Susan Stallcup, Author at Fiber Homes

Benefits Of Good Air Conditioning in Your Home

Susan Stallcup 2021-09-05 0 Comments

In recent times, air conditioning is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Living in a safe and healthy house is everyone’s goal. Luckily the internet makes it easy to get a service provider near you. Global climatic change has caused heat surges n many areas of the world. A study by the Environmental Protection Agency showed there have been over 9000 heat-related deaths in American between 1979 and 2013. Another study has shown that out of the 15 hottest years recorded, 14 of those years have been in the 21st Century.

All this heat has dire consequences for human health and life, and they expect those numbers to increase. Read on to find out the benefits of air conditioning.

Better Security

A notable advantage of air conditioning is enhanced security. We keep our windows and doors closed to cool our house. By doing this, you are protecting your house from a potential break-in. Keeping all of our house’s entry points keeps unwanted people away. There are people with air conditioning that stay in unsafe areas. It could be a good way of getting your home more secure for you do not have to open doors and windows for cool air.

Cool Tempers

The heat makes people do many crazy things. It is easy for people to grow aggressive and destructive on a hot summer day. Studies conducted showed the heat makes our brains slow down.

We also experience increased blood pressure and heart rate. It leads to people having impulsive behaviors. Cool environments are essential for maintaining mental health, peace, and general wellbeing.

Reduced Asthma Attacks

Asthma is a respiratory disease that narrows your airways and makes it difficult to breathe. However, having air conditioning systems reduces the chances of getting an asthma attack. The system filters dirty air that may contain dust, pollen, and other outdoor pollutants. Also, it lowers the humidity that leads to molding. All these trigger asthma attacks. You can also avoid them by frequently changing the air filters which store dirt.

Improved Air Quality

Air Conditioning filter the dirt off the air and circulates fresh air. Improper ventilation leads to dust, pollen, and other harmful chemicals in the air. When inhaled, they cause hazardous health effects. With the spread of the COVID-19 that affects the respiratory system, having clean air is essential. Having good air conditioning prevents asthma attacks and other allergies.

As highlighted in this article, air conditioning offers a lot of benefits. Not only does it improve the quality of our lives, but it also reduces the risk of getting diseases like asthma. It also goes a long way in keeping our sanity in check, especially on hot days. We hoped to have convinced you that this is an investment worth making. …

Ways to Increase Boiler Efficiency

Susan Stallcup 2020-12-02 0 Comments

Boilers account for more than 35% of the energy used in the industrial sector in the U.S. Most companies with boilers pay hefty electric bills without knowing that they can improve efficiency and save on power. Even though a new boiler may perform better and improve efficiency, there are maintenance tips you can implement and save on energy too. If you have to buy a new one, you need the best brand with power and can last long withstanding the heavy-duty.

Here are some useful tips for cutting down on your power consumption by increasing your boiler efficiency:

Regular Maintenance

This is one of the best ways you can ensure your boiler efficiency. Regular maintenance by an expert ensures that all the parts are working effectively. One faulty area in a boiler may slow down coordination, thus taking more time to give results; more time means more power, which translates to higher bills. Maintenance also ensures that necessary inspections carried out are in adherence with a boiler checklist.

Maintain Insulators

When insulation is not well installed or not installed, it leads to a loss of heat. The commercial boilers have a large surface area that is most vulnerable to heat loss if not properly insulated. A properly insulated boiler, whether commercial or not, saves up the heat.

Industrial boilers use the recommended refractory material, which is highly effective in the lining of the boiler. If there’s a need to replace the refractory material, it is advisable to have an expert analysis. This analysis determines the boiler’s ability in terms of the weight it can carry or accommodate.

Replace Burners When Worn Out

Burners get worn out and need replacement or retrofitted after a long time of service. A worn-out burner slows down a boiler as it loses efficiency and deteriorates its performance. There are a wide variety of burners available, which yield impressive results. If you cannot replace burners, you may consider retrofitting, although it may not offer as much efficiency as new burners in saving up on the cost and improves the boiler performance.

