing the nearby areas to reduce the risk of pressure buildup inside the house. Failing to give the basement enough drying time Once the basement has been cleared of water, many people quickly jump into repairs. This can be a huge mistake.
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6 ways to avoid errors and overcharges on gas bills

6 ways to avoid errors and overcharges on gas bills

There are many instances where homeowners are heavily charged for energy consumption, leading to high gas bills. As the climate changes, energy usage is bound to change. That being said, it is possible to manage these bills by identifying and eliminating errors and overcharges. Generally, gas bills tend to be higher during the winter season. Here are some ways to ensure that you are not being overcharged on your gas bills. Pay attention to the meter One of the easiest ways to avoid any overcharging on your energy bills is to pay attention to your energy meter at home. When suppliers estimate the energy usage, it gives them an opportunity to overcharge you to balance out any future payments. You can simply read the meter every couple of months and submit the reading to your supplier every three months. Just remember to note down all the numbers on your meter, except for those highlighted in red or after the decimal point, along with the date. Many suppliers also have apps or websites where you can submit your meter reading. So be sure to find out the steps for your particular supplier. Decline exit fee Just like a penalty is levied for late payment, a lot of times, there is an exit fee often attached to the agreement whenever you select a supplier. The purpose of this fee is to discourage customers from switching to other suppliers. It is usually added to the contract to ensure a certain number of customers for their billing cycle. Also note that some energy suppliers charge an exit fee when a customer switches to another supplier before the end of their fixed-rate tariff contract. However, this is not always limited to fixed-rate tariffs only, as variable tariffs may also include an exit fee. It is also possible that because of this exit fee, the suppliers work out a competitive pricing plan that works well for them and their consumers.
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9 reasons for home warranty claim denial

9 reasons for home warranty claim denial

Home warranty plans are among the most helpful service contracts for homebuyers. They offer financial protection against damages to major appliances and systems in the house. Without a warranty plan, repairing or replacing the damaged systems can be an expensive affair. However, home warranty plans may not cover all kinds of damages, leading to the denial of warranty claims. Here are some situations in which home warranty claims can be denied: 1. No coverage for specific appliances Home warranty plans usually cover the breakdown of certain systems or appliances. Some plans even offer comprehensive coverage for damages to both systems and appliances in the house. However, it is important to note that these warranty plans may not cover every appliance in their house. So, if one submits a warranty claim against an appliance that is not covered by their plan, their claim will be denied. Also, home warranty plans do not offer coverage for appliances that are under the manufacturer’s warranty. So, before filing a claim, one must check if that particular appliance is covered under the home warranty. If one is unsure about the extent of coverage, one can call their home warranty provider and ask them if an appliance is covered. 2. DIY fixes before filing a claim If an appliance, that is covered by the home warranty plan, breaks down, one must avoid trying to fix it themselves. While DIY-ing may seem like a quicker and easier solution, it might not be the best idea. This is because one may end up worsening the problem. Then, the overall damage to the appliance will not be considered part of normal wear and tear. So, when one reaches out to the home warranty provider, who will send a technician to check the problem, their claim is likely to be denied.
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12 landscape construction ideas for homeowners

12 landscape construction ideas for homeowners

The yard is an extension of the home and often the first thing visitors see. Homeowners must pay special attention to this area of their property to create a truly lasting impression. One way to achieve this is by adding color, design, texture, layers, and other elements. When done thoughtfully, the yard can become an inspirational space that adds value to one’s home. Check out the list of 12 inspiring landscape construction ideas for the next project. Add quaint fencing To add interest to a plain lawn, add quaint fencing. Not only will it work wonders to set the home apart from the neighbors, but it will also provide a little character without taking away from the overall polished finish of the home. Consider structured greenery Create an artistic yard by interplaying brickwork and green space, such as boxwood spheres and hedges. This idea works especially well for traditional homes that are looking to add just a touch of modernity without losing their charm. Install a stone partition Alternatively, seek inspiration from the past and install a stone partition in the yard. Make it multi-functional by using it as a separator and/or setting up a pergola on it to create a private, relaxing, and shaded sitting area surrounded by greenery. Put up window boxes In small homes and compartments, finding the space to put up a garden can be difficult. Circumvent this issue by installing window boxes to create a lovely little garden. To add more aesthetic value to this set-up, install a few hanging lights or lanterns and give the home a comfortable, inviting finish. Add a faux plant wall For homes with small backyards, a faux plant wall may be a great element to add. Not only does this add height to the space to increase interest, but it also adds a pop of color.
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5 costly mistakes first-time homebuyers must avoid

