5 mistakes to avoid when renting out a vacation home
Home and garden

5 mistakes to avoid when renting out a vacation home

Renting out one’s vacation home is an excellent way to promote tourism while earning some income on the side. Vacation homes in popular tourist sites are usually in demand throughout the year, as people often enjoy brief stays and sleepovers on long weekends or holidays. But while renting out a holiday home, one should take certain measures for safety and to maximize profits. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while renting out a vacation home: Not considering overhead costs Often, landlords overlook additional costs they should be charging visitors and tenants of vacation homes, such as maintenance costs, utility costs, property management fees, and any other unplanned expenses. Maintaining and managing property at vacation sites is not easy, so one needs to ensure that tenants pay all the required dues. Overlooking local rules and regulations Every locality or town has its own set of rules and regulations. For example, there may be different laws regarding move-in and move-out inspection, new tenant processing fees, and security deposits, among others. So, landlords should know and comply with these laws when they let out their property for use. Not estimating the correct price Sometimes, landlords may underestimate the amount that their property deserves.
3 plumbing mistakes DIYers make and how to fix them
Home and garden

3 plumbing mistakes DIYers make and how to fix them

Plumbing tasks are more challenging than many people would like to admit. Many DIY projects do not go according to plan, especially when done by individuals without experience. When someone tries fixing their home’s pipes and drains for the first time, they tend to make mistakes that can be hard to detect and costly to correct in the long run. This is why people should know the various DIY plumbing mistakes and avoid them. Using liquid drain cleaners instead of tools Many DIYers use liquid drain cleaners in excessive quantities to clear blockages from the kitchen or bathroom sink. While these cleaners may be effective sometimes, one should avoid using them because they can harm metal traps and pipes. There may also come a time when one may have to hire a professional plumber to remove the trap arm and fill it with a corrosive caustic drain cleaner, which is a tougher task than just clearing an obstructed sink. So, instead of making this mistake, one should simply use a snaked or barbed drain cleaning tool to clear blockages from their sink. Wrapping thread tape backward or using the wrong tape Thread tape must be wrapped clockwise around the threads to work correctly.
6 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

6 bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid

A bathroom is far from only a place to bathe. Today, users want it to look beautiful and function in a way that can help them relax and unwind after a tiresome day. Therefore, remodeling a bathroom to suit a homeowner’s needs is often as exciting as it gets. However, bathroom renovations are not that simple, and a mistake could be detrimental to the project. On that note, here are six bathroom remodeling mistakes to avoid. Lack of planning Planning before a bathroom renovation project is necessary to ensure the job flows smoothly. Whether installing new lighting structures on the ceiling or a mirror on the wall, one should pre-plan such modifications. This is because there might be plumbing and electrical wires in various places, and drilling into them could lead to damage. Ignoring storage space Storage in a bathroom is necessary as it helps take full advantage of the space available. One should add enough storage space to help hold items like toiletries, cosmetics, towels, and other essentials. Individuals could also install hooks on walls or metal racks to keep towels off the floor. Not setting a budget The budget of any project, including bathroom renovations, is necessary to avoid overspending on various installations.
4 kitchen remodeling mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

4 kitchen remodeling mistakes to avoid

One of the first things that comes to mind when remodeling a kitchen is the project’s high cost. However, that should not hinder one from the remodeling task. Instead of avoiding the project, one should plan and create a budget to help one stay on track, although budgeting is not the only factor to consider when renovating. With the number of components involved, remodeling mistakes are easier to commit. Some of them to avoid are: Not hiring experienced professionals Renovating one’s own home is like a dream project. However, it is important to acknowledge that one person cannot do it all. Homeowners should recognize their limitations instead of attempting to achieve everything. This is particularly true for tasks such as plumbing and electrical work, which, if done improperly, can cause damage or injuries to the home dwellers and the property. Hiring experienced professionals and ensuring things are done correctly rather than attempting such critical tasks is advisable. Not having a timeline Creating a gorgeous and functional kitchen can take a long time. Some individuals might be working on the project while working full-time, which can cause the DIY project to last longer. However, it is important to have a timeframe in place.
5 reasons all homes need a water purifier
Home and garden

