Author Archives: Family Magazine

The hardness or softness of the water in your home can greatly affect your health and the way you feel. It can also have an impact on the lifespan and effectiveness of your appliances. Hard water can have a lot of negative consequences so it’s important to be mindful of the hardness levels of your water. If these levels are not appropriate, you should invest in a water softener.

A water softener works to reduce the buildup of harsh chemicals in your water.

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While all of these chemicals are natural and not necessarily harmful, they can still have negative impacts on your health and your body. For example, if you regularly shower with water that’s loaded with these heavy chemicals, your skin and hair can dry out. You may notice patches of roughness on your body or overall itchiness or discomfort in your skin. It can also have effects on your hair. Hard water can deplete the moisture in your hair making it rougher and less manageable, while also reducing its shine and bounce.

If you notice any of these issues, you may benefit from a water softening system. You can get one that softens all the water sources in your home, or one that’s individualized for just one area, such as your shower.

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Do you want to be able to clean your area rugs at home without paying for a service? This video takes you through some easy steps that will get your rugs looking new and smelling fresh.

There are a few things you will want to do to do before you start the area rug cleaning process. First, you will want to bring your area rug to a large space outside and lay it flat down preferably on your driveway for easy clean-up. Now, this next step is important because you want your rug completely free of any loose particles such as crumbs, hair, and dust. You will then want to give your rug a good vacuum to get any debris off. These steps will set you up for success before you start the deep cleaning process.

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Some things you will need for your area rug cleaning are a vacuum, extension cord, dawn detergent, any kind of pressure washing device, and a flat area to lay your rug down on. This process can get messy so it is suggested that you do this outside and wear clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. Watch this video on how to deep clean your area rug at home with ease!

A pool is a wonderful asset to your home, not only for the enjoyment it brings to you and your family but also for the value it adds to your home. But there are safety and cost concerns associated with installing a pool. That is why it’s important to select the pool installation services you will work with carefully! First things first, you want to find the pros. Get estimates from several different pool installation services.

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They will come and assess your home and yard and by meeting with them you will get a feel for their expertise and personality. Consider asking around to friends and family who have had a pool installed recently and find out who did their work for them. This way, you’ll get a chance to see a first hand example of their work before hiring them.

When hiring pool installation services it is important that you make your intentions and expectations clear to them so there is no confusion later on. If you are clear up front, both you and the contractor will be able to tell if they are the right fit for your project. It is much better to know what you’re getting into, rather than being in the middle of digging a giant hole in your yard and finding out that the contractor can’t or won’t meet your requirements. It is also important to discuss with the contractor what you are expected to do in regard to the project. For example, is there preparation that you will need to do before the project begins? If you follow these simple, suggestions you will end up with a contractor who will get the job done right!

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This video discusses window installation services and how a homeowner could replace his or her windows if necessary.

Drafty windows that need to be replaced can cause a serious problem with monthly expenses in the home. They can cause the person to have a higher electricity bill than usual.

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Therefore, it may be necessary for that person to do a window replacement right away. There are roughly two choices for window replacement. One alternative is to do a full replacement, and the other option is to do an insert replacement with only the part of the window where the crack or damage is present.

A pocket window or insert replacement is acceptable when the frame is in good condition. If the frame is not in excellent condition, a complete replacement is necessary. It’s better to replace old and failing windows than to do a partial job and still have issues because of it.

A measurement of the height of the pocket opening needs to be done before the project can start. This measurement includes the frame of the actual window and not the stops. The new window must be 1/2″ to 3/4″ from the opening for a perfect fit. Watch this video on window replacement installation to make your home more efficient.

Having a fence around your property can keep your property feeling safe, secure, and private.

There are so many different fence types to use, from a boundary line to storage space and many more. You can choose from a variety of different colors, patterns, and materials, making sure your fencing suits the look of your home. Having locks on your gates gives you peace of mind knowing your kids, pets, and property are safe from any unwanted guests as these locks are only accessible from inside the property and can be locked when needed.

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With the various fences comes a few different material options. There is the cheaper wood option, which suites rustic homes well but isn’t a very good long-term investment, and chain link fencing, which is the cheapest option but the least private option. Metal fencing is more expensive but great for long-term use and greater privacy, as is the aluminum fencing option, which is more often used for borders around swimming pools.

Be sure to look into each fencing type and look at long-term versus short-term benefits, designs, colors, and, of course, pricing. There is an option for each budget and a unique way to secure your property and give you the privacy you deserve.

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A kitchen cabinet install can help make your kitchen feel more your own and increase the value of the home, overall. This video offers a step-by-step guide to installing both base and hanging cabinets.

Step 1

Arrange your cabinets in the order they will be installed, and remove the old cabinets. You should use this opportunity to repair uneven walls or add insulation, flooring, and a new coat of paint.

Step 2

Find the highpoint of your floor with a level, and measure 34.5in above (the top of the base cabinet. Now measure 54in from the highpoint. This will be the bottom of your hanging cabinets. Locate all of the wall studs, too.

Step 3

Begin by installing the hanging cabinets. Line up where the cabinets will go in reference to the studs (example shown in video). Don’t tighten the screws on the wall fully. Leave some room to adjust the cabinet to make sure it’s level.

Step 4

Now you can install the base cabinets. Start in the corner with your 34.5in line mark as a reference. Make sure the walls are level before you screw them into place. Add shims if you need to adjust the level.

To learn more about installing your new kitchen cabinets, click on the video above.

Your flowers are a big part of the decor for your wedding. The arrangements you decide on have to match with your theme and the season of your wedding. Here are a few tips on what to include in your fall wedding flower arrangements.

Alternatives to flowers are popular for fall weddings. Some brides choose things like wheat and foliage for their bouquets.

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This is an especially popular choice if you are going for a more rustic look. You might use twine to tie the bouquets together instead of ribbon. This is a great way to incorporate the venue into your flowers if you’re having a barn wedding.

You’ll want to stick with warm tones like yellow, red, and orange. This is why sunflowers and poppies are great for fall wedding flower arrangements. You can also use roses if the wedding is more formal. This tip should be used throughout all the flowers on your wedding day, including the reception centerpieces.

Talk to your florist or wedding planner when you create the vision for your flowers. Don’t skimp on this detail. Plan the flowers as much as you do any other part of your wedding day. Then, you’re guaranteed to have a great day!

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