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Questions To Ask Wooden Furniture Parts Provider

February 11, 2022February 11, 2022Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY ProjectsDIY projectsLeave a comment

Wood furniture can never go out of style, no matter what tries to replace it. The furniture industry in the U.S. stood second place in size, buying up 21% of the world’s furniture. When the COVID-19 lockdowns were imposed, people scurried for makeshift offices and learning corners in their homes. It also gave people time to work on DIY furniture projects.

Wooden furniture parts providers played a crucial role in supplying the difficult-to-carve wooden furniture legs complementing any table. And, square turned table legs were one of the popular items being ordered because they serve the purpose and look appealing.

If you are working on a furniture project, these are the questions you should ask the parts provider.

What is best for making furniture – hardwood or softwood?

Both kinds of wood are suitable for making furniture, but softwood beats hardwood due to its low cost, tracheid content, delicate texture, non-porousness, and low density. It is easier to carve furniture out of softwood than hardwood, which is also cheaper. Therefore, if you find square-turned table legs that are claimed to be made out of softwood, you can purchase them as they absorb adhesive readily and provide a high-quality finish.

What should be the moisture content of the wood?

Wood gains or loses moisture as it interacts with the surroundings, making it hygroscopic. When the humidity increases, the moisture content will increase, causing the wood to expand and vice versa.

That being said, fresh wood has a lot of moisture, and if not dried thoroughly, it can result in cracking, warping, and buckling. Kiln drying is a technique used by furniture makers to bring the moisture levels to about 8%. Checking the moisture levels is critical to the long life of your furniture.

Where is your wood sourced from?

The source of the wood matters as there are a lot of suppliers resorting to unethical sourcing practices to make an extra buck. Therefore, check with the supplier about their sourcing practices. They ensure that the wood is sourced locally and meets the local environment protection norms.

Can you add notches to the table legs?

The legs may require notches to ensure a perfect fit. Notches can be challenging to carve out, and therefore, it is best to have your furniture parts provider do it for you before shipping out these table legs.

What is the return policy?

A return can be due to several reasons, such as you changed your mind, put your project on hold, or the product did not meet your expectations. Check the furniture parts provider’s return policy, the number of days, and the reason for return. Some companies offer outright return, no questions asked, while others will only replace the product with a different one.

Conclusion

Lockdowns have led to many makeshift furniture arrangements. Some created a home office, while others used coffee tables and stools. And then some made furniture to meet their needs. If you are the third kind, who wants to make their furniture, then ordering parts, such as square turned table legs, was never easier.

The Handyman’s Guide to Installing Plaster for Walls

November 10, 2021November 10, 2021Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY Projects, Home Improvement TipsDIY projects, home improvement, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Did you know that you can expect your plaster for walls to last an indefinite period of time before you require maintenance for your walls? Plastering a room is a job that usually gets handled by experts with all of the best plastering equipment. That doesn’t mean that you can’t turn it into a fun DIY project.

You’ll want to make sure that you have some of the plastering tools needed for the job and you’ll want to have some PVA glue and dry plaster on hand. There are also some important steps that you’ll want to take if you’re set on using plaster for walls as a DIY project in your home.

The good news is that you’ve come to the right place to learn more about the wall plastering process and how to start plastering a room. Continue reading this article to learn more.

1. Preparation

The first thing to do when you’re thinking about using plaster for walls is to make sure that you’re prepared. This means making sure that you have all of the plastering tools that you need in order to do the job as well as all of the supplies required to create dry plaster. You should also lay down a dust sheet to catch any debris or plaster that doesn’t end up on the walls.

Another thing to do before you start plastering a room is to make sure that the walls are clean of any dirt or dust. This is important so that the replacement plaster goes on smoothly.