5 reasons all homes need a water purifier

All homes do not have access to clean and safe drinking water, which isn’t available to everyone today. Water-borne diseases and health issues caused by unsafe drinking water can pose a serious risk and cause harm to one’s health, and as such, water purifiers can ensure clean and safe drinking water. Here are a few reasons a water purifier is a good investment for one’s health: 1. Removes chemical contaminants Tap water is treated very often with chlorine by municipal water treatment facilities. While these disinfectants neutralize parasites, bacteria, and pathogens, they could also leave behind harmful byproducts like trihalomethanes and chloramines, whose long-term exposure has been linked to serious health issues like cancer. Reverse osmosis water purifiers and activated carbon filters absorb the chlorine molecules, bind them to a surface, and prevent them from passing through the filter. The removal of chlorine also improves the taste and odor of water and may reduce any ill health effects that could result from drinking water with very high levels of chlorine. 2. Ensures added security Contaminants from pollution, outdated or faulty water pies, residue from pesticides (in the case of well water), and even extreme weather conditions can put a strain on municipal water treatment facilities.
5 tips for choosing the best water purifier
Home and garden

5 tips for choosing the best water purifier

With the increase in pollution levels, the concern for water contamination is on the rise. This also extends to drinking and cooking with such contaminated water as it can lead to health complications. To avoid such problems, it is advisable to install water purifiers. It helps access contaminant-free drinking water and keep oneself hydrated, essential for maintaining good health. However, one has to filter through numerous options and find a purifier that suits the requirements. Tips for choosing the right water purifier Check water quality It is first necessary to check the quality of water before selecting a water purifier. Depending on one’s residing location, one might have to deal with one or more water contaminants, varying from place to place. The contaminants present in the water would determine the type and quality of purifier required. Assessing the water quality beforehand can assist in choosing a purifier that efficiently eliminates all the contaminants and improves the quality of drinking water. Set a budget Before making any purchase, it’s important to set a budget. This helps filter out irrelevant options and allows one to focus on the important features of the product that will be useful in the long run. By sticking to cost-effective options, one can appreciate their purchase without overspending.
4 common roofing mistakes to avoid during renovation
Home and garden

4 common roofing mistakes to avoid during renovation

Proper roofing is integral to the structure of a house, and sometimes, even small errors in roofing, like a misaligned nail or using sub-standard shingles, can cause damage. While carrying out renovations on roofing, there are a few things to keep in mind, and not adhering to these can cause water damage, mold, and rot to permeate through the roof. Check out these common roofing mistakes that can occur during roofing renovations. Fitting a new roof over the old roof The only way to know what’s wrong with the old roofing is to tear it down and inspect it. Only after this can one ensure a correct roof repair or replacement. Installing a new roof over an old one without finding out the underlying issues is just covering up the problem and could result in costly repairs down the line. Also, the additional layer could increase the weight of the roof and put added pressure and stress on the walls. Using sub-standard shingles Buying shingles of strong and lasting quality is important so that they can withstand harsh weather conditions. Skimping on shingles during roof renovation only means that one may need to replace them sooner than usual, defeating the purpose of trying to save money in the first place.
6 common window and door maintenance mistakes to avoid
Home and garden

6 common window and door maintenance mistakes to avoid

Maintaining doors and windows does not seem that difficult, but if one does not keep up with it, the doors and windows could endure damage and excessive wear and tear. This could prove costly in the long run. Cleaning them only counts for something if care is taken to maintain their structure and moving parts. From irregular oiling to skipping caulking and sealing, here are some common door and window maintenance mistakes that most people make: 1. Irregular cleanup Dust and dirt tend to accumulate near tracks, frames, and corners of doors and windows, making them look shabby and affecting the movement of the hinges. Regularly cleaning these areas with mild detergent and soft cloth that won’t leave scratches and checking for signs of wear and tear helps improve the appearance and performance of doors and windows. 2. Overlooking moisture-related issues Moisture and wood do not go together, and continuous moisture can deteriorate the wooden frames of windows and doors, encouraging rot, mold, and mildew. Maintaining proper ventilation in the home, using exhaust fans in high-humidity areas, and immediately fixing any water-related issues helps maintain the strength and integrity of doors and windows. 3. Using harsh cleaning products Using ammonia-based cleaners and rough scrubbers to clean glass windows and wooden doors can lead to scratches and material damage over time.
4 handy tips to choose a pest control company
Home and garden

