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Buying Your First Home? Here’s What You Need to Know

December 5, 2015adminTips for homebuyershome buyers, real estateLeave a comment

There is probably nothing that brings more joy to one’s heart than becoming a homeowner. This sense of accomplishment is something really unique, as finally you will have a place that you can call your own. However, buying a home for the first time is in no way an easy task. Because of this, numerous homeowners come to regret an oversight they had made during the purchase. In order to prevent this from happening to you as well, here are several things you need to know before venturing out onto the real estate market.

Set your budget

It is essential that you have a set budget even before you go out looking for the right home. This way, you will have a realistic price range and there is nothing more important than staying within it. Naturally, if the offer is something really special, exception can be made, however this should most often be avoided. Any budget infringement you make at this point is bound to cause some serious consequences, so being mindful of every single dollar you spend is the best advice possible. Especially since there are always some hidden costs you are usually not aware of. Sit down and calculate exactly how much you are capable of spending, and don’t even look at houses outside that price range. You will save yourself a lot of heartache.

Your own evaluation

Even though the price of any given home will be more or less accurate, remember one thing: your expenses do not end with the purchase. This is another reason why you need to set a realistic budget. Think of it this way – every extra dollar you pay for the home itself will be a dollar lacking for some extra work the home requires. It is always best to consult a contractor, a plumber and electrician before purchasing a property. Better yet, take them with your to see the house before you buy it. This kind of consultant work won’t cost you much, but can save you a world of trouble later on.

Examine the neighborhood

When buying your first home, you will naturally be focused on the house itself, however, choosing a neighborhood is important as well. Look for lines of public transportation, restaurants, schools and hospitals in the vicinity, since these things may come to determine the quality of your lifestyle. These are just some of the things that make a dream neighborhood. If the price seems too good to be true, your home just might have a railroad or an airport in the vicinity, so keep both your eyes (and ears) open.

Additionally, ask around to see if the neighborhood you are moving into has a reputation of some kind. A good idea is also to consult a local Realtor. If you plan to raise a family in that home, the last thing you want is for it to be in a shady part of town. However, minding the home’s surroundings is important not only for your own safety but for the value of your property in general. Disregarding this, it may cause you a bitter disappointment once (or if) you try to sell the place.

The method of transaction

The last, but not the least important thing that requires your immediate and undivided attention is the choice of the safest method of transaction. Since,houses usually go for a substantial amount, the risk is in no way insignificant. Because of this, your safest bet would be to use escrow. Being a neutral party, it holds onto the funds while the physical assets are exchanged, and neither side is at risk of a loss. Escrow is one of the most traditional methods in dealing with large transactions, yet unsurpassed up to the present day.

Finally, just one more piece of advice. In order to make up your mind for the purchase, “good” is not good enough, the home needs to be perfect. Since this kind of investment is not something you make every day, you would be wise to remember that. Buying your first home is a dream come true for a lot of people, so don’t be afraid to dream big and settle for no less.

Compact and urban decor ideas for small places

December 3, 2015adminDIY Projects, Home Decor, Home Organization Tips, Interior Designdecorating, DIY projects, home decor, home trendsLeave a comment

Booming cities provide many benefits of modern living, but one resource is scarce- space. Those who make an effort to tackle this limitation discover that small spaces are fit for many unique design exploits. So, it’s time to get creative and arrange an abode high on personality and low on clutter. There are extensive upgrades such as renovating and remodeling, but also some smart and inexpensive steps towards owning an appealing and well-organized home.

Step by step

The first thing to note is that every inch counts. Thus, one of the perquisites for visual overhaul is a de-cluttering process. To keep the rooms clutter-free, it’s advisable to use storage space such as the wall shelving. It’s quite functional all right, but also provides a chance to display décor and arrange a collection of books. Even better, create a DIY sculpture by the desk with a tall stack of books and surprise your visitors with ingenuity.

Now, choosing a light color palette is a safe bet for small apartments because it gives the feeling of more space. That’s not to say that people shouldn’t add any life with splashes of color. No need to shy away from mixing patterns, textures and styles, but syncing them is crucial. Scale down when it comes to accessories, so place a few bold-printed throws and cushions, for example. One of the ways to showcase collections and sentimental pieces is to group them in one place.

In other cases, the best ways to enhance a small space is a divide and conquer strategy. Those who have a large room that serves multiple purposes should consider setting boundaries. Why not do it with some style by putting the ceiling-mounted curtains and transforming the home into a chic retreat? Another option is to use an open bookshelf as a room divider, as it establishes the feel of an open design we are aiming for.

