Home & Garden

Whether you are having a home or office construction or renovation, one thing that will pile up during the process is junk, and you need a way to dispose of it. You have the option to do it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. There are advantages and disadvantages to these options. The best choice is one that will work best for you.

DIY junk removal

One of the common reasons why people decide to do the garbage disposal on their own is because of the cost of hiring professional service. If you do the job by yourself, you don’t have to pay a service fee. You can also do it at the time most convenient for you. Plus, you can still salvage items that you may have accidentally thrown in the pile that shouldn’t be there.

Doing the junk removal on your own may have its benefits, but it also has its drawbacks. It can be time-consuming since you have to do everything on your own, especially if there is a large volume of garbage that you need to dispose of. You will put the junk in the vehicle, and you may need to make several trips to the landfill, which will also use your precious time and effort.

DIY junk removal is not entirely cost-free. You will also spend something, and the total price may be around the same as the cost of hiring a professional service. If you do not have the vehicle, you will need to hire one for this specific project. You also need to pay the landfill for dumping your garbage. Plus, there’s also the fuel cost of traveling to and from your location and the landfill.

Hiring professional junk removers

Getting a professional junk removal service will free up time and energy so you can focus on other more important things. The job will also be quicker as they are equipped, trained, and experienced to do the work. Since they have all the equipment they need, you don’t have to worry about producing or finding them yourself. It will also save you from possible accidents or injuries that you may get from disposing of the garbage.

The drawback of hiring a junk removal service provider is that you will pay for the service. However, considering that this already covers the equipment to be used and the landfill fees, it may not be as costly as you may think. You will also have no control over what items will be disposed of. However, if you carefully check the things that you throw on the pile, then this will not be an issue.

You can also help save the environment by choosing the right provider. If you are around the Miami area, find a company such as Evergreen Junk Removal which offers junk removal in Miami that partners with recycling companies. They will separate items that are recyclable from those that they will deliver straight to the landfill. The recyclable materials will then be delivered to their partner recycling companies to be used for other means.

If you have a property that has a lot of land attached to it, be it residential property or commercial property, you might want to take on the care and maintenance of this property yourself rather than outsourcing it to someone else. However, if you don’t have a lot of experience with something like this, you might find that even the seemingly smallest tasks can be very challenging. But luckily, with the right preparation, you can make these things easier on yourself.

To help you see how this can be done, here are three ways to make caring for your property easier on you.

Use The Right Tools

The first things you’ll want to have in order to make caring for your property easier are the right tools. Without the right tools, you could be spending way more time than is necessary on each task that you have to do.

For caring for a larger property, or even just a more high maintenance property, you’ll want things like a tractor or other utility vehicle, a tree pruner and edger that extends as long as you need, aerator shoes, various rakes and shovels, leaf blowers, wheelbarrows, and more. Depending on the exact type of property you have and what your plans are for that property, you might have to get more specific tools to help you accomplish your goals.

Keep Tarps Close By

When you’re out doing work on your property, one thing you’ll want to keep close to you is a tarp.

If you’re going to be working with some lightweight debris, either bringing it onto your property or taking it off of your property, having a tarp to help move things around can make your life a lot easier. Rather than having to continually take loads by hand, you can collect things onto the tarp and easily take a much larger load to wherever you’re needing to go.

Making Things Low Maintenance

If what you’re really looking for is a low maintenance way to maintain your property, what you’ll want to do is make your property as low maintenance as possible. This way, you won’t have to spend a lot of time or money working on your property each week or every season.

To make your property more low maintenance, you should consider planting things like drought-resistant plants and adding more hardscaping rather than landscaping every inch. This way, you can let most of your property just take care of itself as opposed to you always having to make sure that everything is taken care of on a regular basis.

If you are looking it to be easier for you to care for your property, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you see how this can be accomplished.

 

You can use stamped concrete patterns to make a concrete patio, driveway or other surface look like brick or slate. These patterns are a low-cost technique to create realistic textures.

Stamped concrete employs rubber stamps made from “real stone” molds to imprint the concrete to seem like brick, slate, cobblestone, tile, or even wood planks. Visit our website for more information.

What Should I Look For in Stamped Concrete?