2. Apply PVA Glue

The next step is where your PVA glue enters the picture. You’ll want to start applying the PVA glue to the walls that you’re planning to plaster since the PVA bond will help to ensure that the plaster remains on your wall in an even and smooth fashion. When using your PVA glue you need to make sure that it is mixed at a 1-to-4 ratio with water for the best results, and from there, you’ll use a roll-on brush to coat your walls with PVA glue.

3. Mix Your Plaster for Walls

As soon as you finish applying the PVA glue to your walls you’ll want to get started with mixing the plaster for your home’s walls. It is a wise move to wear a dust mask when you start this process.

You’ll want to mix the plaster with some cold water and whisk it for a decent period of time. You’ll know that it’s finished when it resembles custard. Just remember to mix the plaster into the water rather than mixing water into the plaster.

4. Apply the Plaster

Now that your plaster is all mixed up and ready to go you can start applying it to the walls in your home, and you’ll start applying the wet plaster to your walls using a hawk board as well as a trowel and a float. If you don’t get it perfect it isn’t the end of the world. You’ll need to reach out for plaster repair in beaumont.

You’ll start by placing some plaster on the hawk board. Do this by scooping it out of the bucket with your handy trowel. Next, you’ll break out your float and use it to push the plaster onto your walls. Start in the bottom left-hand corner and work your way up the wall.

5. Smooth It Out

Next, you’ll want to start smoothing out the plaster on your wall before it becomes dry plaster. A good approach to take is to wait around 20 minutes after you apply the plaster to the walls in your home. Once the twenty minutes is up you can go through and remove any large chunks while getting rid of unwanted bumps in the wall to get that perfect and smooth plaster look.

It is also a good approach to go smooth out the corners of the wall since those are the most troublesome areas.

6. Apply Another Layer

After you get done smoothing out the first layer you can start with applying the second layer. This second layer is the final coat that you’ll to your home’s wall. This layer should be thinner than the first layer. This means that you’ll need to dilute the plaster you’re using by adding a bit more water to the mixture.

A good rule of thumb is to try to add a layer of plaster that is only two millimeters thick. Then let that second layer dry.

7. Add Finishing Touches

The plaster you’ve added to your walls should be done drying after about thirty minutes. At that point, you’re good to move on to the next step in the process. You’ll want to start by polishing your walls where you’ve added the plaster. The best approach to do this is by spraying the walls with water.

Find the edges and spray them with a bit of water before running your trowel down it. This will create a smooth appearance for your plaster for walls. Another effective option if you don’t have a trowel is to use a wet paintbrush. A wet paintbrush is a great choice for handling the more difficult areas like the corners.

After your plaster for walls dries you should go in with some sandpaper and get rid of any unwanted bumps or extra plaster on your walls.

8. Start Painting or Wallpapering

It is up to you whether you want to paint your plaster for walls or put wallpaper up. Once you’ve concluded adding your finishing touches it is up to you how best to proceed. If you choose to paint make sure that you apply a primer later before adding the paint color of your choice.

Now You’re Ready to Apply Plaster for Walls in Your Home

Using plaster for walls is a great way to create beautiful walls that are durable for the interior of your home. This is a task that tends to get left for the professionals but there is no reason that you can’t learn to use plastering tools and PVA glue on your own. Make sure that you follow these helpful steps and you’ll have perfect, dry plaster in no time.

For more helpful articles on a bunch of topics, check out more of our blog.

DIY Vs. Professional Plumbing: Exclusive Home Improvement Guide

November 11, 2020November 11, 2020Bruzzese Home ImprovementsPlumbingDIY projects, home maintenance, plumbingLeave a comment

Any upcoming plans of plumbing, repiping, or replacing your outdated water heater?

Home maintenance is an essential factor ensuring the comfort and safety of your place. Plumbing is one of the initial steps in home maintenance and improvement. When you live in a house or apartment, rental or owned, repair and maintenance requirements never go out. All this requires plumbing, which is so simple that everyone can do it without any special instructions. So, you have to indulge in DIY stuff from time to time to manage things up for yourself. You can mend all the leaking taps and showerheads, drain clogging, and loose bolts. All you need is a little guidance. However, sometimes things mess up so much that you need a lot of professional interventions.