Let there be light and space

Lighting is an essential element of any interior space, and one that makes it shine. Solutions like LED wall lights or DIY pendant lights are a perfect match for contemporary environments. Apart from being a treat for the eyes, LED lights are also energy-efficient. Furthermore, using large mirrors complements the lighting and creates an illusion of space. Floor-to-ceiling ones transform blank walls to reflect the surroundings and brighten up the environment.

When choosing furnishing one should be cautious, but still prepared to take bold risks. So, how about acrylic ghost chairs and other see-through fittings that take the mesmerizing atmosphere to the even higher level? Designers opt for clean lines and simple round forms that introduce a sense of a compact living area and add an organic component with natural elements like wooden stools, potted plants and custom woodworking.

Modular furnishing is a great acquisition that boosts the versatility of the small area. These movable pieces allow us to assemble different formations for a number of purposes. An ottoman can serve as a foot rest but also an impromptu coffee table, and it’s easily moved aside when not needed. Dual-purpose furniture provides the same benefits, so why not turn your sofa into a dining banquette, or transform the banquette into a guest bed? Thinking outside the box enables people to make the most of the ones they live in.

A small secret

Small homes are both challenging and rewarding environments. They are quite limited when it comes to space, and yet that holds the secret to their true power. Know when to go by the book and when is the time to push the boundaries. Think multipurpose, and steer away from big pieces that eat up the room. To make a statement, it’s important to pay attention to detail and keep it clean and functional. Use unexpected tools and killer décor as a focal point to elevate the style of even the smallest of shelter

Tips To Make Your Next Home Move Easier

December 1, 2015adminDIY Projects, Home Organization Tips, Tips for homebuyersDIY projects, home improvement, MovingLeave a comment

The thought of moving into a new home is both exciting and overwhelming! We found this moving house checklist to help you organize your next move and make things a little easier. Just print it out and check off the boxes as you complete each task. Happy moving!

Moving House Checklist by Terrys Fabrics.

Decorating Tips for Utilizing the Most Natural Light

November 28, 2015adminHome Improvement Tips, Interior DesignDIY projects, home decor, home improvement, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Natural light is beneficial for your home environment and your health especially with the dark and dreary days of winter approaching. These decorating tips will help you to increase the amount of natural light you get inside and utilize it to its best potential.

Choose Windows That Let in the Most Natural Light
If you’re building a new home from the ground up, you have the ability to choose which windows you want to install. In this case, it’s beneficial to choose new windows that let in the most possible natural light.

Bay windows are an outstanding choice since they typically extend outward from the home and expand the amount of natural light that enters. Companies like Gilkey Windows can help customize windows to fit perfectly in your home, so even if you have awkward corners, you can get the most natural light possible.

Add Skylights
If the rooms in your upper floors seem dark, you can increase the amount of natural light you get by adding new skylights. Use your hallways or closed off bathrooms to add them in and give yourself a breath of fresh air.

A New Front Door
If you have a solid front door, you’re missing out on an opportunity to let more natural light into your home. Replace the solid front with glass that lets in an abundance of brightness from the outside.

Use Mirrors to Reflect the Existing Natural Light in the Room
Mirrors can serve more than one purpose in your home. If you’re only using them in the bedroom and bathroom to help you get dressed in the mornings, you’re missing out on the opportunity to reflect and direct the natural light in all your other rooms.

To use mirrors to their best advantage throughout your home, place them in spots where they will amplify the existing natural light; perhaps across from a sliding glass door or a prominent window. Another idea is to hang matching mirrors across from each other to amplify the light reflected even more.

Lighten Up Your Window Treatments
Get rid of any dark, heavy draperies you may have hanging around your windows. Replace them with lighter colored or sheer window treatments, or use blinds to better direct the flow of light into the room.

Choose Light and Bright Wall Colors and Wall Coverings
Dark wall colors tend to absorb and hide the light, making a room appear darker. If you want to maximize the amount of light in the room, it’s ideal to choose light colors for decorating the walls.

If you use any of these strategies in your home, you’ll be well on your way to increasing the amount of natural light you let into each room. Give yourself a brighter, healthier outlook this winter and use some of these ideas to get started on a new decorating theme.