5 costly mistakes first-time homebuyers must avoid

Purchasing a home is an expensive process. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the financial aspects of the purchase are secured first. However, there are other important factors to consider when buying a home, like maintenance, insurance, and a lot more. To avoid costly mistakes, first-time home buyers should keep certain things in mind. Avoiding these mistakes can help one make an informed decision and ensure the home-buying experience is a positive one. Overshooting the budget This is one of the most common concerns when it comes to first-time homebuyers. It is crucial to approach discussions of money without emotion and set a firm budget for the house. It is important that you stick to the original budget because there are several uncertainties that could arise, such as changes in employment, salary cuts, or sudden dips in the market. One of the easiest ways to ensure that you do not exceed your original budget is to get pre-approved for a home loan, which is a particular amount. Also, when you are pre-approved, realtors and homebuilders develop a sense of trust instantly. Ignoring additional costs A first-time home buyer might assume that the selling price of the home is the only cost involved in the purchase. However, in reality, there are other additional maintenance costs that add up to the overall price of the property. To calculate the total cost, it’s important to consider the following factors: Closing costs Generally, the final stage of the negotiation process is the closing cost. On average, this cost can reach up to $3,700. It is recommended that one must budget 2-5% of the purchase price to account for closing costs. This will help keep space while calculating closing costs. Property taxes Property taxes vary widely from one county to another, so it’s best to check with the local government office for the exact percentage.
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9 common home improvement mistakes to avoid

9 common home improvement mistakes to avoid

No matter how comfortable a home is at any given time, there can always be a scope for improvement and refinement. Home improvement gives existing homes a new look and feel, enhancing their appeal to their inhabitants. It also involves fixing some of its existing aesthetic problems and consulting experts to find the best interior decoration solutions. So, one must avoid common home improvement mistakes to ensure the designs are functional and cohesive. Buying furniture not corresponding to the home size A thumb rule for furnishing a home is to ensure that the size of one’s furniture pieces corresponds to the overall size of the home or room. For example, one may be tempted to buy king- or queen-sized beds, but having such large beds in a rather tiny room can leave it cramped. Similarly, built-in cupboards and petite ottoman sofas are best suited to smaller homes. Not measuring the outdoor area It is easy to overlook outdoor spaces when doing home improvement. But there’s a lot to consider when it comes to outdoor areas. This includes checking where the patio is located, whether it is far away from noisy objects like pipes and ACs, and whether it leaves enough vacant space for navigation. Such considerations help one better organize patio furniture, plants, etc., making the outdoor area more aesthetically pleasing. Not knowing about the work triangle principle The work triangle principle, also called the “golden principle,” essentially suggests that a kitchen’s gas stove, sink, and refrigerator should form a triangle. Each side of this triangle should be four to nine feet in length so that the kitchen doesn’t look congested and has sufficient space for people to walk around. Finally, no piece of furniture should be placed within this triangle. This principle helps ensure that one’s kitchen is attractive and spacious.
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6 mistakes to avoid before buying a new house

6 mistakes to avoid before buying a new house

Buying a home is one of the most expensive investments. After all, there is a lot at stake in the decision to purchase the right home.  This  is why most people find the process quite overwhelming.  So they  end up making a few mistakes, which  can  sometimes  turn out to  cost a lot of money.  Learning about the common mistakes people make before buying a new house can help  avoid  such situations. Mistakes to avoid Here are a few common mistakes that most people make when buying a house: 1. Forgetting to monitor credit reports Sometimes, home buyers might have credit issues they are unaware of. These issues might be related to a history of late payments, debt collection actions, or significant debt. In such cases, mortgage lenders are often reluctant to offer the best terms. It might also happen that they will reject the mortgage application. Such situations generally arise when the home buyer’s credit score exceeds 620. Be sure to check the credit report before starting the house hunt to avoid such problems. A home buyer can easily request a credit report from any credit reporting agency, such as Transunion, Equifax, or Experian. While checking the report, make sure to look for any errors. If any mistakes are spotted, don’t hesitate to file a dispute with the reporting agency or the creditor. 2. Not taking enough time to prepare Before applying for a mortgage, it is important to organize all the documents and financial information.  This  can help one get through the complex buying process without any hassles. After all, buying a house is quite a long process, so making preparations as early as possible can help keep things easy and stress-free. This  involves gathering all the financial documents needed during the application process. These generally include W-2 forms, tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.
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6 mistakes to avoid before buying a new house

