If you think the Christmas celebrations are over… think again! There are still a couple of days left before the end of the year and a few more before the feast of Three Kings (for us Catholics, anyway). So, Christmas celebrations are still on!

I will most likely share here a few of the photos I took over the past week. We celebrated Christmas at home, family members complete. Then, we celebrated it a bit more with relatives the following day. Just today, we had a mini reunion with uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces. They all came over and we had a blast!

Can you just imagine the chaos with all of us together in one place?! My dad’s side of the family is quite large and there are kids all over the house today. It was such a joyful day to see them happy but, at the same time, it was crazy energy all over the place. Good thing there are coloring books and sketch pads and chalk boards to keep them busy. The printables you can find on the net is also a big help in entertaining kids.

Printable Learning, initiated by Carrot Ink, a leading provider of remanufactured and compatible ink and toner cartridges, provides free downloadable printables such as activity books and coloring books.

And we still have a few more parties this weekend!

When looking at some of the best ways of improving your home, you have to consider what it takes to make the right decisions. There are a lot of things that have to play a part in this, and it is important that you come up with ideas that will help you make your home better. You don’t want to spend the whole time worrying about your home and the condition it’s in, and that’s why this is important.

There are a lot of things in the home that need to be right, and it is your job to ensure that they are as right as they can be. This is something you have to make sure you sort out as best you can, and you will be able to benefit from it. Here are some of the most important aspect of the home that you have to keep in mind moving forward, and you should get this right immediately.

Your Roof Needs to be Perfect

Your roof is such an important part of the business moving forward and protecting the home, and you have got to make sure you are focused on improving the property. Safety and security have to play a big role when you are looking to protect your home and make it more of an asset, and the roof plays a big role in this. There are a lot of things you can do that will help you make the roof better, and bringing in professional roofers wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world.

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Try to Go Green

Going green in and around the home is something you have to make sure you get right as soon as you can. This is an excellent way of embracing a much more eco-friendly way of living, and it can also help make your home healthier and happier in the long run. There are a lot of things you can do if you want to look at how you can go green, and this is one of the things that can help you out the most when it comes to improving your home and making your life better.

Make Sure Everything is Working

Making sure the house runs like a well-oiled machine is really important, and the way to do that is to make sure everything is working as effectively as it possibly can. There are so many things that can play a part in this, and it is important to understand that you sometimes need to call in experts to help with this. For instance, home a/c repair professionals can carry out the important task of making your air con more functional and longer-lasting.

Increase the Value

You should do as much as you can to work on increasing the value of the home where possible. There are a lot of things you are going to need to keep in mind moving forward, and this is important. Something like an extension or renovation would be a wonderful way of being able to increase the value of the home moving forward. This is certainly something to keep in mind for the future if you are serious about achieving success.

As you can see, these are just some of the things you are going to need to keep in mind when you want to make the home better. Getting these aspects right is so important, and these are not areas you can cut corners. There is a lot to think about in this respect, and you have to make sure you are making the right choices for your home right now.

The roof plays an important role in your home. It provides safety to you, your family and your valuables while keeping all of the elements out from your home. It protects your entire household from harsh weather conditions and warrant comfort. This is one of the reasons why whenever you’re buying a new home or renovating an old one, a residential roof inspection checklist should be in place. This can help you determine what details to look for in a roof. After all, you want a roof which meets all of your expectations, right? Aside from using the information from klausroofingcolorado.com, this article can also help you come up with a residential roof inspection checklist for your use.

Your roof is comprised of a lot of things. For a first-time homeowner, paying attention to all of these details can be too overwhelming and time-consuming. If you’re not well-guided, you’ll likely end up with a roof which doesn’t give value to your money, ruins the overall theme of your home, puts your family and valuables in danger, or all of the above. Steer away from this direction by including the following in your roof inspection checklist:

1. You should always cover the basics.

Fortunately, you don’t need to take years of training before you can assess the state of your roof. There are many visible signs which can tell you if your roof is in working condition or needs repairs or replacements. If you’re scared of heights, grab a pair of binoculars and inspect your roof from the ground. This option will allow you to see any missing shingles on the roof or any metal flashing in your chimney.

But if height is not an issue to you, go ahead and climb your roof using a sturdy piece of ladder. This option will provide you with a better view of your roof since you’re already up close and personal. Be wary of the following whenever you’re checking your roof:

• Damaged or missing chimney caps;
• Granules of shingles in the gutters;
• Growth of moss and algae; and
• Missing, curling or blistering shingles.

2. Become your own handyman.

Once you see any of the signs listed above, don’t wait for another sign to pop up. Usually, when the second sign is already present, your roofing problem has gotten worse, and you might need to pay for expensive repair and replacement costs. One way of saving yourself from this kind of situation is by being your own handyman. While hiring roofing contractors might be the most obvious choice, minor roofing problems can be fixed on your own.

For starters, any missing or damaged shingles can be replaced right away. You can use the extra shingles you had from your latest renovation project or opt to buy new ones from your local home depot store. Fixing minor roof problems doesn’t only cost less, but you’ll also save a lot of time, too. You don’t have to check and wait for the roofing contractor’s availability just to get the job done.