Use Turbulators

A turbulator is an excellent way of enhancing efficiency, especially so if you have a fire boiler. A turbulator is responsible for heat transfer. It is inserted in the tubes of the boiler to enhance the performance of heat exchangers. It maintains a turbulent flow in the boiler passes by increasing more heat transfer. These devices are amongst the top cost-effective items in the boiler. For effectiveness, they are at the final boiler pass.…

Bedroom Design Mistakes You Need to Fix

Susan Stallcup 2020-08-18 0 Comments

Your bedroom, being a resting space, should be meticulously designed. Everything in this space should be aimed at providing comfort. Unfortunately, some people overlook their bedroom design, considering that it is not in the public domain. Although you might be using your bedroom to sleep, you need to give it the attention it deserves. In light of this fact, here is a list of design mistakes that could compromise the aesthetic and functional aspects of this space.

Choosing the Wrong Bedside Table

A bedroom table is an essential accessory in a bedroom. Irrespective of how you intend to use your bedside table, choosing the wrong piece might compromise your bedroom’s functionality. Therefore, you must pay attention to the table’s functional aspects, not just the aesthetics

Poor Lighting

Most people make the wrong lighting choices. It could be that you installed a lighting fixture that is too bright or one that is too dull. It will help if you start by determining your lighting needs. This means that you need to pay attention to how you intend to use your bedroom, and then design your lighting accordingly. For instance, if you spend some time reading at night, you might have a bedside lamp at your side.

Placing the Bed at a Corner

Most people tend to place their beds at the corner. Well, this might be somewhat acceptable if you do not have ample space. But if you have considerable space, it is advisable to have it at a central position. Having an area around the bed makes it easy for anyone to move around the room. This design tip can make a significant to your bedroom.

Ignoring Chargers and Gadgets

Some people often overlook the need to give gadgets around their home a proper home. Ideally, chargers and tech devices should be placed at a designated spot, preferably away from the bed. The best way to go about this is to invest in a nightstand or a small shelve for your gadgets. And if you need to charge your phone or a laptop, you should consider getting a charging station.…

Choosing the Best Water Restoration Company

Susan Stallcup 2020-05-14 0 Comments

Water is one of the most destructive elements in both homes as well as offices. So if you experience water damage, instead of trying to solve the problem on your own, it is essential to seek the services of professional companies such as the Richmond water damage restoration. This is important because professional companies have the skills as well as the equipment to do an incredible job.

However, not every water damage restoration company that you’re going to meet is capable of offering you quality services. To avoid landing in the hands of incompetent companies, you need to consider the following tips when choosing a water damage restoration company.

Timely Services

When looking for a good water restoration company, one of the essential factors that you need to consider is the ability of the company to finish the work in time. Some water damage can be catastrophic if they’re not rectified swiftly. So it is crucial to look for a water restoration company that has a history of completing the work given to them in time. Besides being able to offer timely services, the company should also offer round-the-clock services. Reading online reviews is the best way to get all this information.

Certification

Since water damage restoration is a complex task, it is good to ensure that you’re working with a well-experienced company. Asking the company to provide you with papers that show they indeed have the necessary skills is the way to go. If, for instance, a company is not licensed, then that is enough reason to doubt the ability of such a company to serve you right.

Reputation

It is possible to tell the quality of water damage restoration services that you’re going to get from a company by looking at its reputation. In normal circumstances, a water restoration company will never have a good reputation if they never dedicate their time to offering quality services—the track record of the company will tell you more about their reputation.

Alternatively, you can talk to friends or family members who might have had an opportunity to make use of the company before you. Such people will have the information that you need to make the right choice.

Price

Lastly, you will need to consider the price of the water restoration damage company. While some water damage restoration companies are keen to offer quality services at a reasonable price to their clients, some are in the business to exploit the unsuspecting clients. Therefore, take the time to carry out a thorough price comparison before you make your decision.…

Tips for Finding a Water Damage Restoration Company

Susan Stallcup 2020-05-01 0 Comments

Studies show that millions of money are spent on repairing water damage. An average homeowner can spend a few thousands of dollars following an incident of water damage. Consider the financial impact this has; it is quite important to ensure you hire a reliable water damage restoration company.

