Why Should You Hire Professional Pressure Cleaners in Brisbane?

10 months ago ·

Why Should You Hire Professional Pressure Cleaners in Brisbane?

If you want to give your home a sparkling look and eliminate any grime and dad accumulated on your property, you should consider pressure cleaning your property.   While most homeowners always think of the DIY approach, several things must be considered first. Though you have been reading blogs on DIY pressure cleaning in Brisbane,  you must know this job will be challenging. In case you are unsure whether to hire professional pressure cleaners or DIY c pressure cleaning, you should find out why you should work with professionals. This way, you can decide which option is more suitable for you.

There are several reasons why you should hire professionals for pressure cleaning services in Brisbane which include:

  • It saves money

The primary motivation for most people who consider DIY pressure cleaning is to save money. However, if this is your primary motivation, you must reconsider your options. For DIY pressure cleaning, you will need to rent a pressure washer and any other equipment that you will need to clean your home. You must buy a construction-grade ladder and safety gear to ensure the pressure washing of your home safely. Getting all this equipment will be expensive for you, costing you more money than you think. When you have professional pressure cleaners in Brisbane, you will spend less money since these professionals have the right equipment for the job.

  • It is much safer

Using pressure cleaning equipment seems very easy, but it can be hazardous, especially for people with the proper knowledge and experience in pressure cleaning. Due to the high pressure used when pressure cleaning, the job can be dangerous. Due to the lack of experience and skills required in pressure washing, one can easily get injured when pressure cleaning their home. You should always hire professional cleaners to avoid getting hurt when pressure cleaning your home since you are unfamiliar with the job.

  • Prevents the environment from damages

Pressure cleaning can be dangerous to the environment, especially when using toxic cleaning detergents. If you pressure wash your home carelessly, you will send toxins and pollutants to water bodies. However, professional pressure cleaners ensure they carefully carry out their pressure cleaning projects without leaving any toxins that can damage the environment. They also use equipment and techniques and cleaning solutions that are environmentally friendly to get rid of the substances that build up on the exterior surfaces. This ensures that the environment is very safe.

  • Faster clean

Another reason why you need to work with professional pressure cleaners is that they get the work done within a very short period. Professional pressure cleaners have the proper training, equipment and experience that help them complete pressure cleaning of your home correctly and quickly. If you wish to sell your home or host an event soon, hire professional pressure cleaners to get your home clean quickly. Instead of struggling with the job and spending so much time on the job, you should consider working with professionals.

  • It helps avoid collateral damages

Pressure cleaning equipment is usually very powerful and can cause much damage when handled poorly. If you aim for extreme pressure badly, you can destroy the surfaces of your home, fence or deck. Also, without the right skills and experience, you may damage the layers of your home, which may result in irreversible damage. To avoid such collateral damages, you should consider hiring professional pressure cleaners since they can handle the job without causing any damage to your property.

Pressure cleaning in Brisbane is more complex than most people think. You will not do a perfect job when you are inexperienced and need the right equipment. Also, you will be risking your safety and the safety of your property. However, this can be avoided by hiring professional pressure cleaners from 1st Choice Pressure Washing Brisbane.

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Why Do Employees Need To Enrol For Work At Heights Course?

2 years ago ·

Why Do Employees Need To Enrol For Work At Heights Course?

Are you always working in work environments that involve working at heights? Have you ever considered enrolling your employees for the work at heights course or have you already enrolled for the course?  Probably you have never enrolled them for a work at heights course yet their job involves working at heights.  This can be very dangerous especially when the safety of your employees is concerned. Work at Height courses is usually very helpful mainly because they teach employees how to work safely at heights.

Why Should Employees Enroll For A Work At Heights Course?

In case you have an industrial or construction industry, all your employees need to enrol on a work at heights course before they start working at heights.   In case you have never considered the importance of the work at heights course, you might be wondering why your employees need the training.   However, this article will help you learn the essence of the work at heights course and the reasons why your employees need to enrol for this course. They include;

  • It reduces the risk of accidents in the workplace

 Accidents are always happening in workplaces especially because the employees have not undergone the proper training.  Their form even if you provide them with the protection they require chances are they will still cause accidents and enrich their lives.  A good reason why your employee should enrol for work at heights course is to reduce the chances of accidents happening in your workplace.   This is because your employees will learn how to work at height after acquiring the proper training.  Apart from reducing the risk of accidents, it also ensures that the employees are safe when working at heights.

  • It boosts the morale of the employees

If you want to enhance the productivity level of your workplace, you have to ensure that the morale of your employees is high.  Providing your employees with a Chance to learn how they can work at Height safely can boost their morale especially because they will know you care about them and their safety. When your workers know that you care about them and their safety, they will be more productive in the workplace.

  •  It saves insurance money

 If you want to save us some money on insurance, you need to enrol your employees on a work at heights course.  When they acquire the proper training, it will be evident that you take safety seriously.  For this reason, you will pay fewer premiums and spend less on your insurance money.  This could save your company hundreds or thousands of dollars every year.

  • It creates a safe culture

Whether you are working at a construction or industrial site, the work at heights course will enhance the safety of the employees and anyone on the site. Since heights can be very dangerous, you have to ensure that anyone working at heights has the proper training. Without the proper training, you will be risking the safety of the employees and anyone on the site. However, enrolling the employees on the work at heights course ensures that you create a safe culture in your workplace.

  • Increase the confidence of the employee

When your employees feel unsafe, especially when working at heights, they will lose their confidence. This could make them work poor and slow. Fortunately, enrolling them on work at heights course makes they feel safe, boosting their confidence.

Anytime you are recruiting workers to work at heights, you should consider enrolling them to the Skill 360 working at heights course.  This will be helpful to you as an employer, your employees and the reputation of your industry. For this reason, if you want to be the best, then you have to dedicate yourself to ensuring that your employees are properly trained when it comes to working at heights.

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Why you should buy a sparkling water tap for your home

3 years ago ·

Why you should buy a sparkling water tap for your home

Sparkling water taps are quite the in thing in kitchen appliances. It is a go to kitchen appliance which allows you to drink as much sparkling water as you desire. Gone are the days when the only way to get sparkling water was from the supermarket. Also having it wherever and whenever you want it was not so easy. However these days a sparkling water tap is the most easily available kitchen appliance and is very popular with the homeowners.

The following are some reasons why you should invest in one for your homes.

Why sparkling water taps are amazing kitchen appliances

High quality sparkling water tap is easy to use and quickly provides you with carbonated water. This seltzer water has just the right amount of fizziness. Also when you buy bottles of seltzer water you are always worried about finishing them fast enough so that they don’t become flat. On the other hand if you have a tap in your home which provides you with sparkling water whenever you like you do not even have to worry about it going flat. You can easily have it at your fingertips either chilled or at room temperature.

There are also a few benefits of drinking sparkling water. These include the following benefits

  • You might have heard at one point on the other that sparkling water is not beneficial for your health. Although it should be kept in mind that the amount of carbonic acid is in quiet a low quantity. When you compare it to carbonated drinks or sugary drinks it is quiet less than what you would have anticipated. This little amount of carbon dioxide in your water is not going to harm you in any way.
  • You feel more satiated after drinking carbonated water. This is because it helps keep your stomach fuller for longer. If you want to lose a bit of weight you may consider drinking a tall glass of sparkling water before you have your dinner or lunch. Doing so would allow you to eat fewer calories and therefore aid in the weight loss.
  • The carbonic acid present in the sparkling water is known to help get rid of constipation and lower the instances of acid reflux. It also keeps you hydrated for longer. Sometimes you find yourself reaching for that bottle of soda because of the instant freshness which it provides. On the other hand sparkling water brings you the same freshness minus those calories.
  • You can even use sparkling water as a good alternative for all the fizzy drinks with your kids drink on a regular basis. Just add a dollop of honey along with freshly squeezed lemon for a refreshing lemonade. You can even make various kind of cocktails using sparkling water.
  • While sparkling water doesn’t definitely harm you, it cannot be a complete replacement for drinking regular water. You can consider it as a good alternative for drinking other soda drinks.

If you are looking to install a sparkling water tap for your home, make sure you check out the latest gadgets available in the market.

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Garden bed edging: Why you should consider lawn edging

4 years ago ·

Garden bed edging: Why you should consider lawn edging

The best landscapes are the ones which have various areas that have a different purpose. For example a covered area, a vegetable garden or a flower border. Landscape edging not only helps accentuate all of these places but also provides a unifying element to your garden. Edging is one of the most practical methods of creating defined and clear lines in your garden. It also helps hold the mulch in place and prevents people from trampling on your prized flowers or vegetables.

Edging not only serves an aesthetic purpose but it has a functional purpose as well. There are many options for homeowners. They can use a simple trench for paving stones or they may go for decorative wooden edges.

However there are several things which you should consider when you decide to go for lawn edging.

Why consider garden bed edging?

Edging creates a clear boundary between the beds and the other areas in the garden. Landscape edging can help define a flower border, a single tree or a shrub garden. It can also help define the separation of a patio from the surrounding area. It emphasizes the lines of the flower beds and therefore makes it the main focus of the garden.

It also prevents that trough from creeping into the surrounding areas. It prevents the soil or the mulch in the garden beds from spilling on to the lawn. Usually when it is raining or when you are watering the garden the mud can slide onto the grass and give it an untidy look.

Some people choose to go for taller landscape edging while others might even use short edges or fences. Not only do these help provide a defined path but can also keep visitors out of the areas where you don’t want them to go.

However, it should be kept in mind that edging should be firm. If it is not placed firmly it might loosen and you would have to repeat the edging process.

Here are some types of garden bed edging that could give your garden a different look and feel:

  • A divider can be placed between the lawn and the garden bed. It can be a simple trench or a v shaped ditch.
  • Bricks or flat stones are wide materials. These help create a firm base which is suitable for the wheels of a lawn mower.
  • If your aim is to keep the much in its place you might need to use a material which is at least 2 inches above and 4 inches below the ground.
  • If you are simply considering something aesthetic, you can choose from a variety of landscaping materials. You can choose to add new material to the garden scheme and make it look more aesthetic.

However, it should be kept in mind that the cost of each type of material and quality can be different. Using stones or boulders is completely free. On the other hand if you choose wood, aluminum or any other material to be used as an edge you might need to pay accordingly. Do consider all of these points when selecting a garden bed edging for your lawn.

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Things to consider while choosing types of materials for stone wall cladding

4 years ago ·

Things to consider while choosing types of materials for stone wall cladding

Stones in the early days are applied for wall making in the form of cubes. However, nowadays, with advanced technology and tools, stones are further processed. Quarrying, polishing, cutting, coating, are some ways stones are processed.

Stone wall cladding entails protecting the interior and exterior parts of a wall with natural stones. Some of the notable materials used for wall cladding includes tiles, slabs, and stone veneers.

In this article, we will discuss how to select stone wall cladding and things to consider while choosing a stone wall cladding type.

Understand the formation of natural stone wall cladding

There is a natural beauty accrued to stones that evolve and reflect the natural processes it undergoes during formation. Natural colour fades, impressions of fossils, patterns, grains, veins, styles, and shades of colours make them unique.

Some natural stones are cool, warm, and attractive. These are some attributes to look out for in stones for wall cladding.

Select stone wall cladding that will enhance the value of your property

Stones are capable of either enhancing your property’s beauty or make it look rustic. A beautiful looking natural stone can also improve the durability and strength of your wall exterior, thereby increasing its overall value. Stones also can make properties look classic or modern, and you need to decide your preference. Look into stone wall cladding to enhance the value of your property.

Improve facade appearance with stone wall cladding

When you apply natural stone veneer to your entire exterior and especially façade, it highlights your property’s beauty and improves the overall curb appeal. You can be creative with your stone patterns and types to give your building a beautiful aesthetic look.

Decorate backyard patio with stone wall cladding

Your backyard patio can look beautiful with veneer stones for wall cladding. Low garden walls covered with stacked stones give a beautiful appearance which improves the sensations and comfort when rightly applied.

Gives your property a versatile look

Natural stones, unlike most construction materials, have a significant versatility to suit various spaces. Natural stones could fit into the exterior, kitchen, bathroom, terrace, patio, or living room.

Stone wall cladding protects property from extreme weather

Stones contain lots of minerals such as silicates and calcites, which helps to insulate buildings against extreme weather conditions. Natural stones resist extreme temperature, which makes them favourite for hot temperature regions.

It is easy to maintain stone wall cladding

Natural stones are quite easy to maintain; it possesses durability and longevity properties. Stones hardly break unlike other materials, and it rarely allows permanent stains. You can easily wash stains and dirt on stone wall cladding with water.

Several styling and finishing choices

A unique personality touch is associated with natural stones wall cladding when meticulously planned and installed. For example, stone wall cladding 3D effects displayed at the entrance. A living room clad with slate stone in a vertical linear style. An irregularly shaped stone-clad designed in a classical theme around the study corner. A customized stone wall clad pattern designed for the TV area.

The importance accrued to stone wall cladding is numerous as it has lots of benefits and uses for various architectural designs. Your knowledge and preference will determine the style of wall cladding to use. Ensure you put all the information discussed above into consideration before making your stone wall cladding choice.

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Reasons for installing Air Conditioning Gold Coast

4 years ago ·

Reasons for installing Air Conditioning Gold Coast

Around 37 C or 98 F is the normal temperature of a human body. This means that your home in the Gold Coast can only maintain a comfortable temperature when it is less than your body’s temperature.

Some places on earth are lucky to have comfortable temperatures throughout the year. However, the Gold Coast can become uncomfortably warm during the summer season. Thanks to the great strides in the technology of air conditioning, Gold Coast, putting up with the heat is no longer an option.