In terms of pattern and color options, stamped concrete is unbeatable. Many customers choose patterns and colors that match their existing stone, tile, or textured concrete pieces. If your home has a brick exterior, try a basic brick-patterned border or a pattern and color scheme that complements your surroundings. To help you choose stamped concrete, here are some options to look out for:

Patterns

Popular stamped concrete patterns include slate, flagstone, and fieldstone. Patterns in brick, cobblestone, and wood follow. Seamless stamps create texture without joint patterns. You may even press patterns into concrete with steps and fountains.

Colors

The most common colors are grays and earth tones; however, brick patterns are frequently tinted red or russet. Colors can be combined, layered, or aged using stains or tints to create an almost limitless palette for accurate stone color, decorative borders, or a contrasting color pattern.

Is Stamped Concrete Worth the Money?

Yes! Stamped concrete costs between $2,707 and $6,284, according to Home Advisor. A contractor’s fee ranges from $8 to $28 per square foot.

Stamped concrete is more durable and requires less maintenance than most other pavement materials, resulting in considerable savings over time.

Many homeowners worry if it is worth the money to construct a stamped concrete patio or driveway; Because it adds curb appeal and aesthetic value to your property, allowing you to maximize your return on investment.

Why Is Stamped Concrete Bad?

Stamped concrete could crack and chip, especially in colder areas. Winters in Kansas City are particularly harsh on concrete, and it could be unattractive, and it might be dangerous due to tripping hazards.

Stamped concrete also needs to be re-tinted and sealed every 2-3 years, even less for darker hues. After then, the color will fade, leaving you with a different hue than you started with.

What Questions Should You Ask a Concrete Contractor?

Asking the right questions might help you find the right contractor for your project. Asking multiple inquiries might also help you weed out unskilled and low-quality contractors. Below are some crucial questions to ask when hiring a stamped concrete contractor in Kansas City.

1. How long have you worked? What other projects have you done?

While checking online ratings of local concrete contractors is a fantastic start, don’t be afraid to phone or visit with a possible contractor to discuss your job.

2. Do you have a portfolio of your past work?

If you visit with a contractor in person, they may be able to show you photos of previous work. Some may even have a digital portfolio on their website.

3. Are references available?

If prior work isn’t available, this is a wonderful follow-up. If your potential contractor is reluctant to provide references, look for someone proud of his work and who has satisfied former clients.

4. What is your routine? When can you start my job?

An excellent concrete finishing company has a hectic schedule. Make sure the contractor you choose can meet your deadline.

5. Will my project take long?

The average driveway should take 2-3 days to pour. Larger projects like concrete walls, countertops, and commercial pathways around a property may take a week or two.

6. Will my project require permits?

It’s likely that a concrete contractor lacks experience or does mediocre work if he doesn’t know about the permitting process.

7. Will you rebar the concrete?

It is an excellent way to test contractors’ knowledge. If he thinks you require rebar reinforcement, he should explain why.

8. Will you manage the project, and will others assist you?

It’s crucial to know how many people will be on your property, when, and who will be in control; this may indicate a lack of experience or organization on the part of your contractor.

9. How do you stay safe at work?

Ensure all concrete finishers are trained and experienced in safe work methods. Check out if they have workers’ compensation and liability insurance to cover any on-the-job injuries to prevent unnecessary costs.

10. Do you usually employ a written contract and guarantee your services in writing?

Concerning project expectations and duties, it’s critical to have a written agreement in case issues emerge during or after the project.

How Do I Choose a Contractor?

If you’re unsure how to hire stamped concrete contractors in Kansas City for your job, here are some suggestions.

• Hire a Pro

You don’t want to be the contractor’s first or even tenth try at stamped and ornamental concrete. Your crew should be adequately trained and equipped for the job, with examples of previous successful work.

• Get References

The contractor should provide you with references. If feasible, ask these customers about their experience and product durability. Since stamped concrete is a specialty application, the references should be from clients who have used it.

• Examine their CVs

Is the company licensed, insured, and bonded? You need a legitimate company to work on your house, not a side hustler. Checking credentials helps secure your biggest possession, your home.

• Ask for Design Help

The contractor you hire should create ideas that complement your home and property for the best results. Please submit any images that inspire you and work with the team to create something you’ll adore. Not listening or not meeting your needs will result in a finished product you will not love.