You should note that there are different causes of water damage. For instance, missing or damaged roof shingles allow rainwater to damage your ceilings. Also, clogged gutters, drainage issues, and sewage backup can devastate the basement resulting in floodwater. In this case, you need to replace the drywall if it becomes logged. These are tips to help you choose the right water restoration company.

Licensed and Insured

The right company should be insured and licensed to offer water damage restoration services. Ideally, licensure means that the company is allowed to offer services in the given area. Moreover, the company should have liability insurance that offers clients peace of mind when restoration services are ongoing in their homes.

Certified

You need to ensure that the technicians working for the water damage restoration are certified by the relevant organization. Certification demonstrates that individuals carrying out these tasks are competent and qualified to offer the services. The truth is that fixing water damage is quite expensive. Unskilled or inexperienced technicians only worsen the situation. Also, improper cleaning methods contribute to existing degradation. In fact, unskilled technicians are likely to leave some issues unaddressed, which may result in long-term consequences.

Quick Response

You should note that water damage does spread rapidly. If left unaddressed, it is likely to cause permanent structural damage. In fact, a swift response is a necessity. Fortunately, you can find reputable companies that operate 24/7. The right company should send technicians to your property within minutes after reporting the incident.

Verified Ratings

You may be surprised to learn that after a disaster, some companies are born overnight. Some such companies are only interested in your hard-earned money. Therefore, you should look for a company with many satisfied customers. Positive reviews are an indication that you are dealing with the right company. Ensure you check the local references as most of these companies rely on word of mouth as a means of promoting their services.

Detailed Contract

After making an assessment of damage, a quality service provider will spell out the terms of the contract. Ensure that the contract indicates the timeframe of the restoration work and the estimated cost of the service.…

Different Materials Used for Patio Slabs

Susan Stallcup 2019-08-06 0 Comments

If you don’t have the funds to construct a patio, you can use patio slabs and other affordable materials to create one. These slabs are also useful in lining your pavements, and they can also act as stepping stones for your garden.

As you embark on your search, it’s essential to consider the budget, color, shape, and materials used to make the slabs. In this article, you’ll learn some of the common materials used for patio slabs.

Concrete

Concrete ranks as one of the most affordable and cheapest materials for making patio slabs. The finishing on the concrete slabs can differ from a smooth finish to textured slabs. You can also choose stain-resistant always to keep your patio clean. But as you think of installing concrete slabs on your patio, you should know they aren’t as durable as porcelain or natural stones, thus seal the concrete slabs to protect them from algae and stains.

Porcelain Paving

Porcelain is algae and frost resistant. These patio slabs area also long-lasting, dirt-repelling, and easy to maintain. The porcelain paving comes in different styles and colors which mimic natural finish. Porcelain patio slabs won’t fade with time, they are durable and the best option for an easy-care patio solution. Though you’ll pay more for the slabs, you recover in the maintenance cost and durability.

Natural Stones

Traditional patio slabs are designed from natural stone materials such as limestone, granite, and sandstone. Since natural stones come in different types, one has a considerable number of choices to choose from, starting from the style, color, and price. Sandstone is fantastic in that no two stones are alike and the color of the paving change depending on the weather and lights. Granite offers smooth, lined, neat, and contemporary edges. Limestone avails deep colors and a riven texture to transform your outdoor space.

Natural Stone Block and Cobbles

Another option for patio slabs is natural stone blocks and cobbles. These are usually smaller in size compared to other paving, but they bring out an incredible look. If your patio is small, then cobbles and natural stone block are the best options. These patio slabs are durable and able to withstand high traffic besides been attractive.

The above-mentioned patio slabs are among the most common materials used to make these paving. Choose slabs that will meet your budget, style, and design.…

Things to Know Before Buying Diamond Art Kits

Susan Stallcup 2019-07-28 0 Comments

Are you looking to purchase diamond art kits? Before investing in one, there are certain things you ought to consider. First, you need to check that all tools are present in the kit. If you are a beginner, various basic tools such as tweezers, wax pad, baggies, sorting tray, and pen tool are a must. However, if you are a seasoned painter, specialty tools are a must. Also, the 5D kits are available, and you can find one that suits your needs.