Your health and that of the members of your family can be compromised without proper air conditioning during the hot summer months. While there are other cooling alternatives available, they tend to offer comfort only for a limited time.

Lesser plants and trees and gasoline smog from vehicles are conditions in highly-urbanized cities that generate more heat. This makes it imperative for city dwellers to seriously consider installing air conditioning in their homes.

The reasons to consider installing air conditioning in your home include:

Compromised health

Health can be seriously compromised by high temperatures. This is because the human body is conditioned to survive well below its average temperatures. The multiple health issues caused by high temperatures include:

  • Profuse sweating resulting in heat exhaustion
  • Fainting and nausea
  • Low blood pressure
  • Muscle cramps and fatigue
  • Dehydration caused by heavy sweating

The above health issues are the chief causes of fatal heatstroke happening to people around the world. The affordability and accessibility of air conditioning systems in the Gold Coast make them the best way to protect your and your family’s health.

Clean air

Installing an air conditioning system in the home is the best way to enjoy fresh and cold air every time it’s kept on. The design of the air conditioner to simultaneously blow fresh air and sucking out contaminated air from inside the home maintains clean air all the time. This further protects families from triggering asthma and other respiratory attacks.

Enhanced productivity

Exhaustion can quickly set in with high temperatures inside the home. Fatigue and dehydration can keep you from staying active and productive. The cooler air provided by an air conditioning system relaxes and soothes your brain and body, making it more productive and active.

Better sleep

Sleeping during the hot summer season can be almost impossible without help from an air conditioning system. Waking up exhausted is the result of interrupted sleep during the night. And high temperatures can be the chief cause of it. Cooler temperatures provided by an air conditioner, on the other hand, maintain normal levels of blood pressure and heart rate to make you sleep uninterrupted the entire night.

Added security and protection

In the past, windows of the home are opened wide to let in the air. This is not the scenario today. Contemporary homes are sealed tight to deter break-ins and protect privacy. A sealed home can become a literal furnace during the hot summer season. A proper air conditioning system provides the perfect answer to secure and protect a home and the people living in it.

Hiring highly trained and experienced technicians for installing air conditioning units in your home is the best option you have to ensure proper execution.

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Security Shutters Sydney

4 years ago ·

Security Shutters Sydney

Security shutters, especially those with the slimline design, are a perfect solution for most discerning homeowners to tighten the security of their homes. Security shutters not only add security to our homes but also adds value and aesthetics to a property. They enhance the appearance of our homes. Besides, security roller shutters guarantee you to beat cold during the winter season and hot temperatures during summer. This way, chances are, you are going to lower the amount of electricity bill you could use to heat or cool your indoors.

Benefits of installing security shutters

There are numerous benefits homeowners get when they install security shutters in their homes. Here are some of them:

Security

Quality roller shutters guarantee you to keep burglars away. Security shutters built with precision to provide solid protection from intruders is a sure way to tighten your home security. With all kinds of styles and designs, you can’t miss the design and style of shutters you like for your home. Remember to have your shutters installed on your homes by experts. You may ask the sellers if they offer after-sale installation services to their customers. If not, make sure to source for an expert. If shutters are installed anyhow, it can’t keep sophisticated burglars away.

Security shutters qualify to be used both in commercial and domestic environments. The sturdy design ensures that there are no break-ins, no vandalism succeeds, no damages to your window glasses. It generally guarantees you with safety. Interestingly, all security shutters are designed to resist bullets, so that if armed gangs invade your home or business, you still are safe.

Bushfire protection

Most of the shutters have fire-rated up to 40. Metal crank is installed for safety purposes in case of fire outbreak. Some are motorised, while others are manually operated. For the motorised crank, there is an override manual feature so that in case of the electric part the failed manual takes over. The bushfire shutters are not only designed to keep the fire at bay, but they are slim designed to improve the appearance, which adds value to the property. Their perforated slat filters light and air entering into the house. Most of the security shutters are designed locally, and local materials are used to ensure the sturdiness of the final product.

Durability

Security shutters are long-lasting and can be used for many generations to come. Apart from repairs and maintenance like applying paint, they only require an initial amount to purchase, other than that, your home or commercial property remains secured for many years to come.

Noise reduction

Keep away external noise from interfering with you inside using security shutters. Noise from crazy neighbours is reduced significantly with security shutters. If on a commercial property, keep away noises of hooting cars and Lorries from your business area or offices. Security shutters filter external noise to create a conducive environment indoors.

Improved privacy

Privacy indoors is guaranteed by security shutters. Little or minimal noise from inside goes out of the room or building because shutters blocks sound, so if you are holding a sensitive meeting with staff or friends at your home, passersby or outsiders cannot decipher whatever you are discussing.

Reduction of insurance amount

The cost of insuring your home secured with security shutters is reduced significantly. This because insurance companies leverage their charges according to vulnerabilities and homes or commercial premises with security shutters attracts small monthly or quarterly charges.

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Five super benefits of having a 24-hour plumber in Melbourne

4 years ago ·

Five super benefits of having a 24-hour plumber in Melbourne

Have you ever experienced any plumbing issues? Were you expecting that there will be such issues, or did they get you unaware? Most of the people will say that among the issues that they face without expecting that there would be any plumbing issues. This is because they can occur at any time of the night or day. For this reason, you need to be very prepared so that you can know how this kind of issues should be fixed. In Melbourne, there are so many plumbers that you could consider hiring, but there is always an added advantage to hiring other plumbers. Some people will argue that plumbers are all equal and that there are no plumbers that are superior to the others, but when it comes to the services offered, there is quite a difference. The following benefits will make you understand why you should hire a plumber who operates for 24 hours.

1.They are always available.

As mentioned earlier, plumbing issues occur at any time of the night or day, when you are busy, on your holiday or vacation, but they must be fixed. For this reason, you will need someone who can fix these problems as fast as possible before damages are caused. Since the 24-hour plumber will operate during the day and night, they will always be there to fix the issues that you are having with your pipes, drains, bathrooms and sinks whenever you want them to help you.

2. Their schedules are flexible.

The other thing that you need to check for you to be contented with the plumber that you are hiring is their flexibility. Some of the plumbers may have very tight schedules such that you may not be served when you need them to serve you. However, when it comes to the plumbers in Melbourne who operate during the day and night, their schedules are always very flexible such that they get time to serve their clients as required. In case you want them to fix issues that you may be having after you are out of work, they will organise themselves is that they can fix those issues when you get back home.

3. They avert the occurrence of damages.

When there are plumbing issues, especially at night, they will need to be fixed immediately. However, when you wait till morning, a lot of damages may occur, leading to massive losses. This can only be avoided by having a plumber that is always ready to offer their services at any time they are called upon by any clients. For this reason, a 24-hour plumber will always provide the service that you need, thereby preventing damage from occurring to your property.

4. They are convenient.

The other benefit of hiring a 24-hour plumber is that they are the most convenient plumbers in Melbourne. This is because they offer their services once you call them since they are always available at any time of the day or night when you need them.

5. Hiring them saves you some extra cash.

In case the plumbing issues that you are facing are having broken or leaking pipes in your home, there will be some damages, especially when you wait for a very long time. However, hiring a plumber who is always available during the day or night ensures that there are no damages that are occurring and hence you will save some cash that you would have used for repairing the damages that occur.

Be sure to have the phone number of 24 hour plumbers available in Melbourne so that you have someone to call when you have a plumbing emergency.

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Exterior Painting Melbourne

4 years ago ·

Exterior Painting Melbourne

The exterior of a building is the first impression someone gets when they enter your compound. It displays a statement of your personality so carefully choosing the colours and types of paint matters if your exterior décor is to stand the test. The quality of workmanship also counts because it takes fundamental painting experience for the task to be done in a perfect and timely manner.

Quality paint

When it comes to painting your exterior, the quality of the paint counts because the surfaces will be exposed to weather elements from the time of application throughout its lifetime. Getting it right from the quality means you have got it all. Quality comes with benefits that benefit both the painters and the project owners. It is better to ask the project owner to spent a little extra for quality because it will pay off in the long run. High-quality paints have properties that help apply easily to the surfaces, making them look better and the durability.

Pigment

Two types of pigments go inside the paint containers. A prime pigment which provides the colour and hides is the first thing that goes into the can and the second one is the less costly extender pigment. Its purpose is to add bulkiness and nothing in terms of colour, so a little value is added with this in terms of colour.

Quality colours possess most of the prime pigments, which make paint easy to apply, durable and colour retention capabilities.

Binders

Today’s paints contain a variety of binders; latex, for example, has a hundred per cent vinyl or styrene-acrylic binders. For oil paints, they contain linseed, soya or alkyds oil. The types of binders affect the resistance to the stain, gloss and crack resistance. Using high-quality binders allow the paint to adhere to the surfaces for better film protection for long-lasting performance. Such qualities prevent peeling, blistering and cracking.

Liquids

There is no technical substance that the liquid adds to the paint, but it acts as a vehicle from which the pigments and important substances travels from the can onto the surfaces being applied. High-quality paints have greater ratios of pigments, liquid and binders.

Additives

These are the ingredients that give some specific extra benefits to the paints. Some of the common additives include rheology modifiers for better hide, flow and levelling. Another important additive is mildewcides to check mildew effects on the coatings. Dispersing agents distribute agents evenly in the paint while preservatives prevent spoilage of the paint hence extends the shelf life of the paint.

Before embarking on the way to procure your paints remember that low-quality paints will require more coating and are less durable or likely to need maintenance sooner as compared to high-quality paints. This applies to exterior paints and fairly applies to interior paints. For your thought, you should look beyond the price tags on the stores and compare their cost in terms of year of service. Quality counts a lot when it comes to selecting the appropriate paints. Whether your painting project is exterior or interior or whether you are after the adhesion or durability, hiding properties and more, quality paints will give you the real value for your money. Paint selection is not as simple as visiting the paint stores as many people think, it needs some in-depth research if your painting project is to be a success story. For professional advice on painting your house, turn to Amazing Painting.

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Air Conditioning in Toowoomba

4 years ago ·

Air Conditioning in Toowoomba

If you want to supply clean air in your building or want to moderate the temperatures in your building, installing air conditioners is inevitable. During summer, temperatures can bring discomfort to people inside a building or a workplace to the extent of affecting productivity in whatever they are doing. It is the same case when the winter season comes, extremely cold temperatures affect productivity as well. The only go-to we are left within the two scenarios is to implement what brings together the two extreme ends, which is, installing air conditioners in the buildings. To be more effective, install air conditioners suitable and relevant to a building or a workplace because there are different types of air conditioners designed with a certain suitability case in mind and those suitable for small and large buildings.

Why it is important to install air conditioners

  • Improved air quality in the rooms, some air conditioners have air cleaning properties so that the air emitted inside is clean and with appropriate temperatures desired.
  • They are assets to the homeowners, and when you want to let your house, it will fetch you higher prices as compared to when air conditioners have not been installed.
  • Your health will be improved, flues, colds are all gone because these viruses don’t thrive in clean and dry air.

Why ductless air conditioners are a better option

Duct systems collect a lot of particles in the form of dust, pollen and even moulds over a period which are responsible for allergies and odours. Ductless air conditioners filtration systems effectively remove dirt, pollen, and moulds from the air and other impurities so that you can breathe quality air at your home.

Another reason to install ductless air conditioners in your home or workplace is the economical value it brings when they consume negligible to the little amount of power. Aside from less power consumption, it allows us to regulate each room’s temperatures as we wish.

Ductless air conditioners are energy star rated, which means they are friendly to the environment by emitting little to no carbon to the atmosphere.

Ductless air conditioners are easy to install. Anybody with experience in handling electrical works and plumbing works can install ductless air conditioners without a struggle. Unlike duct air conditioners which require rebuilding of the walls and ceilings, they are only mounted with little wall destruction.

Problems related to air conditioners

It is cost-effective to install window air conditioners while you are still planning for the central air conditioning system. You can still feel conditioned air in your rooms with these small air conditioning units just like the big ones. This is only when they are correctly installed because if not, they might stumble over, causing you huge losses when repairing or might even force you to obtain a new system. So the following are the common mistakes associated with air conditioning installations.

Sizing

Sizing is the most common problem associated with split or ductless air conditioners. For an air conditioner to function well, it should be with the cooling capacity that is in tandem with the square feet of the room to be air-conditioned. Otherwise, it won’t be efficient.

Keep it level

While installing air conditioners, you should balance to ensure its level is maintained, and you can use a spirit level to be sure

Insulate the room

The house that is to be air-conditioned should be insulated to avoid loss of heat through outlets that will drain cooled air inside the room.

To avoid any technical trouble, get  VDK Air Conditioning in Toowoomba to do the work for you.

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Transportable Homes WA- Interesting facts on mobile homes

4 years ago ·

Transportable Homes WA- Interesting facts on mobile homes

Mobile or transportable homes in WA are built in a factory like setting. The parts of the home which are constructed on the factory site and then transported to the location specified by the home owner. The building process then takes place on site and finished on time also because there is no additional need for building on site. Usually these homes are not built on a solid foundation. This gives the owners the freedom of choosing another property where they may want to live (although it should be kept in mind that there are certain laws pertaining to transportable homes which need to be adhered to)

The following are some important facts on transportable homes which all home owners should be aware of before making the decision into moving into one

  • It should be kept in mind that transportable homes are considered the same as regular homes. These do not depreciate in value.
  • Transportable homes can be customized according to the specification of a home owner. Although there are homes which are factory designed certain variations can be made in terms of fittings and fixtures. Although customizing these homes might increase the cost on the total bill.
  • Transportable homes are designed computer aided design technology. This allows very little room for error when it comes to construction or design. This also allows these homes to be much sturdier.
  • Modular hoes can be built according to the size and design specified by the client. There are no specifications on how small or big a transportable home can be.