• Get the Facts

A stamped concrete project entails more than simply the finished product; Contractors must remove previous materials, prepare the base, and apply other charges. Make sure any contractor you’re contemplating gives you a full cost list.

• Have a Plan B

The weather might affect project time, so your installer should have a backup plan ready in case of delays.

The finished patio should last a decade or more, with only occasional sealing required.

How Thick Should Stamped Concrete Be?

According to Home Advisor, thicker concrete costs more per square foot. But don’t go for the thinnest layer possible. Remember that thicker concrete is stronger and lasts longer. If you’re laying stamped concrete, go for a 4-inch thickness. Patios don’t normally have to withstand severe loads, so this is a good compromise between strength and cost.

For a stamped concrete driveway, the minimum suggested thickness is 6 inches. An 8-inch slab is recommended to sustain the weight of several automobiles and heavier vehicles.

Thicker concrete saves money in repair, maintenance, and replacement costs more expensive per square foot.

How Long Will Stamped Concrete Last?

Stamped concrete has the same lifespan as non-stamped concrete (approximately 25 years) if properly built and maintained. Because putting stamped concrete and regular concrete are very similar.

Verdict

You’ll need to decide what hardscape surface is best for you, but before you decide on stamped concrete or not, think about the long-term implications. Doing your research on stamped concrete contractors in Kansas City will go a long way to give you the home of your choice.

 

Stucco can be used as the primary exterior covering on many homes and buildings, and in some regions of the country, it’s very common to see stucco exteriors on homes and businesses. Stucco provides an attractive, economical, and durable finish over wood or brick. However, it can be susceptible to damage from harsh weather conditions, and pressure washing can be very detrimental to its finish if you don’t do it properly. For further insight on pressure washing your house, visit us at largopressurewashingservices.com.

Why should you pressure wash your home in the first place?

Even if you take care of your home, it can quickly become dirty and look run-down. You may want to give it a new paint job or do a thorough cleaning before putting your house up for sale. When you’re ready to spruce up its appearance again, try using pressure washing to clean dirt and grime off your siding, driveway or walkways without risking any damage by abrasive cleaners or sponges.

Keep in mind that pressure washing involves powerful streams of water and needs to be done by a professional, unless you have a well-maintained pressure washer at home. If you’re planning to sell your house and would like to make it look as clean as possible for potential buyers, then hiring a professional is probably your best bet. Pressure washing typically costs between $192 and $401. It’s a small price to pay compared to costly repairs if done yourself without any experience.

Is pressure washing really damaging stucco

You may have always wondered if pressure washing could damage stucco. Although pressure washing does remove dirt and moss from your home, it can actually also damage stucco when you’re not careful. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to prevent any problems. If you want to know whether or not pressure washing is bad for stucco, read on. Our expert tips will teach you everything that you need to know about using a pressure washer on stucco surfaces.

The best way to clean stucco

If you have decided to clean your home’s stucco, it is important to know that there are several methods for getting your stucco cleaned. These include pressure washing, chemical cleaning and manual cleaning. Each of these methods has its own pros and cons, so it is up to you to decide which will be best for your home’s needs.

If you are using a pressure washer, it is important to know that it can cause cracks and holes in your stucco due to its intense water spray. In addition, you will also want to make sure that you do not use too much pressure when cleaning your home. This is because excess water flow can cause staining of your stucco as well as rotting of wood underneath your siding. Ultimately pressure washing is the best way to clean your stucco if used with the proper amount of water pressure.

What can you do about it

One of your house’s most vulnerable areas is its stucco. This is especially true if you live in a warm, humid climate and don’t keep an eye out for stains that could become permanent. Before you start blasting away at those cracks, though, make sure you understand how to avoid damage to your stucco.

Make sure you have a clear vision of what you want to accomplish before you start working. It’s easy to get overwhelmed if you try to make too many changes at once. Keep your focus, but don’t be afraid to make some small improvements that will make a big difference in your home’s appearance.

Another benefit of doing some research is that you’ll get a better idea of what pressure washing accessories you’ll need. While any power washer can blast away at your home, certain tools will make cleaning a lot easier. Consider investing in extension wands, brushes and other accessories to make sure you have everything you need. If you’re not up for the job, consider hiring a professional. They’ll know exactly how to safely clean stucco.