3. Be careful in choosing a roofing contractor to hire.

Knowing how to fix your roof on your own is always a good thing. However, there will be instances when your skills are no longer enough – that you already have to hire professionals to do the job for you. For bigger roofing problems such as a sagging roof or roof replacement, have the professionals take the wheel. Attempting to repair these kinds of problems can only lead to more significant issues in the long run.

However, when hiring roofing contractors, always consider at least three options. Never hire the first one you see around the neighborhood or the one offering the cheapest or most expensive products and services. Solely looking into these factors will not guarantee any positive results. Instead, scout for many roofing contractors, reach out to them to inquire about their products and services and hire one who fits your budget without compromising quality service. As a paying customer, you should always get your money’s worth.

4. Clear your roof of any moss and algae.

Seeing plants in your lawn can make your property stand out, but it’s never the same thing once moss and algae are starting to take over your roof. Seeing these on your roof actually means bad news because moss and algae need water to grow. And if they’re able to do this on your roof, it can be a telltale sign that moisture is already present in your roof and its materials are no longer durable. Continuing to use this kind of roof can cause injuries and bigger roofing problems in the future.

Depending on when you’re planning to clean your roof, you can opt to use a broom in the spring. Pour a moss killer along the ridges of your roof and any areas with green patches. Leave the solution for at least three hours, sweep the roof and gutters and finish off by applying the granules. If your schedule allows, you should regularly clean your roof so moss and algae will not build up.

5. Find early signs of a roof leak.

Giving your roof an annual overall checkup should be a necessity. This is one way of assessing the condition of your home before bigger problems start to become visible. But since leaks are one of the most common roofing problems any homeowner can experience, it’s important that you know how to detect its earliest signs. Fixing leaking roof as early as possible can save you a lot of time and money.

If you suspect your roof is leaking, look for the following signs:

• Certain areas of your ceiling look darker than others;
• Paint in the overhangs of your roof starts to peel;
• There are damp spots near your fireplace;
• Water stains are visible on the pipes venting the furnace or water heater.

If you’re having a hard time determining any of these signs, call professionals for their help. Most often than not, roofing contractors will use specialized techniques in checking your roof. With their tools and experience, they can surely provide a reliable assessment.

6. Determine when and how you’re going to replace your roof.

Everyone likes to save – that’s why most homeowners would only replace their roof if and if their roof is no longer usable. When the leaks are no longer repairable, or the roof doesn’t serve its purpose anymore, that’s the only time when they will call for a replacement. This kind of practice has its own set of pros and cons. Its biggest cons would probably be the delay when you’re not able to find a roofing contractor the moment you need one. Since you’re already desperate for their help (how else can you live in a home without a roof, right?), you likely hire someone who is either overpriced or provides low-quality products and services.

As a general rule, you should have a new roof once the old one already turned 25 years old. Regardless if your roof is still functional even with its lifespan, it’s best if you replace this before any problem occurs. This is the reason why you should always secure copies of your home renovation documents. Doing this can help you avoid experiencing any stressful situations concerning your roof.

7. Watch out for those trees.

As mentioned, having any plants within or new your property is always a good thing. Maintaining greeneries is like hitting two birds with one stone – you’re taking care of the environment while improving how your property looks. Every homeowner would love to experience these! However, when the branches of these trees start to make contact with your roof, be warned. Branches which are too big can cause damage to your home and injuries to you and your family. In worse cases, this can even become the reason why electrocution can happen.

Fortunately, there are several solutions to this problem. The oldest trick in the book would probably be about trimming all of your trees regularly. You can do this on your own or with the help of professionals. If you’re eyeing to take the latter option, just make sure that you also scout for options and inquire about their costs and services beforehand. If you don’t have the time and resources to maintain your trees, opt to plant ones which don’t grow too high. There are many kinds of trees or plants to choose so make sure you pick ones which fit your style and schedule.

Slow And Steady Wins The Race

Since a roof will require you to pay a large amount of money, you should exert time and effort to come up with a sound decision. You shouldn’t think hastily as this can only do more than good. Remember that your roof shouldn’t only look good, it should also function well. It should keep everyone inside your home safe, not inflict danger. Use this article to be your guide so you can finally accomplish this goal in your new roof!

There are more renters in the UK than ever before and there are also more options available to tenants who want to make their property feel like home. For both landlords and tenants, it is important that a rental property feels cosy, well-designed and homely. With the rise of generation rent, there are more and more alternatives to traditional decorating and these simple steps should help make your property feel like home. It is also essential that you and your landlord agree on the rules of the property before you start decorating. Your contract should detail what is allowed in the property, and if there are any queries, it is better to ask first.

Look at Temporary Decorations

Removable wallpaper – also known as peel and stick wallpaper – is a great option for adding some bright patterns to your rental home. This is designed with renters in mind and will leave no damage to the wall once you move. It is also a lot easier than wallpapering. Other options for decorating without damage include washi tape, removable chalkboard wallpaper, self-adhesive tiles and wall hangings. Command hooks are also a great way to hang things up in your rental property, without using nails or screws. You can also use these to hang display shelves, rails and caging, giving you extra storage space.