  • Transportable homes have a construction which applicable for official building as well.
  • Transportable homes take a great deal less tie to be built when compared to regular homes. This is because transportable homes are constructed within a factory setting. This helps save time on day when the weather isn’t good or there is a shortage of man power. This time saving also helps keep the cost of such homes in the affordable category.
  • You can get a loan for transportable home just the way you get for site built homes. If you are worried about financing, make sure you talk to a company that builds transportable homes in WA. They would provide you with affordable financing option which would be feasible for you.
  • Transportable homes are also considered to be more energy efficient because of the time which these save while being built. These are considered more of a green type of a home.

There is a popular belief that transportable homes tend to look alike because they are built in factories. However, it should be kept in mind that there is bound to be some similarity, home owners have the option of customizing the home according to their requirements. There are different styles of Aust Wide transportable homes in WA to choose from. You can choose from any of the architectural detail which appeal to you. There is a catalogue which offers customers an insight of how their home is going to look once it’s completed.

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How to find the best house and land packages in Bundaberg

4 years ago ·

How to find the best house and land packages in Bundaberg

Most people often quail at the thought of house and land packages. They consider it too much of a hassle. However, it is not as complicated as one might consider. While the simple thought of going through all the information which is available can be over whelming, but purchasing a house and land package isn’t that much of a big deal.

Home and land packages work best for people who want to build a new home on the kind of property they want. It’s an excellent opportunity for them to make an investment in something which they strongly believe in.

The following information on house and land packages in Bundaberg would help make things simple:

  • There are usually two kind of house and lad packages. These are buy to build or pre built.
  • Buy to build refers to a package wherein the developer has already purchased land on which they plan to build. The land is already divided into a number of plots which you can purchase with the building process already underway.
  • A prebuilt package on the other hand is where a contractor has already built a home and it is ready for purchase.

Things you need to consider with house and land packages in Bundaberg

Land from the package is usually bought from the government. The contractors then build a house on it and then put it up for sale. However you need to consider the following things when it comes to house and land packages in Bundaberg:

  • The mortgage on the land. It is the regular kind of mortgage where you have agreed on purchasing price and look for a mortgage provider who would offer you nominal rates.
  • Construction for loan. This is a process in which the building process is divided into a number of steps. After each step is completed you need to make a payment after you are completely satisfied with the whole process.
  • All land packages require at least 5 to 10% deposit. For the deposit you can get a loan from a bank or any mortgage provider.

Some other things to consider include the infrastructure of the place where you are considering buying the house and land package. Consider things like connection to public transport. While this may not seem of much importance to you, it can have a major impact on your quality of life once you move into your new home.

House and land packages make up for a good investment. Mainly because new homes have almost little to no maintenance. Since the fixtures and everything else in the home is new you don’t have to worry about damages and repairs.

You can also enjoy the benefits of depreciation is a new home. You can make deductions for the depreciable assets in your new home. Sometimes the deductions can go as high as tens or thousands of dollars and allow you to claim the benefits which you would get on the rate of interest.

JRZ offer house and land packages in Bundaberg. They are the right people to contact if you want a property in Bundaberg.

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Maintaining garage roller doors in Central Coast

4 years ago ·

Maintaining garage roller doors in Central Coast

Garage roller doors require regular maintenance or these might become worn out after daily use. As a result the tracks could become misaligned and therefore interrupt the smooth operation. Sometimes the door would make a strange dragging noise. This noise is enough to drive you insane every time you open or close the garage door.

However, install garage doors on the Central Coast properly and ensure regular and correct maintenance to avoid trouble. If you want to make sure your garage door lasts a long time without any major repair costs, just keep the following maintenance tips in mind:

Be aware

The most important thing which you can do to ensure your garage door remains in proper working order is to keep an eye out on things. When you open or close the garage door you should pay attention to its movement. Does it seem to glide up and down smoothly? Do you see a problem in the movement? If you do, maybe it would be better o oil the rollers every now and then. Proper lubrication ensures better working for garage doors.

Also be on the lookout for any loose hinges or damage to the tension cables. However, these are things which are best addressed by professionals only. Refrain from touching the hinges or the cables and call in the services of garage roller doors in central coast.

Does the garage door balance properly?

Always check for the balance of the garage door by pulling at the release cord to disconnect the opener. Move the door using a manual action. If the balance of the door is correct it would stay open. If it ends closing down, you have got a problem which should be addressed immediately.

Keep the tracks free from dirt and debris

The track surface of the garage doors need to be properly cleaned. Any debris which is stuck in the tracks would cause the movement of the garage door to become jerky. It is easy to clean the tracks with the help of methylated spirit. However the guide tracks should never be lubricated with oil.

Care for the hardware

Even if you just use the garage door to open up twice or thrice a day it should be kept in mind that accounts for more than thousand movements a year. This is why it’s necessary to pay attention to the hardware attached on the door. That much movement can cause the hardware to loosen up and make a strange sound. It’s always necessary to tighten up the roller brackets and bolts with the help of a wrench.

Use water to get rid of the dust

Make sure you give a wet cleaning to the door on a weekly basis. If you live in a place where there is a great deal of dust you might have to up the frequency of the cleaning. However do try to prevent the water from going into the automatic opener as this might cause a problem with the wiring and lead to electrocution.

Keeping the above mentioned things in mind would help with the maintenance of garage roller doors.

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Why you need a Landscape Architect for your Sydney property

4 years ago ·

Why you need a Landscape Architect for your Sydney property

One of the best ways to add value to a home is to have an outdoor living space designed. And a landscape architect is the best professional that can design and extend your living space as well.

Eloquent Landscape architects in Sydney is capable of designing outdoor kitchens, arbours, fountains, patios, fireplaces/fire pits, and installed seating. Implementing these features to your outdoor space is not only environmentally friendly, but it also provides an inviting ambiance for you, your family, and guests.

Reasons for Hiring a Landscape Architect

Hiring a landscape architect gains your outdoor space multiple benefits, to include:

Create an outdoor design you will love

An outdoor design you love is an instant mood booster. Hiring a landscape architect will not only boost up your outdoor area but also do a design that complies with codes and regulations. A lovely outdoor space becomes a special place to be enjoyed by you, your family and guests over the years.

Systematic plan

Landscape architects are trained to assess the problem and possibility areas of your property. This makes them come up with a systematic plan in choosing the best textures, colours, materials, and styles for your outdoor space. They will guide and help you select the perfect design for your outdoor area and handle all the details of preparation and construction.

Provide you a low-maintenance garden

A landscape architect can provide you a low-maintenance garden as per taste and preference. This means using plants that require less watering and fertilizing. This type of garden can be friendly to insects such as butterflies and bumblebees as well.

Good placement of trees

Trees and shrubs strategically placed in the garden can help lower energy bills. An experienced and professional landscape architect will be able to know the exact locations to place the shrubs and trees to reduce your cooling and heating costs.

Incorporate natural swimming pools

Aquamarine-coloured pools are not the trendy style of today. The trend is with low maintenance and chemical-free natural-looking pools. This makes the all-natural pool a must-have for any large backspace. You can work on having this wonderful feature to your outdoor space with your chosen landscape architect.

Add permeable paving

Sidewalks and patios become lovely to look at when permeable paving is used. Other than that, the paving encourages groundwater recharging as well as reduce runoff. This offers an instant solution for driveways prone to flooding.

Expert design and construction from start to finish

A reliable and professional landscape architect will stay with your project from start to finish. He/she will be working closely with you to ensure that everything you want to be included will be part of the project as long as it is possible. This means that the landscape architect will recommend designs that meet your expectations and follow through after the project is finished.

Creatively design a rain garden

Some backyards flood during the rainy season. A landscape architect provides the perfect solution by constructing a rain garden. A rain garden also provides beneficial insects and birds a natural habitat as well as filter runoff rainwater from lawns and sidewalks. They work and look better than installing a French or storm drain.

Expanding your living space outside as well as increase the value of your home is by having it landscaped professionally. Eloquent Landscape architects in Sydney can help you beautify your property.

 

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How to select top quality outdoor furniture in the Sunshine Coast

4 years ago ·

How to select top quality outdoor furniture in the Sunshine Coast

When the weather is warm wouldn’t you simply love to sit outside and enjoy a lazy afternoon? For that you need to invest in high quality outdoor furniture in Sunshine Coast. Your outdoor space can actually serve as a small outdoor room when you add in a few classy looking pieces of furniture. Add to it some colorful upholstery and an umbrella or a swing and you have your own small little outdoor enclosure.

The key is to invest in few but high quality pieces. There is a whole lot of difference enjoying the weather sitting on a comfy sofa or spending a few short minutes perched on an uncomfortable little chair. While plastic models are often used by home owners, they do not have the same timeless appeal like a wooden or pine wood outdoor furniture.

So how do you make sure you have got your eye on the right kind of outdoor furniture in Sunshine Coast?

Just make sure to follow these simple tips:

  • When buying outdoor furniture make sure you always have a closer look before you purchase something which appeals to you. A close inspection would reveal whether the paint job is neat or slip shod. Also nuts and bolts hanging out is another indication that it’s just actually cheap craftsmanship. Your aim should be to invest in one or two classy looking pieces which would last a long time. Anything which is high quality is definitely going to cost more but it would be worth every dollar that you spend.
  • Choose the right material. It all depends upon how often you would be using the outdoor furniture. Lightweight aluminum furniture is resistant to weathering and rusting. It can look innovative but definitely wouldn’t be as classy looking as pine furniture. So make a decision based on your own personal preference and the kind of budget that you have in mind. Wooden furniture made from teak or oak is pretty expensive. Plus it also needs to be maintained properly if you want to ensure that it retains its look. However, wooden furniture weathers down to a beautiful natural finish which can be just as appealing.
  • Once you buy the furniture make sure you make the necessary preparations for it. If you have an open patio you might consider getting it closed, by adding a roof or investing in furniture covers. This would help ensure that your outdoor furniture remains in proper condition throughout the year.
  • Sitting outdoors can soon turn pretty unpleasant. So if you have placed the furniture in the garden or the yard you might consider investing in a shade. You have a choice of going for a good old fashioned umbrella canopy or a motorized awning. All of these are easily available at an outdoor furniture store in sunshine Coast. You might also want to consider dividers which can block the sun and at the same time offer much needed privacy.

By keeping these tips in mind you’ll know where to find outdoor furniture in the Sunshine Coast.

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Why You Need To Consider Using Roller Blinds in Your Gold Coast Property

4 years ago ·

Why You Need To Consider Using Roller Blinds in Your Gold Coast Property

Having an elegant personal space is one of the most desiring things. While decorating the interior of your house, some things are easily changeable. One such thing is the window blinds. While there exist different kinds of window blinds, roller blinds are the talk of the town.

They come in different colours and designs. This makes them the easiest part you can change to complement the interior of your home. Undoubtedly, modern window roller blinds never disappoint. So if you are building a new home or merely intending to change your interior, below are reasons why you need to consider roller blinds.

Versatility and flexibility

Why would you want to use a roller blind on your window? There are several reasons for this. However, in any case, you need a shutter that will perform to its utmost best. Roller blinds are very flexible in terms of the fabric you can fit them.

The choice of fabric you fit on it depends on the purpose you want it to serve. For instance, you can protect the interior of your home from the rays of the sun or UV rays. In some cases, you can protect from both.

Right blinds filter UV or sun’s glare while letting in just enough light to allow you to carry out your activities as well as see outside. Still, you can get blinds that can block out light completely. This gives you privacy.

The amazing part is that you can get the dual-purpose type. This kind of blind has two blinds on the same bracket – sunscreen and a blackout.

Space-efficient

Roller blinds use less space as compared to curtains. If you have a lot of windows, using curtains makes the room appear congested. However, roller blinds only take minimal space, thus makes the room look spacious.

Roller blinds fit tightly/strictly to the window, and hence they do not have excess fabric. The loose fabric is what usually takes a lot of space.

Less maintenance is required

Modern roller blinds have been created to last longer. When properly fitted during the first installation, the blinds can stay for long. They will not rattle; neither will they wobble as they are extended.

The only common problem that occurs with roller blinds is the loosening of screws, which can be tightened without the need of an expert. Remember that the roller blinds are made from durable and long-lasting materials –steel and long-lasting fabric. Besides, the operating system is unique in design. This guarantees flawless performance for the longest time.

Ease of use

The operating system of roller blinds makes it easier to operate. They come in different forms of operations. For example, some are assisted by springs, while others are entirely motorised. Still, a few are operated by a chain.

In the case where they have a chain drive or are motorised, you can link up several blinds so that you open all of them at once. This makes your work easier.

Aesthetically pleasing

Considering the tight-fitting and the wide range of materials that make the blinds, you can choose what matches the interior of your home. You can get appealing or classic patterns for designers. This way, you end up with a highly attractive roller blind.

Every time you consider installing a new window covering, you must consider buying a roller blind. The blinds come with numerous benefits including ease of use, flexibility, not collecting dust and aesthetically pleasing, among others.

All Seasons install roller blinds on the Gold Coast. When you finally decide on buying roller blinds, don’t forget to give them a call.

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Stump Grinding in Sutherland Shire

5 years ago ·

Stump Grinding in Sutherland Shire

A stump by formal definition is the bottom part of the tree left projecting from the ground after most of the trunk has fallen or been cut down. It is constantly left behind protruding because it is tough to remove it without special equipment. Unknowingly, it poses a lot of danger, since it can or will cause accidents if completely ignored or mismanaged.

How does Stump Grinding work?