Can pressure washing damage other materials on your home?

While pressure washing can help you clean your home, it may not be appropriate for every surface. Depending on what material your home is made from, pressure washing could damage it. That’s why you should perform a few tests first to determine whether or not pressure washing is safe for your house and if it would even do any good.

Determine if pressure washing is safe for your house by performing a few tests. First, see if a small section of your stucco can stand up to high-pressure water. Try spraying it with water at high pressure and see how it reacts. If there’s no damage after 15 minutes, you’re probably in good shape to proceed with pressure washing.

Should you avoid pressure washing your home altogether?

Pressure washing could potentially damage your stucco if it is not done properly. It’s best to hire a professional for pressure washing services, and leave it to them to take proper care of your home. If you decide to do it yourself, make sure that you have an experienced friend or family member there with you. You also need to be cautious about using too much water or too strong of chemicals; these can make matters worse in some instances. While pressure washing isn’t typically damaging when used correctly, certain circumstances may require the need of a professional in order to get things done without any problems.

Final thoughts on pressure washing stucco

Like anything, there are risks when pressure washing stucco; if you’re unclear about how to proceed, ask a professional for advice. There’s no one right way to go about removing mold or mildew from your home, but there are certainly wrong ways that can leave you with more problems than you had before. If you decide to use power tools such as a pressure washer, take precautions and be sure that they’re used by someone who knows what they’re doing!

As with any do-it-yourself project, make sure you follow safety precautions and protect yourself by wearing appropriate gear, including gloves, masks and goggles. If you’re unsure about anything or have questions along the way, consult an expert for advice. If you have any uncertainty, it’s highly recommended to seek a professional as they’ll prevent unnecessary damages to your stucco.

If you’re looking into getting a foundation inspection then you might be wondering what exactly that consists of. First off, it’s important to get an inspection because you want to make sure that you’re always looking out for potential problems so that you can catch them and fix them before they get worse. Foundation repairs can get pricey if it’s a big job so getting an inspection can save you a lot of money. Foundation inspections are done by trained professionals who look in specific areas for damage. They will give you estimates and tell you about any damages that they can see. Let’s look more in-depth at what to expect during an inspection and what these professionals are looking for. If you’re seeking additional information, read more.

What To Expect During A Foundation Inspection?

When you are looking into getting a foundation inspection you might want to know exactly what you can expect. The professional will come to your home and assess your foundation and surrounding areas. They will give you time to talk so that they can answer questions and take notes about any possible damage that you’ve seen inside your home as well. The professional’s job is to look and see if there are any signs of damage and give you a full report so that you are able to get them repaired properly.

What Will They Do During An Inspection?

They will look at a lot of different areas of your home and foundation to look for damage. These are typically key areas where you will notice cracking or other signs of wear if your foundation is damaged in any way. Here are the areas that they’ll be looking at.

• The Exterior

This is usually where the inspection will start. They will walk around the outside perimeter of your home and foundation to look for any cracks or unevenness. Everything should be leveled and flush but if they aren’t then the professional will make note of that. They’ll also be looking for water damage and cracks.

• The Interior

Inspectors will move to the inside of your home typically looking for somewhat of the same things. They’ll be looking for cracks and separation in the walls as these are signs of damage and moving. They will also do tests on your floors to make sure they are level and not bubbles or slanted in any way.

• Windows and Doors

They will check all of your windows and doors. If your foundation is settling or moving out of place then it would most likely be visible on the windows and doors. They’ll be looking out for cracks or separation around the outer edges of the doors and windows. They will also be looking for any kind of sticking when opening or closing the doors and windows.

• Crawl Spaces

Crawl spaces can show signs of damage as well. They will mostly be looking for signs of moisture like molding or mildew as well as actual water-damaged wood and other materials.

• Substructure Supports

Substructure supports will be checked as well for signs of moving, settling, or damage. They’ll check to make sure they are level and there is no buckling.

Why Should You Let A Professional Do Your Inspection?

Inspections are important to keep up with because they allow for professionals to catch damages and problems before they get way worse. Catching these early will save you both time and money when it comes to any repairs that you’d need. Never decide to do an inspection yourself. It’s important to hire a professional to do your inspections for a lot of reasons. Professionals are trained and certified to be able to do inspections. They know exactly what they are looking for. They are great at seeing things that you may not see when trying to inspect your foundation. Professionals will also give you an estimate or let you know what type of repairs you might need to fix the foundation’s problems that they found.