Give Your Kitchen a Sophisticated Upgrade with These 7 Tricks

November 26, 2015adminHome Improvement Tips, home remodeling, Kitchen Remodelinghome improvement, home trends, kitchen remodeling, kitchens, remodeling tipsLeave a comment

Some people consider their kitchen to be the soul and the heart of their home. That’s why it is of great importance for it to look sophisticated, cozy and yet still be functional. In order to accomplish this, the best way is to try to make some changes and renovate your kitchen. Here we will offer you 7 tricks from which you can draw inspiration for upgrading your kitchen.

Extension

If you are willing to make some bigger changes to your kitchen space, you should consider hiring Bruzzese Home Improvements to expand and broaden this room. People are mostly drawn to this option if they have a smaller kitchen and feel like everything is clustered in a really small area. You could also try making some simple upgrades such as adding another counter space or even creating an open-kitchen concept by removing a wall.

Floors

When it comes to the floors, it is a good idea to step out of your comfort zone and do something different. You can never go wrong with choosing hardwood floors, as they provide the feeling of warmth and comfort. Other than this, you may consider some tiles with different patterns. Also, some people have accepted a new trend by placing a rug in the kitchen area; and the best thing is that is looks amazing!

Walls

Another thing that may help you with creating that luxurious ambiance in your kitchen is by painting your walls a new color. Do not be afraid to experiment with different shades. Some unconventional colors can drastically contribute to the elegance of the space. Even though most people opt for softer and lighter shades, you can also accomplish a great look with deeper colors such as maroon or teal.

Pipes

Of course, if you wish to achieve that sophisticated look, you must try your best to hide or cover-up some household eyesores. This especially goes for uncovered pipes, which can really take away the marvel of a nice kitchen space. Just as plumbers from Sydney suggest you could easily do this by installing steel pipes. This is because steel pipes can also serve as a decorative detail and can be paired with almost any style.

Furnishing

If you wish to upgrade your kitchen and change the way it looks, the best way to this is by refurbishing. Experiment with style and colors or make a mixture of old and new. There is no need to limit your choices on only one style. Add some vintage cabinets, some steel and copper fixtures and supplement that look by adding a new counter and a row of modern bar stools. A huge wooden table can make a wonderful addition to a kitchen space.

Lighting

An appropriate amount of lighting can greatly contribute to the complete atmosphere of the room. Because of this, it is important to invest in some adequate lighting fixtures. If you are striving for a more luxurious look, there is no reason why you should not add an elegant chandelier on the ceiling. Other than that, it is a really good idea to introduce as much natural light as you can, so consider even installing ceiling to floor windows and removing the blinds and curtains.

Details

Details are a crucial part of any space as they can create almost any kind of ambient. If you want to make simple renovations to your kitchen, consider simpler things like adding a little plant life, photographs or any kind of art actually.

The kitchen is not only a space for preparing food but a place for the whole family. Because of this, consider decorating and renovating your kitchen space together, so you would create a lovely haven for all of you.

Save Green: 4 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Energy Bill

November 25, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, Green Living, Home Improvement TipsDIY projects, energy efficient, green living, winterLeave a comment

Reducing your energy bill doesn’t have to require you to make significant sacrifices in the way that you live your life. Making simple changes and investing in new technologies to help you better manage your home can help you save substantially on your utility bills. Take advantage of new smart home technology and soon you’ll find that your power bill more than makes up for itself over the course of a year.

Smart Home Technology

You don’t need a complete smart home solution to benefit from smart home technology. Instead, you can just purchase a few appliances or outlets that you use most to help reduce your output. There are wall adapters that you can plug your devices into, and then you can control those devices using a mobile app. This is also helpful for when you go on vacation, and you want to create the impression that someone is still home.

Programmable Thermostat

If you would like something a little more low-key and automated, consider getting a weekly programmable thermostat. A thermostat that is digital and that you can set manually can help you automatically save money, and you can even save on the startup costs with a Discountrue coupon for AliExpress. Set the thermostat to automatically rise or fall a few degrees before you come home, and make sure it’s just the right temperature when you return.

Stock Your Refrigerator

Aim to keep your refrigerator at least 75 percent stocked to keep costs down. When you keep items in your refrigerator, they cool to the desired temperature. While the refrigerator has to work harder initially, once you cool down the items in the refrigerator, it won’t have to work as hard to maintain temperature. The same is true of your freezer. Keep ice bags or ice blocks inside your freezer to keep it full.