  • Stump grinders usually start their job by vertically cutting hardened surface roots attached to the central stump in order to facilitate digging its surrounding portions.
  • Special equipment known as the stump grinding machine comes with a circular saw that resembles a bicycle’s chain rings that is solely responsible for making gradual and vertical cuts on the stump. In some cases where the stump is shallow, other field personnel uses chainsaws to create horizontal cuts to slowly remove smaller portions. Consequently, deep-rooted stumps are eliminated painstakingly with the same process, though, would take a longer time to get the job done.
  • Smaller portions, bits or pieces of wood chips scattered around the work area are cleared and collected for disposal; but garden enthusiasts use it for mulching, a way of growing healthy plants without the use of synthetic fertilizers.
  • The part where the stump once stood would create a hole right after the clearing operations. Part of the job is covering or filling in the excavation with soil or sand until everything appears plain on sight and new plans for construction can commence.
  • Other options include planting it with grass or ornamental plants in order to look just like a part of a lawn or a garden.
  • The best thing about stump grinding is its concern for the environment. The job does not use chemicals to prevent contamination; thereby preserving natural soil minerals or nutrients.

Top 5 reasons why stump should be removed or grinded

  • A stump in an open field will be dangerous for children and adults alike since it is projected on the surface. A single mistake can lead to a slip or fall while playing or simply walking down the street or pavement.
  • A stump is exposed to heat or rain, and when it is left there to rot, it could be a home for harmful insects like ants, termites and other pests which can or will cause additional problems in the community.
  • A lot of stumps on sight can hinder future developments in terms of construction and implementation of infrastructure projects in your area. Removing them would facilitate a smooth-sailing plan that would benefit everybody.
  • Some varieties of tree stumps have the possibility of regrowing because the root balls are still intact underground. When this happens, a new tree of the same kind stands unexpectedly and could cause obstruction or disturbance in the neighborhood. The hassle of cutting it for the second time would entail an additional cost of labor or manpower.
  • A ground or area free of stumps can be a venue for an exceptional landscape project like theme parks or community playgrounds. With these on sight will probably be an eyesore, especially in an urban setting.

Why avail of stump grinding services?

  • Stump removal should not be done personally by homeowners or residents in a particular area. Why? It is because the nature of the job takes a lot of risk or danger. Leave it to the experts because they have the proper orientation, skills, and training. They also use special tools, machinery, and equipment to perform a specific line of work, based on your needs. Sutherland Shire tree removal by Cutting Edge Tree Care can do the work for you safely and properly.

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Finding a Quality Builder in Fraser Coast

5 years ago ·

Finding a Quality Builder in Fraser Coast

Contracting for any project requires one to have extensive information in the project area. When it comes to building, you will need to understand the basic requirements that a builder should possess. Knowing the qualities to look for in a builder allows you to hire the best possible choice.

Some of the things to look for in a builder include experience and expertise. They should be able to provide you with references and reviews from previous clients that they have worked with. Although their experience should not be a determining factor for hiring, it should inform the process.

Find a builder on the Fraser Coast who possesses a high level of professionalism and show regard to your needs. Customer service should be top-notch, and client satisfaction should be trivial in the entire operation.

Reasons Why You Should Hire Builders

Actualizing your vision on how your dream house should look like can be a daunting process if you take up the construction. Often, you will find that there are some details of the process that you are not entirely familiar with. Doing your renovations and building might seem like a cost-saving project while in actual sense, it might cost you more than you expect.

First, you might get halfway through the project only to realize that you are not capable of completing the project. This might be as a result of a lack of professional skills or emerging need for your time and focus.

When you hire builders, you ensure that there is a dedicated team committed to providing you with the best services. Their main goal is to complete your project within the agreed time. Also, you get to focus on other areas of your life.

Due to their extensive experience in building, they can identify potential risk factors in your project before and during the process. This way, you can avoid unnecessary hiccups. You also get to reduce on cost since you do not have to pay for repairs or extend the contract period to mend faults.

Since building is a rigorous activity, you will often find that accidents happen. Getting a builder will ensure that you are compensated for all significant accidents. The insurance that they possess guarantees your property.

Finally, they use quality materials and tools that are in line with the current with the advancements in the industry. Their extensive knowledge with the trends in building provides you with quality service. Builders are also able to identify opportunities for improvement in design.

Questions to Ask Builders

Going through their client review pages only gives you a slight insight into what they do and what they are about. Several areas need clarification. You can pose questions to the builder to determine the quality of service to expect. Some of them include;

  1. Do they have licenses and accreditation to work in your area?
  2. Do they have an insurance policy? What does it entail and is it current?
  3. How long should your contract take and will the project be completed?
  4. Will they be working on other projects alongside yours?
  5. Are all builders who will be working on your project permanent members of staff or do they hire external builders?
  6. What are some of the safety procedures they have in place?
  7. Which permits do you require to get started on the project?

They should also be able to state whether they have had experience working on projects like yours.

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Removing Slate floors

5 years ago ·

Removing Slate floors

Slate floors are tiles made of natural stone called metamorphic rocks that are using a grinding machine into fine grains. Now that you understand what slate tiles are and what they are composed of, I will be glad to take you through several steps you need to follow if want to remove the slate flooring tiles, possibly for renovation or change of flooring product. As you already know that slate is composed of natural metamorphic stones, then they should be stronger than the common ceramic tiles by far, which instituted from soil named as clay then cured by fire on the kiln. It is on record that slate tiles from metamorphic rocks are bound to last longer than any other flooring tiles available to date in the stores, though the installation procedures are similar to other tile type installation.

Tools you will require for the task

  • Safety goggles to safeguard your face and eyes in particular
  • Leatherwork gloves to safeguard your hands and fingers in particular
  • knee pads safeguard your knees
  • Cold chisel that you will use with the sledgehammer a 3 lb one
  • The electric stripper
  • Earplugs
  • Electric outlet socket to connect the machine to power.

Steps you should follow when removing the slate floors

When you decide to remove slate floors, consider the fact that you may require to exert more effort in removing them than the effort you could require on common tiles. But don’t worry because I am here to highlight tools which are likely within your reach for you to accomplish the task within a few hours. Please make sure you follow the following steps to the latter. NB: Safety first! Important for your safety are;

  • Relocate all the furniture to another room or outside the garden and other items on the floor before beginning your task.
  • On to the real task now, place the tip of your chisel into the grout line in between the two slate and hit the top of your cold chisel hard enough with the sledgehammer to rip off the grout all around the slate.
  • That said and done, hit the centre to split it using the same sledgehammer you used earlier, now remove the broken pieces of slate tile.
  • Now move to the next adjacent slate tile removed earlier and strike hard the chisel using a sledgehammer to loosen the slate before you remove it. Do the same for the smaller slates, when you reach on the larger ones, you can remove as much tile using the hands before fitting the blade of the electric stripping machine that is against the sub-floor adjacent to your slate.
  • Then flip over the blade on the stripping machine in a manner that it coincides with the sub-floor material. Ensure that the blade’s angle faces towards the ceiling with a cemented subfloor. In the case of the wooden sub-floor, the angle of the blade should face towards the floor.
  • You are now ready to plug the tile stripping machine into the electric outlet and turn on the stripper.
  • Now push the stripper across the rest of the floor and remove slate while still in small amounts so that they do not pile up beside the blade.

That is all there is to it! Following these steps will help you in successfully removing slate floors.

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Landscapers Byron Bay- The benefits of landscaping

5 years ago ·

Landscapers Byron Bay- The benefits of landscaping

Most people when they want to unwind would rather it outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon or after work hours, enjoying the fresh air is quite enjoyable.

If your outdoor space is well maintained and beautiful, it’s pretty great. You can entertain guests, enjoy a quiet evening out with loved ones or simply chill alone asking the sights and sounds. A landscaped lawn can do a great deal for the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.

Do you need to hire a landscaper? Besides beautifying the space there are also quite a few benefits of hiring landscapers in Byron bay. Read on to see why you would benefit from hiring landscapers.

  • Grass lawns are a great way of bringing something green into your home. It can help cool down the surroundings and the beautiful color is easy on the eyes as well. The trees planted by the landscapers provide shade. During summer most people refrain from sitting outside. However, you wouldn’t have to worry about sunburn when you are sitting under the shade of the trees.

  • It can be a great place for children to play and have fun. You wouldn’t have to be worried about the kids not playing outdoors. When it’s so lovely outside even children want to go out and enjoy. A small swing hung onto a tree can add a rustic yet charming touch.
  • The overall effect of the grass and trees is pretty cooling. It can help lower the heat entering your home as well. This makes your home more energy efficient as well and help reduce utility bills.
  • On the other hand having grass and trees planted in your home can also help towards reducing the pollution in your area. The plants take in carbon di oxide and release oxygen into the surroundings thus clearing the air of harmful gases and dust particles. A single tree can provide enough oxygen for about four people. Imagine a landscape filled with lush trees and beautiful grass. It’s not only going to beautify the surroundings but allow for fresh air to circulate within your home.
  • When you have beautiful looking water features added to the landscape it can add a unique and charming touch to your surroundings. This way you can provide a beautiful looking backdrop for your living room space. A window or a glass door overlooking the pretty landscape can add tons of appeal to your indoor space as well.
  • Beautiful landscapes can also increase the value of your home. Buyers interested in homes which not only have a classy interior but a beautiful outdoor space are quick to buy a home with a beautifully featured landscape. In fact when renting out spaces, property owners might charge more for a home which has a beautiful landscape.

With the increase in pollution, it’s become a necessity to incorporate a green and lush landscape within homes. It not only promotes the beauty of the home but is great for health purposes as well. Who wouldn’t benefit from all the fresh air which comes along with lush trees?

If you are considering hiring landscapers in Byron bay, make sure you hire the right people. Get to know if they specialize in specific kind of landscapes and whether they handle residential projects as well.

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Tips to save energy while using an air conditioner

5 years ago ·

Tips to save energy while using an air conditioner

Air conditioning in North Lake is a must. However continuous air conditioning mean that the utility bills can go sky high. Plus using so much energy can have a negative impact on the environment as well. Sometimes there is so much humidity that one feels that they are drowning in their own sweat. There I usually no option but to switch on the cooling unit. However, the following tips can help conserve energy despite the rising temperatures.

Use room temperature to cool the room at night

While you may need to keep the temperature t extreme cool during the day, nights tend to be cooler and while you sleep the temperature of the body goes down as well. Not using the air conditioning at lowest temperature isn’t a necessity especially at night. You can even utilize the sleep mode which most air conditioners have. This can help lower the amount of energy used to cool the room.

Make use of portable or window units

Instead of making use of central cooling, make use of portable units or window AC’s. These consume 50% less energy. This would lower the utility bill as well.

Try closing all the vents

The basement of the home is one of the coolest places in the whole house. Make sure all the vents in the lower portion of your home is closed. Since cool air generally sinks downwards, closing the vents mean you would be pushing back the cool air upwards.

Always service the unit regularly

Hire a local electrician in North Lakes to ensure that you unit stays in mint condition. A unit which is properly maintained consumes less energy and cool faster even on higher temperatures. Clean filters mean the unit has to work less hard. The right air conditioning service can be of great benefit when it comes to lowering energy costs.

Keep the air ducts insulated

No matter what kind of cooling unit you have, make sure the ducts are insulated properly. Sometimes cooling is lost if the ducts are not insulated properly.

Rearrange furniture if necessary

Any pieces of furniture which might block the airflow should be rearranged. While some people make use of plastic pieces which re arrange the vents to make sure that right direction si provided, rearranging the furniture can do the trick as well.

Use less lighting

Too much warm lighting can increase the temperature of the room, make sure to dim the lights when not required. This would lower the temperature of the room naturally. Also natural lighting can be warded off by keeping the windows closed during the day. Make use of curtains and blinds.

Switch off the AC when not in use

When leaving home make sure to turn off the air conditioner. This can help regulate the temperature. Also any openings in the doors and the windows should be looked into as well. Cool air can escape quicker from openings.

Keeping all the above mentioned things in mind would help conserve energy and lower the bills.

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Custom Timber Gates

5 years ago ·

Custom Timber Gates

The entryway is an opening in a mass of any structure set from the floor to particular tallness and enables one to move to start with one condition then onto the next. Its vast majority comprises of a conclusion component comprising of a fixed casing that remaining parts tight. This can be comprised of a few components, for example, wood, glass, aluminum, or plastic that is pivoted and that itself permits the conclusion or deterrent through it.

Various pieces of custom timber doors

  • The pivot – this is the part that attempts to be the component that permits the portability of the entryway, making it ready to be shut or opened effectively. These can be made with hardened steel, metal or falling flat iron.
  • Holder – Known for the most part as jolt or switch, is the piece of the entryway that figures out how to obstruct the equivalent either from within or outside of it.
  • Lock: It is the metal gadget that is set on the entryways predominantly to guarantee that it must be opened with the key. Being conceivable that these are electric, advanced, or manual.
  • Lock: It is a metal piece that is utilized within the entryways, its utility lies in joining the two handles or wrenches.
  • Antiquated part out: it is a device that visits use to pull into consideration, where hitting this piece creates a boisterous sound everywhere inside the entryway. This is constantly introduced on the top and outside of the entryways.
  • Handle: It is a circular piece utilised in many entryways so as to open it.
  • Handle: It is with this piece the client can open the entryway, which is put on one side of it and can be made of different materials.
  • Globule: It is the metal part that goes inside the locks. It is sold in various sizes, where its utilisation will depend legitimately on the thickness of the entryway where it will be introduced, along these lines discovering measures, for example, 35/35, 40/40, 35/45, 30/30. It is produced with enameled completes, in gold and nickel, where the customer’s decision will rely upon the shade of the lock.
  • Clasp: It is the component that is put on the essence of the entryway that faces the inside of the home, which serves to close it while the proprietors are at home.
  • Bocallave: It is displayed as that ironwork with a gap in the state of a pear or round, through which the entryway can be verified to avoid the section of unapproved individuals. Inside this is the place the barrel is put. It very well may be fabricated with various completes, shapes, and sizes, all things considered with matured touch, with a gleam, matte metal, and so forth.
  • Peephole: It is through this piece of the entryway that individuals from inside can envision who contacts without opening the entryway. This can be straightforward, electronic, or advanced.