Sometimes small situations turn into the havoc that forbade you to try them ever by yourself. Try seeking professional support for that. Otherwise, you will end up making things a lot worse. For example, when you have to replace copper pipes, deal with short-circuiting, or remove entire fixtures, you can’t do it yourself. Or precisely, you will never want to. To help you evaluate your skills and teach you some new DIY techniques, we came up with this article. You will also learn when you have to ask for professional services. Continue reading to learn a lot more about DIY plumbing skills and how you can manage some straightforward and relatively minor fix without professional support.

SITUATIONS WHERE PROFESSIONAL REPAIR IS REQUIRED

Professional services become inevitable in worst-case scenarios. In these situations, you should never try any DIY repair technique. Otherwise, any error or any unattended plumbing problem can cost you thousands of dollars in an instant. Moreover, the repair of advanced and complex vanities installed gets slightly beyond a common man’s capabilities. In developed countries like America, people are extensively pursuing professional services. So, try to look for some professional licensed plumbers. Licensed plumbers avoid mistakes and have special training to get the job done right the first time to prevent further damage.

Following are the common plumbing repairs that need urgent professional support:

BATHROOM REMODELING:

Bathroom remodeling or generally any remodeling is an intricate business in which you have to deal with electric wiring, pipelines, etc. Try not to initiate the process all by yourself. Damaging any utility lines and pipes can cost you thousands if you are not careful enough. Also, consider any pipeline renovation under this plumbing repair necessity that requires professional assistance.

PIPE OR SEWER REPAIRS:

Unlike other situations, that’s an emergency. No matter how and why your underground pipelines are damaged, call for professional services in your area immediately. Either go for booking an online appointment for repipes in Irvine CA, before the matter of water discoloration or compromised water pressure comes forth. Lining repairs well handled in time are cured in place and reduce the cost required to complete new dig and replace methods. So, be very quick and vigilant in this case if you want to save up your thousands of dollars.

SPRINKLER RENOVATION:

Water pipelines prove a great mess if not appropriately dealt with in time. One mistake can not only ruin the whole system but can also hours and days to repair correctly. If there is some new installation of sprinkler or old one maintenance, hire a professional plumber to assist you. Ensure the professional plumber takes care of the fact that the new system is following the lawn premises.

EXTENSIVE FIXTURE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT:

Like we talked before about bathroom replacement or sprinkler revolution, professional support can prove gold in plumbing. The need to repair broken pipelines and for mega replacements of the entire water heating duct can be a call for help. You have to be very cautious in calling for professionals because only the expert knows which wall and area need fixation. Also, the cost can increase and will destroy your house’s major parts.

CABINETS/FLOORING/COUNTERTOP INSTALLS:

Install new cabinets, flooring, or countertops may seem fun and give the house a completely new look. However, the plumbing required to install all this is not that simple. Yeah, you will find some cabinets and countertops made user friendly with easy installation methods; however, most of them are not this way. Look into the installation method and check if you can easily install it. In the other case, ask for professional services instead of ruining the whole thing.

PLUMBING TASKS WHERE DIY IS APPLICABLE

Unlike the major tasks that need immediate attention, you can handle most everyday plumbing tasks independently. The DIY plumbing repair methods are simple, cost-effective, and straightforward and help you provide initial care in emergencies. However, before starting any DIY repair, do complete research, and know the things ultimately. In case you have any confusion, ask some professionals for support. While trying any DIY repair, remember that even minor hiccups can prove havocs in this case.