When Should You Get An Inspection Done?

There are a lot of reasons that you may want to get an inspection. You should be getting regular inspections on your home to keep it in good shape and repair, but there are also other reasons that you should get an inspection. If you’re going through any of these situations or notice these things then it might be time to call a professional to get an inspection.

• If you are buying a home you might want to get it inspected first to get an idea of where it is at.
• If you are selling a home then you will want to get an inspection done before signing any type of contract.
• If you notice any signs of damage, moving, or buckling such as cracks, pulling, or slanted floors/walls.
• If you’ve experienced a natural disaster or a large thunderstorm then you might want to get an inspection to make sure that there were no damages done from water or high winds.
• You should get an inspection every once in a while just to ensure your home is in good shape and there are no issues at hand.

Foundation repair specialists are here to give you an inspection of your foundation. It’s important to make sure that you call a professional when getting an inspection so that you can trust them and ensure that they are telling you accurate information. They are trained and certified to do inspections and to know exactly what to look for. These professionals will come to your foundation and they will look at many different areas of your foundation to look for signs of any type of damage or shifting. They will also provide you with a detailed outline of what damages they saw as well as what they will do to repair them. If you’ve noticed any signs of damage, or if you’re buying or selling a home, or if you are just ready for your regular inspection then it’s time to call a professional and get an inspection scheduled.

 

It’s understandable that a lot of people have home improvement on their minds, considering that most of us have been home more than usual this year as a result of the global pandemic. Outdoor space can be extremely versatile, and homeowners have a wide range of options for customizing theirs. Function, fun, and form should all be taken into account when your goal is to make the most out of your yard. If you want to make your home’s exterior more attractive, keep reading for tips on how to optimize your backyard’s appearance.

How can you optimize your backyard’s appearance?

A lot of homeowners don’t take advantage of the space they have available in their backyard, but you can transform your yard into a picturesque place for entertainment and relaxation. Your budget and your imagination are the only real constraints, as there are hundreds of different projects you can take on to make your yard look better and provide more utility for your family. Greenery is a good place to start. You may even want to create a garden where you can grow whatever foods or flowers you prefer.

One thing many people don’t think of is the view of their yard from inside the house. After you beautify your backyard, you should make sure you have a way to appreciate your hard work indoors, too. If you don’t have a large window that overlooks your outdoor space, you may want to think about putting a window somewhere that allows you to look out at your yard. Just make sure you use a contractor that has years of experience providing quality craftsmanship, like All Weather Seal West, MI.

If the weather allows for it in your area, a pool or a hot tub can provide hours and hours of summer fun. Businesses like this hot tub and swimming pool contractor in Hamilton, NJ, can help you get a better idea of what your choices are. If you live in a cooler climate, look into installing a fire pit, where you can hang out and toast marshmallows with your friends and family. Swing sets, basketball hoops, and trampolines are just a few other options for outdoor recreation.

What other home improvement projects should you consider?

When it comes to interior projects, bathroom remodels tend to hold their value over time. A targeted remodel is a better idea than a complete renovation if your goal is to avoid taking a loss on your investment. Some options for your remodel include replacing an outdated tub, putting in new tile, re-caulking your tub, or applying a fresh coat of paint. Replacing or removing old shower doors can also make the room look more spacious.

Smart devices can also be great additions to your home. The smart thermostat is one of the most popular examples. Smart thermostats are Wi-Fi enabled and work with home automation, allowing you to control your HVAC system by using a smart speaker, mobile phone, or computer. Many systems also use an algorithm to study your patterns and adjust the temperature to conserve energy when you’re asleep or out of the house, which can help significantly lower your monthly utility bills.

It’s easy to neglect your backyard, but you might be surprised by how much you can do with your outdoor space. Lawn design and recreational space are two of the smartest areas to invest in when creating the backyard of your dreams. If you want the perfect finishing touch, you can even install a window that allows you to enjoy looking at the results of all your hard work. Given that the pandemic has provided a perfect opportunity for home improvement, you might want to make some indoor upgrades, too. It’s always best to focus on projects that boost your quality of life and add to the value of your home.