The wooden entryways have standard estimations, and they have 3 important measures: Sheet estimations, step estimations, and hole estimations. Since the estimations of the sheet are the most straightforward to quantify, the entryway will open, and the width and stature of the entryway will be estimated so as to acquire the estimation.

There are standard timber entryways that are the most utilised. On the off chance that a few need an extraordinary timber entryway, an expert must go to the spot and assess the proportions of the timber door. Look for custom timber gates for your property that could both secure and beautify your home.

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Wollongong Removalists

5 years ago ·

Wollongong Removalists

Our life offers a lot of experience with which we can learn a lot of things. Some may consider it a failure and others, a success depending on the outcome. Good or bad, everything comes into the picture if and when intending to search for greener pastures by moving alongside the family from a quiet place in a rural area to a busy city neighbourhood.

Considering this comes to the problem of establishing or reconstructing the once organised and eye-pleasant home. It seems that bundling vast amounts of massive and substantial family possessions, locating and fixing things in a family car or a van compartment and obviously, the lifting and setting of furnishings for transport to wherever you are intending to move gives you both a terrible headache and a constant heartache rolled into one.

Get Wooongong Removalists to help you move. It won’t just spare you time and energy in doing so but also the budget in purchasing the needed materials for sealing or packing your things, since everything can be done within an hour or at least two from the trusted and proven experts in this field. Consider the following reasons below before you create lines in your forehead and make your eyebrows meet:

● Make your transaction convenient and hassle-free by pre-determining what company you are looking for and the kind of services you would like to avail – This will erase your doubts about what’s going to happen when you move to another location. Being specific with the details of the job will facilitate whatever needs assembling or disassembling.

● In doing so, you may think about several options, their benefits and the price for each of the services rendered to you by the company by whom you chose to do the moving job. By comparing the prevailing service charge for each of the services, you will never run out of options and even in making last-minute decisions.
● You’ve got to decide on how your things should be packed and the type of packaging to be used for just any material you own.- With this feature, you are well assured that your prized belongings are in good hands because it is kept or stored the way it should be.
● The removal service comes with staff or personnel who is an expert of disassembling or re-assembling your furniture or home fixture at a separate price depending on the company’s terms of service – This means that you’ll never get your hands numb or dirty if this type of service is free-of-charge.


● Another removal service also assigns a staff who will take care of your plumbing and electrical or lighting fixtures at home – This is necessary especially that it is dangerous to perform such tasks on your own since there is always a probability of risk or danger on your part.
● Some removal service companies also offer the general cleaning and restoration of your once-cherished home. It is but a sign of goodwill to leave the house clean as it was before you leave it for good.
● Another better option is when you decide to avail of a particular service of asking the staff or a group of employees to clean the house where you are about to move. This will allow you to move in efficiently and have a good night’s rest with your family.

In case you’re not yet convinced given these type of services, think again. In cases where it’s not possible to transport your possessions within a day because of time or distance concerns, a storage facility is but the best option to keep all your belongings safely.

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Carport Builders Brisbane

5 years ago ·

Carport Builders Brisbane

Finding the right carport contractor

Carports are a better option when you are on a budget. Though a garage can be a safe pace to park your car, carports can do the trick just as well. Also in the long run if you feel that you would like to have the carport enclosed from all sides you can turn it into a garage as well. a carport doesn’t specifically house cars, it can house all kinds of vehicles. From motorboats to bikes and everything in between.

If you are considering building carports Brisbane in your outdoor space, make sure you hire the right carport builders in Brisbane. In order to do so, simply keep the following things in mind.

  • Make sure you hire someone who has the necessary experience in designing carports. Since carports are an economical option, you need to find a builder who has the ability to design a carport which can withstand all kind of tough weather conditions and is not prone to a great deal of wear and tear.
  • When choosing a builder make sure you have a talk with people who have had carports built for their vehicles. Get to know who they selected for the job and whether they are happy with the kind of service being provided to them.
  • If possible go and check out the carports for yourself. If you are impressed by the design and the layout you can by all means get a contact number for the carport builder.
  • Once you have two or three names of carport builders on your list, it’s time to talk to each of them individually. You can have a conversation over the phone. If the conversation is successful its time you consider visiting the carport builder.

  • When visiting the builder make sure you ask any questions which are in your mind. They are professionals and listening to their clients helps them form an idea of what the client has in mind.
  • They may ask you about the budget you have in mind and for how many vehicles you want to keep within the carport. All this would help determine the final cost of the carport. Also things like the material from which the carport would be designed would impact the final cost.
  • Keep in mind that you don’t always need to have a carport built from scratch. There are certain builders who design custom carports which just need to be set up with the help of a professional. There are quite a few benefits of such kind of carports, the first being these are pretty easy to install and cost a little as well. So if you are pressed for time and looking for something which can be completed quickly, these should be your first choice.
  • On the other hand if you are interested in building a carport which is customised to your specific needs you would need to have one built from the scratch.

No matter what kind of carport you are looking to build, make sure you have a talk with the exert carport builders in Brisbane.

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New Home Builders

5 years ago ·

New Home Builders

A house is considered one of the best investments any family can make. More than the budget you set aside for your new home is the anticipation of a happy and a comfortable life, combined with a tranquil environment, which adds up to achieving a lasting peace of mind.

To help you decide on this critical transition in life, here are a few recommendations to consider:

Purchasing a residence within or near a coastal area

Real estate developers entice their clients to buy an area near a coastline for a different living ambiance and a unique sense of comfort and style. This is ideal for people who love the beach and the sun. The breeze coming from the ocean soothes the body and the mind and a walk in the sand keeps the soul warm. Add to your itinerary a quick dip or dive in its pristine waters and customers wouldn’t ask for more than stay.

Considering a home next to an island

Facing an open sea when waking up early in the morning is a once in a lifetime experience. You couldn’t wait to move your feet and conquer your doubts and fear onboard a speedboat for an island hopping experience. The sights and sounds of the roaring sea make you want to stop time and repeat the momentum time and time again.

Taking an after lunch dip on surrounding freshwater lakes

After your body absorbed a lot of salty water as therapy, you can opt to freshen up for the second time on the neighbouring freshwater lakes. It somehow renews your vibe and spirit, making your weekend getaway something that you’ll always anticipate

Spending your late afternoon whale-watching with your family

A hobby for the young and the young at heart. Watching whales swim to and fro, and making their deep-toned squeals removes stress from your body after a day’s work. Children at the same time love the idea of taking a peek out of Sea World for a truly wet and wild experience.

Living and respecting heritage, culture, and tradition

Who else would take pride in the beauty of a national park within your reach except you and your friends? A visit to a stone-throw Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary promotes your love for endangered animals. Truly, a manifestation of your true identity as a native and a natural-borne citizen of your country.

Now that you already had an adventure of a lifetime, it’s now time to decide on the kind of home that you’re going to build your dreams and continue your quest in the future. Take your time to browse from the following options:

A  smaller home built on a narrow lot

Ideal for newly-weds or a starting couple. Since you don’t have kids yet or planning to have one or two, the space is just right for maybe three or four individuals. Extra space is intended for a garden, a garage, or a recreation venue. Ensure you are choosing the top builders in Brisbane to build your dream home.

A featured display house or village is not bad after all

Good for those who cannot make up their minds, just yet. Visiting the virtual village over the web or seeing it personally allows home buyers to compare the virtual from the real one.

A single storey home is perfect for 4 to 6 people

If you aren’t expecting your parents for a visit or your friends to stay for a night, then no need to worry about congestion.

Other friendly options to choose from are:

  • Flats or apartments
  • Double storey homes for extended families
  • Dual occupancy homes
  • Duplex houses

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The Benefits of Cement Rendering

5 years ago ·

The Benefits of Cement Rendering

Cement rendering is quite popular with home owners in Sydney. It compromises of adding layers of cement to sand and bricks. Usually applied to the exterior of the home, in some cases it can be used in the interior of the home as well. Applying a cement render can have a positive impact on the aesthetics of your home. The following are some of the reasons why you should consider cement rendering in Sydney.

Improve the aesthetics of your home

You can choose a variety of rendering textures to coat the exterior walls. You can choose a smooth white finish which is quite sophisticated and classy. You could even choose the course and grainy texture which resembles a Southern European style. There are various textures which you could experiment with and which would help compliment your home.

A variety of options to choose from

The best thing about house and cement rendering in Sydney is the number of options which it offers. You can choose to have the render pigmented or painted. It all depends upon what actually appeals to your sense of style. Since each home owner is different, they would like their home to be a projection of their own personal style. You can either choose something which is bright and cheerful or go for something which is understated and elegant. Keep in mind that you can take a look at the catalogue and then make an informed decision. Plus the rendering experts would also help you decide whether a particular rendering would look good on your home or not.

Increases the value of your property

The cement rendering can also improve the value of your home to quite an extent. In fact rendering greatly improves the beauty of your home. Such a place looks inviting and beautiful. It is also bound to fetch a higher price if you put up your property for sale in the long run. It’s one of the best ways to ensure your home looks updated before you actually put it out in the market for a sale.

An affordable renovation

Renovating your home is pretty expensive. However rendering is one renovation which won’t actually break the bank. It is an affordable option. Pus when you choose to render your home you dot have to worry about costly changes. It’s a simple process which can be completed in a matter of few days.

Cement rendering provides thermal insulation to a little extent

Rendering is a great way to add some insulation to your home. The air from the outside often penetrates the wall and gets inside. Similarly the cooling can escape from the walls as well especially if you live in a hot and humid area. Adding a layer of cement can provide a little bit of insulation.

Helps keep the damp away

Rendering also helps to keep the dampness away from your home. If your home is prone to dampness and moisture issues you first need to get it checked from an expert.

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Tree Lopping

5 years ago ·

Tree Lopping

Trees can be absolutely beautiful, but they can also cause a serious hazard. Limbs or entire trees falling can create tons of property damage and bodily harm. However, problem trees can be difficult to identify to non-experts. As for dealing with them, having an inexperienced person attempting to handle these problems can be almost as hazardous as leaving them in place. Between the difficulties of getting good access and managing the work site, dealing with a dangerous tree can be a chore. Thankfully, an arborist can help diagnose and address the problem and keep you and your property safe, via a variety of tree maintenance procedures.

Types of Tree Maintenance

There are a few different methods that can help maintain a tree. While the final decision should be based on safety, however, there are some preferences to keep in mind.

  • One of the most effective options is tree removal. However, this naturally eliminates the entire tree and is very work intensive. The whole tree gets removed, including the stump and root system. All of these components need to be removed and disposed of. This makes tree removal one of the most the expensive options, and it also can deprive you of a tree. Unless you are seeking this option out, it should only be reserved for trees deemed too dangerous to manage another way.
  • Tree topping is another tree management option. As the name suggests, the process involves removing the entire top of the tree, leaving only lateral branches which aren’t big enough to take over as a new dominant branch. The process stunts the vertical growth of a tree, keeping it restrained and the overall tree shorter. This can obviously limit the potential of the tree to cause damage. However, the cuts from a topping can take a long time to heal, leaving the tree possibly vulnerable to a fungal infection which may kill the tree. This is a viable option for tree manage.
  • Tree lopping is the most precise tree management option. It involves the idea of taking care of the most significant and most dangerous lateral branches. This avoids massive cuts to the core of the tree but helps to maintain the tree in a safe and healthy fashion. Safe and healthy trees are less likely to fall and cause damage but keep the natural beauty of the tree intact.

The Process of Tree Lopping

A professional arborist can perform the service of tree lopping in Brisbane and keep your trees safe and healthy and keep your property undamaged.

  • The first step is to get an inspection and estimation of the project. A professional arborist can examine the tree and give you an accurate picture of the work that needs to be done. Many experts performing tree lopping in Brisbane will perform an inspection and provide a no-obligation estimate at no cost.
  • The arborist can then determine the scope of the tree lopping to take place. Some of the services that can be recommended are the removal of dangerous or overhanging branches, reducing the crown and weight of a tree, removal of any dead wood on the tree, elimination of any broken or diseased branches and even bracing a tree with a steel cable to increase sturdiness. The arborist can recommend which services suit your project the best.
  • Most professionals performing the tree lopping service will also handle the entire clean up and removal process, leaving you with a safe and healthy tree.

Enjoy the natural beauty of your tree without any danger by having an arborist manage tree lopping for any growth on your property.

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Architects

5 years ago ·

Architects

The architecture is the technique with which the professionals of the matter are in charge of projecting, building and creating buildings, modifying the space where the human being is, in order to take advantage of its space.

This art was born with the man in prehistory, when human groups incubated their lifestyle based on agriculture, encouraging the development of living stable and ceremonial enclosures, which were developed with the passage of history.

Architects abilities

With the development of this art is created with the pass of the time the profession of the architect, in which is responsible for creating infrastructures with qualities of beauty, geometry, emotional power, solidity of construction and planning, taking into consideration various elements such as : resistant materials, decorations of good taste, good proportions, dynamism and serenity. This is the intermediary link between employer and labour, which ensures the optimum compliance with its design parameters during the materialisation of the project.