So, here are the things you can easily handle without much professional support on your own:

Unlike remodeling the whole bathroom, you can do them yourself if you need to do small plumbing repairing tasks. For example: replacing toilet flappers, broken shower, chains, and other everyday use hardware like the sink, bathtub, etc.
You can clear day to day drain clogs yourself in minutes. These drain clogs are not due to any technical fault but by gradual residual build-up and hair.
Replacing everyday washing machine hoses also falls under this. You can also remove dishwasher clogs and upgrade sink faucets too. The reason is, most of the time, the same. You can either clear the residue using simple methods or replace them by simply loosening and tightening simple bolts.
Adding mirrors, fixtures, and accessories can be the best home improvement idea. The installation and plumbing required in this js so simple that you can undertake the DIY plumbing technique to do it! If you have old fixtures such as toilets, faucets, dated appliances, you can turn them into some amazing things by just little retouching by simple DIY hacks.

CONCLUSION:

The professional vs. DIY plumbing repair is a long debate. It all revolves around the single factor that how easy to handle the task is for you and how well equipped with simple plumbing skills. You can also undertake significant plumbing tasks like bathroom renovation etc. at home easily only when you have confidence in what you can handle. If you happened to attend some workshops or have hands-on training, you could do it all.

As we are concluding; Handle any DIY project only when you are confident that you can handle the job. Contact the professionals and experts when you are not very sure about the severity of the situation.

Practical Ideas for Homecare maintenance amid a pandemic

June 1, 2020June 1, 2020Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY Projects, HealthDIY projects, health, home maintenanceLeave a comment

Wondering how to beat the boredom, improve your home, and still feel healthy and rejuvenated during a lockdown? Well, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and embrace DIY home maintenance projects. Sprucing up your home will make it an ideal place to play, work, and relax and impact our well-being. So let’s explore practical ideas for homecare maintenance amidst the pandemic.

Decluttering your home

Clutter can make your home look unpleasant and unappealing, and it also has more downsides. It can damage your mental and physical health. Mentally, it can cause stress, negative emotions, and physically, cause falls and slips.

During this pandemic, decluttering will impact your quality of life and well-being; as you take control of your residence and straighten things up, it will induce calm and cheer you up.

To start your cluttering process, divide the rooms and decide on where to start. Whether it’s the kid’s room, garage, home office, tackling one room at a time makes the job easier to do and keeps you motivated.

Then, sort the items in different categories to enable you to get rid of them quickly.

After sorting out, fine-tune them by packing them into separate containers, for bathroom items put in zip-top bags, for electrical cords, use a bin. This enables you to choose what to keep, give out or sell. Decluttering will free up your shelves, tabletops and wall space, which in return will make your spaces feel and roomier .

Redecorate your Rooms

Redecorate your rooms using repurposed items like elegant platters, frames, plants, and trays. Use frame posters or artworks to add more charm in the hallways or office. Paint using colors that speak to and inspire you daily. Use unique items to put things like keys, remotes, and other small stuff.

Having plants keeps your home connected to nature and refreshed. Recycle containers and repurpose items like glass bottles, cups, and broken bowls into indoor planters.

Fix sticking doors

After some time, even a well-installed door can become loose and start to stick, and the problem is often found within the hinges. Most screws do become loose after a time, causing the door and hinges to sag. Tighten the hinge screw using a screwdriver. Alternatively, replace the original screw with longer ones that drive more into the door frame.

Clean your gutters

Cleaning your gutters is not the best way to enjoy fresh air, but it’s a necessary activity that can be carried out during the lockdown. Clogged drains cause a build-up of sludge and rainwater, leaves that may seep into your walls, damage the roof, and provide a serviceable nest for bugs, rodents, and other pests.

Prop a ladder against your exterior and be careful not to fall or damage your house, put on gloves, and use a trowel to remove the unwanted debris and finish out by washing the gutter using a hosepipe.

Unclog your Sink, drains, and toilets

To perform minor unblocking, use vinegar and baking soda. Start by pouring boiling water down the drains. Next, make a solution of baking soda and vinegar by using a measurement of 1 cup of each. Cover the drains and wait for around 5 to 10 minutes. After, pour more boiling water. The bubbling reaction from the mixture will loosen the clog while the boiling water will flush it away down the pipes.