Before purchasing 5d diamond painting kits, you ought to have an idea about the tools that you want for diamond painting. Also, you have to take into account the type of kit to choose, canvas material, and more. With this information, you can purchase the right kit. The following are some vital things you ought to consider before you purchase a diamond art kit.

Basic Diamond Painting Tools

It is a good idea to check that the kit you are purchasing basic tools. For instance, the pen tool is quite important for picking up diamond crystals and even transferring them to a canvas. You should note that kits are available with a host of baggies that contain a wide range of diamond crystals. Before you start the painting, crystals are poured onto sorting trays, and the plastic is removed from canvas with the help of tweezers.

On the other hand, the wax pad that contains the wax enables crystals to remain stuck on the canvas. Other than the basic tools like art supplies, there are other kit label stickers, masking stickers, and plastic plates.

Types of Kits

For budding painters of diamond painting kits, those with basic tools are enough. In fact, most kits are available with the specialty tools for seasoned painters. The good thing about the tools is that they offer great comfort and speed. Ideally, the major types of kits to consider are partial drill kits, full drill kits, and multi-paneled kits.

Type of Canvas Material

You also need to consider the type of canvas material. Ideally, the canvas is available in a wide range of materials. For starters, the small-sized canvas is the best. Also, they are cheaper. For seasoned painters, they can try expensive canvas materials.

Type of Painting Drills

Before investing in a diamond painting kit, you have to understand that the two types of drills you need are: square one and round. The round drill is commonly used because it offers free space.…

Tips for Choosing an Energy Supplier

Susan Stallcup 2019-07-27 0 Comments

The process of finding a new energy supplier does not have to be difficult. Nowadays, competitive energy markets offer many benefits to consumers. For instance, you can choose a supplier that suits your needs. When it comes to finding the right company, you may feel overwhelmed by the many companies out there. Remember that Dallas energy providers you choose are responsible for regulating the rates for energy supply. Therefore, there is a need to carry out adequate research before you make a purchasing decision.

The truth is that switching to a new energy supply company is simple, but finding the right one is often a difficult task. These are some of the things you ought to consider when looking for a new energy supplier.

Location

You should check the area where the energy supplier serves. Also, you have to ensure that it is licensed to operate in your area. Does not provide natural gas, solar, electric, or renewable energy? Take into account the energy your home requires and check whether that energy source is available in your state. Moreover, you have to find out whether it includes sales tax and other charges. When the energy supplier presents information to you as required, the information is readily available.

Analyze Your Current Costs

It is important to understand the amount of energy you consume in your home or business and how much you pay for it. That will help you prepare to find a new energy company that can meet your needs. Also, look at what you have been paying in the past. Before you start analyzing other supplier’s rates, check a recent statement from your current supplier. Review it thoroughly and see how much are paying for natural gas and electricity supply.

Supplier Reputation

It is a good idea to look for an energy corporation that is trusted by many people in your area. Check whether it is competitive and well-established. Do they have a license to serve your area? The license number ought to be easy to find.

Customer Service

Ensure you find an energy supply company that provides excellent customer service and answers your questions. Ask your friends on social media if they have used the given supplier in the past and how they can rate its service. Does the company have a website and social media presence? Look at the historical trends to check whether there are consistent complaints.…

How to Choose The Best Roofer In Birmingham

Susan Stallcup 2019-06-01 0 Comments

It is the dream of every person to live in a safe and comfortable home. Having a properly functioning roof and gutter will ensure that your properties or home are protected from weather elements like snowfall and rainfall. Hiring an inexperienced roofer for roof replacement or roof repair can cause big problems in the long run.

There are many benefits of hiring professional roofing contractors. The warranty of roof shingles will be considered void is the installation process is not done correctly. It is, therefore important, to hire a reputable, experienced roofing contractor for your roofing project. The following are the proven tips that can help you in picking the right roofer;

Doing Your Research

You can get important information about potential contractors by visiting their websites. Reading the reviews of other customers can also help you in finding out what the other people say about a certain roofer. Companies with 5-star rankings are highly recommended since they offer quality services. Also, check whether the contractor has been in this business for how long. The other essential things that you need to check when doing your research include qualifications like insurance, licensing, and factory certifications.