Everyone who practices the profession of architecture must have a diverse knowledge about the construction system, materials, and a good lexicon to respond to various requirements of the client and to accomplish efficiently with different building regulations. The profession of the architect requires great training and artistic, and must be exercised with a healthy practical judgment at all times.

Architectural functions

It has various influential functions, among which stand out strategic planning and space distribution, urban design, concept creation, the design of models and drawings, technical documentation, contract administration, and construction supervision.

Activities that architects do

  • Define the expectations contained in the project: Perhaps its main task, responsible for tracing the objectives that stakeholders have in order to identify the requirements that the project will have.
  • Elaborate the Design: Once the goals are set, the architect’s duty is to find the inspiration that allows him to conceive highly detailed plans that fit the needs of the project and client’s ideas.
  • Estimation of costs: The architect’s duty now lies in proposing an estimate of the cost of all the materials. This will allow economic evaluation which the architect uses to be prepared in understanding the relationships between the design options he presents, their benefits, and relative costs. The architect should now select the optimal design alternative that best suits the client’s economic expectations.
  • Design presentation: After creating the plans, and determining the cost of materials, the architect’s duty lies in presenting the complete project to his clients, in the sense what this involves is exposing his vision to the client. Together is the moment to discuss any question the client may have or definitely accept the design and start working on the project.
  • Guide architecture’s vision in the project: Now the architect’s work is based on the realisation of a project that fits his vision of the work, which will be directed by the architect himself.
  • Lead multidisciplinary teams: Now this will have to play a role as a “manager,” this is because directing an architectural project involves managing the people, time and resources in a great way.

Now the Sydney architect will have to interact with clients, suppliers, contractors, government agencies and specialists, like engineers, to design and develop all the buildings of the environment, from very detailed fragments to large-scale urban complexes. In this circumstance, the architect must propose negotiations with the contractor to faithfully comply with the delivery periods.

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Reliable Electrician

5 years ago ·

Reliable Electrician

Picking the right electrician in Canberra is not an easy process. If you don’t take your time to look for the best one, you’ll end up putting your safety at risk.

But, how do you find the right electrician? Worry no more! I have the correct answer for you in this article. Below are the main traits you need to consider whenever hiring the right electrician.

Must be Certified

This is one of the essential traits to look for whenever you want to hire the right electricians. It is good to for the certified and licensed electricians by the accredited institutions.

If the electricians belong to a particular company, make sure that you go for a trustworthy company, that provides the necessary training for their workers in their respective fields.

Must have a great reputation

Mostly, consider going for the recommendation from the friends, relatives, or trusted colleagues. Whenever you go for these electricians, you’re quite sure that they feature high standards and must possess a good reputation.

Other than this, it is essential to ask for references or conduct a research about the selected electrician. The best electrician must embrace glowing recommendations and show out proven records of high-quality work.

If the electricians belong to a specific company, research about the background of that company to make sure the electrician you want to hire is reliable.

Fully trained and well-experienced

A good electrician Canberra is the one that is well-experienced in this field.  Make sure that the chosen electrician is in a position of handling the particular problem in your home or office.

These electricians should be capable of navigating through the issue, offer the best solutions, or fix it as per the needs.

Effective communication

The best electrician is the one explaining the main issue that needs to be sorted out. Also, he/she should give the client a fair price that reflects the amount of work to be done.

Moreover, these electricians should give a detailed explanation of the identified problem in your office or home, the main reasons to fix it, and the offer the best solution or alternatives.

Must be available whenever you need them

A good electrician is the one who promises to be available whenever you have an emergency. This electrician must understand that a problem can arise at any time and even in the midst of the night. Therefore, the best electrician should aim for fast response and efficiency to make that he/she arrives within the shortest time possible whenever needed.

Must prioritise work safety

Whenever providing the needed services, the safety of the client and that of the electrician must be at the forefront. Therefore, the electrician must be in a position of following the safety protocols after arriving at the client’s home or office.

Other than this, the electrician must have proper training so that he/she will be in a position of dealing with dangerous circumstances in the most efficient way while protecting the client’s property.

Must use proper technology

Finally, the best client is the one knowing how to make use of the latest technology in solving out the client’s problem. With the aid of the new devices or proper technology, the electrician will be in a position of determining the problems and assess the situation type before proceeding.

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5 Ways to Incorporate Nature in Your House Decor

5 years ago ·

5 Ways to Incorporate Nature in Your House Decor

If you think there are too many synthetic elements in your house, you are probably right. You definitely need a redo from the work you have done in your house and you have to change everything to incorporate a little bit of nature. From our bedrooms to our kitchens, everything is synthetic and smart.

Living on the smart devices, we have stopped blending nature in our lives. We need to do that right now. Following are a few ways to do it without spending a lot of budget:

1. Get Landscaping Done

One of the easiest ways to add nature into your house is to get landscaping done. Landscaping gets the garden or lawn made into your house to add color, freshness and natural aura into your house that was missing before. Garden landscaping Adelaide services can offer you an amazing service without costing you an arm and a leg.

2. Get Organic Plants

The best thing to add to your house is greenery. Get some organic sun-loving plants that can be used and placed to add color, refreshment and leisure in your house. Not only will the air be fresher but you will be able to enjoy the look of the entire house.

3. Add Flowers

flower

Instead of spending time on air fresheners and artificial scents, you can always opt for natural flowers in water vases and replace them on alternate days. Flowers add color, fragrance and beauty to your house instead of making a hefty purchase every second day. Flowers are completely natural and do not cause disturbance in the air you breathe in.

4. Scented Candles

The best thing about getting scented candles is that the wax is completely organic and does no harm to the atmosphere. Scented candles add color, add fragrance and an absolute wonder to your house. You are able to enjoy the fresh smell along with the colors they add.

Scented candles come in multiple colors and shapes. You can even choose the ones that come in glass holders so there is no mess around the melted wax in the candles. There’s nothing better and more cost effective than this! Candles can be easily replaced, moved from one place to another and changed when you don’t feel like turning them on.

5. Grow Fruits and Vegetables

The best thing about having landscaping done in your house is the ability to grow fruits and vegetables. You will be able to grow your favorite ones without spending too much money and time on them. The advantages of having fruits and vegetables is the ability to get fresh produce, have natural fragrance in your house and freshness in your house.

There is nothing better than enjoying the freshness in the house when you get yummy and toxin free stuff.

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How to Grow Lonicera Pileata

5 years ago ·

How to Grow Lonicera Pileata

Lonicera pileata, also known as Privet Honeysuckle, is a native evergreen plant of China. If you want a low growing living fence, then the Lonicera pileata may be the right plant for you. It only attains heights of 2 to 3 feet, with a spread of 8 feet. It is a hardy plant in USDA zones 5 through 9. Late in the spring, small white blooms appear and perfume the air.

Finding the Location

The best time to plant the Lonicera pileata is early in the spring or early fall. You’ll want to find an area that has full sun exposure, but it can also grow in locations with partial shade.

Prepare the Planting Area

Prepare the area by removing all the grass and weeds. They will remove moisture and nutrients that your Lonicera pileata needs to grow. You can pull the weeds, or till them into the soil, where they will decompose. No matter if you are planting one tree or many, the width of the area to clear out is 4 to 5 feet in diameter.

Dig the Holes

Dig holes that are twice the diameter of the Lonicera pileata root ball. The depth of the planting hole should be the same as the length of the root ball. If planting more than one hole, leave 6 to 10 feet between each one.

Dig a hole that is twice the diameter of the Lonicera pileata’s container. Keep the depth the same as the root ball. Before you place the root ball into the hole, scuff the sides and bottom of the planting hole. This loosens the soil and allows the roots to penetrate beyond the walls of the hole easier.

Amend the Soil

Fill the planting hole with water. As you wait for the water drains into the soil naturally, prepare the soil you removed from the hole. Amend the soil with 3 inches of well-rotted compost. Compost adds nutrients to the soil and provides better drainage for the water.

When all the water has drained out of the hole, it is time to plant your Lonicera pileata. Remove the root ball out of the container. It usually just pulls out of the container but if you have trouble getting the plant out, turn the pot upside down and bang the rim on the edge of a table top. Make sure there is someone to catch it so it does not fall down on the ground.

Plant the Lonicera pileata

Place the root ball in the center of the hole. Check the top of the root ball. It should be level with the soil.

Fill in the hole with the amended soil. When the hole is half full of soil, firm the soil down around the root ball with your hands. This removes the air pockets in the soil. Fill the hole the rest of the way. Tamp the soil with your feet or use a shovel.

Caring for the Lonicera pileata

Water the Lonicera pileata as soon as it is planted with a water hose. Turn the water on to a slow flow and allow it to run while you plant the next shrub. During the growing season, provide an inch of water every week to your hedge. Omit watering if your area has had ample rainfall.

Add a 2 to 4 inch layer of organic mulch around the Lonicera pileata. Do not place the mulch up against the base of the plants. This makes them more susceptible to disease, rot and bug problems. Keep the mulch at least two inches away from the base of the plant.

Sources:

“American Horticultural Society A to Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants”; Christopher Brickell; 2004

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Growing Topiaries: Bright, Decorative and Shaped Shrubs for the Home Landscape

6 years ago ·

Growing Topiaries: Bright, Decorative and Shaped Shrubs for the Home Landscape

Although you can buy topiaries at the nursery, it can be more rewarding to grow and shape your own. Topiaries are best done with trainable shrubs and vines like rosemary, boxwood and holly, and grow most popularly in the shape of a lollipop.

Use rosemary for a small topiary or holly or boxwood for a larger one. Pot the shrub or plant in rich, quick-draining potting soil for more flexible placement, and to protect the plants with indoor locations during the winter. Put a large stake behind the plant in the pot, and tie the main stem or trunk of the plant to the stake.

Allow the plant to grow for several weeks to months before you attempt to train it. Turn the plant often for even growth in the crown, and water it as necessary for the breed. Cut away suckers or shoots growing low on the trunk.

Train the plant once it reaches the height you want. Decide on your design – one, two or three balls, sitting on top of each other – and trim the plant to that design. Pinch or prune away shoots around your design to leave a rough pattern.

topiary-garden

Trim and neaten the remaining foliage to accomplish your desired design. Keep in mind that upward shoots grow more quickly and may distract from the pattern of the topiary.

Trim the topiary every one to two weeks to encourage thicker growth and neatness. Always trim to your desired pattern to control the growth.

Tips: Low light leads to sparse growth, and leads to unsatisfactory topiaries. Make sure your plant gets the light and water it needs for best growth.

Never allow the topiary to flower, as this will destroy the pattern.

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Xeriscape for Desert Planting

6 years ago ·

Xeriscape for Desert Planting

The method of xeriscaping, which means attempting to grow plants that have less requirements of water, has become quite popular in this age when most people are thinking green. Besides being a benefit for conservation of water resources, xeriscaping also adds to the aesthetic value of the landscape and cuts down the time required on watering, weeding and trimming. Because plants are carefully chosen from those that have less requirements for water, weeds do not grow much in xeriscaped gardens. Mostly, xerophytic plants like cacti, succulents and shrubs that have minimal water needs are selected. The word xeriscape is a portmanteau of two words – the Greek ‘xeri’ which means ‘dry’ and ‘scape’ which stands for landscape.

Xeriscape_garden

People who are planning on going green with xeriscaping need very few resources to begin with. Most people set up these gardens in their lawns. The soil must be conditioned to retain water so that the irrigation requirement is further lessened. The plants can be obtained from any nursery, where even tips on buying the right choice of plants for little or no water requirements are provided. Xeriscaped gardens can be made to look beautiful by selecting a mélange of different kinds of plants, keeping in mind how these plants will look in the garden when they are fully grown. There are gardening specialists who can be invited to plan out and set up a xeriscape garden. Among the various suggestions that a xeriscape expert would provide, one is to group all plants with similar water requirements together so that the watering of the garden can be planned out properly.

water-saving-xeriscapeApart from the fact that xeriscaping is a good way of water conservation, it is also true that it makes the gardening job more efficient and less time-consuming. Cutting down on various garden tasks by the judicious selection of native and desert plants is one prime benefit. If a xeriscape is set up in the lawn, it makes a unique statement for the house and also cuts down on mowing time. Xeriscape gardening clearly shows how people do not need to invest in expensive resources in their mission of going green.

So if you are a person who genuinely wishes to take some constructive environment friendly steps, this is surely one thing you can do right away in your home. Xeriscaping is simple, practical, and speaks volumes about you and your thoughts.

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How to Use Low-Maintenance Plants in Your Garden

6 years ago ·

How to Use Low-Maintenance Plants in Your Garden

Plants that require little attention through the year and are generally disease and pest resistant are the ones to include in a low-maintenance garden that cater low maintenance plants. There is enough choice to ensure interest and plenty of colour at all times.

Graceful Grasses For Year-Round Interest

Perennial grasses are easy plants. Once planted, they require very little attention, except occasional removal of dead foliage and old flower heads if they offend. Cutting back the dead foliage to ground level in early spring will encourage lots of new growth.

There are many types to grow, from compact dwarfs to huge plants that reach 2.4m (8 feet) or more. They can be used in beds, either on their own or in mixed plantings, to stunning effect.

Be cautious about mixing grasses among other plants, however, as some are difficult to control, and rampant species will soon take over a bed and become inextricably entwined with other plants, so clump-forming types are best.

The more spreading grasses are better grown in an isolated spot, but the smaller ones will work in a border if you plant them in a large container sunk into the ground, with the rim flush with the surrounding soil. Annual grasses will self-seed unless you deadhead them after flowering.

Ferns For Moist Shade

The intricate foliage of ferns makes these fascinating plants essential for moist, shady corners of any low-maintenance garden, where they will without doubt thrive without any intervention. Many die down in winter, but there are also plenty of evergreen species, and they are varied enough in shape and size to make an interesting planting despite the lack of flowers.