Find Key Pieces You Love

Though many rental properties are furnished, you can still add some furniture of your own. If space is limited it is worth looking for a few key pieces full of personality that you can take with you when your tenancy is up. Just make sure you keep hold of any fittings that came with the property, so you can return it to how it was when you leave. Interior designer Annabelle Holland told The Independent “Don’t be put off buying key pieces like art or furniture just because you’re renting. You can take these to a future home but do choose versatile items. If you’re currently renting a big loft space and want a big sofa, think about a modular sofa that can be broken up and fit into smaller spaces in your next home. Invest in lamps, or even just funky lampshades to place over the landlord’s lamps to brighten up your space”. From a bold armchair to a glitzy chandelier, you can find unique home pieces that will add loads of character to the room.

Choose a Property That Matches Your Style

This might have been difficult a few decades ago, but the demands of renters have changed the market, with rental properties now offering beautiful design and luxurious interiors. High end new developments by property companies like RW Invest feature stunning décor and designer furniture packs which make rental properties feel coordinated and stylish. There are far more types of rental property available, so it is worth looking around for one with a style you feel comfortable in.

Embrace Fabric

Fabric can be a life saver in a rental apartment, from quirky cushions to bold statement rugs. Soft furnishings are a great way to add colour and personality to a space, no matter how plain it might be. Often carpets can be an issue in rental properties so choose some bright and colourful rugs to protect the carpet or cover up previous tenants’ mistakes. Hanging curtains to divide spaces in studio apartments is another great way to make your rental apartment seem like home. You can also easily replace the curtains in a rental property.

While Christmas is a magical time, and for many their favourite day of the year, it can also be quite stressful, especially if you are hosting! If you are not only going to be cooking the Christmas dinner this year, but also playing host to guests, now is the time to start planning so that you can be well prepared for everyone arriving. Here, we are going to be taking you through our top tips for how you can prepare your home for Christmas if you are going to be having house guests.

Decorate the Spare Room

If you know in advance that you are going to be having family or friends coming over to stay this Christmas, the first thing that you will need to do is make sure that the spare room, if you have one, is fit for purpose. Clear away any clutter that you may have lying around, particularly if your spare room also acts as storage, an office or so on so forth. This is also the perfect time to make sure that the guest bedroom is ready for the winter season and you can find some great tips in the following article by Fishpools: https://www.fishpools.co.uk/blog/2018/09/transform-bedroom-winter/.

Their tips include updating your lighting to create an ambient feel, adding some cosy throws to the end of the bed, or updating the bed sheets to fit in with a more wintery and cosy theme. This will ensure that your guests have the best possible time while staying at yours over the Christmas period.

Create Some Storage

While your guests probably won’t be unpacking a lot of clothes in their winter wonderland room, but it is still nice for them to have a little bit of storage space and we are sure that this is something that they will appreciate. Investing in a folding suitcase rack is a great idea as it will allow your guests to have their case open to get out what they need without having it cluttering up the floor. What’s more, we would also suggest that you try and clear some hanging space for your guests. People will feel much more at home if there is some space for them to hang up a few key pieces, especially if they have brought a lovely Christmas outfit or glam new year attire.

You can find some useful tips on storage ideas for your guest room here: https://www.forbes.com/sites/houzz/2015/04/14/clever-storage-ideas-for-your-spare-room/.

Purchase A Clock

This is one that most people tend to forget about when they have guests staying over, but a good idea is to make sure that you have some sort of traditional clock in the room. As we are all glued to our technology, it’s easy to forget something like this but it is still a nice added touch. Your guests will feel much more comfortable with this in the room as they will know when they are sleeping in too late or if they are making a lot of noise early in the morning!

Provide the Essentials

A great way to make your guests feel right at home is to gift them with the essentials. We all have toiletries at the bottom of our cases from our last holiday that are from the hotel. You will most likely never actually use these, and so why not pop them into a little basket at the end of your guests’ bed for them to use during their stay.

Leave Out Towels

Alongside the toiletries, it is also a good idea to leave out some nice towels for your guests. People can feel uncomfortable having to try and find towels or having to ask, so why not simply leave out some towels on top of their bed and this is one less thing for everyone to worry about.

Look Out the Sofa Bed

Not everyone has a sofa bed, but they are quite handy for occasions such as this. If you do have one, you will want to give it a check over before your guests arrive to make sure that it is still in good working order and that the springs have not broken. During this time, we would also recommend that you make sure it is fitted with a clean sheet and that there will be enough space here for your guests. If you don’t have a sofa bed, another option that many people like is to get an air bed which you can inflate for your guests.

Switch Up Your Lighting

If you tend to rely on having just a main ceiling light, then we would suggest that you look into getting some smaller lamps for your home. No one wants to have to switch on a big main light to read a book in bed, plus having some lamps will make a huge difference to guests who need to make a bathroom trip late at night and maybe are not as familiar with the home layout.