Check Whether the Company Is Licensed

Roof installation is one of the risky jobs. Working with an insured company will ensure that you are not held liable if a worker gets injured while installing or repairing a roof. The contractor hired should be equipped with a comprehensive worker’s compensation and liability insurance. This is something that you need to find out before the contractor begins his/her work.

Get Recommendations

Getting recommendations from your family, friends, or neighbors is an excellent way of learning more about potential contractors. Doing this can help you in eliminating unreliable contractors. Your friends or neighbors can recommend a experienced, reliable roofer whom they have worked with in their roofing projects.

Check Your Warranty

You should hire roofers who offer a warranty on their work. Remember that it might take several years for a roof installation error to make itself known. This means that you should hire a roofing contractor who offers a comprehensive, extended workmanship warranty. This will ensure that your repair or installation project is well-covered.

Meeting the Roofer

Make an effort of meeting the roofer and ask a lot of questions. Share your ideas and don’t be afraid of asking questions. Homeowners can use this opportunity to survey the scope of their re-roofing or roofing repair needs. Get to know whether the potential contractor is experienced in installing the kind of roofing system that you are interested in.…

Tips on How to Stage an Apartment Like a Professional

Susan Stallcup 2018-11-30 0 Comments

When you want either to sell or rent your home, anything that you can do to outdo those that you are in completion with is usually welcome. When you are out there to venta de departamentos en la condesa, your primary target is the buyer. Thus you should look for a way to eliminate any reason that may cause a potential buyer to turn away. This is where home staging comes into the fore. This can be defined as marketing your home in a way that is appealing to potential buyers. It is a way that you show off your home in its best light. Wondering on how you can go about doing it, below are tips on how to stage an apartment like a professional to facilitate a quick sale.

Your Windows and Mirrors Should be Streak Free

When there is enough light reflected into any room, then be sure that it will not only appear cleaner and brighter, but it will also feel more inviting. When you are doing your apartment cleaning in the bedrooms and bathrooms, ensure that the mirrors and windows therein are clean and streak free. This should also apply to all windows in the apartment. It is always best to allow more light into your house as it will look appealing.

Ensure All Surfaces are Clean

While most individuals ignore this, ensure that you take notice of it, do not assume that it is an obvious thing. Depending on how you use your apartment, and the number of occupants therein, it is essential to ensure that the apartment is cleaned correctly when you have put it out there for sale.

Most home stagers have come up with a trick of always using wood polish, glass cleaners and other sorts of cleaners. Do not make assumptions that all surfaces in the house are clean. Before showing your client around, ensure that you have has prior checkups to be sure.

Your Home Should Smell Good Always

If you are still living and using the apartment, it is possible that you might not be able to clean your house thoroughly. This is more especially if a prospective buyer appears when you least expect it. To ensure that you save yourself blushes at this time, you can use substances like fabric fresheners, neutralizers as they will keep your apartment smelling fresh always. But while at this do not use great perfumes as they are likely to put off a potential buyer.

Ensure Your Closets are Clean

When purchasing an apartment, experts will tell you that most buyers are keen on storage space. Many apartment sellers assume that their closets are places that they throw there dirty clothes or any other overly flowing stuff. Ensure that the buyer has a good look at the amount of space that the closet is offering. To achieve this you can either pack, purge or better sell some of your belongings to create more space.

Attach a Purpose to Each Room

You will realize that professional stagers have a purpose attached to each room of an apartment that they are selling. Why not do the same. Explain to the potential buyer on what each room is intended for. This way you will make them more attracted to your property.…

Tips for Buying a House

Susan Stallcup 2017-09-12 0 Comments

One of the most exciting experiences that one can have is purchasing a house more especially if you are doing it for the very first time. For most individuals, the idea of having their place, and having the freedom and liberty to do anything they feel like with the place is a dream come true. However, purchasing a house is not an easy task as you will have to put up with the responsibilities that come with it.