Planting Ferns

Most ferns prefer a moist, shady or partially shaded position, and will do especially well if you take time to prepare the soil by incorporating plenty of organic material. This is very important in an area shaded by a tree or wall, where soil is usually dry. If the soil is impoverished, rake a balanced fertilizer into the surface of the soil when you plant. If planting in late summer, autumn or winter do not use a quick-acting fertilizer.

Water the fern thoroughly about half an hour before planting. It is very important that ferns do not dry out, especially when newly planted.

Make a hole large enough to take the root ball. Firm the fern in carefully. Then water thoroughly so that the surrounding soil is moist down to the depth of the rootball.

To help conserve moisture and maintain a high level of organic material in the soil, mulch thickly. Top up the mulch each spring.

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Featured Partner: PlumbWise in Cumming, GA

6 years ago · · Sticky

Featured Partner: PlumbWise in Cumming, GA

Our company had come across PlumbWise in Cumming GA and the experience we had and the joy our partnership brought to the project owners in the said city was really remarkable. From then on, we never looked for any plumbing company in the area. In fact, we have settled a joint venture contract with them a few months ago.

A Featured Partner

The features of their services are the following:

  • Residential Plumbing and
  • Commercial Plumbing

which, are broken down into work details such as Fixtures Install and Repair, Water Heater, Recirculating Pumps & Tankless Water Heaters, Boiler Installation or Repair, Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations, Gas Line Installation, Water Piping, and Troubleshooting leaks and clogs and etc..

We believe that these are standards when it comes to finding a plumbing company. However, what makes PlumbWise different from the rest is their dedication to fix your touble right away – without prolonging the agony on your part.

Best customer service

Any business in particular needs great customer service. This is what makes the business last longer and get referrals and ‘fame’. This residential & commercial plumbing company never fails to meet your expectations. You are not hiring a contractor, instead you would feel you are hiring a partner. Your concerns are taken more seriously by PlumbWise Inc. Check out their reviews and you’ll find out what they can do more for you.

What PlumbWise Wants

Our partner only employs licensed and very reliable plumbers (reliable in terms of being prompt and efficient). This way you’ll witness the ways to save you money! PlumbWise Inc. is committed and will always be willing to deliver top-notch quality and value to your home or business. They serve Alpharetta, Cumming, Atlanta and the surrounding areas.

This is what our company is looking for a partner in the business. We both aim to be known for the quality and honesty of our services.

You may contact PlumbWise through these details:

PlumbWise Inc
5845 Steeplechase Blvd. Suite C, Cumming, GA 30040
(678) 862-7758

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Aitken Landscapes Endorses Atlanta Garage Door Company

6 years ago · · Sticky

Aitken Landscapes Endorses Atlanta Garage Door Company

Needing garage door installation, repair or replacement is a normal part of being a homeowner with a garage. As a result, there are many professional garage door services in Atlanta that install, repair and replace these doors. But before you decide on which one to choose among them, let’s discuss three of the most enjoyable benefits of having a garage door company handle your garage door project whether it is installation, door repair or replacement.

These include, but not limited to the following:

#1 – Get the Project Completed Faster

Nowadays there are many DIY guides for almost every garage door project. For many homeowners, it can be tempting to want to do a project all by yourself. But the reality is, if you embark on a project by yourself, you will spend more time researching and teaching yourself how to carry out the project. What’s more, you will spend more money buying the appropriate tools and equipment. Then you will begin playing a game of trial and error. Instead of wasting all that time, money and effort, you could easily hire a good contractor to get the job done faster.

#2 – The Best Results

Professional garage door services such comprise of well-trained, highly qualified and experienced technicians. These professionals understand every aspect of installation, repair and replacement of garage doors. They do not solve garage door problems by means of trial and error. Instead, they use the expertise and hands-on experience to get the job done. With that in mind, you can therefore be rest assured of the best results.

#3 – A Lasting Solution

Professional garage door services provide garage owners with lasting solutions to their problems. That is because they have the knowledge, skills and the right equipment to do a great job. There is no doubt about the fact that the results of professional garage door projects will last longer than do those of DIY garage door projects.

Our Recommendation

For those looking for garage door repair, installation and replacement in Atlanta, we have the company for you. Balanced Garage Doors is a great choice for garage owners with various garage door needs. This company provides quality services at very competitive rates.

Balanced Garage Doors
Buford, GA
(770) 880-0376

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Partner Showcase: North Star Tree Service of Atlanta

6 years ago · · Sticky

Partner Showcase: North Star Tree Service of Atlanta

In a bid to keep your compound neat, you will need services such as tree removal, tree trimming and stump grinding. While it is true that you can conduct some of these services alone, picking a tree service in Atlanta is a wise idea. However, not any other company is able to provide these services perfectly. You will need to consider some factors before signing up for anything.

For a long time now, the North Star Tree Service, LLC (NSTS) has continued to offer some amazing tree services in the regions around Atlanta and beyond. In this article, we take you through everything that you need to know about the venture.

About North Star Tree Service

As aforementioned, North Star Tree Service is a company that has its specialties in providing tree care services to clients across Metro Atlanta. The Company is locally operated, and has partnerships from the downtown suburbs. North Star Tree Service also has qualified arborists who provide high quality services at affordable prices.

The Company offers services such as full tree removal, storm debris clean up and installation of new trees amongst other services. Regardless of the size of the task, NSTS can handle it comfortably. Simply put, NSTS is the company that you need for any tree service in your home.

Why Should You Pick NSTS?

Picking North Star Tree Service in Atlanta comes with many advantages. Here are some of the main ones:

  • NSTS can do away with the parts of trees that may cause harm to you and your family in one way or another.
  • Having a good-looking compound (thanks to amazing tree services) will increase the appraisal value of your property.
  • Proper tree services improve the general health of your trees.
  • NSTS can help you initiate and submit insurance claims.
  • NSTS can help save your dying trees or plant news ones depending on your needs.
  • Give NSTS a call if you want clear your land for building or expansion of projects.
  • If you are looking for proper maintenance that will last you for very long, NSTS is your best option.
  • This Company has the experience and expertise needed to deal with any challenges that

How to Acquire NSTS’ Services

If you are in Atlanta or its neighboring environs, you can contact NSTS through phone or email. It is important to note that you will need to submit your personal details such as name and email address for quality purposes.

Recommendation

If you need any tree services ranging from stump grinding to tree trimming and tree removal, the North Star Tree Services is your best option. The Company focuses on offering professional and affordable prices across Atlanta. It focuses on taking care of your trees, help you plant new ones, clear your land for building and providing general maintenance services that will see the appraisal values of your property rise. If you need any of these services, or any other that involves the trees in your compound, feel free to contact NSTS.

North Star Tree Service
470 W Pike St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
(678) 975-4868

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Landscape Your Home with Flame Azalea

6 years ago ·

Landscape Your Home with Flame Azalea

Rhododendron Calendulaceum – the Flame Azalea

Not often seen in home landscaping or in gardens, the fiery orange blossoms of Flame Azalea are a real attention-grabber. Never seen this native member of the Rhododendron genus? Then gaze in astonishment at this beauty.

This picture was taken along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina.

flame-azalea-and-the-blue-ridge-mountains

Image Credit to Rob Travis

Now Flame Azalea varies in color yellow and apricot to orange to salmon to red. Here, for instance, is a spectacular photograph of a yellow Flame Azalea .

flame-azaleas

And here’s a photograph of a shrub with peach-colored flowers.

Flame-Azalea-peach

Finally, here is one of a deeply-colored Flame Azalea, ‘Mandarin Red.’ These blooms remain beautiful for weeks.1 In fall, foliage color is also attractive.

red-orange-azalea

Requirements

Although Flame Azaleas are usually seen along a mountain road, is it possible to purchase one commercially for landscaping your home? Happily, yes. Are special conditions required for survival and thriving of the flaming beauties? No-Flame Azaleas do best in USDA Zones 4 to 7. They prefer moist, rich, slightly acid soil and light dappled shade to mostly sunny. They do fairly well in clay soil.

Locating Your Flame Azalea

Are you willing to take on the intense orange color and relatively large size of the Flame Azalea, which at maturity can grow to a width of 15 feet?2 Planning and placement is key when landscaping with such a large shrub. Its girth is de-emphasized by planting the azalea near a larger structure, such as a house. When situated near your home, ample space needs to be provided for future growth; but take note: the Flame Azalea is not evergreen. Another suitable location for Flame Azaleas is at the entrance way to a large front yard, where it suggests similar warmth may be found within the home. Finally, azaleas are often used along the edge of a lawn surrounded by woods.

Companion Planting

Other plants should be bold enough not to be overpowered. Many shades of yellow can be used to compliment the brilliant blooms of Flame Azalea. One way to make certain they won’t fail to be noticed is to plant larger flowers in large groups or smaller flowers in beds.
1.  Eastern Plant Specialties – Flame Azalea
2.  HGTV – Flame Azalea

References and Resources:

Sunlight Gardens – Rhododendron calendulaceum
United States National Arboretum – Azalea Questions and Answers
Images from pinterest and Advance image search by google (available for reuse unless credit specified)

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Yucca Plants: Versatile Evergreens for the Landscape

6 years ago ·

Yucca Plants: Versatile Evergreens for the Landscape

While some people give yucca plants a bad rap, I think they’re great. Granted, the extensive (rhizomatous) root system by which the plants spread can make them rather difficult to get rid of, but who would want to? Yucca plants are some of the most versatile and long-lasting evergreens in the landscape. Need some drama or perhaps something different? Add a yucca. Want a focal point that really stands out? Plant a yucca.

People have been growing and using yucca plants for many years. Native to both Central and North America, yuccas not only offer interest with their spiky, dagger-like foliage, but when grown in the right conditions, they will send up striking white flowers from midsummer through fall. In addition to their beauty, yucca plants are also pretty useful. Sure they look great in the back of that rock or succulent garden, but they’re also a natural detergent. In fact, one of the common names for yucca is Soapweed. Whether it’s soap for bathing, shampoo for washing hair, or detergent for cleaning clothes, the roots from yucca plants can be crushed and soaked in water to produce a foamy mix that’s well suited for this purpose.

Yucca juice has been used to make paint and is sometimes included as an ingredient for dyes. Another well-known use for yucca plants is fiber for sewing or making rope. Some species are even used for paper pulp. The leaves are suitable for basket-weaving (though I would definitely recommend practicing extreme care, as their needle-sharp foliage packs quite a wallop). When picked at the right time, just as they come into bloom, yucca flower buds were often roasted and eaten. The fruit from thick-leafed varieties was deemed edible, as were the cooked leaves and stems in some species.

yucca-species

There are well over forty types of yucca plants species. Some are shrubby while others are tree-like. Some are solid green; others are variegated. Some are grown in pots and others in the ground. Likewise, many can be grown indoors while others prefer to be outside. Adam’s needle (Y. filamentosa) is the most commonly seen variety in the garden, having curly threads along the leaf margins. A shorter version well adapted to cooler regions is Y. glauca, otherwise known as Soapweed. The Spanish bayonet (Y. aloifolia) is a tall, shrubby-branched species while the Joshua tree (Y. brevifolia) is a tree-like variety with short leaves that form on the twisted ends of branches. Y. treculeana, or Spanish dagger, is a thick-leafed yucca whereas Buckley (y. constricta) is a thin-leafed variety. The stemless Lord’s candle (Y. whipplei) has attractive bluish-green foliage, and then there’s the variegated species, Y. filamentosa ‘Color Guard.’ Other noteworthy yucca plants include Y. flaccida, Y. rigida, Y. guatamaensis, Y. filifers, and Y. elata.

Yucca plants are easy to grow, thriving in sunny, well-draining areas of the landscape. They are especially tolerant of drought-like conditions. Since they do have those extensive root systems, put them in an area that will allow them plenty of growing room. They may require occasional pruning too, especially for those grown indoors. I love how carefree yucca plants are and the number of uses they can provide makes them one of the most versatile evergreens in the landscape.

Resources:

Personal experience
Garden amp; Forest, Vol. 8, Tree Yuccas in the United States by Charles Sargent
Agaves, Yuccas amp; Related Plants: A Gardener’s Guide by Gary amp; Mary Irish

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No Grass is Greener

6 years ago ·

No Grass is Greener

There are continuous efforts to create the better lawn. Particularly in the more arid parts of the country, turf requiring less water while still looking lush and green would be welcome in creating the desired look. On the one hand, this is an admirable endeavor in preserving a precious resource such as water, but on the other, are we so conditioned to believe that landscapes must include expanses of grass in the first place?

Now I am not against beautiful lawns full of grass per se; they are an important component of many sports arenas certainly, and make for important grounds for gathering in public places such as parks. They are wonderful for running on when playing and exercising. They should be looked at as special. But in this country at least, they are looked upon by most as the primary building block of the typical landscape. I can imagine when our country was mostly wilderness, how an isolated landscape was seen as an escape where plants were chosen for the reminder they might provide of another place and time, the old country, for example. But now, with an ever growing population taking over more and more of the land, landscaping needs a new paradigm by putting emphasis on the natural environment.