Transform your Garden

Tidy out your outdoor space by giving it a makeover that requires little maintenance. Lay leftover bricks around the flowers to create a path that mirrors your flower bed shape. This makes it easy to weed while giving your yard an appealing look.

Turn soil flower beds into wood chip beds and replace the perimeter grass with pebbles to give your garden an attractive look while reducing constant upkeep.

Carry out minor weeding activities like pruning the shrubs in your garden. It creates more room for growth. Give your lawn a makeover by cutting back the hedges, pulling out weed and rock painting.

Wash your Garden Patio

Jet washing your back and front yard space makes it look more presentable, and it provides a chance to enjoy the area and interact with nature, thus improving mental health. Jet cleaned patios do appear brighter and bigger.

Clean the fridge

Remove all items from your fridge compartments and shelves and clean them before restocking. Take out drawers or crispers, shelves, and other removable surfaces from the refrigerator and clean them thoroughly using soap and water.

Wipe the inside of the fridge using a mixture of baking powder, vinegar, and hot water. For stubborn stains, remove them using a small amount of white toothpaste. Clean the fridge doors and gasket using a solution of vinegar and water. Pat the gasket dry and apply lemon oil, body lotion, or mineral lotion to keep the gasket rubber supple.

Sanitise the door handles

Cleaning and sanitizing your door handles has become an essential part of prevention during the covid-19 crisis. Ensure that your door handles are cleaned thoroughly after every use and apply antimicrobial protective film to reduce the chances of bacteria growing and spreading.

Polish your wood furnishings

You can polish your wood furnishing like dressing tables, shelves, sideboards, tables to keep them looking good. Wipe down the dirt using a damp cloth from a mixture of water and soap or disinfect using Zoflora. Use an oil solution or varnish to polish the wood and enhance its natural color. Polishing helps to add longevity and shine to your wood furnishings.

Wash windows, walls and doors

Clean your doors, walls, and windows to remove unwanted stains, smudges, and dirt, and keep your home sparkling. For the walls, move everything away and dust the walls using a broom, vacuum cleaner, or dusting brush. Take warm water and soap and wash the wall from top to bottom.

In conclusion, homecare maintenance has an overall benefit to your wellness and health, but it also adds longevity to the exterior and interior fixtures, thus saving you money. Do it practically during this COVID-19 pandemic and lessen the spread of germs, boost your productivity while staying active, mentally, and physically.

The 6 Real Benefits of Creating Your Own Yard Gym

December 21, 2018December 14, 2018Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY ProjectsDIY projects, health, infographicLeave a comment

Many of us find sticking to a regular workout routine difficult. Unfortunately, the health risks of not exercising are too serious to ignore, as the chances of developing heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes all increase significantly through lack of physical activity. Whilst many of us are aware of the health risks of not working out, only 23% of Americans get the recommended amount of exercise.

One of the reasons for this is the time and money required to visit the gym. And for some people, the long queues for equipment and self consciousness also make visiting the gym unpleasant. For anyone who has struggled to commit to a regular exercise routine and hates going to the gym, we recommend creating a yard gym at home. Many of us have a section of our yards that we don’t have any use for – whether it’s a patch of grass or a garage. This space is perfect for creating a yard gym!

Studies have shown that a home gym is 27% of people’s most desirable feature in their home. People are often put off by the cost of installing a home gym however the cost isn’t as huge as you might think. One of the best things about a home gym is that it’s personalized to your needs, which means you only need to invest in the equipment that you know you will use. It’s also a long term investment and much better value than a gym membership.

If you’re aspiring for a better and healthier you in 2019, a yard gym could be a great way to achieve this. In case we haven’t already convinced you, Prestige Lawns have created an infographic to show you 6 amazing benefits of having a yard gym on your property. Read on to find out more!