6 mistakes to avoid before buying a new house

Buying a home is one of the most expensive investments. After all, there is a lot at stake in the decision to purchase the right home.  This  is why most people find the process quite overwhelming.  So they  end up making a few mistakes, which  can  sometimes  turn out to  cost a lot of money.  Learning about the common mistakes people make before buying a new house can help  avoid  such situations. Mistakes to avoid Here are a few common mistakes that most people make when buying a house: 1. Forgetting to monitor credit reports Sometimes, home buyers might have credit issues they are unaware of. These issues might be related to a history of late payments, debt collection actions, or significant debt. In such cases, mortgage lenders are often reluctant to offer the best terms. It might also happen that they will reject the mortgage application. Such situations generally arise when the home buyer’s credit score exceeds 620. Be sure to check the credit report before starting the house hunt to avoid such problems. A home buyer can easily request a credit report from any credit reporting agency, such as Transunion, Equifax, or Experian. While checking the report, make sure to look for any errors. If any mistakes are spotted, don’t hesitate to file a dispute with the reporting agency or the creditor. 2. Not taking enough time to prepare Before applying for a mortgage, it is important to organize all the documents and financial information.  This  can help one get through the complex buying process without any hassles. After all, buying a house is quite a long process, so making preparations as early as possible can help keep things easy and stress-free. This  involves gathering all the financial documents needed during the application process. These generally include W-2 forms, tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.
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11 management options to keep anxiety at bay

11 management options to keep anxiety at bay

People with anxiety disorders regularly and excessively experience fear and panic in everyday situations. If unchecked, anxiety can impair normal functioning and degrade the quality of life. One must consult a health expert if anxiety is affecting their social life. But first, ensure that any physical health issues are ruled out before consulting them. Most individuals with anxiety disorders need medication or therapy, but coping strategies and lifestyle decisions can also be helpful. Stop and take a breath When you experience an anxiety episode, take a moment to think about what is making you feel uneasy. Usual anxiety symptoms include concerns about a recent or distant event. For example, you can worry that something wrong will happen to you in the future. Or, you can still be upset about something that has already happened in the past. But, whatever your concerns, most anxiety issues stem from not focusing on the present. The next time you feel nervous and get distracted from the present moment, sit down and take some deep breaths to reclaim your composure. You can regain balance and return to the present moment by pausing and taking a few deep breaths. If you have the time, consider advancing this practice by experimenting with breathing techniques. Noting down your triggers One must identify what’s upsetting them to address the underlying cause of their anxiety. One can achieve it by setting aside time to assess your emotions and thoughts. Journaling is a fantastic method to connect with your anxiety triggers. Keep a diary or notepad beside your bed if your anxiety-related thoughts keep you awake at night. You can note down all the issues troubling you. Another technique to identify and understand your nervous feelings is speaking with a friend. Consider the things you can change Worrying about things or incidents that are yet to occur or might never occur can often lead to anxiety.
Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Breast cancer – Causes, types, and management

Cancer that originates in the breast tissue is called breast cancer. It is the second most common cancer among women in the country. The condition is seen in women more than men. Fortunately, advancements in screening and breast cancer treatment have enabled dramatic improvements in survival rates over the years. The symptoms include changes in the texture and shape of the nipples, discharge from the nipples, and a lump in the breast.  Read on to learn the causes, types, and management options of breast cancer.  Causes of breast cancer Breast cancer occurs when abnormal breast cells divide and multiply more rapidly than healthy cells. These abnormal cells accumulate to form a lump or mass. Doctors have not been able to know the exact cause of breast cancer. However, multiple factors can trigger the chances of developing the disease, and they include: Family history and genetics The risk increases if you have parents or close relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Having gene mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are passed down from parents to children, also increases the risk. Age The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age.  Gender The risk of developing breast cancer is higher in women than in men.   Personal history of breast conditions The risk increases when an earlier biopsy has indicated atypical hyperplasia of the breast or lobular carcinoma in situ or if cancer has been detected in one breast. Radiation exposure The risk of developing the disease increases if you have been exposed to radiation in your head, neck, or chest areas during past treatments. Hormone replacement therapy Women who use hormone replacement therapy may be more prone to breast cancer. Types of breast cancer Breast cancer  can be categorized into two broad types— invasive and non-invasive.  Invasive breast cancer Cancer that has spread from the place of origin to other parts of the body is termed invasive breast cancer.