4 handy tips to choose a pest control company

Pests can spread infections and become a menace for those staying in the house. While sprays, coils, and baits may help reduce their number, they may not be long-term solutions. Regular pest control is necessary to ward off these insects for longer periods and prevent them from forming colonies. Selecting a pest control company requires some research and thinking. These four tips can help one choose the right provider for their needs. Find out which methods the company uses While there are different ways to get rid of pests, not all are 100% effective. Moreover, some companies use solutions that can harm people if they inhale them. So, one should ask the pest control company which methods and products they use and check if those options are safe and effective. Understand the specific pest control requirements Although general pest control can stop pests, one may sometimes need specific solutions depending on the type of pests thriving around one’s house. Rodent control, termite control, and bug control are some options companies provide. One should inspect the place to find out what type of pests prevail the most and check with the pest control company if they can cater to these requirements or not.
7 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets
Home and garden

7 cleaning mistakes that can ruin carpets

Carpets are a significant part of the home’s aesthetics. However, not many people know how to care well for them. This results in frequent mistakes that can damage the carpets and cost a lot of money. These have been recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC), and steering clear of them can help extend the life of the upholstery. Read on to learn about seven carpet cleaning mistakes and ways to avoid them. Scrubbing vigorously Scrubbing carpets too hard is not an effective way to remove the stains. In fact, it causes more damage to the fibers and can push the stain in deeper. Instead of scrubbing, try a blotting motion to lift any stains before following up with cleaners. Acting too slow Don’t wait for a spill to dry up, as this can make cleaning tougher. During this time, the spill seeps through the carpet fibers and reaches the padding, increasing the risk of mold growth. Try to clean it up as quickly as possible. Using the wrong products Today, carpets are made of a variety of fabrics. Each of the fabrics requires special care and attention, including certain cleaning products. Using the wrong cleaners can damage the integrity of the fibers and worsen fraying.

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5 early warning signs of poor blood circulation
health

5 early warning signs of poor blood circulation

Blood circulation is a vital process that ensures the continuous flow of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. It keeps all bodily organs functioning, ensuring optimum health. However, certain health conditions, including peripheral artery diseases and high blood pressure, can disrupt circulation. In such cases, the essential nutrients may not reach some body parts. It is when people experience certain warning signs that indicate that their blood circulation needs a boost. Varicose veins These develop when additional pressure builds up on the blood vessels, obstructing normal blood circulation. Varicose veins may also occur due to damage to blood vessels, disrupting blood circulation in the veins. As a result, the veins appear twisted or engorged, usually in the lower extremities, such as the lower area of the leg. Blood clots These can occur anywhere in the body, blocking blood flow, either completely or partially. Although it can develop in any body part, the clots forming in the legs or arms are generally responsible for causing blood circulation issues. Sometimes, a blood clot in the abdomen can also indicate poor blood circulation. Muscle cramps When the body cannot get sufficient oxygenated blood due to poor circulation, it can cause cramps, especially in the legs.
6 early signs of poor lung health
health

6 early signs of poor lung health

We might not heed a cough that won’t go away or wheezing while breathing, assuming it might be because of air quality or changing weather. However, mild but chronic symptoms like these must be noted down. People often think that trouble with breathing is normal as they get older, but these might be signs of severe lung disease. With this in mind, here are six warning signs of poor lung health that should not be ignored. Chronic cough A cough that won’t go away and has been around for eight weeks or longer is considered chronic. The constant symptom indicates something might be wrong with the individual’s respiratory system. If one experiences this, they should visit a healthcare expert for an opinion immediately. Excessive mucus production The mucus lines the surfaces of organs like the lungs and serves as a lubricant to keep tissues from drying out and as a line of defense. But if someone develops excessive mucus in their throat or chest that won’t go away, it could be a sign of lung disease. Wheezing Noisy or strained breathing is a potential sign that something might be obstructing the airwaves in the lungs or forcing them to narrow.
5 warning signs of eczema to watch out for
health