My point may have its origins in extolling the virtues of the near-elimination of grass-centric landscapes, but my greater argument is for the use of native plants. Whether you live in the mid-West, in which case you should consider plants native to the mid-West, or the Southeast (consider using the plants of the Southeast!), the plants that have evolved in your region will grow naturally with those conditions, be it the unique conditions of the soil, the precipitation, the amount of sunlight, and significantly, in concert with the particular fauna of that region. By doing so, you would naturally use less supplemental water and maybe eliminate the use of fertilizers and pesticides altogether!

native-plants-landscape

Back when our country was young and being settled, a single specimen of a particular tree or shrub with an exotic shape and colors may have stood out in an entire wilderness, but look at the typical suburb and these exotic plants are everywhere. In many cases, they multiply without check and crowd out the native flora. Native plants are the ones that our native fauna have evolved with for thousands of years! And back to the ubiquitous grass and lawns: how much harm is being done to the ecology by keeping them lush and ‘cared-for’ with chemicals that can be poison to our living soil, our watersheds, etc.? Their exorbitant use of precious water. Then add up the usage of all those gas and electric lawnmowers. And blowers. As for artificial lawns, they have their advantages, but outdoor carpeting doesn’t participate in the cycle of life.

Doing away with the lawn and planting more native plants isn’t so much adding yet another thing to worry about in our lives – those with home landscapes may well eventually end up with more time on their hands. Imagine recomposing your land such that you can spend that much less time tending to it and more time relaxing in it. Is the only time you walk on your lawn when you are mowing it? Replacing your lawn results in not having to take care of it anymore. Well chosen native plants and shrubs means less water and pruning. And more birds, bees, and butterflies!

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Pussy Willow: Culture and Uses for This Timeless and Useful Bush

6 years ago ·

Pussy Willow: Culture and Uses for This Timeless and Useful Bush

Most of you are familiar with the silver fuzzy catkins that signal the coming of spring faithfully every March. Some know Pussy Willow as a bush that grows in the wild, semi-open areas that have been left to overgrow, while others cultivate the bush for its excellent dried floral material that seems to have no trouble finding a place within the home every spring. In this article, I will deal with not only how to optimize the bush in the landscape, but also on the different varieties of Pussy Willow and their uses. In this article, I will deal with Common Pussy Willow, French Pink Pussy Willow, and Curly Pussy Willow.

Common Pussy Willow

Common Pussy Willow consists of any bush that grows in the wild by itself. There seem to be two varieties of wild Pussy Willow, the ones that bloom early and the ones that grow aggressively, bloom later, and usually have a slightly lesser catkin performance. Both varieties grow up to forty feet in height, will grow six to twelve inches in diameter, and live between forty and sixty years. Sprouts grow freely from the ground and from the branches. The tree can handle severe pruning and cutting back.

French Pink Pussy Willow

French Pink Pussy Willow is an improved cultivar in that it retains strong growth, has improved catkin size and density, and its twigs and catkin scales retain a red color in the winter. As a tree, it will grow 30-40 feet in height and 20-30 feet wide, often exhibiting multiple branching. It does tend to put out sprouts, which require pruning.

Curly Pussy Willow

Curly Pussy Willow is a rare variety of Pussy Willow that I was able to get a hold of through my involvement in the Floral Industry over the years. How large the bush will actually grow is uncertain, as I continue to prune my bushes heavily every spring to satisfy demand. I assume it will grow to the size of any other pussy willow. So far, it has exhibited strong growth and reliable bloom and twig performance. Catkin density is thick, but the catkin size is lacking in that the catkins are not really fluffy. But the feature that really defines this cultivar and makes it stand out is the tendency of the twig to flatten out, curl, contort, and eventually look like some weird type of hockey stick or golf club.

chinese-willow

Propagating Pussy Willow is really easy. Before the bush puts out leaves, cut some twigs and put them in water. A stem a quarter of an inch thick and about a foot high usually works the best. Look for twigs that exhibit fast, strong growth. Avoid thin, weak, slow growing side branches, as they usually do not produce a good cutting. Make sure the water stays fresh and does not dry up. Within a couple weeks, roots will be developing. When the roots are between one to two inches long, remove the cuttings from the water and plant in the ground or in flowerpots. During the first year, water frequently. At the end of the year, if the plants are in flowerpots, they can be planted in the ground. During the first year, a lot of the plant’s energy is invested in its root system. By the second year, you should start seeing strong, good growth.

Left to itself, Pussy Willow will grow two to four feet a year when mature, to six feet per year when young. The problem with this is the bush tends to stretch into a tree, leaving the valuable twigs out of reach and even somewhat out of sight. The tree also tends to produce poorer bloom when not pruned.

There are several ways that the tree can be pruned. As the tree can take a heavy pruning, there are multiple pruning options, a lot of room for error, and little risk of losing the tree due to lack of pruning as a hard cut will produce a new crown of growth within a couple years.

A method I employ in my yard is to let the tree row as a single trunk to about six feet high where I let the tree branch out. Each year after the catkins blow, I prune the new growth six inches above last year’s cut. The result is a semi-formal yet informal tree that looks really good eleven and a half months of the year. (The other two weeks being when it is a bare skeleton before the new growth has fully emerged.) After six years of such pruning, the dead wood and knobbiness of the overall crown became a bit too much so I thinned out the wood inside the crown, leaving about thirty good stubs on a really bare skeleton. It looked really ugly in April, but now you probably wouldn’t be able to tell if it had been pruned at all. Because Pussy Willow sprouts off of old wood, this shape can basically be held for many years. And with the use of a short stepladder, there is always a supply of high quality twigs for floral use.

Don’t be afraid to prune Pussy Willow hard. Feel free to experiment with different shapes, forms, and ideas. If there is a plant that can take a heavy pruning and not even blink, it is Pussy Willow. Although Pussy Willow does not have as much deadwood as regular willow, pruning eliminates that as well. And pruning encourages healthy growth with good bloom quality.

When you pick Pussy Willow for freshly cut flower arrangements, it is best to pick it early, just after most of the catkins have opened. It can be picked later, but if the catkins are starting to pop, it is probably better to dry them. Dried Pussy Willow tends to lose a bit of its fresh, sharp look, but still looks pretty decent. Since the catkins sometimes droop while drying, hanging the branches upside-down from a rafter for a couple weeks will remedy that. Once dried, Pussy Willow will keep for upwards of a year or more. Curly Pussy Willow can presumably last for decades, as it is a woody stem. It blooms a couple weeks later than French Pink Pussy Willow, but can be picked as early as November if harvested for its curly twigs.

Willow twigs can be used in basket weaving and other related crafts. To make a wreath of Pussy Willow, all you need is a base frame and some florist wire to wire the twigs to the wreath base. If the desired effect is to have the twigs fan out from a core, wind the twig around the base a couple times, then let it fan out. There should only be about a foot to eighteen inches of twig when the winding is done. It is good to harvest the twigs long and trim them as needed while weaving. There are almost unlimited possibilities, just let your imagination run wild!

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A DIY Guide to Landscaping for Winter Birds

6 years ago ·

A DIY Guide to Landscaping for Winter Birds

Often the only sign of life you may see during the winter are the birds which come into your yard in search of food. Bird feeders are not the only thing that causes winter birds to frequent particular yards in the neighborhood. Planning ahead for the basic needs winter birds have begins with landscaping.

First Things First

Consult a good bird identification book to identify which birds you may expect to stay the winter in your region. The bird book you have should contain range maps for each bird listed. The National Geographic Field Guide to Birds and Kenn Kaufman’s Birds of North America are two excellent pocket guides with this information. A good beginner’s pocket guide is Birds: A Golden Guide published by St. Martin’s Press.

Birds which seem to winter in many sections of the United States include the following: dark-eyed junco, downy woodpecker, red-breasted and white-breasted nuthatches, northern cardinal, song sparrow, house finch, common redpoll, pine siskin, jay (blue or Stellar’s), and chickadee. Decide which of the winter birds you especially wish to attract and concentrate on landscaping for those birds. Some winter birds prefer certain foods and have different habitat needs than others.

Winter Birds Require Food

If you wish to attract winter birds to your yard, your landscaping design should include seed, fruit, and nut bearing perennials, shrubs, and trees which will hang onto their seeds or fruit during the winter months. In combination with bird feeders, your yard and garden plants will provide enough food to satisfy the birds that overwinter in your area.

When selecting perennials and shrubs for your landscape, you must think ahead to what the average snow fall is for your region. If you live in an area with large amounts of snow and you plant perennials or shrubs which hug the ground, they will not be found by the winter birds. Landscaping for winter birds in these regions means selecting perennials and shrubs taller than one or two feet in height.

Know which type of bird likes what type of food+

Here is a list which may help you:

Winter birds which eat only seeds: dark-eyed juncos, red-and white-breasted nuthatches (also eats nuts and insects), common redpolls (also eats insects), pine siskins (also eats insects), chickadees (also eats insects).

Winter birds which eat both seeds and fruit/berries: downy woodpeckers (also eats insects), northern cardinals (also eats insects), song sparrows, house finches, jays (also eats acorns and insects).

feeding-birds-on-winter

Perennial plants in the landscape can supply smaller ground-feeding winter birds with seeds to eat. Look for ornamental grasses with seed heads like little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis), or spear grass (Achnatherum calamagrostis). Juncos, sparrows, and finches enjoy the seeds from these grasses. Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) grows to two or three feet and has a central seed head at which winter birds will peck. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) is a native wild flower and like purple coneflower is a natural winter bird feeder. Another interesting landscape idea: stake up a few towering sunflowers against a wall and let the seed heads develop and dry out. Northern cardinals, finches, jays, and chickadees will perch and enjoy their winter meal.

Do not forget that ornamental shrubs often supply winter birds with berries, besides looking beautiful in your winter landscape. Highbush cranberry (Viburnum trilobum) grows up to ten feet, has bright red berries, and is either evergreen or deciduous depending upon your USDA hardiness zone. David Beaulieu, the landscaping guide for About.com, recommends both holly and bayberry shrubs. You must make sure you have both a male and female plant when planting these two species or you will not get the berries so popular with winter birds. The blossoms from rosa rugosa, also known as salt spray rose, will die back and form rose hips, a type of emergency food for winter birds when they can not find other sources.

Trees can provide fruit, nuts, or seeds for winter birds and often tower above your winter landscape. American mountain ash will have some berries well after the cedar waxwings pick it over in the autumn. Woodpeckers and jays eat these leftover berries. Pincherry and chokecherry trees in the landscape provide berries eaten by jays, woodpeckers, and finches among others. The American beech tree is an excellent choice for its nuts which jays, chickadees, and tufted titmice eat. Siskins and redpolls clamor for the birch tree’s tiny cone-like fall seeds, some of which may hang on through part of the winter.

Berry-producing evergreen trees in your landscape like junipers and cedars are favorites of some game birds. The seeds in the cones of pine and spruce trees feed woodpeckers, chickadees, siskins, crossbills, nuthatches, and finches. Evergreen trees perform a function other than food which we will see in the next section.

Some species formerly sought for their food value to winter birds have been discovered to be more invasive than desired. These include sumacs, honeysuckle, red chokecherry, Oriental bittersweet, multiflora roses, Japanese barberry, and privet. The person wishing to plant these species should either select an alternative native species for their landscape or be vigilant about controlling the plant’s growth and distribution.

Winter Birds Require Shelter

If you were outside during the winter on a day when the wind blew harsh and cold, you would seek shelter, wouldn’t you? Winter birds require some kind of shelter as well against strong winds and the cold. Pines and spruces are some of the best trees in the landscape to provide this. Another place winter birds sometimes find temporary shelter is among patches of dried grasses. Although you may be tempted to clean up a brush pile or wood pile, birds find shelter in these areas, too. The winter birds which eat insects as well as other foods find dormant insects hidden under the bark of trees and in brush and wood piles.

Trees and tall shrubs in the landscape provide perches for winter birds taking their turns at bird feeders. For that reason, the smart birdwatcher places his feeders and suet baskets within a short distance of a hedge or other trees and shrubs.

To plan where in your landscape to plant trees, shrubs, or hedges consider where the snow drifts the most and plant so you have a windbreak. The winter birds will benefit from a windbreak as well.

Some birds use the peeling bark from birch trees in building their nests in the spring. Other winter birds utilize the cavities of dead trees to seek shelter. If you choose to keep a dead tree section as part of your landscaping design, an ornamental vine can hide it during most of the rest of the year.

Winter Birds Require Water

One of the most difficult of basic needs to supply to winter birds is the water they require. Birds simply can not maintain the efficiency of their feathers to warm them without baths during the winter. Snow will not take care of a winter bird’s thirst. Terra cotta or clay bird baths may crack with prolonged exposure to cold winter temperatures. Ponddoc.com recommends an electric bird bath deicer for days when the temperatures are freezing. Bird baths need not be elaborate either, according to her. A garbage can lid is shallow enough that even smaller birds will not be frightened to use the water it contains. Of course, if you do not use a deicer to keep the water unfrozen, you will have to use boiling water to unfreeze it or tap the ice out and refill it throughout the day. Use of salt and antifreeze, needless to state, are absolutely forbidden because of the hazards to the health of the winter birds.

Remember . . .

Try to select native plant, shrub, and tree species instead of introducing non-native varieties which may be difficult to prevent from becoming invasive.

A yard that is mostly neatly trimmed lawn with few shrubs or trees attracts few birds. Without the food and shelter a diverse selection of plants brings, your winter landscape will look sparse and unattractive to a winter bird.

Resources:
Buchanan, Rita. The Winter Garden: Plants That Offer Color and Beauty in Every Season of the Year. Taylor’s Weekend Gardening Guides. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1997.
David Beaulieu. “Popular Plants, Ideas for Winter Landscapes: Ideas for Turning Winter Landscapes Into Winter Scenes Worth Painting.” [Online] http://landscaping.about.com/cs/winterlandscaping1/a/winter_shrubs_3.htm
http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/attracting/landscaping/plant_groups
http://www.garden.org/subchannels/landscaping/trees?q=show id;=764 page;=3
http://www.ponddoc.com/WhatsUpDoc/WildBirds/WBirdWinterNecessity.htm

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