But if you have made a decision that you have all it takes to purchase a house and contend with the responsibilities that come with owning a home, then look at the tips below as they will ensure you purchase a house in an enjoyable and stress-free manner.

Select a suitable location

One of the major factors that you should take into consideration when you are purchasing a house is located. It is advisable that you always endeavor to purchase a house that is located in a strategic place. Ensure that the prospective house is located in a community that is well maintained with amenities like schools, public libraries, hospitals, police station, fire stations and recreational facilities. Ideally, you are supposed to purchase a house that is situated in a neighborhood that is not only peaceful but secure.

The process of finding a house is a hectic one, and thus you will need to have your preferences right from the word go. Additionally, it is important that you have the concerns of other family members when you are making your decisions.

Budget

It is important that you determine the amount of money that you want to spend in purchasing a house. Since the entire process of purchasing a house involves a large amount of money, it is advisable that you take your financial capability into serious consideration. Your budget will greatly determine the kind of house that you will be shopping for.

Consider working with a real estate agent

Real estate agents are very useful people when it comes to house purchasing. This is because they can help you locate a house that meets all of your requirements. But with many of them available in the market today, ensure that the agent that you want to deal with is not only properly qualified but has a good reputation.

He or she should be an individual who properly understands the market plus your desires. When you have an agent like this one, you are sure that they will guide you through the negotiation process with the potential seller.

Check your credit score and be pre-approved

For most home buyers, it is recommended that you buy it through mortgage as it is the better option. This is why it is advisable that you review your credit performance so that you can establish whether you can get this loan to finance the purchase of your dream house. If you have a good credit score, then get pre-approval but remember that it will greatly depend on your present financial status.

Negotiate then make the purchase

When you have found a house that you like, undertake the legal procedure that is to be followed in a house purchase.…

Common Plumbing Issues at Home

Susan Stallcup 2017-07-26 0 Comments

Recent research conducted has shown that homes will call for a plumber’s service at least once every two years. But the number of times that you will need to call the plumber will either increase or decrease depending on the age of your home.

There are a variety of plumbing problems that can occur in a home, but the major question is if these problems are common as they are usually referred to. Even though over time we must have witnessed a variety of plumbing problems either big or small, below is a list of what is usually referred to as the most common plumbing issues that one can experience in a home.

Dripping faucets

This is the most common plumbing issue that most individuals experience in a home. Most of us usually notice a dripping faucet in our homes, but the common thing that almost all people do is that they will ignore it for some time. But we should be alive to the fact that the dripping faucet will not only waste our home water but contribute to the increment of our water bills. Thus it is advisable that whenever you discover a dripping faucet in the home, make sure that it is rectified as quickly as possible.

Leaky pipes

Even though most people argue that the phenomenon of leaking pipes usually happens during cold winter months, it is something that happens almost throughout the year. You will discover that most of the pipes will have leakages in the joints. To ensure that the issue is sorted out before it worsens, it is important that you be on the lookout for wet spots either on the ground or ceiling. It is important that leaky pipes are fixed as quickly as possible, as water leakage can cause very grave damages to a home.

Running toilets

Most people do not know this, but research has shown that a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water in a single day. Whenever you have discovered that your toilet has running water, it is advisable that you immediately seek the services of a plumber.

Low water pressure

At least every home has experienced low water pressure at some point. Many people do not know why this happens, but in most cases, the low pressure can be as a result of hidden pipe leakages. Or on the other hand, it may be a signal that you need to install a new shower head so that you deal with that problem.

Clogged drain

This is another very common plumbing issue in many homes. Clogged drains are usually caused by the accumulation of dirt within the drain system over a long period hence leading to the clog. Even though most individuals will be tempted to deal with this by the use of over the counter drain cleaners, it is highly advisable that you hire a plumber so that they can effectively deal with the problem.

Some of the other common plumbing issues that can be experienced in a home include leaking hose pipes, failure of the sump pump and even having issues with your water heating system.

In all the above, it is recommended that you seek the services of a professional plumber whenever the issues arise.…