Use Candles in the Winter

During the winter, make use of candles to help heat up your house before you sleep at night. Surprisingly, candles are an affordable way to produce a noticeable bit of heat. There are even candle wreaths you can purchase to greatly increase the heat production. The amount of heat produced by a set of candles can offset some of the cost associated with running your heater.

Try to keep your thermostat at about 78 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. These settings can help you get the most out of your cooling and heating system while saving you money. It’s estimated that you can shave six to eight percent off your energy bill in the summer for each degree higher than 78 you set your thermostat to.

Guest Post By:

Anica Oaks

Freelance writer and web enthusiast
Read some of my published work on my Google+ page.

Six Yard Preps you have to do Before Winter

November 23, 2015adminHome Maintenance, lawn and garden, Winter TipsFall, landscaping, lawn, Outdoor Living, winterLeave a comment

Just because your yard is going to go dormant in the winter, doesn’t mean you can skip a little TLC before the snow starts blowing. Doing a little maintenance in the fall will create a thick, luscious lawn when spring comes around again, and less work for you when spring cleaning comes around.

Rake Up the Leaves
It may be tempting to leave your yard covered in leaves when the last of them finally fall, but a layer of leaves will slowly kill your grass. Leaves prevent the grass from getting necessary sunlight through the season, so make sure you remove them as they fall, since it can take a few months for trees to fully shed their leaves. Any time leaves or other debris are left to sit on your lawn, the grass will die from lack of sunlight or from mold and disease. If you have a mower with a mulching attachment, you can shred the leaves into fine pieces and leave them on the grass.

Water Throughout the Winter
Many homeowners think once winter hits they don’t have to water their grass anymore. This misconception is a big reason why it takes so long to bring your grass back from a long, dry winter. Homeowners often believe this because they think grass dies in the winter, and simply comes back to life in the spring. Grass actually goes dormant and stops growing, but it still needs water to keep it alive. If you live in a region where you get a lot of snow, then you don’t need to water your lawn. However, if winters are warmer and/or dry, you’ll need to water your grass every two to three weeks.

Seeding
The end of fall is a great time to seed your lawn. Autumn seeding allows your grass to grow thick and strong. When you shop for seed, make sure you read the bags or talk to knowledgeable staff at the garden center. There are various grass seed mixtures for different climates, and some seed mixes are better for shady conditions, while others are great for cold, dry winter weather. Use a rotary spreader set at the manufacturer’s recommended rate. Once you’ve put the seed down, ensure it gets plenty of water so it can germinate.

Fertilize
Fall is also a great time to fertilize. Aim for the beginning of November if you live in a warmer climate. Consider fall fertilization a boost to give it the strength to survive the cold temperatures. If you want to get really fancy, send a soil sample off to have it tested for the nutrients it’s deficient in. Most commercial fertilizers are suitable for lawns of all types, so there isn’t any need to get too elaborate. Remember not to apply a fertilizer/weed killer combination if you’ve just seeded your grass.

Control Pesky Weeds
Lawn experts agree that fall is the ideal time to tackle weeds. Plants are in an energy absorbing mode in the fall, so they willingly absorb everything given to them. This includes weed killers. If you apply a weed killer in the fall, you shouldn’t see those weeds return again for a long time. The best time to apply it is in the middle of fall when temperatures are still above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mow One Last Time
Even if you keep your grass fairly tall in the warmer months, winter is not the time for long grass. Experts recommend mowing your grass down to one or one and a half inches. This puts less stress on the roots as the grass goes dormant, and makes it easier to aerate. If your grass is currently three or more inches in height, don’t mow it down all at once. Spread the cutting out over a few mowings to prevent stressing the grass.

It might seem odd to prepare your lawn for spring in the fall and winter, but some cold winter prep work ensures your lawn is thick and green after the snow melts.

Guest Post By:

“Kara Masterson is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in West Jordan, Utah. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking and gardening. For more information on how to protect your lawn and landscaping from winter, talk to Classic Jack Landscaping, one of the leading Utah County landscaping companies.”

CONTEMPORARY INDUSTRIAL ARCHITECTURE IN HOUSING

November 21, 2015adminArchitecture, home improvementarchitecture, home improvement, home trendsLeave a comment

There’s a hot design scheme that embraces the symbols of a mighty age, even as that era is passing from the scene. The industrial age ruled North America and Europe for more than a century. Economists tells us that this era, the one into which most of us were born, has given way to the information age, a fact that can be supported very simply by counting the number of hours we spend on social media. But something inside many of us longs for the “good old days” of that period of muscular manufacturing and production.