How to Transform Your Basement into a DIY Workshop

November 23, 2018February 5, 2019Bruzzese Home ImprovementsBasement renovationbasement renovation, DIY projectsLeave a comment

A solidly built basement sounds like a perfect choice for a DIY enthusiast’s workshop. The space is already there, the temperature is usually mild, just a few degrees lower than in the rooms above, utilities’ junctions and outlets are readily available, and the whole area is probably accessible from both indoors and outdoors. Still, in order to start moving your tools and machines down, there are several considerations to take into account. Once you clear out these, your basement can become an enjoyable space for your projects.

Prepare the basement

Before your workshop can take its shape, it’s essential that the whole area is dry, accessible and that it meets local building codes. When it comes to basements, waterproofing can be a challenging project, especially if you live in an area with a high water table or a region prone to flooding. Even if neither is the case, basement air is often moist from the surrounding earth and lower temperature. Further on, some building codes also require a fire egress or emergency exit if a basement is to be used as a workshop. It might be a large accessible window or a door with an accessible hallway and stairs.

Provide electricity and lighting

Not many basements are projected as spaces with plenty of light and sufficient outlets, which is something to be considered. All the electrical outlets that your electrician installs need to be grounded and wired on 20-amp circuits, with some building codes requiring Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) for every outlet installed in a basement. Not to mention that large, power-hungry machine tools such as table saws and lathes need their own separate circuits. While overhead fluorescent or LED lights provide general lighting, consider additional clip-on work lamps for task lighting.

Bring in the machines

Although your workshop will constantly grow as your skills as an amateur handyman develop, there are some essentials that no workroom can go without. As a great complement to an ordinary circular saw, a cordless variation is handier and easier to use in tight spaces or awkward situations, just like a cordless drill. However, a drill press is indispensable for its precise and even action. Fitted with a proper measuring stop, your circular table saw can turn into a high-productivity workstation ideal for extensive house projects which require a large number of identical or precisely cut pieces.

Set up the workbench

Although hardware stores and home centres sell a range of workbenches, you can probably build one of your own, of equal or even better quality, and for less than what you’d pay for a ready-made one. There are roughly three types of workbenches: the traditional cabinetmaker’s bench, the utility workbench and the metalworking bench. Traditional benches have thick hardwood tops and sturdy wooden legs. They have a freestanding configuration, so you can place them wherever it suits you, and work around all four sides. The extra thick worktop made of hard maple or beech laminated blank absorbs the vibrations, while the added weight keeps the bench more stable.

Air quality and ventilation

Sawdust and fumes from paints, stains and varnishes can deteriorate the air quality in your basement workshop. Not only is contaminated air unpleasant to breathe but also highly fatiguing and unhealthy. Portable fans are a great solution for moving the air towards the door and windows while you’re sanding, sawing or applying a coat of varnish. By placing a fan in a window or doorway opposite another open window, you will create a cross breeze that removes the dust and fumes.

It’s not a rare case that a home’s basement serves as a makeshift storage of items that are better given away or stored properly elsewhere. In a few essential steps, your basement can take a turn toward becoming an ultimate DIY workshop and a breeding ground for your future projects.

The Right Tools for the Job: A Modern Handyman’s Digital Tool Belt

November 1, 2018October 21, 2020Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY Projects, home improvementDIY projects, home improvementLeave a comment

Many people think that a handyman uses a hammer and screwdriver, and that is about it. You know that’s not true. There are so many more tools that you need to get the average job done. This is even an area where technology is becoming more and more handy as the years go by. As you consider all that it takes to get a repair job done correctly and efficiently, technological tools go a long way towards making that happen. If you are a handyman, here are a few tools that you might want to consider adding to your digital tool belt.

Laser Stud Finders
Every handyman knows the importance of finding strong support beams within the foundation before beginning a big job. This used to involve quite a bit of trial and error before locating just the right spot. If you do not already have a laser stud finder in your tool belt, it is time to put one there. This simple tool will allow you to quickly find the studs that you need to get the job done right the first time.