5 warning signs of eczema to watch out for

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a skin disorder in which the skin feels extremely itchy, is flaky, and can appear reddish and inflamed. While the skin condition usually develops and is common in young children, it can occur at any age. It is also observed eczema patients are at high risk of having asthma, hay fever, and some food allergies. Keep reading to learn more about the early warning signs of this disease. Reddish and itchy skin Eczema usually starts with this symptom, which can be noticed on the feet, hands, and face. The skin may also become scaly, rough, and dry in certain areas. It needs to be properly diagnosed by a healthcare professional for initiating proper topical treatment. Blisters In some cases of eczema, one of the symptoms includes developing blisters. These are small and often have fluid filled in them. They can also be extremely itchy and, when scratched, may break and ooze on the skin. In addition, it can lead to further skin irritation in the area. Cracked skin This skin condition develops thick skin, which gets inflamed or swollen and can lead to cracks. It can get extremely uncomfortable, especially around the areas where the skin is thin and folded.
6 foods to avoid before taking a flight
travel

6 foods to avoid before taking a flight

Preparing for a flight is not only about what you pack into your bags but also what goes inside your stomach. Luxurious seating and business-class hospitality cannot compensate for a poorly planned meal before a flight. Changes in air pressure and density on board a flight cause a shift in meal requirements before and during one’s air journey. This article provides a list of foods that one should avoid before boarding a flight: Apples The proverb “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” cannot be more accurate, considering the abundance of antioxidants and vitamin C in apples. However, the fruit is extremely high in fiber content, which may cause problems with digestion and lead to bloating. Such issues can have a more severe impact while one is on board a flight. Hence, it is best to opt for fruits like oranges, berries, and papayas, which are easier to digest, before flight journeys. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts are high in vital nutrients; however, they can be heavy on the stomach and trigger digestion issues. They are also rich in a sugar called raffinose, which often causes bloating. It helps to avoid cruciferous vegetables before a flight, swapping them with lighter foods like white rice, fermented foods, and instant oats.
5 common skin care myths debunked
health

5 common skin care myths debunked

With heaps of information floating around promising to uncover all secrets about skincare and beauty regimes, it can be daunting to find well-grounded sources. Many urban legends and myths are also passed down through generations, and these seem to do more harm than good. To help you make the right decisions for your skin’s health and overall glow, here are some popular myths you must know about and the science behind them! Myth: The order of application of skincare products doesn’t matter! There is a correct way of applying your skincare products, which helps ensure that it is absorbed properly and works effectively. Work with your dermatologist’s recommendation if you are confused about the right order of application, or go from the lightest to the heaviest density of product formulation. The general order is to start with a cleanser, followed by toner or mist, and then serums, moisturizers, facial oils, and sunscreen. Myth: You only need to wear sunscreen on sunny days The sun’s UVA and UVB rays can penetrate through the clouds and many types of glass, which can cause permanent damage to your skin. It is vital to wear sunscreen every day and reapply it every couple of hours, regardless of your exposure to the sun.
5 surprising facts of long-haul flights
travel

5 surprising facts of long-haul flights

While long-haul flights may be taxing, typically from one part of the world to another, luxury aircraft entails world-class facilities to ensure comfortable, hassle-free flight journeys for passengers. Such flights have collectively increased accessibility to cities and towns across the globe, allowing individuals to reach distant lands in relatively short periods. Today, several passengers board long-haul flights for commercial purposes and leisure. So, let’s take a look at some surprising facts about these flights: Almost every aircraft has some minor defect The sensors in a plane provide information to the team on the ground about any defects or problems in the aircraft. It has been observed that there are some minor defects in almost every aircraft, such as the jamming of a window. In case of significant issues, the team posted on the ground can directly contact the pilots. Flight attendants have a secret chamber Unbeknown to most long-haul flights, almost all have a secret room dedicated to flight attendants. This room helps flight attendants rest and avoid unruly passengers. They can access the cockpit and comprise bunks. Some of them entail business-class seats and a washroom. You may be traveling with a rhino No, it is not just a dog or cat taken on a flight.