The trending use of industrial architecture in residential housing is partly nostalgic. Industrial is now vintage, the new hip retro look.

source: www.bdnhomes.com

This design scheme in residential architecture started as a cost-effective way to convert empty industrial space into residential housing. It was cheaper to leave the I-beams, pipes, commercial ductwork, concrete and bricks exposed rather than cover it all up behind drywall and drop ceilings. In time, the raw, utilitarian look became part of the allure for a younger crowd moving into converted industrial space. It became an essential element in the revitalization of urban centres in places as diverse as Seattle, Moscow and Melbourne.

What started as an economic necessity quickly became a fashionable design scheme even in new construction and the remodeling of housing that never had an industrial look. Soon, furniture, cabinetry, flooring and lighting were being produced with the industrial vibe, and the design style was complete!

Today, industrial residential architecture and design is a sought-after style in post-industrial cities throughout the world. More than a decade after it took hold, it is showing excellent staying power.

Pros and Cons of Contemporary Industrial Architecture in Housing

Every style has its pros and cons. Here are the strengths and weaknesses of industrial design in residential housing.

Let’s start with the advantages in industrial architectural design:

Remodeling industrial space into living space is cheaper than tearing down a warehouse or factory and building from scratch, and this should, at least in theory, produce lower rental and purchase prices

The structure of many warehouses and factories is in excellent condition, and many have useable ductwork, windows, wiring and plumbing

Many of these buildings are located in urban neighborhoods that are hot places to live and which offer walk-to-work proximity, an attractive feature for young urbanites concerned with reducing the use of fossil fuels

Industrial building materials such as brick and metal are recycled and recyclable and they last indefinitely, making this a green architectural style

With the production of industrial-style furniture as well as exterior features such as entry doors and garage doors, your comprehensive design comes together brilliantly

Wear and tear to materials and changes in appearance with age are expected, viewed as character and not as detrimental

source: www.moderndesignidea.com

There are a few disadvantages of industrial residential design to keep in mind:

Furnishings and décor featuring industrial design are produced in smaller quantities, and while this is seen as a plus by those who don’t want mass-produced pieces, it does make them more expensive

Remodeling your home’s exterior using the industrial architecture style is risky since your house may be the only one like it in your neighbourhood, and this could make it harder to sell

The danger with trendy styles is that they tend to fall out of favor with homeowners faster than more enduring styles like traditional, contemporary or French country

Where to Find Housing with Industrial Architecture

If you’re intrigued with the idea of living in space with a distinctive industrial feel, the place to begin your search is in a large city near you. Many buildings and factories are being converted into beautiful, functional housing units. You might want to lease a place with this design scheme for a couple of years before you buy to see if it is really what you want long-term.

source: www.rjgaragedoors.com.au

Designers are also employing industrial architectural design when remodeling apartment buildings and homes in urban and near-suburban locations. If you own your own home or own rental properties, the nearer you are to an industrial hub, the more it makes sense to invest in contemporary industrial architecture. It’s not such a good idea away from the city in rural settings where industrial design might look out of place.

Contemporary industrial architecture embraces the spirit of a great age while employing a forward-looking philosophy of “repurpose, reuse and recycle.” There’s something to embrace there for all of us.

An Insight into Energy-Efficient Windows

November 18, 2015adminEnergy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tips, Home Maintenance, Winter Tipsenergy efficient, home improvement, replacement windows, winterLeave a comment

In the wake of winter, most homeowners begin to dread the prospects of high energy bills and inadequately heated living areas. Even with seamless weather-stripping and optimal external and internal insulation, there will always be a few phantom heat leaks that may compromise the comfort of your home.

As a general rule, windows are the biggest heat outlet and if not outfitted with the right type of panes, they can considerably up your electricity bills without providing warmth that goes with the price. To keep freezing temperatures and high energy expenses at bay this winter, opt for energy-efficient windows with either double- or triple-glazing. If the idea sounds worth a go, here are some retrofit window basics to help you pick the right set of new panes for your home.

How energy-efficient windows work

Double-glazed windows consist of two panes separated by a gap (usually 16 millimeters wide). The air trapped between the two glass sheets is filled with either air or gas and functions as an insulating block which prevents escape of heat. Triple-glazed windows have three panes of glass, each separated from the other by an air- or gas-filled space, and they often provide better insulation than their double-glazed counterparts.