Electronic Levelers
It is important to make sure everything in a building is level. Your naked eye will only help you in this area to a certain extent. There should not be any guesswork involved here, as the results will be noticeable only after the job is complete. To avoid an embarrassing situation, make sure you are using an electronic leveler. Not only will this save time, it is 100 percent accurate.

Billing Software
The days of writing out receipts and recording income on paper should be over. You want to make sure your time and materials are accounted for, and that you are adequately compensated. To do this, you want to be using roofing contractor software, as this will help you to automate the entire process. You’ll be able to focus on getting more jobs while someone else worries about insurance and getting you paid.

Virtual Assistant
Many handymen are one person operations. You need a way to interact with clients when you are on the job, as you can’t always be in your office to answer the phone or email. There is where a virtual assistant can come in quite handy for you. They are surprisingly inexpensive given the services that they provide.

If you will use these four tools, you should find that your productivity and revenue increases as a result. It is important to remember the skills that have brought you to this point in your profession, but also to use technology as a way to make your life even easier. If you do this, you will find that you have much more time on your hands to enjoy the simple things in life.

Add a More Lavish Appeal to Your Backyard with These 4 Must-Have Features

May 30, 2018May 18, 2018Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY Projects, lawn and gardenbackyard, DIY projects, Outdoor LivingLeave a comment

Turning a bland backyard into an outdoor oasis doesn’t need to be an expensive or time-consuming process. For many homeowners, a few simple upgrades and additions will make all the difference. Here is a look at four must-have features that are going to transform your yard.

Hang Patio Misters

If you live in a particularly hot climate, then you should consider installing outdoor misters. You do have the option of permanently attaching misters to posts and awnings, but removable misters require much less work. In addition to being more affordable, removable misters are also much easier to clean. Outdoor misters should be thoroughly sanitized with vinegar or another cleaning agent once every few weeks to prevent germs from spreading.

Replace Your Old Patio Furniture

Most traditional patio furniture isn’t built with comfort in mind. Replacing old plastic and metal chairs with swings and hammocks is a great way to take your yard to the next level. Very few things are as relaxing as swinging in a hammock on a quiet summer night. If you don’t have any large trees on your property, then you might want to build a standalone pergola. These structures are relatively inexpensive and will last for years with the proper sealant.

Create an Outdoor Kitchen

Those who love to entertain guests need to have an outdoor cooking area. No one wants to leave their guests outside while cooking in a stuffy kitchen. A simple outdoor cooking space requires nothing more than a few comfortable seats, an ice chest, and a BBQ. For a more luxurious feel, you can install a fireplace to provide warmth in the winter and built-in refrigerator for drinks. With the proper setup, you will be able to keep your guests entertained while preparing a meal.

Install an Invisible Sound System

Your next BBQ or outdoor party won’t be complete without a good playlist. Multiple companies are now making outdoor sound systems that are designed to blend into natural landscape features. Some speakers can be hidden in lights while others look just like bushes or rocks. Many of these systems are controlled with a smartphone or tablet, but you can also hook them up to a traditional amplifier or stereo.

While most of these projects don’t require any special permits, you should always double-check all local statutes before working on your property. You must also contact your local utility companies before digging in your backyard so that you don’t hit any pipes or lines. Cracking a sewage line is an expensive and unpleasant problem that no homeowner wants to deal with.

10 Handy Woodworking Hacks – Infographic

April 9, 2018March 23, 2018Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY Projects, infographicDIY projects, infographicLeave a comment

There are few things DIY enthusiasts love more than finding out new and clever ways to make projects easier to create, or ‘hacks’ as they are usually called. Once an innovative shortcut has been discovered, and if it is trialled successfully, it’s very likely that you will swear by it going forward.