Top benefits of retrofit windows

In addition to keeping the house warm and reducing electricity bills, this retrofit also entail a lower carbon footprint than the traditional option, which it more earth-friendly, we learn from Melbourne-based retailers of double glazed windows. Other known benefits include fewer draughts, lower external noise levels and minimal condensation. On top of that, double- and triple-glazed windows are very durable and can last up to 20 years, which translates as higher long-term savings.

Retrofit glass and gap filling options

When choosing energy-efficient windows, pay attention to BFRC ratings, and if possible, opt for low-emissivity panes internally coated by metal oxide to minimize loss of heat while ensuring ample sunlight. Other features to keep an eye out on when shopping for new windows include use of internal gasses (such as argon, krypton or xenon) and pane spacers known as warm edges which should contain little or no metal for maximum heat loss prevention.

Window frame types used in earth-friendly windows

Energy-efficient windows are available in four main frame types, i.e. uPVC, wood, composite and aluminum/steel framing. While uPVC and aluminum/steel frames are recyclable, slender and provide a lengthy lifespan, wooden frames entail minimal environmental impact but they also require proper maintenance. Composite framing, on the other hand, requires less maintenance and is extremely weatherproof thanks to its internal timber structure with plastic or aluminum coating.

ABC of energy and U-value ratings

Most double- and triple-glazed windows are rated according to their energy efficiency. The energy performance scale devised by the British Fenestration Rating Council runs from A to G, A-rated windows boasting highest heat retention. In addition to the window energy rating, you should also check the U-values shown on the label and pick the panes with lowest U-values as they entail minimal heat loss and improved insulation features.

Ventilation aspects of earth-friendly windows

Retrofit windows are air-tighter than standard panes, so you should strive to keep your home properly aired to prevent condensation buildup. If your house is lacking in adequate ventilation features, consider either regularly airing the rooms or choosing windows with trickle frame vents. If condensation continues to build up despite your best efforts, your household may be suffering from a damp problem which you will need to tackle on your own or hire experts to fix it for you.

Winter is just around the corner, but days of warmth and comfort are not gone. With the right set of windows, you home will stay cozy and well-heated even with blizzards raging outside – so go ahead and replace your panes with retrofit glazing while the weather still allows it.

Creepy Crawlers: How to Eliminate those Spooky Pests from your Home this Fall

November 16, 2015adminDIY Projects, Home Improvement Tips, Home Maintenanceclutter, DIY projects, home improvementLeave a comment

As the weather starts to get chilly and autumn really sets in, a variety of pests will start to infiltrate your warm, cozy home. If you aren’t prepared for these creepy house guests, there are a few things you can do to eliminate them before they move in permanently.

Seal Entryways

Pests, especially mice, will take advantage of any opening they can fit through to escape the cold nights. Check around pipes, vents, and other openings for holes. Seal them with some kind of caulk or approved spray foam to fill them. If mice are trying to sneak in, then fill their entry points with steel wool. According to Pest Control Arlington, these fine fibers are unbearable to their feet and faces and they’ll immediately turn around and leave if they feel it.

Keep a Tidy Home

If you have kids and pets, it can be difficult to keep a tidy home, but you should still keep a clean home. Don’t let anyone eat outside of the kitchen, and put away leftover food before you go to bed. If you have dishes in the sink, ensure they’re rinsed and not still caked with food. Food sources are the biggest reason why pests sneak inside. If you’ve got a warm place to crash and free food for the taking, can you blame them for wanting to check-in? This includes food in your pantries and cupboards. Keep sugar and flour in tightly sealed containers, and ensure open packages are closed neatly to avoid spilling. When anything spills in your pantry or cupboard, even if it’s just dry noodles or beans, clean it up immediately. Your pests aren’t going to care whether it’s cooked or not. Food is food!

Reduce Clutter

According to Green Pest Services who specializes in pest control in Arlington, cleanliness is important, but so is cleaning up clutter. When you watch those hoarder television shows, they’re typically infested with every kind of pest imaginable. This is because there are plenty of places for them to hide. If you add privacy to your heat and free food, you’re a veritable five-star hotel. Cardboard attracts pests of all sorts, but rodents and cockroaches particularly love it. Try to avoid keeping cardboard boxes full of paper and fabric in your garage or attic.

Prevention is key when it comes to scaring pests away. Before the weather turns, make sure your home is sealed and clean to prevent bugs and rodents from turning your home into a shelter.

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