We came across this info graphic from Crowe Sawmills which details 10 hacks that could work brilliantly for woodworking projects. These involve simple substitutions, original ways of using an assortment of items or a clever combination of items to form a very handy tool. One such example is known as a notched square blade, where you take a regular trisquare and file a notch at the end of it for holding a pencil in place. You then slide the trisquare along the edge of a piece of wood to draw a perfectly straight line. It seems like such a simple concept but the vision to spot this and create a workable solution is remarkable.

Other woodworking hacks are considerably simpler, with regular household items performing a basic yet clever task. For example, a clothes pin can be used for holding a nail in place when hammering it into a wall, sparing you from gripping it carefully with your thumb and forefinger. Similarly, if you have a comb lying around the place, you can use it to store nails upright, making them much easier to grab than if they were lying on their side in a crowded toolbox.

Check out plenty of other clever woodworking hacks in the infographic below.

Squeaky Clean: 4 House-Care Tips for New Homeowners

February 28, 2018March 23, 2024Bruzzese Home ImprovementsDIY Projects, Tips for homebuyersDIY projects, home organizationLeave a comment

Buying a new home is perhaps one of the most exciting milestones in life. No matter if it’s your first or you have a few purchases under your belt, it is always satisfying to sign those papers and walk away with the keys to a chunk of the American Dream. Along with that dream comes responsibility, some maintenance, and a non-stop cleaning list. Nothing to fret over; here are a few tips that will keep your new abode feeling like a fresh and promising adventure.

Curbside Beginnings

That’s right. The minute you or your guests pull up to your home, you’ll instantly be drawn to it if it feels clean and inviting. A good power wash can brighten the exterior, knocking down dust, mold and moss as well as cobwebs and insect nests that may be hanging in the eves. Not only will this greatly improve the appearance of your home, it also protects the structure by removing elements that cause damage over time if left unaddressed.

Windows to the World

Windows are one of the greatest inventions, allowing us to not only see, but feel, as if the indoors and outdoors flow together as one living space. Windows get dirty quickly, both inside and out, and their tracks harbor mold, mildew and dust if not properly cleaned and maintained. Many folks don’t realize that the grunge clinging to our windows also harbors odors and germs.

If you don’t happen to be a person who loves the process of personally taking windows from dingy and clouded to sparkling, clear and fresh smelling—hire the job out. Cleaning your windows once or twice a year will help your windows look great and eliminate some indoor health hazards and allergens. Quarterly is ideal though. Washing windows once each season means the job will be less overwhelming and can turn into a much anticipated routine. Consider contacting a business like A-Plus Window Cleaning or someone similar to schedule your cleanings.

The Floor up

Floors are the foundation of every room in our home and serve as a frame for everything above them. If they’re dirty, it will set the same tone for the rest of your new home. Dirty spots from shoes, food, or beverages can be cleaned up with a mild vinegar solution until a professional deep cleaning can be done.

Annual carpet cleaning is highly recommended to keep allergens, dirt and odors at bay. The expense—or effort if you choose the do-it-yourself route—will be well worth it when you can breathe well and your house smells fresh. The great news is that often you can find discount coupons in local circulars for all sorts of household cleaning and maintenance.

Organization

It’s not the easiest thing for some people, but keeping your new home organized from the start will go a long way toward keeping your home feeling comfortable and well maintained. Hanging organizers in the garage, closets or basement can help you store things efficiently, especially after weatherizing during certain seasons.

After buying a home, it’s easy to start collecting and placing things about the house haphazardly. Shelving units, tool hanging racks, or even a small outdoor shed can do a lot toward keeping clutter at bay, lessening the chances of inviting pests such as spiders, mice, snakes and other unwanted house guests into your new home.

Buying a new home isn’t something you’ll get to do every day, but living in one is. Adhering to positive cleaning and maintenance routines and keeping them scheduled out on your calendar will help make living in your home a far more peaceful and healthful experience.